Local musician Tamara Maddalen nominated for CMAOntario awards with New Moon Junction

Burlington-born Tamara Maddalen and her band, New Moon Junction, have been nominated by the Country Music Association of Ontario (CMAOntario) for the Group or Duo of the Year award.

A variety of local artists have been nominated for awards this year, including Oakville’s Nicole Rayy, Milton’s Joey DePaiva and Burlington’s Jake Sauve.

New Moon Junction, who released its first single in 2020, is the result of three solo country artists, Tamara Maddalen, Brad Battle and Barbara Doran, finding harmony and creating a new sound between them.

“It's taken us a lot further than we thought,” Maddalen said. “We forged good friendships, and the songs that we write together are an embodiment of trio harmony. Our songs are about uplifting, goal oriented, supporting and feel-good stuff, and I think we're remaining true in our songwriting.”

Maddalen has been performing since she was little, her first recital coming at five years old. Her solo career began in folk R&B, and her introduction to country music has been beyond what she could have imagined.

“It’s been amazing, it has exceeded all my expectations,” Maddalen said. “Country music has really opened up a tremendous amount of doors in the last three years, and every year it just keeps getting better. There's always another opportunity around the corner.”

The awards will be given out on June 2 at the Living Arts Centre in Mississauga at the end of the CMAOntario Festival weekend, which starts May 31. New Moon Junction’s producer, Jeff Dalziel, is also up for the Record Producer of the Year award for his work with the group.

Being nominated for an award is a big step for the group, who have been growing in the past few years.

“It’s been mind blowing, to be perfectly honest,” Maddalen said. “Two years ago, I hadn't even gone to a CMA. Last year we got to present, and this year were nominated for two awards. It feels amazing.”

The group is competing against The Reklaws, The Western Swing Authority, Rosewood Ave, River Town Saints and the James Barker Band for the Group or Duo of the Year award.

“We just want to thank everyone for all the continuing support and encourage everyone to come out, and see everyone in Mississauga,” Maddalen added. “It's going to be a weekend of amazing music and there's a ton of great talent in Ontario, so don't miss out.”

New Moon Junction will be performing during the festival at the Tailgate concert on June 1.