Chorus of Courage - Always By Your Side (2024) [Hi-Res]

Chorus of Courage is a space that was created to hold and honour the voices and stories of survivors of violence. They came together as a group and became friends and allies – a supportive family. They created a home to explore some of the most difficult experiences one can imagine – a retreat – and did it with love, music, silence, acceptance, guidance, connection, and movement, hand in hand.

The essence of the project lay in creating a dynamic conversation through music. Initially, the five songwriters collaborated closely with the storytellers to translate their experiences into songs. These songs, along with letters from the storytellers, were then shared with the allies. In response, allies contributed their own songs, fostering a unique call-and-response exchange of emotion and empathy. Through this musical dialogue, the project aims to inspire, amplify voices, and catalyze positive change, uniting participants in a shared journey of resilience and hope.

This project explores the entire spectrum of emotions that is felt through the unique experiences of the ones to honour – the storytellers.

They have shared the first song from the project called “Sweet Little Hummingbird,” a reflection on the lived experience of storyteller Denyse, as interpreted by Toronto folk singer-songwriter Julian Taylor.

The song will be featured on the collaborative album, Always By Your Side, due out on March 22nd (via Dare to Defy Records). It is a moving record that stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of all voices and advocates for a world where voices are heard, honored, and empowered.

Tracklist:
1.01 - Chorus of Courage - Burn It Down (3:59)
1.02 - Chorus of Courage - Shields (4:41)
1.03 - Chorus of Courage - Who Am I (3:19)
1.04 - Chorus of Courage - Sweet Little Hummingbird (4:18)
1.05 - Chorus of Courage - Shine (3:23)
1.06 - Chorus of Courage - Stronger Than You (2:30)
1.07 - Chorus of Courage - Mirror Mirror (Fables of a Black Childhood) (4:47)
1.08 - Chorus of Courage - Take Your Time (3:43)
1.09 - Chorus of Courage - Climb (5:41)
1.10 - Chorus of Courage - The Ripple (5:06)