It was a semi-therapeutic situation during which a friend revealed the details of her abusive relationship that inspired Ila Barker to write a song of unrivalled intensity. ‘Fool Under Water’ not only turned into her first big statement of empowerment and perseverance in the darkest hours of her life, but also the title of her first studio album. But it would be another seven years before all the angles of this work were fine-tuned and a release was possible in October 2022. With a voice full of soul, folk sensibilities of the glorious songwriters of the 70s and an Anishinaabe cultural heritage that stretches deep into the past, Barker produces songs of extraordinary fervour and sensitivity. ‘Through my music, I've built a deep personal connection with my own community, but also with my fanbase,’ she explained in an interview. You can hear and feel this in every note - and especially at her live concerts.