Talented Cardiff in St. Albert July 11

Singer-songwriter Craig Cardiff has a unique way of generating inspiration for his songs.

For the past two years, Cardiff has passed around a Book of Truths during his shows and asked fans to share their truths – possibly a story, a confession, a hope or a secret.

As the Ontario-based folksinger writes on his web page, “Those entries weren’t always easy to read. The stories can be heartbreaking.”

But the stories provided the stimulus for his latest album Love is Louder (Than All the Noise) Part 1 & 2.

For the recording process of this double album containing 21 tracks, Cardiff chose to work with producers Ben Leggett (Faraway Neighbours) and Andre Wahl (Hawksley Workman).

They are the same team that produced Floods and Fires, an album that earned Cardiff a nomination for the 2012 Juno Award for Roots and Traditional Album of the Year.

Unlike previous CDs, Love is Louder is part boisterous group sing-along, part gentle lullaby.

“He writes amazing songs. To be honest, I’d never heard of him until we booked him. I gave him a listen and he’s outstanding,” said Ella Coyes of The Rhythm Group.

The Rhythm Group is a St. Albert based collection of five musicians that book music acts for local venues. In addition to Coyes, the group includes Matthew Potter and the band, Southern Streets, with Stephen Badry, Sean Peacock and Conor McIntyre.

The musicians formed a formal group in November 2013 with the intent of helping more artists get paid for performances.

Potter originally played for Cardiff several years ago and the two stayed in touch, says Coyes. When Cardiff released Love is Louder, they booked the Ontario folksinger at a local church.

“He plays a lot of house concerts in people’s living rooms. It’s very personal and dedicated. He makes a space feel more intimate. You see him and you don’t feel he’s hiding behind anything. He looks honest and truthful.”