tag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:/blogs/latest-news?p=2Latest News2024-01-21T14:13:23-08:00Hello and welcome to the Journey to the Heart Podcast! My name is Thorin Loeks, I am a singer-songwriter from the Yukon Territory. Canada. My current mission is to canoe across America from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean over the rest of 2022 to learn more about what happiness, community, connection, and self empowerment means to different people I meet along the way.Hello and welcome to the Journey to the Heart Podcast! My name is Thorin Loeks, I am a singer-songwriter from the Yukon Territory, Canada paddling a canoe across America.Thorin LoeksfalseThorin Loeksthorloeks@gmail.comtag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/73377222024-01-21T14:13:23-08:002024-01-21T14:13:23-08:00A Great Time for Songwriting<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/a1250916d65eb7d4a38d0b71b1d10e81f2aeee28/original/img-20240119-142203-550.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p>A great time for songwriting 🎶✨️</p><p>Just about to start recording my new album and have some really exciting updates for 2024.</p><p>Hope you all have a wonderful week 🫶</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/73284092024-01-04T11:54:58-08:002024-01-04T11:54:58-08:00Happy New Year <p dir="ltr"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/04094a3fefd5bbe8d5619381c343fb307b0e35e2/original/20240101-161126-3.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p dir="ltr">Happy New Year everyone ✨️</p><p dir="ltr">Hope you are all doing well as this new chapter begins. 2023 was amazing for me in so many ways, but I'm ready to make 2024 even better. Feeling very motivated to continue working towards the dreams I've had for years.</p><p dir="ltr">On the top of the list is to fulfill a childhood dream of canoeing across America, which has taken me about halfway now from the Pacific Ocean to South Dakota over the last two seasons. This year, the plan is to compete this voyage, of another 4000 km or so, to the Gulf of Mexico.</p><p dir="ltr">The second is to start regularly releasing the new music I've been writing, culminating in my next album. I have so many meaningful songs that I'm looking forward to begin sharing with you all.</p><p dir="ltr">Last but not least, I hope to be more intentional with building, appreciating, and maintaining the relationships with family and friends that I have been lucky enough to cultivate over the years. There truly are some wonderful people in this world and I feel very grateful to know and be loved by a few of them. That being said, everyone is on their own journey and life keeps moving so quickly. It's easy to lose touch, but even one thoughtful message or phone call now and then can mean a lot. I know it does for me.</p><p dir="ltr">Wishing you all a very special 2024. Let this be a year of following and fufilling your dreams with the people that matter to you 🫶🌅</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/72774452023-09-22T14:55:22-07:002023-10-16T07:49:57-07:00New EP Release <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/8d050a3cc0f0942bf983c72fc5d4ede08be01583/original/20230531-165459-0000-2.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/88a0219c5f82059c0b4114774eb2ce9dfb2c07bf/original/img-20230922-163108-605.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p dir="ltr">Grateful to announce the release of my new EP “The Light” 🌅 🎶</p><p dir="ltr">So pleased to finally fully share this collection of songs with you all.</p><p dir="ltr">Big thank you to <span>Braeden Rangno</span> and <span>David Tallarico</span> for their amazing work in the studio as producers and audio engineers.</p><p dir="ltr">Wishing you all a wonderful autumn ✨️</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/72690122023-09-05T12:44:11-07:002023-09-05T13:14:01-07:00Paddling and Playing Through North Dakota<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/654c560e1f85c11c2144c64157df5dd88ffdeec4/original/img-20230905-135511-853.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p dir="ltr">I've spent an incredible few weeks in Bismarck, North Dakota area and have met some amazing people here. While the natural beauty of Lake Sakakawea and the Missouri River in this region are truly inspiring, the kindness and generosity of the humans (and sometimes animals) I have met has been on another level 🌅🙏</p><p dir="ltr">Feeling very blessed and grateful to spend this special one of a kind moment in time here with such good souls. Even if the weather for paddling has been a challenge and has kept me here a bit longer than expected, sometimes the best things happen when you have other plans. Thank you all so much ✨️</p><p dir="ltr">On another note, I have a very special guest on my podcast "The Journey to the Heart" which will be coming out in just a couple days. It features an amazing songwriter I met named Aaron Butcher. We share some good stories, a lot of new music, including newly written songs. So, if that sounds up your alley, you can tune in and subscribe above or where ever you like to listen to podcasts 🎤🌄</p><p dir="ltr"> </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/72413052023-07-13T10:27:10-07:002023-07-13T10:27:11-07:00The Missouri Breaks and a New Podcast Season<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/d21842916ccd30b46b61699840a0c789780ea30a/original/img-20230713-105619-238.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p>Hi friends! I am now making my way down the Missouri Breaks enjoying some incredible tranquility and wildlife along the way. Feeling blessed to be back on the river doing what I love.</p><p>I am also pleased to announce the launching of the second season of my podcast, "Journey to the Heart"! <br><br>The first episode of the new season, is a wonderful conversation with Tracy Jerman, one of my hosts and friends from Great Falls, Montana. It is now available wherever you can find podcasts or through the link in my bio.<br><br>Also if you would like to support my canoe journey, podcast, or music directly, please consider joining my Patreon community! Every goes towards creating meaningful songs and conversations. Look forward to sharing some more amazing content there in the months to come 🛶🏞🎶</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/72387382023-07-08T10:06:33-07:002023-07-08T11:39:25-07:00New Single "Into The Night"<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/8cc97e4dc2b2a9c7b6bf54fa237b033c255efec1/original/20230531-125219-0000.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p dir="ltr">Hey friends! I just released my latest single, "Into The Night". It will be on my upcoming EP, “The Light” which I plan to fully release the beginning of October 😊🍂🎶</p><p dir="ltr">I wrote this about finding/fostering hope and love through dark times. Hope you like it and thank you for the incredible belief and support for my work and music 🌅✨️</p><p> </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/72265472023-06-14T12:49:25-07:002023-06-14T12:49:26-07:00Back on the River<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/d7f4d349afe426ed50575bc3c9c1b397bd5c8c98/original/img-20230614-123706-599.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p>Thank you Signature Montana Magazine and Kay Bjork for the article about my bucket list adventure, paddling a canoe coast to coast across America! <br><br>Excited to announce that I am very close to picking up where I left off last fall and continuing my journey down the Missouri River towards the Gulf of Mexico and will be launching back out into the water in the next week or two. This will also coincide with playing some shows along the way and the second season of my podcast, "Journey to the Heart" ✨️🎶<br><br>Wishing you all a wonderful summer and see you out on the river road 🛶🏞🌞</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/72076982023-05-12T10:57:29-07:002023-05-12T10:57:29-07:00New Single "Threads"<p dir="ltr">My new single “Threads” is now out everywhere if you'd like to take a listen! </p><p dir="ltr">Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend 🌅<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/0c71ea30371202d8d067c35c17ca5c09a2e631e5/original/img-20230512-102804-547.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/71947552023-04-21T14:45:52-07:002023-04-25T13:26:09-07:00Changing of the Seasons and New Projects<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/202512/b2b10128bead276438d6dc425dc9087082b6ef32/original/20230411-100206-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p>Wishing everyone a wondrous changing of the seasons, whether that be spring or fall 🏞🌞✨️ I am also excited to announce that I will be officially releasing a new single, Threads, on Friday, May 12th. This will be the first in a series of new songs that I will be releasing over the summer culminating in my next record. Stay tuned and all my best 💛🎶</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/71344362023-01-07T13:43:59-08:002023-01-07T13:44:09-08:00New Year <p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/3f9d480f79c5ce402090c98d2206bc919d91e966/original/img-20230107-133901-231.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Happy New Year! 🏞✨️ 2022 was one of the most important years of my life so far. Along with launching my "Personal Everest" journey (Canoeing Across America), I started a podcast, played more live music again, dived into my grad school research about the vitality of communities, and connected with so many wonderful people along the way. </p>
<p>It also hasn't always been easy, learning and growing in this life rarely is, but the capacity and vitality of the human spirit to still cherish one another and the worlds we share, despite being a little broken, has been truly awe-inspiring and humbling. </p>
<p>Through all the adversity and challenges, there is so much love to be shared in this heartbreakingly beautiful world. I still believe in the vast potential we all possess to turn over a new leaf, forgive, heal, connect meaningfully with each other, and to do amazing things with the gifts that we have been given. </p>
