The sounds of music slipped into the night Friday promoting some of the hidden talent and music that thrives within our city. Compiling artists onto one album Norwegian Blue Records looks to give Lethbridge and southern Alberta the chance to showcase its talent. Consisting of 14 local bands, Norwegian Blue Records held two shows in promotion of the album, Windy Rock.

Featuring original songs by all the bands, Windy Rock is set to release April 15, 2014. Tyson Wiebe, part-owner of Norwegian Blue Records, band member of Mormon Girls and Lethbridge College employee says it was great to see such great responses from all the bands.

“It tends to be in most bands that we have friends in other bands but we don’t really give each other the same opportunities that we should do. This was kind of a way to cross promote each other. So if I sold a couple copies of the record at a show, then its got 14 other bands on it that people should check out in our area,” says Wiebe.

Wiebe concludes that so many bands wanted to partake that they had to turn some away. However they hope to create another compilation, showcasing more work, come the fall. For those who were able to partake on the first compilation, it has been positive responses. Including that of Mickey Hayward, vocalist and guitartist for Mormon Girls.

“I think it’s a huge door-opener for the bands due to the fact that Lethbridge slips under the radar and the most some of us get is CKXU play. In reality the city has an expansive scene that really deserves attention on a broader scale,” says Hayward.

Jackson Tiefenbach, guitarist and sometimes vocalist for The Ruby Plumes believes it is awareness of Lethbridge’s music scene, hopefully to a national level.

“For me, it’s all about raising awareness. Lethbridge has an incredible music scene for a city of its size, and getting people in Calgary or BC or the United States to take a look and realize, that is the most important step,” says Tiefenbach.

While the two fundraiser shows, at The Owl Acoustic Lounge and The Slice Bar and Grill have been a success it is not telling what may be in store for these artists. Upon Windy Rock’s release the album will be available on cassette at The Owl and Blueprint Entertainment. As well listeners can look for it online on Norwegian Blue Records website www.norwegianblue.bigcartel.com.