Terra Spencer: The Art of Being Bold
Terra Spencer’s fourth album, Sunset, was released in September 2024. On November 13 and 14, Terra is set to play two sold-out album release shows at The Carleton (Photo: Whitney Devoto)
Windsor-based singer-songwriter Terra Spencer recently released her latest album, Sunset, which was recorded at the Sonic Temple Recording Studio, leading up to the iconic Halifax studio’s move. “I caught wind at the last ECMAs that Sonic Temple, which I love, was moving, and its fate was kind of undetermined,” she says. “Having made a record there during the pandemic, I always wanted to return. When I heard they were losing their beloved space after over 20 years, I thought, ‘Let’s make a record.’” Less than two months later, Terra assembled a band and a stack of songs to record the album. “We went in for two days without rehearsing together and whammed out a record, adding more bits along the way.” Recording at Sonic Temple, known for its rich musical history, added a special touch. “It felt bittersweet to record the last tracks there, knowing it was the end of an era,” Terra recalls.
Her journey into music began with a bold act at a music festival while scooping ice cream. “I was by the side of the stage and met Ryan Cook, who was recruiting backup singers. I lied my way into the job, having no experience, and it sparked something,” she remembers. “After performing his original songs, I started writing and opening his shows.” Since then, Terra has become a beloved fixture in the East Coast music scene. “This journey has been about discovering my passion for songwriting and all the doors it opens,” she says, crediting the kindness of fellow musicians and audiences for helping her along the way.
The collection of songs on Sunset is filled with beautiful collaborations and emotional storytelling that highlight the magic of working together creatively. “There are many collaborations on the record,” Terra notes, sharing how the album came together through “random acts of boldness,” resulting in collaborations with talented artists like Ben Caplan and David Francey. "Working with artists like Ben and David is like finding new colours to paint with," she adds. "They help me push the boundaries of my creativity, and Sunset is better for it."
Terra's music exudes nostalgia rooted in her life experiences. “I didn’t start writing until later, so I wasn’t penning breakup songs at 18,” she reflects. Deeply sentimental, she draws inspiration from her memories of relationships, places, and her work as a funeral director. Her music captures both intimate and universal themes. "My earlier records were about other people's stories," she explains. "But Sunset captures my own experiences and things I’ve been processing for a while.”
At its core, Sunset reflects life’s transitions—from teenage romance to the bittersweet farewells that mark life’s later chapters. “The songs begin with early teenage romance and beach vibes, leading to themes of grief in the last song, The Other Side of Goodbye,” Terra says. This narrative arc mirrors a sunset itself, encapsulating the beauty and sadness of change.
With Sunset, Terra Spencer documents another chapter in her growing legacy as a singer-songwriter. The Sunset Album Release Tour has brought Terra to British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick, with stops in Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia remaining. Upcoming shows include a show in her home community of Windsor and two sold-out shows at The Carleton. The album’s blend of folk and contemporary sounds showcases Terra’s growth as an artist, inviting listeners into her world.
Her journey reflects a deep commitment to her craft and her community. "Being part of the local music scene means everything to me. It’s not just about making music but uplifting the voices around you."
