While she appreciated her time away and made the most of the opportunity, local songwriter and musician Dani Rintjema couldn’t be happy to be back home.
The Pain Court native, who now lives in Chatham, spent several years recording and performing in Toronto before returning to Chatham-Kent two years ago.
“It feels amazing. I’ve had the privilege and experience of living in different cities,” she said. “It feels so good to be back, because I had that perspective.”
Rintjema (née Robert), has rebranded her artist name Danilyon and recently released a single, titled “Hymn for Her.”
She wrote the song during the pandemic, right before the first lockdown, for a friend who was going through some mental health struggles at the time.
“She shared with me what was going on,” Rintjema said. “I just felt this huge need to write this song. It came really quickly.”
Although she’s no stranger to the studio, this was the first song she’s co-produced, working with Matt Montour on the track.
Rintjema, 29, said the new song almost has a “retro vibe,” along with an electronic dance music feel.
“Ever since I came back from Toronto (where) I had such a great experience working with other producers, when I came home I actually started to learn how to produce my own music and gain those skills,” she said, adding she was also accepted into the SOCAN Equity X program for female producers.
As for the pandemic itself, she admitted it was difficult for her in many respects, but that she adjusted as best she could.
“It was definitely challenging having restrictions in terms of seeing a certain amount of people, certain amount of friends,” she said. “Also getting married in a pandemic during a lockdown, only being able to invite 10 people to my wedding.
“But there were also things we’ve learnt. To cherish connections with family and friends.”
In addition to recording, Rintjema is a private music therapist, sharing space with fellow therapist Candace Rahn within the Linck building, formerly known as Chatham-Kent Children’s Services.
She noted that Chatham-Kent’s generous spirit is something that really struck her since she returned to the community.
“It feels great to be here,” she said.
The new single is available on Spotify and Apple Music, as well as other digital platforms, by searching for Danilyon.
Rintjema has an upcoming performance during the Eyes of Faith event, which will be taking place at Evangel Community Church on April 15 at 1 pm and 6 pm