Album Notes

Monica Joy has been making music for as long as she can remember - first on the piano, then with acoustic guitar, and more recently on African drums. And although she has been writing songs since her teen years, most of her music remained unheard until now.

With the release of her first album If Everything is Lost, the spring of 2005 marks a new chapter for Monica's music. "I've always felt fortunate to have music in my life as an outlet, a way of journaling and worshipping and coping. I haven't always felt the need for my music to be heard by anyone other than my 'audience of One', but over the last couple of years, the desire to share it has begun to burn in me. I'm encouraged that God seems to be taking this music that has been like "therapy" in my life and is using it in the lives of others." Monica is thrilled to have had ten extremely talented musicians from around the province come together to bring 13 of her original works to life, in the hope that these songs would bring others a blend of "ear candy", praise, encouragement and even healing.

Sometimes described as "folk pop", Monica Joy's music is an earthy, mellow blend of piano, guitars, violin, cello and African percussion. In her smooth, honest vocals, it is easy to hear her heart for those who feel worn or crushed by life's hardships, and her passion to live a life that delights her Creator. Often inspired by a hymn, a scripture or others' writings, Monica's lyrics reflect a longing for renewal and unhindered devotion to the God-pleasing life we were meant to live. Weary of "churchiness", she longs to see people inside and outside of churches make a deep and real connection with God and others.

Monica lives near Lake Huron in Zurich, Ontario, with her furry son (a chocolate lab) and her husband Tim, who describes her as "most alive when sitting behind a piano or guitar and creating music". She also spends many hours sharing her love of music as a teacher at a local elementary school. Monica enjoys opportunities to share her music in cafes, concerts and churches, both as a solo artist and with other musicians.