In a harmonious fusion of roots, rock, folk, and blues, Adrian Sutherland unveils his sophomore solo album, “Precious Diamonds.” Released on March 15, 2024, under his own label, Midnight Shine Music, the new album dives deep into his Indigenous roots while resonating with universal themes of love, loss, and resilience.
Recorded in the heart of Nashville, “Precious Diamonds” is a collaborative success between Sutherland and Grammy-winning producer Colin Linden, known for his work with music legends like Bob Dylan and Bruce Cockburn.
“Precious Diamonds” features 10 tracks with contributions from legendary Nashville-based musicians like Mickey Raphael, Jim Hoke, and Linden himself. Following the album release celebration in Toronto on March 14, 2024, at The Cameron House, Sutherland is heading to Ottawa for a show on March 22, 2024, at NAC Fourth Stage.
ABOUT THE FOCUS TRACK
The album’s focus track, You Are Left Behind, stands out as a hauntingly beautiful and meaningful ode to the struggles faced by many in remote First Nation communities. Sutherland, drawing from his personal experiences in Attawapiskat, sheds light on the prevalent mental health issues, offering solace and validation to those who feel forgotten.
“Mental health is a real struggle for many people in remote First Nation communities. It’s sometimes very difficult for those struggling to find the help they need,” says Sutherland. “I've seen this first-hand, and it's heartbreaking to see so many slip through the fragmented services. You Are Left Behind is about acknowledging those who are struggling in life, and validating them as human beings who are having a hard time."
Listen to You Are Left Behind here.
ABOUT THE ALBUM
"Precious Diamonds" features two songs sung entirely in Omushkegowuk Cree, a testament to Sutherland's commitment to preserving and celebrating his heritage. With tracks like Notawe (Father) and Kiyash (Before), he invites listeners into a world rich with tradition and storytelling.
Reflecting on the album's creation, Sutherland shares, "Making this new album gave me the chance to share some of the stories of my people cinematically through music. It's not every day you get to hear songs in Cree or any native language, and it feels kind of exotic to me."
Four singles came out leading up to the album, including Adrian’s first-ever Cree song Notawe (Father), the semi-autobiographical My Rebel Spirit, and two compelling tracks Precious and Diamonds that combine to make up the album’s title.
Linden, the mastermind behind the album’s production, praises Sutherland’s authenticity and musicality, stating, “I’m honoured to have worked on this album. Adrian is so free… free of pretense, free of constraints, and free of limitations on where his music could go. His life experience and genuine musicality shine through in every note. He is really one of the best and most honest artists anyone could work with.”
Musicians lending their talents to the tracks alongside Linden, who showcases his mastery on acoustic, electric, dobro, 12-string, and resonator guitars, include legends like Mickey Raphael on harmonicas, Jim Hoke on saxophones, Jerry Roe on drums, John Dymond on Bass, Janice Powers on organ, and Brandon Robert Young on harmonies.
Additional writers on the album are brothers Chris Gormley and Matt Gormley, collaborating with Sutherland on four songs: Diamonds, Feeling Of Love, Let It Shine, and Precious.
The album and singles’ artwork was masterfully crafted by Nick Perreault, Sutherand’s long-time art director, features a central motif of ‘Young Brave’ circa 1903. The iconic image, sourced by Nick for Adrian over a decade ago, proved to be the ideal visual representation for “Precious Diamonds.” The photograph of Adrian used in the artwork was captured in Winnipeg by Joey Senft.
“Precious Diamonds” is more than just an album; it’s a testament to Sutherland’s journey from dreaming about music as a young boy in Attawapiskat to becoming an inspiration for Indigenous communities across Canada. The album reminds us of the power of art to heal, unite, and inspire change.
Listen to “Precious Diamonds” on all music platforms.