Singer-songwriter Ellen Froese is a perennial favourite performer in Saskatchewan with her spirited song writing, wry commentary and a deep well of musical performance abilities. That well has just become deeper with her newest album, “For Each Flower Growing.” Ellen Froese will be performing at the Watson and District Heritage Museum on Sunday, February 11 for a special matinee. It’s part of a Saskatchewan tour that will also hit the communities of Nokomis, Biggar and Melfort.  

Froese is coming off a tour supporting Saskatchewan’s favourite herd of musical sons, The Sheepdogs. Her new album breaks ground with the depth and richness of its production, but also with the songs. Always quick to catch a brilliant turn of phrase, Ellen’s song writing craft is next level on the new album. The songs are deep, sometimes confessional, with a beautiful vocal performance enhanced by an airy, spacy sound.  

Produced with the help of the Sheepdogs’ Sam Corbett, the album’s songs stay true to her folk and country leaning spirit. The new tunes rely on some creative and wonderfully enticing musical shifts, the kind you’d hear listening to Joni Mitchell. The “new-age spacey” quality is reminiscent of Linda Ronstadt’s gorgeous 90’s album “Winter Light.” The use of reverb, drum effects and layered synths and keyboards makes this a beautiful, warm and inviting listen. 

Froese has a remarkable ability to translate her songs into new experiences when she performs live, regardless of the backing. On stage by herself, her adept rhythm and fingerpicking styles belie the fact there’s a solo musician on stage. Backed in a trio setting, she’s an orchestra. When she plays with blue grass compatriots like the Local Group, her songs take on a wonderful down-home, kitchen party flair.  

With a catalogue of songs as rich as any well-established folk performer could boast and a new bundle of moving pieces, Froese promises to be a knockout on stage. Throw in her rich voice and infectious humour, concert goers in Saskatchewan are in for an amazing sonic adventure.  

For the Watson show on February 11, contact Jim at (306) 287-7130. For the show in Nokomis on February 8 at 7:30, call (306) 361-9494.