Songwriters From Here And Away

Unplugged & Unforgettable: Cruikshanks Open Mic Live From The Funeral Home

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away we take you back to one of Halifax’s most unique and welcoming musical gatherings — the Cruikshanks Funeral Home Open Mic, held on the last Wednesday of each month in the chapel at Cruikshanks Funeral Home in downtown Halifax. It’s a fully accessible, all-ages show where songwriters, storytellers, and music lovers share new material, heartfelt originals, and memorable performances in an atmosphere that combines connection, community, and creativity. Hosted by Noah Tye, this live recording brings together a remarkable group of voices from Nova Scotia’s vibrant music scene and beyond. 

Noah Tye - New Scotland

An emerging roots/folk/blues artist from Halifax, Noah is the creative force behind the Cruikshanks Open Mic and a passionate performer on multiple instruments. His original songwriting and warm delivery have been honed through years of local performance and festival appearances. @noah.tye

Michael Butz - Sorry Won’t Cut It Anymore
A Halifax singer-songwriter and frequent open-mic contributor, Michael brings thoughtful lyrics and heart-felt performance to every stage. He also plays in local live music venues around Halifax 

Bruce Murray - Fair Winds & Following Seas
A rich acoustic sensibility and love for stories in song; Bruce’s performance evokes both landscape and journey. (Live performer on Halifax open mic scene. @zedcaster

Alex Connoly - An open mic favourite known for expressive originals and engaging performance style

Adria Jackson - Halifax Shore
A singer-songwriter with intimate, reflective lyrics and a voice that paints pictures of place and memory — perfect for the open mic’s close-knit crowd. @adria.jackson.33

Claire & Seamus - I’ll Find A Place For You Here
A duo whose harmonies and heartfelt lyrics strike straight to the heart, capturing friendship, hope, and shared moments in every note.

Hannah Marcienne - See The Light
A rising artist whose powerful vocal presence and thoughtful songwriting make her a standout in the open mic lineup. @hannah.sarrouy

Owen Darrah - Fair
An expressive performer whose ease on stage and vulnerability in songwriting create genuine musical connection. @o.darrah

Wild Blue Rose - When The Winter Comes
A name that evokes lyrical imagery and seasonal texture — Wild Blue Rose brings atmospheric tone and poetic songcraft to the open mic stage. @WildBlueRoseMusic

Sandy Greenberg - Let Me Come Into Your Kitchen
With roots in classic folk traditions, Sandy’s storytelling and warm voice feel like a welcoming hearthside tale. @razzmatazzforkids

Dusty Keleher - East To Ireland
A performer with deep musical roots, Dusty’s tune evokes travel, heritage, and lyrical wanderlust — all delivered with heart. Halifax’s own Ghost Walk bard. @dusty.keleher

Bill Travis aka ‘Mushkat’ - Wasted On The Young
A familiar name to Halifax open mic audiences, Mushkat blends wit, grit, and lyrical craft into every performance.  @MushkatCentral

🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts!

#SongwritersFromHereAndAway #HalifaxMusic #OpenMic #LiveMusic #NovaScotiaMusic #FolkAndRoots  #SFHAA #CommunityMusic #CruikshanksUnplugged

True North Holidays: A Festive Canadian Playlist

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away we unwrap a joyful collection of seasonal songs from Canadian artists and beyond — a soundtrack for cozy nights, snowy walks, candlelight celebrations, and all the warm emotions that come with the holidays. From intimate reflections of returning home to spirited celebrations of cultural traditions, this episode blends classic festive moods with contemporary songwriting flair. Gather around the fire, grab your favourite mug, and enjoy Winter Cheer & New Traditions — a holiday musical journey that’s both heartfelt and uplifting.

