Cara McCandless is a singer, song writer and guitar player who doesn’t like to linger too long in one genre but her live show is a blend of blues, folk, rock, and country. Cara started out with an ear for music. When she got her first guitar it was a life changing moment that became a passion and a journey of self discovery and reflection through song writing. From that moment, Cara has written over 160 songs. She has a unique voice and writes songs with truthful lyrics, masterful technique and precision craftsmanship. Based out of the Cowichan Valley in British Columbia, Canada, she has made a name for herself amongst her peers within a talented pool of musicians and she is building momentum.
“I love your voice!” DAN HILL
Cara is currently booking solo acoustic shows for the summer months to showcase her newest single, Closer to Me (available in iTunes)- an honest ballad about a mutual break up. Closer to Me was recorded with sought after producer & engineer Malcom Owen-Flood of the Band of Rascals, and was recorded at the valleys’ prime recording studio, The Woodshop.
“Cara: a voice with strength and words with wisdom.” LONGEVITY JOHN FAULKNER—THE DUNCAN SHOWROOM
Cara released an EP Gypsy Sea (2014) -a collection of original songs with a rock n’ roll edge which was recorded by the talented, Tanya Gillespie and its title track, Gypsy Sea (available in iTunes) was written about a dream she had of playing big outdoor festivals. A dream she plans on pursuing in the real world. Cara’s focus is her solo show, but she also plays bass and adds vocals to McCandless Family Band and she is involved in a trio called PixElle. In 2002 Cara toured with Victoria band YellowbellY and was the opening act for the dates across Canada. She was a winner for Rocktoria (2000) – a Victoria radio station contest with 100.3 The Q, where she recorded 3 songs with producer Rick Erikson. She has shared the stage with Fred Eaglesmith, The Puentes Brothers, Ember Swift, The Molestics and many more. most recently she sang backups with Grammy Award Winning Dan Hill.
“Cara’s Beth Orton/Natalie Merchant style is as radio ready as it is challenging.” MIKE DEVLIN-- TIMES COLONIST
Cara is looking to perform, publish, and license her composition. She wants to share her stories and affect people. Keep an ear to the ground and you’ll be sure to hear the name Cara McCandless in the near future.
