Grounded in a Floating World

University life has been a blast and as busy as ever, and with the first semester’s exams finished, its high time for a little rest, and hopefully a lot of music. It’s been nothing but laughs and good times out here for the most part, and I can already feel it influencing writing and the music I’ve been listening to. The MusicNL conference brought out some amazing acts that have become quick favorites of mine, Rube & Rake, The Kubasonics, and many more. It was such an honor to be nominated for 2017 Folk Artist of the year, and congratulations to the Kubasonics on winning the award. After seeing their showcase, it was obvious that they deserved every award they received. It’s absolutely amazing to have a band with such a powerful live performance, bridging the gaps between culture here in St. John’s. Every set that I have seen them perform has been mesmerizing. Yet, like I am sure those folks long for a bit of home, it's the same for myself. It’s beautiful out here, and I wouldn’t wish to be anywhere else, though I still feel home calling me. I can’t pinpoint what exactly it is I miss, because with each trip back home it feels off, disjointed, like I keep looking for something to be wildly out of place, yet everything is still the same. In the same vein though, it still feels as though everything is different, shifted ever so slightly from what it once was, I just can’t grasp it. So, I take my doses of nostalgia as briefly as possible. A day or two home, a photo or a phone call with a friend, out of fear that if I linger too long it will all shatter. That’s what I wanted to do with We Were, to craft a handful of 5 minute glimpses of nostalgia. A story for everyone that grew up with us at home, a story for every wasted chance, every failed risk, but most importantly for all the times where we knew we had reached for our dreams. Port Town is my prime example of the latter. There’s still much to learn about the world around me, but I hope I’ll never forget what’s the most important: home and family. Contrary to popular belief, I don’t think those are set in stone. They are where and with whom you feel completed. Paradise is where the two collide. 

So, a big thanks to those who helped give me inspiration for these stories, the family, friends and people I met along the way who passed on ideas and emotions so that I could craft something to tell. A big thanks to Daniel, Aaron, Cassidy, Paige, and Sam, for helping with the vocals on Port Town, and giving me a little piece of home that I can listen to when I need that 5 minute dose. 

Thanks so much, 

Christian Howse