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🎶 Tracklist + Links

G4briel4 – “Christmas Is Near”

A rising young voice with international roots, G4briel4 delivers a bright seasonal pop tune that captures the excitement and warmth of the approaching holidays — like a musical snow globe full of hope and cheer.
🔗 Listen/Artist: https://www.tiktok.com/@g4briel4_official

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Brother Bicker Band – “Rocky Mountain Christmas”

Calgary’s roots rock collective brings a bittersweet holiday story to life, exploring memories of home and the warmth of connection as winter settles in the mountains. Their “maple whiskey rock n roll” style gives this seasonal song a soulful, timeless feel.
🔗 Website: https://brotherbicker.com

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Jeffrey Straker – “Come Walkin’ In The Snow With Me”

Prairie singer-songwriter Jeffrey Straker blends heartfelt lyricism with classic holiday imagery, inviting listeners into a serene snowy stroll filled with warmth, companionship, and seasonal magic.
🔗 Artist: https://jeffreystraker.com

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Greg Carroll – “Lullaby For Christmas”

Nova Scotia songwriter Greg Carroll offers a gentle, lullaby-like holiday tune — perfect for quiet evenings with family, reflective moments, and candlelit contemplation.
🔗 Artist: https://gregcarroll.ca

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Haley K Turner – “Intangible Things (A Hanukkah Song)”

With a thoughtful blend of contemporary songwriting and cultural celebration, Haley K Turner’s song honors Hanukkah’s themes of light, memory, and what truly matters beyond the material.
🔗 Artist: https://haleykturner.com

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Sultans of String – “Sing for Kwanzaa” (feat. Richard Bona & Waleed Abdulhamid)

World-infused holiday rhythms meet powerful cultural expression in this vibrant Kwanzaa celebration, featuring stunning performances by jazz great Richard Bona and percussionist Waleed Abdulhamid.
🔗 Website: https://sultansofstring.com

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Rum Ragged – “Christmas In The Harbour”

Newfoundland’s Rum Ragged delivers a beautifully rugged maritime Christmas song, blending salt-air storytelling and sea-seasoned harmonies that feel like a festive gathering by the docks.
🔗 Artist: https://rumragged.bandcamp.com

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Campbell+Green – “Christmas In Paris”

Nova Scotia folk-pop duo Campbell+Green bring romantic holiday imagery to life with this dreamy, Paris-infused seasonal tune — like strolling through twinkling lights on a winter’s night.
🔗 Website: https://campbellandgreen.bandcamp.com

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Silver Wolf Band – “Halloween Clothes”

While not a traditional Christmas song, this clever seasonal standout brings another side of the holidays (and costume-adventure nostalgia) to your festive playlist.
🔗 Artist: https://www.silverwolfbandmusic.com

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Ken Dirschl – “My Arms Around You”

Ken Dirschl’s heartfelt, love-centred song feels at home among holiday playlists, capturing that warm embrace of togetherness that makes the season meaningful.
🔗 Artist: https://www.kendirschl.com

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Jill Barber – “That Time of Year” & “A Very Merry Christmas”

Jill Barber’s elegant vocals and rich melodic style make both of these holiday tunes feel like an invitation to slow down, savour the moment, and share seasonal joy with loved ones.
🔗 Website: https://jillbarber.com

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Trena – “Christmas Bells”

A joyful ring of seasonal cheer, “Christmas Bells” captures the festive sparkle and celebration that make wintertime gatherings so memorable.
🔗 Artist: https://trenamusic.com

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Campbell+Green – “Dear Santa” & “Perfect Gift”

Two more holiday gems from the Nova Scotia duo — playful and heartfelt reflections on wishes, wonder, and what we hope for most during the festive season.
🔗 Website: https://www.campbellandgreen.ca

#HolidayMusic #CanadianChristmas #SeasonalSongs #SongwritersFromHereAndAway
#G4briel4 #BrotherBickerBand #JeffreyStraker #CampbellAndGreen #JillBarber
#SultansOfString #WinterPlaylist #ChristmasSongs #Hanukkah #Kwanzaa 

Songcircle Recorded Live: Hit Writer Steven McClintock (TX) & Nova Scotia's Kristen Martell (plus Special Guests)

This week’s episode captures a live songcircle-style concert recorded in 2024, finally making its way online — and it’s well worth the wait. Two deeply respected songwriters from very different places share the stage, stories, and songs, with a couple of beautiful co-writing cameos along the way.

