Desiree Dorion Announces Seventh Studio Album
JUNO-nominated singer-songwriter Desiree Dorion unveils a new chapter in her decorated music career with her seventh studio album, "Remember Your Name" set for release on September 20, 2024. Steeped in courageous vulnerability, Dorion’s new album is a journey of bravery and trust in the face of change. This project also marks a new sound for the historically Country-focused artist, as she ventures for the first time into the musical and lyrical flexibility of the Roots/Americana genre. Featuring a duet with Canadian Roots artist Amanda Rheaume and collaborations with Indigenous musicians and vocalists, "Remember Your Name" stands out as a collection of songs reflecting growth, authenticity, and the embrace of change.
On a metaphorical map of courage, Desiree Dorion’s "Remember Your Name" offers an empathetic compass, guiding listeners back to themselves on the winding journey of change, self-trust, and transformation. Turning to songwriting to help navigate through a period of evolution, the collection of songs both honest and imagined, mark Dorion’s transition from Country to Roots/Americana, a liberating shift that inspired her to take a more active role in the musicality and direction of her work. On the topic of migrating genres, Dorion shares, “The Roots world feels really authentic for me. I love the creative freedom - musically and lyrically - I feel I can explore more within this genre. I felt ready to sit in the studio and give my input on the music and production - something I rarely did in the Country-Pop world.” Reflecting the stripped-down rawness and vulnerability of the album, the cover art for "Remember Your Name" features a nude image of Dorion covered by her guitar. 'I was a little terrified, but I had shown the image to my producer and said, this is what I want the music to sound like. I wanted space and rawness - nothing covered up or overproduced.
Oscillating between dark, moody verses and a light, playfully metaphorical chorus, lead single "Greta" is a duet between Canadian Roots artist Amanda Rheaume, and Dorion. A song about reclaiming one’s power and leaving a difficult situation, "Greta" was born from an emotional and infuriating phone call where a friend revealed she had been hit by her partner. Penned with Steve Mitchell (The Paperboys), the song calmly conveys the anger, helplessness, and lack of control felt while watching a friend suffer. With a brooding atmospheric opening and Dorion’s softly delivered first verse, the song expands to include Rheaume’s complementary vocals, urging the victim to break free from her abuser.
The first single from the project, "Ghost", was released in the late summer of 2024 and explores the emotional aftermath of a relationship's end, as well as the complexities of moving on and reclaiming one's strength. The chorus, performed a cappella, opens the song, which features a driving drumbeat and a softly haunting atmospheric tapestry. The title track, “Remember Your Name”, is an explosive, empowering anthem that calls on anyone facing challenges to remember their own resilience and the enduring strength of those who came before them. Written during a time of great sadness, Dorion penned the song to reflect her journey of rediscovering her past self and, more importantly, embracing who she is now. Musically, it contrasts darker verses with the soaring, light-filled chorus. “Remember Your Name” serves as a rallying cry for listeners to rise again and keep moving forward.
Upcoming Shows:
September 14 2024 – CCMA – Edmonton, AB
September 27 2024 – The Watson Arts Centre – Dauphin, MB
September 30 – Oct. 5 2024– The National Arts Centre – Calgary, AB
October 6 – The Royal George – Winnipeg, MB
Press release provided by Bad Parade.
Featuring original songs by Ken Harrower and Johnny Spence performed live alongside a country band.