<p>May we all lead with love in 2023 my friends and find new joy, gratitude, and magic in this next chapter 💛🙏</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/71201532022-12-08T19:28:09-08:002022-12-08T19:28:09-08:00Winter Warmth<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/dd6c5f71745ed7d990e73d8435fbcb37aec38392/original/img-20221207-152449-345.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/9b7836cf54a79b8f898c779ad1011e12e252557c/original/img-20221207-152449-502.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>It's the time of year to be cozy and spend time with family 🎄✨️ Feeling very blessed on many levels. </p>
<p>This year has been full of some major ups and downs, but through that, there has been so much growth, learning, and love. It's truly stunning sometimes how much the heart can feel. </p>
<p>Ultimately, I am so grateful for this process and the incredible people who continue to believe in me. I feel as though my best days, adventures, and creative works are yet to come and look forward to sharing them on this wild and wondrous journey called life. </p>
<p>Wishing you all hope, love, and happiness 💛 </p>
<p>Thor</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/71076882022-11-21T16:32:20-08:002022-11-21T16:32:20-08:00New Creative Home<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/bf59cb9d04275468ca613139bb68f9547ad33cf2/original/20221113-112537-3.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/f76a55a04f0467d5400bfc85229b6aa23d3461cb/original/20221121-154535-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Just wanted to touch base with the wonderful people who follow and support me, I've been a little MIA with my musical projects and podcast as of late, since returning from my journey this last season, because I recently moved into my new place in Vancouver and have been super busy furnishing/getting it cozy for the winter 💛🎶 </p>
<p>I'd like to let everyone know that I do have some exciting projects on the horizon that I am really looking forward to sharing with you all. </p>
<p>Love being out in the world, but having a creative home base again to dream, build, and venture from is a blessing 🙏🔥✨️</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70690482022-09-26T13:02:48-07:002022-09-26T13:25:42-07:00Finishing my Journey for the Season<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/aca2c2968f96e5de709e3a512cabd4ce9093ea5a/original/20220923-141744-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/8b3e5e5b93154dadc0b32ebeb689ccedabbed5e2/original/20220925-191238.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Well friends, after traveling by canoe and bicycle from the Pacific Ocean across America since May, I have decided to end my season in Great Falls, Montana and will return next summer to finish paddling to the Gulf of Mexico! </p>
<p>It is truly hard to put into words what the last four months have meant to me. I have met and befriended so many wonderful people and had so many special moments in the different worlds I have been lucky enough to travel through. These are just a couple captured over the last few days of my journey, but I will definitely be sharing more over the coming weeks 🏞🌞 </p>
<p>I have so much gratitude to everyone who has supported and encouraged me on this bucket list adventure. I look forward sharing new music, videos, my podcast, and other meaningful creative projects I have been working on and will continue to develop over the coming months! This journey will continue in spirit until I return to paddle the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers to the Atlantic Ocean next summer. </p>
<p>Wishing everyone the best in this changing of the seasons 🍂 </p>
<p>I'm coming home 💛 </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70584732022-09-12T08:30:41-07:002022-09-12T09:28:31-07:00Transformational Journeys and Carpe Diem with Jim Emanuel<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/131f764c5a702339e55fb2e59097096ed97748cc/original/dsc-0069.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>In this conversation on The Journey to the Heart Podcast, I sat down with Jim Emanuel who, along with being a retired firefighter and part time hypnotist, paddled the Missouri River from its headwaters to the sea in 2018, the year he turned 60. We talk about canoeing expeditions, transformational journeys, the power of self hypnosis, and how to move towards living a life that you love. </p>
<p>I also wanted to give a shout out to the very first members that have joined my new Patreon community: Looking223, Sharye Skinner, Al McCutchan, and Sean Duffy. I put a lot of love, time, and effort into these journeys, this podcast, my music, and my other creative projects and I deeply appreciate the support in helping cover my costs and providing greater and continued opportunity to develop and share them with you all. </p>
<p>If you enjoy what I am doing and want to support this podcast and the other projects that I am working on, please consider joining my Patreon community. </p>
<p>Thank you all and see you down the river road, </p>
<p>Thor</p>1:25:00Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70570252022-09-09T13:14:54-07:002022-09-09T13:14:54-07:00The Missouri Headwaters at Last<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/4d8fb60089008d4f09355de0a6924fcacf942f89/original/20220907-174354-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/cd66df4ca7fe40947de008c1bb66aaacb5d1a1a1/original/20220907-172913-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Such an incredible moment and feeling to have my canoe back in the water, knowing that these waters will be flowing down to the Gulf of Mexico 🏞🌞 </p>
<p>I was honoured to be joined by canoeing expedition legends Norm Miller and Jim Emanuel who paddled with me from the headwaters of Missouri for the first couple days to celebrate this special milestone. After months of paddling and peddling upriver I am finally going downstream! 🛶🙌</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70542452022-09-06T12:10:27-07:002022-09-06T13:53:26-07:00Over the Continental Divide, the Next Chapter & Launching Patreon<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/1e4c4a7815b48ee3ecd39bafa4204590ca45e48c/original/20220904-140416-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/ae94feddf409a61db81454f6ba8939e34b6262f7/original/received-601746201586443.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>After a beautful, intense, and transformational bicycle portage over the Rockies, I have reunited with my canoe in Helena, Montana! 🚲🛶🌞 </p>
<p>Feeling very blessed and grateful for many wonderful people that have helped in making this possible, including the amazing Thomas Edward Eier for bringing my canoe over the Rockies from Lewiston. Look forward in starting the next chapter of this journey as I ready to launch my boat into the headwaters of the Missouri River tomorrow with the great advice and help of Jim Emanuel. </p>
<p>I am also happy to announce that I have finally launched a Patreon! If you would like to further support my journey, podcast, and musical projects, that would be a great place to do it ✨️🎶 </p>
<p>https://www.patreon.com/thorinloeks </p>
<p>I am honored by all of your incredible support and I look forward in continuing to put my heart and soul into these projects so that I can keep sharing special moments, conversations, and creations with you 🌅🙏</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70516232022-09-02T03:45:06-07:002022-09-02T03:45:06-07:00Over Lolo Pass and Through the Bitterroot Mountains<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/85d53804aa0b7f4b5a55046956e0fffd292efe19/original/20220829-152844-0-3.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/6c1531d6b8c97b6f5ee1bc034aa8bcd4d0d1ab9d/original/20220830-150643.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Successfully made it over the Bitterroot Mountains and Lolo Pass on my bicycle portage en route to the headwaters of the Missouri River! 🚲🏔🌞 </p>
<p>This portal through the mountains was incredible, along with some wild and scenic rivers, mountain hotsprings, and healing solitude, I also met some amazing people that have left me further enriched and inspired 🙌 (many aren't shown here yet, but they will be in future posts). </p>
<p>I am now in Missoula, Montana and just a few days away from Missouri Headwaters State Park. Hard to put into words what it means to me to be so close to the Continental Divide and the downstream section of my canoe odyssey across America. So much has happened already to get here. So many amazing experiences, friendships discovered, unrepeatable moments, challenges overcome, and meaningful breakthroughs. Yet adventure, the river road, and the universe still have so much more to show me 🛶🏞🌞</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70435192022-08-22T13:15:19-07:002022-08-22T13:15:43-07:00The Bicycle Portage Begins and Gratitude at the Confluence<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/cf10c607689391ef5ba8ad56a828ad59bcc24bb6/original/20220821-193155-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/5d326808ca80e9bf1822c007780ec9afc6347441/original/20220814-143443-3.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/ac56e5a4b7160b405ee3024100f1d8046c6b7526/original/20220818-230438-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/606a4df4051672aa579ec112844cfc1b0179b43d/original/20220818-230737-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Thank you Lewiston and Clarkston for everything and connecting me with amazing people and friends new and old! You have brought this time at confluence to life and rejuvenated me for the next chapter of this journey! </p>
<p>I still am trying to wrap my mind around the odds of running into one of my childhood friends, Hyder Bos-Jabbar, who I grew up with on a rural road in the Yukon, at a show I played in Lewiston the other night 💥🎶 </p>
<p>I also can't fully express how grateful I am for the wonderful souls who have believed in, supported and helped me and inso become part of this epic adventure. It truly strengthens my faith in humanity and bolsters my belief in the human spirit 🙌🔥 </p>
<p>As for the journey, I am now transitioning to a 400 mile bicycle portage over the Bitterroot Mountains to the headwaters of the Missouri River where I will be reunited with my canoe and I can finally start paddling downstream to the ocean. Big thanks to everyone in Lewiston who has helped make this possible (the bicycle + canoe portage), including Tom Eier, Gregory Raye, and other unsung heroes. Thank you all so much for believing in this odyssey and happy trails 💛🙏🛶</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70424922022-08-20T15:10:48-07:002022-08-20T15:16:08-07:00New Journey to the Heart Podcast Episode<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/b7721360ba0289c6bbf55a70bd283f35f3b44a03/original/20220802-215625-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Finally a new episode of my Journey to the Heart Podcast is up and running on most platforms! </p>