Steven McClintock (Texas)

Steven McClintock is a master storyteller whose songs feel both timeless and lived-in. Rooted in Texas but shaped by years of collaboration across North America, Steven writes with emotional clarity, sharp imagery, and a quiet confidence that pulls listeners in rather than pushing too hard. His performances balance humor and vulnerability, and in a songcircle setting his gift for narrative really shines. On this night, Steven shares songs that reflect his deep love of craft, conversation, and connection — the kind of writing that unfolds naturally and leaves space for the listener. The addition of a co-writer on stage adds another layer of warmth and trust, reinforcing how collaboration fuels his creative life.🌐 https://www.stevenmcclintock.com

Special Guest for one song: David Muise (Nova Scotia) joins Steven for one song, bringing his own thoughtful songwriting sensibility and East Coast perspective into the mix. Their collaboration highlights the magic that happens when writers meet in the middle of a song. 🌐 https://www.davidmuise.ca

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Kristen Martell (Nova Scotia)

Kristen Martell is one of Nova Scotia’s most compelling songwriters — honest, poetic, and unafraid to sit with emotional truth. Her songs often feel intimate and expansive at the same time, delivered with a voice that carries both strength and tenderness. In this live setting, Kristen shares songs that reflect her growth as a writer and performer, inviting the audience into moments of reflection, resilience, and quiet revelation. Her collaboration on stage underscores her openness to shared storytelling and musical trust. 🌐 https://www.kristenmartell.com

Special Guest for one song: Darrel Cameron (Nova Scotia) joins Kristen for one song, adding depth and texture through co-writing partnership and shared musical history. Their performance is a reminder that some songs truly come alive when written — and sung — together. 🌐 https://www.darrellcameron.com

#SongwritersFromHereAndAway #LiveSongcircle #StevenMcClintock #KristenMartell
#CanadianSongwriters #TexasSongwriter #EastCoastMusic #SFHAA
#CoWriting #LiveConcert #FolkRoots #IndependentMusic #StorySongs

Back towards the Beginning: Keith Mullins, Angela Saini, Morgan Toney & Hans Grondel

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we’re taking a joyful step back to early 2023 — a moment when four exceptional artists shared their songs, stories, and sparks of creativity. All different, all powerful, and all deserving of a second spin.

From Nova Scotia’s rhythm-driven Keith Mullins to the radiant acoustic pop of Toronto’s Angela Saini; from the celebrated Mi’kmaq fiddler Morgan Toney to the Netherlands songwriter Hans Grondel — this reprise brings together heart, heritage, groove, and global flavour.

Whether you’re discovering these artists for the first time or revisiting the magic, this episode is full of energy, craft, and soul.

Keith Mullins (Canada)

A well-loved Nova Scotia songwriter, drummer, producer, and educator, Keith Mullins blends East Coast folk with world-rhythm influences. His recordings and workshops connect communities through music.
🔗 Website: https://www.keithmullins.ca
🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keithmullinsmusic

Angela Saini (Canada)

A bright presence in Canadian folk-pop, Angela Saini is known for uplifting songwriting, warm vocals, and a message of resilience and hope. Her songs explore identity, empowerment, and the drive to keep moving forward.
🔗 Website: https://angelasaini.com
🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelasainimusic

Morgan Toney (Canada)

A breakthrough Mi’kmaq artist blending traditional fiddle tunes with contemporary songwriting, Morgan Toney has quickly become a celebrated voice on the East Coast. His music bridges cultural stories with modern folk in a powerful, joyful way.
🔗 Website: https://www.morgantoneymusic.com
🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MorganToneyMusic

Hans Grondel (Europe / Netherlands)

A genre-bending songwriter rooted in folk, Americana, and European influences, Hans Grondel brings poetic storytelling and melodic craftsmanship to every track. His work often spans borders — geographically and musically.
🔗 Website: https://www.hansgrondel.com
🔗 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HansGrondel

True North Songbook: New + Timeless Canadian Voices + one from away!

