Hometown Ponoka musician and instructor Kayla Williams is dropping new music this month.
Williams, who grew up in Ponoka, is releasing the first single from her new EP (extended play, meaning longer than a single but shorter than an album) on May 26.
Williams said she’s spent the last two years writing songs and recording the EP titled RETRODELIA.
The EP is produced byJUNO award-winner Spencer Cheyne and Red Deer’s own Heath West.
“It’s a whole new chapter for me, with a fun yacht-pop sound — think soft 70s yacht rock influences like Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, the Doobie Brothers,” said Williams.
She is also preparing for two local release shows.
The first one is on June 2 in Red Deer at Bo’s Bar and Stage and the second one is in Calgary on June 3 at The King Eddy.
“The shows will feature a full set design and a nine-piece band, including horns, backup vocals and hard-hitting players on keys, bass guitar and drums,” she said.
“It’s the biggest production I’ve ever put together with top-notch musicians from both Red Deer and Calgary.”
Those musicians include Kate Stevens, Emily Slainey, Andre Wickenheiser, Mark Dejong, Cam Buie, Craig Gomez, and Ryan Marchant.
“I’m really excited to share this new music,” said Williams. “I’m hoping to make waves — pardon the pun — with these new tracks!”
Williams launched her solo recording career in 2017, with her song One More Dose.
She has always been focused on music, taking lessons and performing in musicals as a kid in Ponoka.
She then went on to complete a diploma from Red Deer College in music.