<p>It's an epic conversation I had with John Macbeth who lives rurally outside of Pasco, Washington. </p>
<p>The Snake River is was quite remote in comparison to the Columbia. After almost getting bit by a rattlesnake while portaging my canoe on a 5 mile rustic dirt road around the first of four dams, I met John and his family at a boat landing on the upper side of this dam at twilight and was invited to stay on their farm for a couple nights. </p>
<p>A former professional bull rider, country music singer-songwriter, and full time farmer/family man. John is a captivating storyteller and a man of many adventures, travels, and talents. We had a great conversation sharing stories, songs, jokes, and life perspectives. John talked about some wild adrenaline stunts/near death experiences and I even told the full story of when I got charged by a grizzly bear while bicycle touring. This is by far the longest podcast I have done so far. I hope you enjoy and until next time 🌞🙏🎶</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70379332022-08-14T19:55:44-07:002022-08-14T20:39:07-07:00Upstream Paddle Completed<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/979188799549452a297b8db458b83efef97203ec/original/20220814-133055-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I am very pleased to announce that I have successfully reached Lewiston, Idaho from Astoria, Oregon and completed the upstream section of my canoe trip across America! So many emotions that are hard to describe right now and so much gratitude to the those who have believed in and supported this dream so far 🙏🌞💛 </p>
<p>I now will be switching to a 400 mile bicycle portage en route to Three Forks, Montana and the headwaters of the Missouri River. Downstream bound! 🙌🏞 🛶</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70291802022-08-02T11:38:40-07:002022-08-02T11:38:40-07:00From the Columbia to the Snake River<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/b3bfcdbed8cb078ab09e17913c6fd475ffafb439/original/20220724-201849-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/531597d09fd4020a61f8a779063a6ecfdbe94722/original/20220801-195827.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/5016f2ca6599eba4c19f5ad80dcc14e5c4dcad84/original/20220801-201934.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Hey friends! Just wanted to do a trip update and let everyone know that after paddling through the most recent heat wave and portaging around the Mcnary Dam, I have successfully navigated the lower Columbia and by sunset last night, made it to the mouth of the Snake River! 🌅🛶 </p>
<p>This bucket list journey to canoe across America has been absolutely incredible so far and I am eternally grateful to the many wonderful folks who have connected, supported, and became a part of my adventure along the way. They are not shown here but I will be doing series of posts in the future including as many of these good people as I can 🙏💛 </p>
<p>I will now in this next chapter be canoeing up the Snake River to Lewiston, Idaho which will be the end point of my upstream paddling before doing a 300 mile bicycle portage over the Rockies to begin my downstream paddle to the Gulf of Mexico. I may be out of cell service for long stretches of this section for the next 8-14 days before reaching Lewiston, so thank you all for your incredible support and I will be in touch in the near future with more updates 🌞🏞</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70284862022-08-01T13:59:49-07:002022-08-01T13:59:49-07:00Paddling Through the Heat<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/a4776865ec4c8b8c203ddd464cda5c70b685fe4e/original/20220727-152853-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />45 degrees C (113 f) as I paddle through Umatilla and still smiling 🌞 Embracing the challenge and how much there is to be grateful for, especially a good hat 🤠🛶🏞 Stay cool, be well, and have a great day everyone 🙌</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70131452022-07-12T13:10:45-07:002022-07-12T13:11:27-07:00Canoeing the Columbia River Gorge<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/5ddb08c7297f0cf900afe5d9c59e777362a2b5a0/original/20220704-111903-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/fffab1997accda0b162a612bcc9e3153d9a64a93/original/20220708-141554-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Canoe kite-sailing my way through the Columbia River Gorge! 🌊🌬🛶🌞</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70112232022-07-09T16:24:59-07:002022-07-09T16:33:27-07:00Rivers For Change<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/515f7f26b2dfa4111c72a8167549f41b5b4f8c85/original/20220704-190717-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Had a wonderful visit in Hood River! (Many amazing people that I met and connected with not shown here). My latest newly released podcast is with Danielle Katz, a world traveler, source to sea paddling adventurer, and the founder of an NGO called Rivers for Change which enhances the medium of source to sea river adventures to advocate for wilderness conservation and ecosystem revitalization efforts. </p>
<p>I met her, her wonderful friends, and the crew of kayakers she has been supporting in Hood River. They have made their way paddling from the Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho and plan to end their journey where I began mine: the mouth of the Columbia River. </p>
<p>It was amazing to meet these kindred souls and have an in depth talk with Danielle about her origins, source to sea adventures, conservation, and perspectives on life. Hope you enjoy and see you all back on the river road 🏞🌞🛶</p>1:16:30Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70037772022-06-28T17:01:48-07:002022-06-28T17:01:48-07:00Journey to Cascade Locks<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/3190355edd12e9a1f0c36ddb4adf1e086e8464f4/original/20220627-135818-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/0cc6533f2a5b0b4fc9fbbdb31e427951d47d94bd/original/image.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Just wanted to touch base with everyone with an update on my journey so far! Due to powerful currents, flooding, and debris just above St. Helens that made paddling up the Columbia for that section almost impossible for two weeks, I ended up getting help with a 75 mile portage of my canoe to Cascade Locks which I traversed and rode by bicycle instead 🚲🏞. This was a great ride through Portland and the Gorge despite a lot of hills and an intense heat spell that finally hit the area and probably took a gallon or two of sweat out of me 😅 </p>
<p>None of this was easy to decide or do, but I am really glad to be on the other side of this significant hurdle and I am now ready to embrace new challenges and a new chapter of my journey canoeing through the extremely windy and challenging Gorge of the Columbia River 🛶🌞 </p>
<p>Of course none of this would have been possible without some amazing people who have supported and believed in me on this journey so far. It's impossible in just a few photos to include all the good people who have helped me recently and have become part of my story and this meaningful chapter of my trip, but you know who you are. Thank you! 💛🙏 </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/70004772022-06-23T17:08:26-07:002022-06-23T17:29:44-07:00Embrace Your Inner Maverick (Journey to the Heart Podcast #4)<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/c4851aef9fdaa3bc4e89d0d509b9b83cfa497976/original/20220611-190455-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/8bc215e629637f591eac583b58049351fd75a5a6/original/20220611-185700-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Hey friends! The latest episode of my Journey to the Heart Podcast is now live 🔊🏴☠️🦜💛 <br><br>This week's episode is a conversation with Jesse Lagersand and his partner Chin Chin, who I met at a tap house in St. Helens, Oregon. Along with being a big colorful personality and a passionate advocate of the Columbia River, Jesse, and his partner, are professional (entertainment) pirates who up until recently lived for years on a wooden boat built in the 1930’s. <br><br>They are also keen advocates and supporters for the revitalization of communities and businesses in St.Helens. After a few beers, we all had a great late night conversation sharing stories about our roots, what it’s like being a pirate, the Columbia River, boats, stories about where I’m from in the Yukon, the revitalization of towns, and staying true to yourself in this wild journey called life. <br><br>Hope you enjoy and see you all up the river road 🙏🌞🌊</p>1:57:11Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/69931632022-06-13T16:41:25-07:002022-06-13T17:11:21-07:00Making Friends With Fear to Enrich Your Life (Journey to the Heart Podcast #3)<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/3571157d892992873a326919886d06fde1925064/original/20220602-154840-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>The third episode of my new podcast, Journey to the Heart, is now available on (almost) all podcasting sites! In this episode, I have a great conversation with Chris Algero, who is a Scientific Technician for the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. Originally from New Orleans, Chris moved to the Northwest to live his dream of spending time researching, studying, and working in wild places. An optimistic, insightful, and passionate human being, I really enjoyed speaking with him about life, our relationship with the natural world, self actualization and community.</p>1:21:35Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/69878672022-06-06T11:29:34-07:002022-06-21T19:45:56-07:00Taking a Leap of Faith (Journey to the Heart Podcast #2) & an Update Regarding my Creative Projects<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/2cd585befddbe2a5a43e9b6961fe5410b516ad07/original/20220526-180114.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>These guys, Rex and Javier, were amazing hosts during my stay in Cathlamet, Washington. They are busy building their dream of leaving corporate America and owning/running a craft brewery and a local to table restaurant from food they plan to grow and cultivate from their beautiful farm. <br><br>I just released the second episode of my Journey to the Heart Podcast where I have a great conversation with Javier about pursuing your dreams and how take leaps of faith into the unknown. <br><br>An update on my podcast, I decided due to technical challenges while on my journey that I will not be uploading it to YouTube, it will be available however every one to two weeks on my website (www.thorinloeks.com) and all podcast streaming sites, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. <br><br>Thank you all so much for your love and support as I develop these creative projects and this journey unfolds. It is still early days 🌞🛶🏞🙏</p>1:05:19Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/69855242022-06-02T17:58:56-07:002022-06-03T13:13:03-07:00New Podcast<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/4ebabb803d57bdccb7c3ba1f73742594ec87909e/original/20220519-151806-0000-2.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I am happy to announce that I have officially launched "The Journey to the Heart Podcast" which is now available weekly on all podcast platforms including Apple/Google Podcast, Spotify, Castbox, and my YouTube Channel! </p>