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, www.sfhaa.ca we’re proud to present a coast-to-coast showcase of Canadian songwriting — from rootsy folk to indie-pop, heartfelt ballads to dynamic storytelling. Dive into songs that reflect home, heartbreak, hope and everything in between. And fulfilling some requests too!

Featured artists include stalwarts and fresh voices alike: from the veteran soul of Jim Henman and Ian Sherwood, to the heartfelt harmonies of Campbell+Green, to newer sparks like Freya Milliken — a true cross-section of Canada’s rich musical tapestry.

Whether you’re driving, relaxing, or simply craving good songs with honest stories — this episode delivers something for everyone.

• Jim Henman — You Can Have My Heart — veteran Nova Scotia songwriter, rock pioneer and co-founder of April Wine. Still writing and performing, with a deep catalog rooted in decades of experience. Website: jimhenman.com

• Ian Sherwood — Hit’s Me Right — a respected Canadian songwriter with a talent for rich storytelling and memorable melodies. (Artist has been featured previously on the show.) Website: iansherwood.com

• Campbell+Green — One Simple Glance / Queen Of The Wild / Big Hearts and Small Towns / Storm / Avalon / A Simple Life — Nova Scotia folk-pop duo blending gorgeous harmony, thoughtful lyrics and emotive melodies. Their catalogue and house-concert history make them a staple of the Canadian independent music scene.Website: campbellandgreen.ca

• Corner House — Momma — a songwriting group (or artist) blending introspective lyrics with evocative soundscapes. (No official website found, feel free to supply if you have it.)

• Brock Davis — Any Lie — soulful and raw songwriting that gets to the heart of emotional truths. (No verified site found.)

• Ian Janes — He Can Have You — Canadian singer-songwriter with roots-flavored sensibility and honest vocals. (No verified site found.)

• Freya Milliken — Chameleon — an emerging folk-rock talent whose songwriting combines emotional depth with melodic finesse. Praised for powerful vocals and thoughtful arrangements. Website: freyamilliken.com 

• Lynn Miles — You Don’t Love Me Anymore — award-winning Canadian folk/country songwriter, with decades of albums, accolades and deeply felt songs. One of Canada’s most respected voices in roots music. Website: lynnmiles.ca

• Mushkat / Bill Travis — Still Life — a collaboration that brings a creative edge and unique musical sensibility. https://mushkat.bandcamp.com 

• Tillers Folly — Closing in On Midnight — folk/roots ensemble known for storytelling through song, strong vocals and acoustic craftsmanship. https://tillersfolly.com  

15 Canadian Tracks: From Coast to Prairie

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we spotlight a vibrant mix of Canadian singer-songwriters... From dreamy folk to soulful grooves, each track tells a story — and together they paint a panorama of today’s songwriting spirit.

 

🌐 Artists & Links

• Lily Monaghan – Willing to Wait — https://linktr.ee/lilymonaghan
• McKINDRED – Washes Over Me — http://www.mckindred.com
• Thea Koper – The Outlaw — https://www.instagram.com/thea_koper
• Ian North – Antarctica — https://www.iannorthmusic.com
• Joe H Henry – Real Things — https://joehhenry.com/
• Naomi Skye – old habits — https://www.instagram.com/theofficialnaomiskye
• The Gertrudes – City Noise — https://thegertrudes.com
• Write On! The Songwriting Experience – Harmony —https://www.writeon-songs.com
• Noah Derksen – I Try —https://noahderksen.com
• Katie Mal – Stop Crying Your Heart Out — https://katiemalofficial.com
• Joe and the Sun – Used Like Fabric — https://soundcloud.com/joe-and-the-sun
• The Sun Harmonic – Homesick — https://www.thesunharmonic.com/
• Tristan Armstrong – Queen of Diamonds —https://tristanarmstrongmusic.bandcamp.com/
• Mushkat – Look Upon The Ivy —https://www.facebook.com/MushkatCentral

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Whether you're cruising, relaxing, or reflecting, this episode is a celebration of Canadian creativity — and it’s all here, ready for your ears.

www.sfhaa.ca 

Coast to Coast Fresh: Canadian Voices & New Songs

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we dish up all-new Canadian tracks — from rock anthems to tender folk ballads, each song a fresh voice. Tune in for a sonic road-trip across the country with writers who know how to tell a story, build a groove, and strike a chord. Pop in your headphones or crank the speakers — it’s Canadian songwriting at its lively best.

