L.A. Beat

Time: 9 p.m.
Cover: none

Alex Vissia

http://www.alexvissia.com/

Young love is often heady, blissful and painful. Singer-songwriter Alex Vissia’s (VISS-ee-yuh) new album, Young Love, tends to reflect on the ouchier side of love — communication breakdowns, heavy hearts and the need to move on. Young Love is a marriage of three of Alex’s original songs (“Young Love,” “Room to Grow,” and “Letting Go”), and three re-imagined classic songs (“Sundown” – Lightfoot, “Heatwave” – Martha and the Vandellas, and “She’s Leaving Home” – The Beatles). Anchored in a weighted sound and an aching tone, the songs are held together by sultry guitar, passionate vocals, and a laid-back feel.

 “Folk-rock I suppose you would call her... yet it seems like there is a ‘rocker chick’ inside her somewhere, maybe just a swig of whiskey away.” NewMusicMichael.com
 
Growing up in the prairies of Alberta, Alex Vissia has been preserving her thoughts in song-shaped jars for over a decade. While her sound incorporates elements from Tom Pettyish rock, Victoria Williamsy Americana, and Bonnie Raitt-esque blues, her roots have always been in the folk and country traditions of songwriting.

What stands out most about Alex Vissia is her voice. With an Eva-Cassidy-meets-Serena-Ryder tone, Alex’s delivery on Young Love is strong, consistent and beautifully dynamic. Though classically trained, years spent honing her tone and style has left Alex Vissia with a sound that, once it is heard, stands out among a sea of young singers striving for uniqueness.

Throughout a career that spans almost a decade, including work with a variety of bands and her solo debut release, A Lot Less Gold (2011), Alex Vissia has been building an audience around Western Canadian coffee shops, folk clubs and festival stages. Twice nominated for Canadian Folk Music Awards, Alex Vissia has been receiving praise for her powerhouse vocals and lyrical prowess.

Not just another new face on the scene, Alex Vissia is a talent that, once discovered, will quickly become a favourite.