Twin Kennedy has been working hard throughout the summer months putting together a new album, and is excited to finally share it with the world.
The country music duo began recording A Twin Kennedy Christmas in July, and will make a stop on the Island during a holiday tour.
“We were recording it in the heat of summer, so we had the air conditioning cranked and put decorations up around the studio to get in the holiday mood,” laughed Julie Kennedy, who plays fiddle in the band and sister Carli strums the guitar. Both single vocals
The album puts a new spin on some classic Christmas songs, as well as includes some instrumental covers, and four new singles of their own.
Twin Kennedy added they wanted the album to go back to their country roots, as they grew up playing in a family country band, while also having some classical influences from their time studying classical music at the University of Victoria, and some instrumental guitar and string parts throughout.
“We made sure to add in all real musicians, who sat down with us and took the time to build music that feels from the heart,” said Julie. “That was really important to us because the album sounds and feels like home, which is what Christmas is about.”
They just began their tour in the U.S., and will heading to B.C. shortly for the rest of the tour, stopping in places like Chilliwack and Powell River, which is their home town, before coming to the Island.
The twins spend approximately half of their time in Sooke, where their family now resides.
“Sooke is such a prime location with a small town vibe,” said Carli. “We really feel right at home there. Our new Christmas tradition has been heading down to Whiffin Spit, bringing a few instruments, and playing some music with our family.”
Their music video, Feels like Freedom, was filmed in Sooke, and they will be shooting a video from one of their new singles in Sooke as well, which they said will resemble old classic Christmas movies.
Twin Kennedy has been leaving their mark on the world, as their music has taken them to Sweden, Iceland, all over the U.S. and across Canada. They recently had their first nomination for a Canadian Country Music Award, and received two awards from Vancouver Island for their last album.
“People always ask us, ‘Do you really get along as well as you seem to?’ and we do. We are so lucky to have each other in this career and in life, to have someone that really gets you and can read your mind,” said Julie. “We get to experience the music industry and touring together, and it’s so much more fun when you have your best friend by your side.”
The band said their favourite part about playing music is sharing it with other people.
“We love feeling the positive energy in a room when we’re performing. Sharing music is the biggest gift, and is so special to us,” said Carli.
The girls will be playing at the Oak Bay Recreation Centre on Dec. 8 at 7:30 pm. Tickets cost $20 and can be purchased on the Twin Kennedy Website.
A Twin Kennedy Christmas can be purchased on online music sites such as iTunes, and hard copies can be purchased online at twinkennedy.com.