<p>As many of you know now, my current mission is to paddle a canoe across America from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean. Along with updates of my journey and some info about each town I visit, my podcast is intended to learn more about what happiness, community, connection, self empowerment, as well as finding and living your passions and dreams means to different people I meet along the way.</p>
<p>On this episode, I will be speaking with Diana Kirk from Astoria, Oregon. Writer, entrepreneur, and business owner, she was kind enough to host me at her air bnb as I prepared for my journey.</p>1:31:23Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/69837932022-05-31T15:31:16-07:002022-05-31T15:31:16-07:00Thank you Cathlamet<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/e4b2bb96aa0e65b9d51adceb791dd944b89b4786/original/20220531-130341.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>After an amazing stay in Cathlamet, Washington, I am back out on the Columbia working my way towards Rainier! I have been lucky to already have met so many amazing people and experiences that have filled my heart with hope and inspiration (much more to share in the near future). Hard to believe that this is just the beginning 🛶🌞🙏 </p>
<p> #canoeingacrossamerica </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/69837922022-05-31T15:31:13-07:002022-05-31T15:31:13-07:00Thank you Cathlamet<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/e4b2bb96aa0e65b9d51adceb791dd944b89b4786/original/20220531-130341.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>After an amazing stay in Cathlamet, Washington, I am back out on the Columbia working my way towards Rainier! I have been lucky to already have met so many amazing people and experiences that have filled my heart with hope and inspiration (much more to share in the near future). Hard to believe that this is just the beginning 🛶🌞🙏 </p>
<p> #canoeingacrossamerica </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/69826192022-05-29T18:16:00-07:002022-05-29T18:16:00-07:00First show on the Columbia River<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/53e385243c6cc157650a4191146637d842c87fa6/original/img-20220528-173743-502.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Played my first two show on the Columbia River at the River Mile 38 Brewery in Cathlamet, Washington 🎶 Feels so good to be playing live again! </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/69807152022-05-26T15:47:04-07:002022-05-26T15:47:04-07:00Out on the River<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/499b84c858f9f3abf8b8921179a53001faa47273/original/20220521-204647.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Solid day paddling out of the Astoria area completed! Last night I camped out at Aldridge Point about 15 miles east of the mouth of the Columbia River. After some bigger waves and portaging on my first day I had some beautiful weather on my second day and was fortunate enough to have the wind and the tide at my back. </p>
<p>I was also lucky that I brought along a "canoe kite" and managed to sail a good portion of the way upstream 🙌 </p>
<p>It's a long way to the Gulf of Mexico, but I am so incredibly grateful to be out here starting to live this dream 🌊🛶🌞</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/69790692022-05-24T17:32:29-07:002022-05-24T17:32:29-07:00Canoeing Across America<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/134fd2c1de41dbbe5d3d3243ed4a3c3636a35eff/original/img-20220520-202002-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I am excited to announce that I'll be canoeing across America from the Pacific to the Atlantic Ocean over the coming months! </p>
<p>This has been a bucket list dream of mine for some time and it really resonates with my deep passion for nature, adventure, music, and connecting with wonderful people/communities. That being said, I have a lot of exciting projects that I am looking forward to creating/sharing with you all as I go! See you out on the river 🛶🌞🏞</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/68568882022-01-01T16:58:23-08:002022-01-01T16:58:23-08:00A New Year<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/5f74a34af7e85ffc39df8bd9212b77a26f7db267/original/img-20220101-174944-322.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>With another orbit around the sun, I've been reflecting a lot on how so much of life happens in the subtle moments between our destinations and our goals. </p>
<p>Despite (and within) the challenges, I feel so deeply grateful for my journey on this planet 💛 </p>
<p>In so many ways, mortality is a gift because it emphasizes how precious our time here really is. It reminds us to reconnect with the joy, love, and wonder within ourselves and the worlds we explore and share with so many other amazing and unrepeatable beings 🌅 </p>
<p>Happy New Year everyone. May you keep discovering, opening yourself to, and enjoying those seemingly little yet wonderful moments of magic as we journey into this next chapter ✨💕</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/66443222021-05-30T15:05:00-07:002021-05-30T15:08:07-07:00Back in the Studio<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/3b0bb6fc6edf5b75deb0f78f33f3d238cc836bda/original/img-20210523-121618-265.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>The next album is in the works! Excited to keep working on what I have been pouring my heart and soul into lately 😊🎶 </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/66010392021-04-11T12:50:48-07:002021-04-11T12:50:48-07:00In This Place Review<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/09caafa4bd30ad9a0d7ba3504e4b43d4e1ebb948/original/screenshot-20210407-140806-facebook.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>https://www.tattoo.com/blog/thorin-loeks-releases-superlative-place/</p>
<p>Thank you Randall Radic and Tattoo.com for such a complimentary review of my new album! It means so much to me that people are resonating with something I've put so much of my heart into over the last few years.</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/65800252021-03-20T11:11:15-07:002021-03-20T14:06:54-07:00In This Place Music Video<p>I'm pleased to announce the release of the music video for the title track of my new album, "In This Place"! Filmed last fall with my friend Graham Kinley while connecting with my roots in the Yukon Territory, Canada, where I was born and raised. </p>
<p>We paddled 600 km on a lesser traveled route during the height of the fall colours from the St. Elias Range down the Kluane, Donjek, White and Yukon Rivers through some remote wilderness to Dawson City. Beyond the first day on the river, we didn't see another (human) soul until reaching Dawson, drinking in the freedom and natural beauty of places rarely seen by people. </p>
<p>It also happened to be the last few weeks of my twenties, so this journey, beyond being a spiritual recharge with the lands I grew up in, was very symbolic for me. The ending of an era and the dawn of a new chapter/decade of my life. You can find my new album, "In This Place", on most music platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music. </p>
<p>Many thanks to Graham for helping film this and to my talented Audio Engineer, Co-Producer, and good friend David Tallarico. It means a lot to see how far these songs have traveled after years in the studio.</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/64586362020-10-18T16:24:06-07:002020-10-18T16:24:06-07:00A New Decade<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/5b0cfb50c5e55e110da4b18d2cac062472f9ca4e/original/img-20201008-122224-677.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>A couple weeks ago I reached my 30's. Hard to believe I've had so many incredible years on this planet already but here I am. Words can't properly express how blessed I feel to be here, all the support, encouragement, and the amazing people I have in my life 💛 </p>
<p>This last year has been a tough one for a lot of people and the planet. Some of us may have lost people. Somethings may never be the same. But life is still precious, and there still is so much to be grateful and hopeful for if we can find ways to overcome our fears, humanize, empathize, forgive, and love one another while we're still here. </p>
<p>Easier said than done, but maybe we can start with the little things. </p>
<p>We all make mistakes and will likely continue to do so. We all are a little broken in some way. </p>
<p>But I believe we all deserve a path to a loving future. And just maybe, we can start by finding the courage to be just a little more understanding, a little kinder, a little more patient, a little more forgiving. Maybe we can have just a little more belief in one another. </p>
<p>Maybe we can help each other get there. </p>
<p>And maybe, together we can make this world just a little better. </p>
<p>Love to everyone and all my best 💗 </p>
<p>Thor</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/64502392020-10-06T10:24:58-07:002020-10-06T10:24:58-07:00A Full Heart<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/e53473d5046005e6390ddcd45c825a5b9fc240a7/original/thor-yukon.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>It's been a couple weeks now since fully releasing my third album, "In This Place", and I can't thank people enough for the incredible support and good energy I've been receiving. So glad people are resonating meaningfully with a project that I gave everything to over the last three years.</p>
