Since it was released in October 2025, Julianna Riolino’s second full-length album, Echo in the Dust, has been a favourite with CKUA hosts and audiences.
It’s introspective and vulnerable, with heartfelt lyrics and compelling melodies. Recorded at Gold Standard Records in Toronto, it features eleven new songs—all originals, written by Riolino. “I think there’s something for everybody on this record,” says Riolino. “My musical tastes are expansive.”
Themes explored in the album’s eleven songs include identity, relationships, and self-awareness. Riolino says, “What I’m talking about on Echo In The Dust are things universally felt: you can have a romantic relationship, friendship, or professional relationship and start to identify as you grow and learn the toxic parts that can exist in all of those…This record helped me learn to accept and love myself. To put myself first and stand on my own two feet.”
As for the vulnerability of the songs, she says, “My hope is that my introspection helps other people connect with themselves, and learn something about themselves, whatever that is.”
The current tour will see Riolino backed by a full band: bass, pedal steel and keys, guitar, and drums. It’s a fuller sound that you can hear on the album, too. “There’s a lot of pedal steel and banjo and accordion, so we dip our toes in the roots and country world. There are country influences, but I would also say that this record is a little bit more rocking than All Blue.”
After working in bands for years and then branching out as a solo artist, Riolino sees music as central to her identity.
“I just don’t know what else I would do at this point. Being a musician and an artist is my calling. No matter what, I’m always drawn into it. When I’m not on the road I wish I was.”
Riolino says that life on the road is “not for the faint of heart,” and describes touring as difficult. “It’s a balancing act for sure. You have to know when to say yes and when to say no, and when to take a beat. But I don’t know what I would do without being on the road. Sometimes it feels like the most at home I could be. Even when I miss my family, life is about balance, and being in tune with what you need.”
Julianna Riolino will play Calgary November 22 and Edmonton November 23. Find details at juliannariolino.com
“On A Bluebird’s Wing” is from Riolino’s new album, Echo in the Dust.
