Cody Westman has been performing and studying music for the past fifteen years. His percussive guitar playing and smooth songwriting stem from the love of so many different styles of music. "My father was my first real influence. He's been playing guitar and singing for over forty years now!" A native of Smithers, B.C., Cody moved to Nelson in 1996 to study his art in the respected Professional Music Program at Selkirk College. Majoring in performing, the program gave him the opportunity to play throughout the Kootenays and study with such artists as Stephen Fearing, Ellen McElwaine, and Alpha Yaya Diallo. "I met a lot of really cool artists there, and that's when I really started listening to other styles and nations, and singing too!" He has just released his first solo CD this year on self made indie label Cats Eye Records entitled "Just Like That". Featuring singles "Just a Dream" and "Far Away from Everything" that have been remixed for radio edits, the debut CD pays homage to pop and acoustic rock everywhere and glides smoothly to it's Bruce Cockburn-esque instrumental ending. "It was a great experience to get this first record out. Just working now on getting out there with my band and ultimately, the next record. Some of those songs on there are a few years old. They all represent parts of my life though. I think it' s a good first kick at the can. I'm proud of it." Currently in Vancouver, Canada, Cody is performing with his self titled five piece band, and working on promoting and distributing the debut CD both locally and internationally. He is hosting an open-mic night every Monday of the month at The Five Point (Main / 15th - Vancouver) and starts the flow of talent with a short set at 9:30 pm. What is he listening to these days? "I've been into some old Django Reinhart, Monte Montgomery (Amazing acoustic player from Austin, Texas), and Dave Matthews new studio CD, it rocks! Also into Martin Sexton a lot! His voice and songwriting dexterity is very inspiring!" Cody's plans for 2005 are to promote the radio edits, focussing on internet and college radio, and continue to write and perform. "I just want to have fun making more music, being able to share it with everyone, and being inspired by all those around me. Just like that" x