<p>In other news my month long sojourn up in the Yukon connecting with my roots has come to a close and I have returned to southern climes. The gratitude I have for my family and friends, and my time spent communing with nature over this last month is beyond what I could properly express in a post. That being said, I am hoping to release a music video in the near future using visuals from the 600 km wilderness canoe journey down the Kluane, Donjek, White, and Yukon Rivers I did with my friend Graham in the height of the fall colours earlier this month that might capture and exude some of that appreciation.</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/64375492020-09-18T13:01:56-07:002020-09-18T20:11:01-07:00"In This Place" Album Release<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/0e0831d7e831a774b877646d44b8ac30e7b8ba59/original/mountain-photo-edit-2-copy-3.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Very pleased to announce the official release of my new album, "In This Place", today It's been an over three year journey to bring this whole project into being and I have nothing but gratitude for the amazing people that have inspired, helped and encouraged me along the way, especially my long time audio-engineer and co-producer David Tallarico. </p>
<p>This album has a lot of special meaning for me. Beyond blending in new genres and evolving/growing sonically, I truly think I've poured everything I could into each song individually and as a cohesive whole. I've given this project everything I have and it's coming right from the heart. All that being said, I'm so glad and grateful to finally being setting it free into the world. I hope this album resonates with people and thank you for listening <3</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/64147582020-08-21T18:09:48-07:002020-09-18T15:36:09-07:00In This Place Presave<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/5326dfb04c9f6e872ec5167cd971a02258795d52/original/in-this-place-copy-2-2.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I am pleased to officially share the cover art for my new album "ln This Place", which is set to be released exactly 4 weeks from today on September 18th 🙌💛🎶 </p>
<p>You can now presave the album on Spotify.</p>
<p>Can't wait to share this three year journey of soul and sound with you all in the near future! 😊</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/64031142020-08-05T16:50:39-07:002020-08-05T16:50:39-07:00Summer Melodies<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/12d8505c04f58e4b7057869217d94bdf51a9c1b2/original/117169206-1175610972807228-8533397285234410401-o.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Hope everyone's summer is going well all things considered : ) There are several exciting things on the horizon right now in regards to my music, including the release of my new album "In This Place" this coming September and a lot of new songwriting! Despite the seemingly continuous chaos in the world, there is still so much to be grateful for. Wishing everyone health and happiness over the rest of the summer and into the fall <3</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/63856202020-07-15T09:01:26-07:002020-07-15T09:48:41-07:00New Single: With You<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/f552028ac2b0bf8d5d84864347147d7a57130ddc/original/with-you-cover-art.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />I'm pleased to announce to the release of my latest single "With You" now available on all platforms! Special thanks to my talented co-producer and audio engineer David Tallarico for his endless patience and friendship while bringing this into being and violin maestro Johnson Cheung for helping this track resonate on another level. Excited to share my new full length album "In This Place" with you all in the near future : ) </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/63847612020-07-13T12:17:37-07:002020-07-13T12:17:37-07:00Spotify Milestone<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/a51e510219b7e08a278212d02063649c882963a7/original/untitled-design.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Cool milestone to reach two days out from the upcoming release of my latest single "With You"! Cheers everyone, thanks for all the love and support : )</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/62813292020-04-13T14:38:28-07:002020-05-25T23:27:52-07:00Gratitude<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/891b1ba092bf2c539c270436ea8ab5791b495d15/original/img-20200413-140858-178.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>What has been happening is rough.. There's no good way to say it. But despite the darkness. The world is still a wonderful place. </p>
<p>Still so much to be grateful for and so easy to take it all for granted. </p>
<p>This photo is flashback to a different world.. but one that I hope we will eventually be able to return to with some deeper appreciation and perspective. </p>
<p>As of now, I'm just trying to spend more of this time simply appreciating the gift of being alive. </p>
<p>Trying to get inspired to continue the journey of learning and letting go, forgiving, loving, and growing within myself, with the people that matter to me (in spirit), and the worlds I am a part of, day by day. </p>
<p>Sending my best to everyone. </p>
<p>It's not always easy, but thank you to everyone who is loving and supporting one another, rising up from the fear, and choosing kindness and compassion during these scary times. </p>
<p>And a deep thank you to the brave people that are on the front lines helping those in need and keeping the world turning 🙏💛🌞🌱 </p>
<p>#gratitude</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/62260972020-02-24T13:00:02-08:002020-05-28T03:53:37-07:00Graduated<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/5ca714311a8a55557e69d47247f76d99be1a7cc5/original/img-20200222-135909-752.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>So I finally did it ? #graduated</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/62146062020-02-13T17:22:48-08:002020-02-13T17:22:48-08:00Walk in the Woods<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/7d1088a252c13e139bbfc03207b54772f2644eb7/original/20200209-135936-9.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>So easy to forget how much nature nourishes and heals the soul. </p>
<p><br>Spending more time outside lately has brought with it a renewed appreciation for going back to the roots of what I love to do and why its meaningful to me. </p>
<p><br>Dreams, aspirations, and the effort to turn them into some form of reality has it's own kind of struggle, magic and meaning. But sometimes it's nice to be reminded to simply let go and breathe in the miracle of being part of it all. </p>
<p><br>We all start off there.. now looking forward to returning to that state of being and reigniting that wonder and appreciation in all the little ways, day by day. </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/60484292019-12-27T13:31:27-08:002020-05-23T21:39:27-07:00Seasons Greetings<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/746aafe96ff45331c569acca7be8c7f98abfdc3c/original/img-20191225-145326-525.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Merry Christmas from the Yukon to my friends and family at large : ) Here is a shameless photo with my dad's not so small puppy Walker ? </p>
<p>Wish everyone a lot of love, laughter, understanding, forgiveness, peace, happiness, kindness, and fresh perspective over the holidays and into the new year/decade to come ?☃️❄</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/58932472019-09-15T21:03:36-07:002020-05-23T21:39:50-07:00Canoe Trip Across America Postponed<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/aa3a1f2e53a8be72a629711ca673c8a46f5091b4/original/img-20190909-083847-351-2.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I am here to announce that unfortunately my canoe trip across America has been postponed until next summer. Over the last year, my focus had been to finish my upcoming album and graduate university while working as a social worker for a homeless shelter/emergency aid society in Vancouver. </p>
<p>Saving up and properly preparing for the considerable amount of effort and resources canoeing across America will entail, while also being able to do justice to my dream of capturing meaningful stories and insights about what community means to people across the country at a grassroots level, became unrealistic to actualize this season. </p>
<p>As I've now learned a few times in my relatively short amount of time on this planet, many endevours, that really mean something to you, take about 10 times more effort and time to nurture into being then what initially seems to make sense. I have been juggling a couple very important dreams and goals and each richly deserve and need the right amount of attention and effort to truly do justice to them. </p>
<p>The most important thing is to not give up, or to let setbacks stop you from ultimately doing what you are passionate about. That is why I am here to tell you that regardless of how embarrassing it is to not do what I had initially planned and told everyone about this summer, I am not giving up. People can doubt me, or be disappointed, and my dreams may not happen when I had hoped or planned for, but one way or another, I will never give up, and no matter how long it takes, or what I have to do, I will find a way. </p>
<p>Thank you for understanding. </p>
<p>On another note, the picture above is from a shorter 100 mile canoe trip I did with my friend Nolan this last week from the top of Baker Lake to Bellingham, Washington. Regardless of scale, it's always good to get outside and spend time doing something you love. </p>
<p>More adventures, dreams, and the release of my upcoming album are in the works this winter, so stay tuned : ) </p>
<p>All the best to everyone this fall and lots of love,</p>
<p>Thor</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/58332242019-07-22T20:06:13-07:002020-05-23T21:40:38-07:00The Daily Magic<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/629481d1546cc868a58fc2e1443f0ecdc82182a2/original/67567226-10161931961905257-2504867288289640448-o.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Appreciated the unexpected tranquillity of a summer Sunday morning in Gastown while walking to work. </p>