Trevor Howlett & The Cruz Bros. — Nowhere Fast — https://trevorhowlett.com 

Chris Ho — Loveyoulikethat — https://chrishomusic.me

Naomi Skye — ghost — https://www.instagram.com/theofficialnaomiskye 

Isabelle Foster — Rewind — https://www.isabellefoster.ca

Kale Penny — You Deserve Love — https://www.facebook.com/kalepennymusic/

The Goddamsels — Hometown Bar — https://www.thegoddamsels.com/ 

Ella Dubinsky — Breathe In, Breathe Out — https://elladubinsky.bandcamp.com/ 

Paige Ballagh — Lost it on the Way — https://www.paigeballagh.com/about 

Wilfred N & the Grown Men — I’m Ready Now — https://wilfrednthegrownmen.bandcamp.com/ \

Ian Foster — Egress / Pre-Existing Condition — https://ianfoster.ca/

Henry Lees — Smoke — https://henryleesmusic.com

Shawn Pallister — Deep End — https://www.instagram.com/shawnpallister/

Chris Colepaugh (feat. Lavinia Colepaugh) — Home — https://colepaugh.com/

Wintersleep — I Got A Feeling — http://www.wintersleep.com

 

Songwriters Circle: Steven McClintock, Kim Dunn & Mel Farrimond

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we’re revisiting one of our most heartfelt and engaging Songwriters Circles — featuring Steven McClintock, Kim Dunn, and Mel Farrimond. Three artists with distinct voices, each bringing their own world of melody and meaning to the stage.

From California pop craftsmanship to soulful East Coast piano and the thoughtful lyricism of Nova Scotia’s indie-folk scene — this circle is all about connection, creativity, and conversation through song. Tune in for laughter, stories behind the lyrics, and a musical chemistry that only happens when songwriters truly listen to each other.

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🎶 Artist Profiles

Steven McClintock

With a career spanning decades, Steven McClintock has worn many musical hats — singer, songwriter, producer, and publisher. Based in California, Steven’s songs have appeared on major film soundtracks and been recorded by artists from Robin Zander (Cheap Trick) to Juice Newton. His writing combines strong melody with emotional insight, reflecting the craft of a seasoned storyteller. Beyond pop and country, his acoustic performances reveal a personal side — stripped down, sincere, and timeless. Whether behind the mic or mentoring younger writers, McClintock’s passion for the art of song remains unmistakable.

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Kim Dunn

From Cape Breton to concert halls across Canada, Kim Dunn has long been a cornerstone of East Coast music. A pianist, singer, and producer, Kim’s playing has graced stages with Matt Minglewood, Bruce Guthro, and Rita MacNeil, and his solo work shines with honesty and grace. His voice carries warmth; his lyrics balance heart and craft. Dunn’s music often feels like a conversation between soul and piano — both reflective and uplifting. With multiple award nominations and deep respect from his peers, Kim continues to be one of Atlantic Canada’s most quietly brilliant musical forces.

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Mel Farrimond

Mel Farrimond is a Halifax-based singer-songwriter whose songs explore identity, love, and belonging with a poetic honesty that resonates deeply. Blending indie-folk textures with thoughtful lyrics, Mel’s performances are as intimate as they are powerful — often weaving personal experience with universal emotion. A strong voice in Nova Scotia’s LGBTQ+ creative community, Mel brings openness and courage to their songwriting, encouraging audiences to feel seen and connected. Whether performing solo or in collaboration, Mel’s music celebrates authenticity and the beauty in being fully oneself.