The Haven Social Club

“Ann Vriend” is a former spy. She had been working incognito for an undisclosed European agency, posing as a freelance journalist, when she met someone who was also spy—but for the other side. Against all odds, they fell in love—and thus entered an increasingly complicated game of torn loyalties, dangerous, clandestine passion, and treacherous lies.

It is these experiences which inspired “When We Were Spies”; the exquisite baroque pop album by former agent Ann Vriend, an impressive collection of 11 moving, catchy pop songs; a richly layered, edgy yet tender declaration of bravery and love in a time of confusion and fear, produced by Juno nominated producer Douglas Romanow.

Before the album was pressed it had pre-sold 800 copies and garnered 4 star national reviews, including in NOW Magazine, A n E Magazine, and others.

Hovering perfectly between the accessibility of mainstream “pop” and a fresh, quirky writing and singing style all her own, Ann Vriend effortlessly crosses genres such as pop, rock, roots, electronica, cabaret, soul, and even tinges of alt country—all with humor and flare. This continues to allow her commercial radio hits while seamlessly fitting into the solo soft-seat theatre and festival circuit, celebrated by both Indie music fans and accomplished fellow musicians as much as listeners of mainstream radio.

Ann’s blend of originality with pop sounds is comparable to innovators such as Kate Bush, Regina Spector, Sarah Slean, and Feist. Her literary, poetic lyrics have likened her to Leonard Cohen and Paul Simon, and her honest voice shows hints of Dolly Parton’s clear, direct heartbreak, and Aretha Franklin’s stunning, exquisite soul.

The December ‘07 edition of Canada’s national “Tidings” Magazine puts Ann alongside Hawkley Workman, Em Gryner, Luke Doucet, and Royal Wood—some of Canada’s top pop/roots songwriters. This is no accident. The under-the-radar chanteuse has sold 10,000 albums independently, and continues to make avid fans worldwide, headlining at international festivals, and garnering songwriting commissions from organizations such as the 2006 Commonwealth Games.

Ann’s 3rd full-length album, “When We Were Spies” was released March ‘08 and is being received with exuberance among both critics and fans, selling 900 copies in less than 2 months with very little—and very independent—promotion.