<p>The little moments of beautiful stillness found in the daily places we tread are what so much of the true magic of life is about.</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/57825502019-06-06T14:14:17-07:002020-05-23T21:41:37-07:00New Single: Ice Age<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/820c97830269332d33840caa8eb87d3c4981f120/original/ice-age-single-promo-cover-2-copy.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />I am pleased to announce the release of my latest single, "Ice Age", which is now available through my website and all platforms : ) </p>
<p>I wrote this song about the melting of an internal ice age. In many ways, it is about transcending old feelings and the opening of new doors into what is possible to feel and experience. </p>
<p>"Ice Age" will also be on my upcoming album, "In This Place" which I plan to release near the end of this summer ???</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/57692102019-05-26T14:50:23-07:002020-05-23T21:42:09-07:00The Rain Forest<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/f0a0e55ce3521f525219fcf31abbde1d129a8652/original/img-20190526-121843-116.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>The Hoh Rain Forest, one of four rain forests on the Olympic Penninsula, is a world heritage site and biosphere reserve that has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years. </p>
<p>Vancouver, Canada, where I am currently based, is known for its rain and receives about 40 inches a year, the Hoh Rain Forest, in comparison, recieves a staggering 14 feet, with the prevalent mist and fog contributing an additional 30 inches of moisture per year, resulting in one of the world's lushest, biodiverse rainforests that has trees regularly growing over 300 ft tall. </p>
<p>Felt so lucky to spend some time marveling these giants and was filled with gratitude to those past and present that had/have the forsight to protect a few of the wild and wonderful places like this that are left in the world ????? </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/56728132019-03-07T17:35:19-08:002020-06-13T07:51:20-07:00Spotify Milestone<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/b65c4ca97fa4cd444195390b99f4751c770d892f/original/screenshot-20190306-113524-spotify.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>One of my most recent singles "Open Sky" is on track for hitting 30,000 streams on Spotify! It will also be included on my new upcoming album "In This Place" which I hope to release sometime this coming summer : ) </p>
<p>Thank you all for the incredible love and support. A few years back I couldn't have imagined so many people listening and connecting with my music, it means a lot! </p>
<p>If you would like to be among the first to hear my new upcoming releases you can consider following me on Spotify through the link below ❤ </p>
<p>https://open.spotify.com/artist/4wfRlcT3lgS9e6KmN5g96f</p>
<p> </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/56576332019-02-24T13:38:12-08:002020-05-25T23:29:48-07:00Canoeing Across America <p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/609a74263ec201137ad9044988195a42d2ed0681/original/canoe-accross-america-route.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I am pleased to announce that starting at the beginning of August, my plan is to start paddling a canoe across America from Pacific to Atlantic filming a documentary, recording a podcast, and writing a new collection of songs about community. </p>
<p>At a time dominated by news headlines, I’d like to delve deeper into what is happening in America at a grassroots level. Here are some of the questions I have: What do people love about where they live? What are the challenges? What are some of the challenges communities face in regards to the local natural environment? What is connecting/disconnecting people to nature in their local area? And what is being done in different communities large and small to help people of all ages do/learn/find what they love to do? </p>
<p>While retracing in the footsteps of the iconic explorers Louis and Clarke for a significant portion of the journey, I also would like to trace the changes seen and experienced at socio-cultural, environmental, and historical levels from then until now; connecting with the land, communities, and people I meet along the way through the timeless arts of storytelling and music. </p>
<p>In addition to this announcement, I am keen to have paddling partners to join me for sections of the river on an adventure of a lifetime. This year I will be paddling up the Columbia, portaging over the Rockies and paddling down to the headwaters of the Missouri and its tributaries from the beginning of August to October. Next year will be paddling down the Missouri and then hopefully paddling up the length of the Ohio River, portaging over the Appalachians and paddling the Potomac River to Chesapeake Bay. </p>
<p>Currently finding someone willing to paddle the first 492 miles up the Columbia and Snake Rivers and then portage the 283 miles with me through the Rockies would be ideal, of course you can join me for sections on the downstream side as well. This will be a sometimes grueling but potentially incredibly rewarding journey, I hope to find people who can embrace adversity and beyond paddling and portaging hundreds to thousands of miles, would be fascinated and keen to connect with people across the country and delve deeper into what community means in America. </p>
<p>If you or someone you know may be interested please message or email me for more details: thorloeks@gmail.com.</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/56151742019-01-27T14:20:34-08:002020-05-25T23:30:14-07:00January Sun<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/1b97a294f5a6c39dee1d1ac44cece8ddf6b8a6cc/original/20190125-165835.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Sometimes life reminds us on any given day to slow things down just enough to truly appreciate the often simultaneously simple yet extraordinary beauty of what is right in front of us. It wont last forever and we are simply yet extraordinarily lucky to be here for a short while to be part of it all ☀️? </p>
<p>#nofilter</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/56003632019-01-17T12:33:08-08:002020-05-25T23:31:28-07:00Backyard<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/c405e9a2a5bdfa7df1d2de17a971afb9935456d7/original/img-20190117-112904-892.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>It's nice having mountains, lakes and woodlands only a 10 minute walk from my house ?⛰☀️? </p>
<p>Sometimes just going outside is all you need.</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/55800002019-01-03T16:57:19-08:002020-05-25T23:32:41-07:00Welcoming 2019<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/57f01289a5c1e64d29d9043220e17abaabfde0bb/original/20181227-154045-2.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I ended off this last year in the same place it started: on the cliffs behind my childhood home overlooking the Ibex Valley in the Yukon Territory. </p>
<p>Thank you 2018 for all the lessons, insights, opportunities, and challenges. It was another wondrous year of life, love, learning and growing and I have nothing but gratitude for those who I shared it with and to those who have encouraged, supported, and challenged me in all the large and small ways. </p>
<p>Looking ahead, I am so very grateful for the opportunity of another year of life and the ability/means/determination to actualize the big plans I have for 2019. Best of luck to everyone this year. Keep believing in and staying true to yourself; you are each more powerful and capable than you could ever know. ❤?? .</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/55647182018-12-21T13:07:12-08:002020-05-25T23:33:01-07:00Spotify 2018 Wrapped<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/f31b61a9d5cc3e62750fd0712a9a85c84f3cec4c/original/img-20181221-124143-193.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />I remember not long ago when I'd be stoked if my family or a couple people in my friends circle enjoyed listening to a song I wrote. Having thousands of people listening now is mindblowing to me.. Thank you all so much for the incredible love and support for my music over this last year. It means a lot to me to know that people are connecting meaningfully with songs I've put my heart and soul into. ❤️</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/55542272018-12-14T10:07:39-08:002020-05-25T23:34:27-07:00New Album<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/4e9fdd46603231d8cf6aaec268fd963f3fbec7f7/original/room-session.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>A great time of year to work on new songs : ) I am pleased to announce that I am back in the studio recording with my talented friend David Tallarico and plan on expanding the "Open Sky" EP to a full album called "In This Place". </p>
<p>Really looking forward to sharing this new project with you all when its finished. </p>
<p>Already have spent the better part of a year working on it and hope to drop one more single in the coming months before the full release! ❤</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/55338262018-11-30T11:15:27-08:002020-01-22T22:55:38-08:00Reflections<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/fd13ee63d230cbfbd8d552273039122bf7b82451/original/thor-garden-2.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Throwback to when the garden was sunny and green ?☀️?I have always liked how the seasons bring with them different energies and moods. Now that winter is here it feels good to rest and reflect awhile on all the seasons past and prepare for the new seasons to come ❤</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/55139202018-11-14T14:30:42-08:002019-08-29T19:22:25-07:00November Sun<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/0b5c6d3b647b0019d3c139f80fe1be3046e50161/original/thor-november.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Still feeling the warmth in that November sun ?☀️ </p>
<p>I've been reflecting a lot on time recently; how easy it is to get lost in the past or potential futures when all we really have is the miracle of the here and now.. Life truly is an incredible and fleeting gift and I've noticed how easy it is in the hustle of this world to feel like it is either too early or too late to do what we really want to do or to find and pursue the dreams that would really light a fire in us. It is so easy to feel like we are either too young or too old to take a leap into the unknown, to do something deep down we have always wanted to do, perhaps even needed to do. </p>
