CRATER CREATIVES: JUSTINE GILES

Welcome to Crater Creatives, a biweekly artist profile series offering a unique look into the artists that call Sudbury home! There’s certain type of creativity that’s born up here in Northern Ontario, maybe it’s the wilderness that surrounds us, or maybe it’s just our resourceful spirit. Whatever the case may be we’re here to shine a spot light on the innovative artists of all sorts in this big old crater! Have an artist you’d like to recommend for a future Crater Creatives profile? Shoot an email to jessica@ourcrater.com and tell us all about it!

Justine Giles is a Sudbury artist who recently let her musical dreams take her across the country to BC. Undoubtedly a tough decision but this artist keeps her hometown connection strong, even recently hosting a single release and birthday show here at the Red Fang Tavern for her new song Unspoken! This singers sultry and smokey voice is the perfect soundtrack for all your relaxation needs and has something of a trance like quality. With Unspoken released into the world we got in touch with Justine and found out what’s next!

Your new single Unspoken was just released last month and kicked off with a hometown release show at the Red Fang Tavern, how has the response been?

The release for my new single “Unspoken” has been a bit tiring, but rewarding nonetheless. I’m very pleased with the response and that it has been very well received by both old and new supporters around the globe. Many of my long time supporters have noted the growth of my music in terms of both lyrics and overall sound. “Unspoken” is admittedly one of the most raw and direct songs I’ve ever written and I think the overall tone is more mature. However with that being said, it’s true to me and my old soul, it sounds like a vintage jazz track that could have came out sometime between the 1920s-40s.

It was nice to go back to visit Sudbury, my hometown to celebrate the release. I travel quite extensively and only visit about once or twice a year now (usually on holidays). I wanted to play somewhere downtown because that’s where my old roots are, but I also wanted to play a venue that was new to me to change things up. Rob & everyone at Red Fang Tavern was super inviting and professional and I think it’s safe to say that everybody had a great experience. I was also able to perform with my dad on stand-up bass, which is always a nice treat.

What’s next for Unspoken? Will we get a chance to hear a full length album soon?

I’d like to film a vintage music video for this single sooner than later, it will likely be set in a smoky bar scene. Creating & releasing a music video is always a fun process and it gives a new song a second wave of life essentially. In terms of my next full length album I have so much material that is ready to be released. I’ve compiled quite a few songs within the past 2 years since my first album “Shine” was launched. The process is quite different though this time around in terms of preparing for promotion and distribution. My music has grown, as have I, and I’m definitely ready to take things to a higher level and this next cd will be launched on a bigger scale. With that being said, everything is a process and takes time, I’m aiming for a Spring/Summer 2017 album release.

What artists locally or beyond keep you inspired?

I’m inspired by so many artists, Jason Mraz and Brandon Jenner for example use their music and voice to impact the world in positive ways. It’s nice to be reminded of how important music is and how it touches lives. One can easily forget that behind the scenes because it is a lot of work and you always have to be 10 steps ahead planning your next endeavors. I’m also very inspired by my good friends Yas & Bobby of Dead Celebrity Status. They’re originally from Sudbury and have made quite a name for themselves both together and independently.

What is your favourite thing about being part of the Sudbury art community?

I think one of my favourite things about being a part of the Sudbury art community is having solid roots, a good attitude and genuine care for those that support what I do. I’ve been to many different places and have met a wide array of artists. Something that sets us northerners apart is our ability to be strong and confident yet empathetic and compassionate with those we meet. There’s a lot of support locally and I think that’s a really positive thing that helps to shape artists whether they choose to stay or spread their wings. Either way, our wings are made strong.

What would be your best advice to a new artist looking to get involved in our local art scene?

The best advice I could give to anyone up and coming is to get out there and play. Network with as many people as you can, get to know people in the downtown community, support local businesses and other artists. Don’t be afraid to call around or ask to open shows for people, that’s how I started. Also, open mic nights are a great way to start sharing your original songs in front of people.

Where can we follow your work?

You can follow me here: justinegiles.com, Facebook, and Instagram.

And check out “Unspoken” here (Available now on all online retailers)

Jessica Lovelace

Jessica Lovelace is a Public Relations and Communications grad, musical theatre enthusiast, lover of live music and part-time unicorn tamer. Some have said that the Big Dripper from Sub City is a regional delicacy and the perfect end to a Sudbury Saturday Night – Jessica is definitely one of those people. No, the hair is not a perm.

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