A Conversation with Brie Nielson

“I guess I write simple songs …”

It is no wonder. Brie Nielson, originally from Vancouver and a current Montrealer – comes from a simple place.

“I grew up singing in church, loved musicals, acted and sang in them then started listening to old jazz singers in my teens.” Says Brie as she prepares for her Thursday night album launch at La Salla Rossa.” I didn’t grow up listening to “old” music, so I found it on my own – which was a big inspiration.”

Her album, the first in what should be a long and promising career – is entitled ‘Picture Show’. A title which earns a simple explanation from the sometime member of the Montreal- based band; The Unsettlers.

“I wanted a throw back feel, and it really is a collection of snap shots- so Picture Show summed it up. Plus I’d already written the title track.”

The disc is, according to Nielson – a collection of her own personal stories along with the tales from those around her. People like her Mom and Dad. Brie still owns her Dad’s old 1940’s Gibson guitar and recalls how her parents used to have so much fun playing together.

“My mom has such a lovely voice ….” Says Nielson with pride.

The proverbial apple did not fall to far from the ‘singing tree’. Nielson’s voice carries A Picture Show onto another level, a level which was not reached in two weeks, according to this star in the making. The disc was recorded in about a year and Nielson explains the thought process behind her songwriting style.

“I wrote all the songs on the cd except ‘Dress Me Up’ ( which was written by my good friend Steve Brockley).Songwriting is very random for me- I’m a busy person so I’m not very good at sitting down and writing songs on demand.”

Nielson continues.

“I usually wait until something pops into my head. A thought which turns into a tune while out walking. Then, I will finally sit down and work on it. I wish I was more prolific but maybe someday I’ll slow down and actually make more time to write!”

Time is something which has altered Brie’s writing over the years. Wisdom will do that type of thing …

“Naturally with time and experience, you have more to write about and more maturity with which to write about. I’ve been surrounded by awesome musicians for the last 5 yrs, so I have learned a lot from playing with and listening to them.”

Neilson’s long – term goal is to be able to live off of her art and have it received by appreciative people. ‘Art’ includes not only her music but painting as well. Meantime, her and bandmate David Simard – are hitting the road in November to support the album. A tour which will include Neilson’s hometown of Vancouver.