<p>It leaves me wondering, if we each had one year left to live, one last precious sip of life, what would we want to do? What would we want to think about and what kind of conversations would we like to have with others? How much would worrying and stressing about the grievances we may or may not have with others or ourselves truly matter compared to simply telling and showing those that matter that we love them and taking the time and finding the courage to do the things that deep down we've always wanted to do. What could we each do to leave the world just a little better then how we found it from a place of authenticity, kindness, warmth, and compassion? </p>
<p>It's time to find the audacity and courage to live like that now. Because despite the pain, the hurt, the setbacks, the struggles, the doubts, and the fears we all face in different ways, it is still an incredibly, breathtakingly, heartbreakingly beautiful world. We were born here, we belong, we matter, and while there's time, there is no time to waste. It's time to find the audacity and courage to forgive ourselves and others, believe in who we are, love each other, and become who we were made to be.</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/54533622018-10-03T05:32:01-07:002020-02-16T22:37:03-08:00Autumn Twilight in Northern Climes<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/f3a278bfbd9ed6b57dad5216bc94aeeeade2f5a2/original/img-20181002-134324-009.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Autumn is already in its twilight deep within the northern climes of the Yukon Territory, Canada. You never know when and where you might stumble into a little moment of magic ???</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/53260812018-06-30T11:36:59-07:002019-10-01T18:24:05-07:00Do What You Love And Love What You Do<p>Yesterday after five years of study I successfully finished my bachelors degree in Communications from Capilano University. Felt like an eternity and the blink of an eye at the same time but I feel a lot of gratitude for everyone I connected with in my time there and to those who helped/inspired me to keep coming back and complete my studies.</p>
<p>Now looking forward to diving fully into the dreams that lie ahead, including the release of the first single of my New EP "Open Sky" next week!</p>
<p>Excited to share what we've been working on in the very near future : )</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/7dcd879d1c053e39ddeed18e3b903fbd90308768/original/img-20180630-105139-959.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/53148972018-06-24T11:52:00-07:002019-08-29T19:18:55-07:00New Single<p>I am pleased to announce that after months of recording and mixing with my long time friend and talented producer @david_tallarico, we have finished putting together my brand new single, "Open Sky" : ) </p>
<p>We will be releasing it in the near future so stay tuned! ??☀️? #newmusic #newep #studio #friends #summervibes #localmusicians</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/912937315cb07d8fa645d252ee1ad8c46a5c30c2/original/img-20180624-112733-420.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/52666652018-05-30T17:59:24-07:002019-09-26T22:05:02-07:00Nature is Free<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/c5c62650f6c3c2d1be5fd7e48a7e4e105c5b871a/original/mg-3943-version-2.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Constantly reminded of how powerful and nourishing nature is as a place to feel alive, get inspired, and be creative. </p>
<p>Photo Credit: Michal Urbánek </p>
<p> </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/52331702018-05-14T07:51:39-07:002020-02-10T00:49:41-08:00Backyard Summer Songwriting<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/369072133e42626cd8495ba40bd2aeabb4e61bdd/original/32440639-602116653489999-6042178696595374080-o.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Summer has arrived in backyard : ) A perfect place for playing and working on new songs ✨ #summermusic #northvancouver #junglegarden </p>
<p>Photo credit: Theras</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/50955822018-02-23T10:40:52-08:002020-01-16T04:18:22-08:00Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival 2018<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/f01709378948324e20ecb297296b344684f83c84/original/vimff-8.jpeg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/7b06c1aed52e5ce606bd241cfc79d2bd968dc220/original/thor-vmiff-1.jpeg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/4fd7fbe6ae07716e3329ba2771e76e66c416e098/original/thor-vimff-3.jpeg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Had a great time presenting and playing for the Vancouver International Mountain Film Festival 2018 last week about the 15000 km of bicycling and canoeing I've done with a guitar on my back over the last few years! </p>
<p>It was an honour to be part of such a beautiful, inspiring, and motivational festival with so many incredible speakers, film makers, event organizers, volunteers, and contributors! </p>
<p>I wish everyone a lot of joy, learning, and success in the adventures to come : )</p>
<p> </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/50533532018-01-31T00:16:56-08:002020-02-02T04:28:33-08:00Bare Bones Music Video<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="Jf90IERKDT4" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/Jf90IERKDT4/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Jf90IERKDT4?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>
<p>I am proud to announce the official music video release for my song "Bare Bones"! </p>
<p>I have now re-edited and mastered the footage from a trip my friend David and I took down the Wind River a few seasons ago and added some performance footage captured by my friend Jonathan Lowey over the holidays. Hope you like it! </p>
<p>For those that don't know, The Wind River is in the middle of the Peel Watershed, one of the biggest untouched wildernesses left in North America (no towns or roads). First Nations, conservation groups, friends, family, fellow Yukoners and I have been fighting to protect these pristine lands for over a decade. We fought mining corporations, oil and gas companies, and our own government. We went through three court cases all the way to the Canadian Supreme Court and as of three weeks ago, we won! </p>
<p>A wilderness area the size of Scotland, including the Wind River is now permanently protected from mining and development. </p>
<p>I know that our world needs resources, but it brings me a lot of joy and comfort knowing that some incredible lands like the Wind River can remain wild for future generations, there is a lot we can learn from spending time in these places. </p>
<p>Wishing you all wondrous start to your new year. </p>
<p>- T</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/48736712017-10-02T10:55:18-07:002019-03-03T07:52:37-08:00Grassroots Tour Coming to a Close<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/fbd4ca860c2cf99b91109b881482c86c3739479a/original/thor-beach.jpg?1506966819" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Well friends, after bicycling over 4,300 km this summer from my family home in the Yukon, playing music in bars, coffee shops, restaurants, community halls, houses, parks, beaches, wilderness lodges and state parks, I have sold out all the CD's I've brought with me and have decided to end my journey and grassroots tour this year in San Francisco, California. </p>
<p>Riding the length of Vancouver island, the 101 through Washington and Oregon and the some of the Highway 1 north of here helped me realize in greater depth how special the west coast really is, and inso I want to wait until the rest of Highway 1 south of me in Big Sur is fixed in the coming seasons before touring down to San Diego and beyond. </p>
<p>It's hard to describe in a few words what this tour has meant to me.. Two years ago I began with a canoe journey in the heart of Peel River Watershed in northern Yukon, one of the largest pieces of untouched wildernesses left in North America. I paddled the Wind River with my friend David, 600 km north to Fort Macpherson, Northwest Territories above the Arctic Circle, before riding my dad's old mountain bike from the 80's (that I used to ride on the back of as a baby) south down a 700 km of dirt road from Inuvik to Dawson City. </p>
<p>In the time since then, I have recorded two albums and taken ole blue Bessie over 6000+ km south through my hometown of Whitehorse down the length of the Yukon, British Columbia, and now most of the West Coast of the US. The experiences, landscapes, flora and fauna, people, towns, and communities I have met, traveled with and through, have enriched me beyond what one post can do justice.. but I hope to pour the gratitude I feel into new music and eventually attempt a book or two. </p>
<p>While this chapter may be coming to a close, the journey is far from over.. I eventually will return and hope to take that old mountain bike all the way to the tip of South America. </p>
<p>For everyone who has encouraged, helped, and inspired me to live my dream, I could never thank you enough.. You are the salt of the earth and I hope that I will be able to pay it forward in my own way in the years to come. </p>
<p>Peace and love, </p>
<p>- T </p>
<p>#bicycletouring #lifeisanadventure</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/48735302017-10-02T08:57:40-07:002020-01-23T12:45:27-08:00The Redwoods<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/0d0040045cb8812a67a51a8c92136cae6d23799a/original/thor-tree.jpg?1506959565" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Humboldt Redwood State Park has 1/5th of all the remaining old growth redwoods in the world. I felt so fortunate to ride under these majestic giants that can live well over 2000+ years and on average contain 7 times the biomass of the amazon rainforest in equal area. </p>
<p>Definitely puts things in perspective when you think of the centuries these trees have weathered and have continued to grow through, harbouring sustained life and vitality as humans live out countless generations of idealism, folly, hopes, dreams, good and bad deeds, delusions of grandeur and self importance, only to rise and fall from dust to dust while these trees remain in awe inspiring endurance and tranquility season to season. </p>
