Local singer features blend of theatricality, emotion, and passion

Cat Thomson delivers beautiful talent

By Cazzy Lewchuk, Staff Writer

Cat Thomson is a solo singer-songwriter based in Vancouver who actively plays shows and records her music. Her debut album Puzzle is set for release in April. Thomson has been compared to a variety of artists in both image and musical range, including Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Florence and the Machine, and Marina and the Diamonds.

Born and raised in Calgary, Thomson began taking piano lessons at age five. Although she always had a passion for singing and was active in the Calgary Children’s Choir since age six, it was not until she was 17 that she took her first formal voice lesson. After making the decision to study music full-time, Thomson spent five years at Louisiana State University on a full scholarship majoring in opera and vocal performance.

When Thomson moved to Vancouver, she was discovered by Jonathan Simkin, co-founder of record label 604 Records, known for managing artists such as Marianas Trench and Carly Rae Jepsen. After finding her YouTube channel through her Twitter account, Simkin offered her a contract. Thus began the process of making her first album, Puzzle.

Working with local producers such as Kevvy Maher and Louise Burns, the completed Puzzle was recorded over a period of almost two years. Thomson has recorded with a variety of session musicians to finish all the tracks, with the result being an album as refined as the singer behind it. Her theatrical mix of jazz and contemporary pop has wowed anyone who has experienced it.

Despite working for a label known primarily for its pop music, Thomson’s music has no definitive genre. Her music and lyrics are written directly from the heart and are very distinct in this nature. In many ways, Puzzle is an album that’s been in the making all of her life. The themes expressed in her music certainly capture a variety of experiences and emotions.

Puzzle has been scheduled for a tentative release date sometime in April. Thomson’s current available recorded music is somewhat limited, although her debut single “Sticks & Stones” is currently available in radio play and on iTunes. The single also has a music video that recently premiered on Vevo, while several other songs can be found on her website.

Thomson’s live shows feature spectacle, high emotion, and true passion. She regularly plays shows in small venues around Vancouver, and is planning a small tour across BC in April to coincide with Puzzle’s release.

In addition to her solo career, Thomson has some side-projects on YouTube. Together with her best friend, Jessica Lee, who is also a signed singer at 604 Records, they formed a duo known as CASSICA. Primarily playing covers, the two released their first original track, “A Very Merry Christmas,” this December.

Thomson’s YouTube channel also features many covers and some originals. More of her music and updates can be found on her Twitter (@CatThomsonMusic) and YouTube (Cat Thomson) or her website, catthomsonmusic.com