Serena Ryder: Ice Age

By Kerry Doole

Serena Ryder - Ice Age” (Serenader Source/Universal Music Canada): The platinum-plated singer has been making some noise this holiday season via her collaboration with Shawn Hook on a cover of John Lennon’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over)."

She is now back in the solo spotlight with the release of this new single from her album Utopia, following on from earlier Top 10 radio hits "Got Your Number” and “Electric Love.” 

In a press release, Ryder explains that the song was inspired by “how freeing it is to really come out the other side of a broken heart and a broken mind" and realize that the only thing broken "are the words   we choose to define ourselves and our situation by."

She adds: "This is a song about breaking free from the icy chains of the past and thawing into an epic new shiny relationship with life.” 

Aided and abetted by a poignant yet uplifting video filmed in a retirement residence in Regina, the track reaffirms that few singers out there pack the emotional punch of Ms. Ryder. The tune is well-paced and has heft in its production.

Earlier this week, Ryder announced the West Coast leg of her headlining tour. Beginning February, the 12-date tour will stop in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan and Winnipeg with a date in Thunder Bay at the end. Tickets go on sale today (Dec. 8). She also plays four shows in Ontario this month. Check dates here.