Joshua Hyslop is on his way to Alberta for three concerts. The Saskatoon-born singer and songwriter, who now makes his home in Victoria, spoke with us about his music, sad-happy songs, and why playing small venues is just fine with him.
Hyslop describes his most recent album, Westward, as a bit of a departure from his earlier work. He collaborated with longtime friend and producer John Raham in Vancouver, and says, “We wanted to do something different, so there are some alternate guitar tunings on this album. I was trying to find new ways to play this instrument that I have played since I was sixteen. We approached the songs as malleable, and that was tricky, but also good.”
The result is eleven songs that have strong acoustic instrumentation — and heartfelt lyrics. Known for quiet songs that explore tough topics, including loss, Hyslop doesn’t mind it when joy and sorrow wind up in the same song. “I try to blend different emotions,” he says. “Sometimes my stuff can be dark, but I don’t want people to be hopeless. As someone who deals with anxiety and depression, I appreciate it when someone articulates that you are not alone, and this is a rough spot. To hear that can be hopeful. When I encounter that in music, it helps me, so that’s what I strive for when I write. I want to find a glimmer of hope.”
Hyslop’s upcoming shows in Alberta will take place in three very different venues: a church in Calgary, a community hall in Edmonton, and a craft brewery in Red Deer. He likes that variety, and enjoys playing small venues. He often plays concerts for just a few dozen people. “House shows have been a big part of my career, and I usually sleep over. But I also got to play a few songs at Carnegie Hall late last year. Both big and small shows are important. It’s just important to get my music out there. If people are willing to gather, willing to hear me play and sing, that’s always been my dream, and it’s my dream now. Let’s just do it. It will be fun.”
Joshua Hyslop plays Parkdale United Church in Calgary on January 12, Parkview Community League in Edmonton on January 13, and Red Hart Brewing in Red Deer on January 14. Find tickets here.
“No Stopping Now” from Hyslop’s album Westward.