<p>I hope some of these ancient old growth trees can continue to survive, thrive, and outlive us. </p>
<p>There is a lot we can learn from them. </p>
<p>#oldgrowth #bicycletouring #explorecalifornia</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/48631842017-09-24T08:47:19-07:002020-06-10T11:14:16-07:00Tunes at the Boomer Saloon<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/15748a46cf492c36e815e908e5da41a17add287a/original/img-5826.jpg?1506267799" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/7f93de0f93909dd42d9ad98a593efb1aba39ff5e/original/img-5825.jpg?1506267801" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Shout out to the Midnight Sun Band! It was fun opening your great set with a few of my tunes at the Boomer Saloon in Laytonville, CA : ) </p>
<p>#albumtour </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/48627882017-09-23T16:42:26-07:002019-08-29T19:26:55-07:00California<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/ecc287abd3adc5caf165b41c13f4be3355d04729/original/img-5813.jpg?1506209854" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Goodbye Oregon; Hello California! </p>
<p>3400 km peddled from the Yukon Territory since July, 1230 km left to San Diego ☀️?</p>
<p>#albumtour #bicycletouring</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/48419992017-09-08T05:40:31-07:002019-08-29T19:18:39-07:00Full Circle<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/24cab143598b337bd34dfe17353d5830d6288c14/original/img-5760.jpg?1504874235" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/983fd8d7f90d9ea408dc7d0b124047e3b9eaf443/original/img-5759.jpg?1504874233" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>On May 19th, 2012 I started my first ever bicycle tour in Astoria, Oregon and over the course of two summers went across North America to Portland, Maine busking in towns along the way to fund my journey. </p>
<p>10,000+ km of biking, 4000+ km of canoeing, 2 albums, and a little over 5 years later, I have come full circle back to that fateful day to the same place, now bicycling the length of North America over the last few summers from Inuvik in the Arctic Circle to San Diego on a grassroots album tour. </p>
<p>Hard to describe the feelings of coming back to the beginning, thinking of the many miles, stories, storms, friends, and songs that have come in to my life since that day, but if I was to sum it up into one word.. it would be gratitude. </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/48346532017-09-01T12:05:29-07:002019-09-04T00:18:06-07:00Album Tour<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/e2581feebc479f5933e353de8176f22564782ef2/original/thor-photo.jpg?1504292310" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Over the course of July and early August, I bicycled 2000+ km from my hometown of Whitehorse, Yukon to Vancouver, BC on a grassroots album tour that saw me pass through some amazing wilderness, mountain lodges, and towns that only further inspired my joy for adventure, nature, and songwriting. I am now en route down the west coast of the US to San Diego and the US mexico border playing gigs and selling copies of my new album, "Shine Through the Dark" as I go. My hope is to finish writing a new EP to record over the course of this winter.</p>
<p>All the best :)</p>
<p>T</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/46264692017-03-11T18:37:58-08:002019-11-29T20:08:50-08:00Studio Sessions<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/fbd3ae6c06a52ead2945201d415413640fd295a4/original/studio-session.jpg?1489286123" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Had a great session in the Beatcave last Friday with my producer David Tallarico and talented friend Caitie Flanagan, who contributed some beautifully ethereal back up vocals for one the tracks on my upcoming sophomore album, "Shine Through The Dark". </p>
<p>Feel so fortunate to create, play and record music with such gifted and lovely people. Look forward to sharing some of what we have been up to in the near future :)</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/45833732017-02-09T13:00:16-08:002020-02-05T23:41:03-08:00Singer Songwriter's Circle<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/bc8d091fe1275d1767c3487c3256035700172350/original/thor-guitar.jpg?1486673987" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Had a lovely time being part of the singer-songwriters circle that kicked off my friend Noah Derksen's Vancouver show at Anza Club! </p>
<p>I was lucky enough to meet and then play a few songs between the beautiful and talented songstresses Mila Huebsch and Lizzie Kent. We each shared three original pieces, although next time I hope to collaborate in some way now that we know each other :) </p>
<p>The music, the people, the atmosphere, and setting made for a magical evening. This however was but one stop on Noah's cross country tour celebrating the release of his latest album "In Search of The Way." To listen and find out more about Noah's rich and soulful new album, as well as tour dates, check out the links below: </p>
<p>https://www.facebook.com/noahderksenmusic/ <br><br>https://noahderksen.bandcamp.com/ </p>
<p><br>Photo Credit: Sean Peacock & The Permanent Rain Press</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/45335982017-01-01T23:01:49-08:002020-02-16T22:41:48-08:00Artist's Spotlight and Holiday Special<p>http://celebmix.com/discover-canadian-indie-folk-artist-thorin-loeks/<br><br>Thank you Melanie Gomez and CelebMix for the article and spotlight! </p>
<p>In other news, I've made my debut album "Thirsty Hearts" free to download on my website and Bandcamp over the rest of the holidays. </p>
<p>https://thorinloeks.bandcamp.com/releases </p>
<p>A very Merry Christmas, happy holidays and new year's to you all :) </p>
<p>- T </p>
<p> </p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/44988122016-12-06T12:07:29-08:002019-08-29T19:30:35-07:00Dundrave Festival of Lights<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/57cca50a583046b4692ce8e1717c9e7bb1f7b339/original/thor-west-van-guitar.jpg?1481046609" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p>Had a great time playing for the Dundrave Festival of Lights in West Vancouver last weekend! </p>
<p>These guys have raised well over $200,000 for the Lookout Society in the last few years, finding solutions for homelessness and support for at risk/low income people all over the Lower Mainland. </p>
<p>Glad my Rudolf nose and I could take part such a meaningful initiative and thank you Michael for inviting me to play : ) </p>
<p>Ps: There still are two more Saturday's of the Dundrave Festival of Lights; this Saturday coming up will be an afternoon/evening of world music, which should be a blast! The event is free/by donation, so come on by if you are in the neighborhood.</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/44764772016-11-20T16:21:54-08:002019-08-29T19:30:57-07:00New Album in the Works<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/91533675e0595521d2698b2e425c571cf96de771/original/thor-guitar-26.jpg?1479687649" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>I'm happy to announce that we've started working on a second recording project and a new LP with my producer David Tallarico. </p>
<p>The new project will be comprised of eight originals; two blues pieces, five indie folk songs, and one electronic/alternative piece; that explore and illuminate new aspects and styles of my musicality and expression while building off of the spirit and experience of recording my first album, "Thirsty Hearts", that was released last spring. </p>
<p>A full drum kit and electric guitar will be included among the usual suspects. </p>
<p>I want to again give a big thank you to everyone who supported, encouraged, and contributed to my last project "Thirsty Hearts". You all helped turn a dream into reality. I hope my newest project will build off of what that enthusiasm and support helped bring into fruition; and I look forward to sharing the new album with you all when it's completed : )<br><br>All the best,<br><br>- T</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/44647782016-11-13T13:51:42-08:002020-02-16T22:50:32-08:00Yukon: North of Ordinary<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/2ffba88133869d4465345066d80b576e434c4497/original/thor-north-of-ordinary.jpg?1479073799" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br>I didn't know that my album got an artists spotlight in newest issue of "Yukon: North of Ordinary."<br><br>Thanks guys : )</p>
<p>Although I didn't end up completing the 8000 km bicycle canoe tour they are giving me credit for, I have big plans for next summer. </p>
<p>Cheers, </p>
<p>- T</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/43908362016-09-26T11:18:14-07:002020-03-24T20:46:51-07:00Off Center Fest 2016<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/202512/726840c7b8d5cb8d65a7964a0bac81f154d2a7dd/original/dsc02700.jpg?1474913647" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p>The weekend before last I was invited to play music for these wonderful folks at their now inaugural, rootsy "Off Center Fest". Brittany and Ryan have 50 acres on a wooded hill outside of Port Townsend, Washington, they'd renovated an old bus into one of the nicest mobile homes I've ever seen and ran the whole weekend event off of solar power up on their little mountain. </p>
<p>I was fortunate enough to meet and hang out with some of the awesome locals and friends of these two and listen to some other great bands who came out before playing on Saturday. About halfway through my set there was a torrential downpour and the campfire nearby was nearly put out billowing smoke into the little pavilion I was playing under. Probably tapping into busking instincts, I kept playing through the storm and with the support and cheers of the epic festival crew and we managed to keep the party alive! Shortly after the full moon came out and we danced and laughed the night away to make for some good times I'll never forget. </p>
<p>Thank you guys for sharing your dream with me and making me feel so welcome. I'd be happy to help in finishing off the endless bag of bus pancake mix in some of Off Center Fest's to come :)</p>Thorin Loekstag:www.thorinloeks.com,2005:Post/41910662016-05-21T11:38:38-07:002018-05-14T07:25:29-07:00Thor on CBC Radio<p>http://www.cbc.ca/player/play/2689179152</p>Thorin Loeks