www.montereycountynow.com MARCH 26-APRIL 1, 2026 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY 31 MUSIC There is royalty in the mountains above Carmel Valley. Queen of the Mountain is the debut album from Brianna Mai Colliard, an ode to her life at 3,000 feet in elevation, above Cachagua, in a house in which she not only grew up, but also was born. She has since taken over the responsibility of caring for her remote and off-the-grid home after her parents moved to Carmel in 2020. The house is an important part of her musical story. Colliard began writing her own music in 2021. But she admits that whenever she was alone, she would sing throughout the rooms. This closeted passion led her to study music at CSU Monterey Bay. Her album is five years in the making. “My main thing is singing,” Colliard says. “I used to practice in secret. Nobody knew that I sang or wanted to sing.” The lore of a young homesteading woman singing on a hilltop lends itself to her music, which can be heard in her already-released singles: “A Horse Called Noche,” “Easier” and “Listen to the Voice,” which Colliard feels is her main hit. Inspiration for music came to her from her surroundings. “Sonically it sounds like ’70s folk rock,” Colliard points out. “That is the vibe of our music overall.” Backing up Colliard is a full band, featuring local artists who have been performing with her since 2024. Vince Contreras—Colliard’s partner—is part of that band and is credited for writing “A Horse Called Noche,” and also came up with the name of the album. The full band’s marquee is Brianna Mai Colliard and The Desert Marigolds, which includes guitar, drums and mandolin. The debut album features a total of 10 songs. Colliard is still waiting for vinyl pressings to be finished but has CDs ready for a release party at Hacienda Carmel. Melodically, the album is expected to be upbeat and cheery, but with depth to lyrics that discuss her personal struggles with anxiety. This songwriting is a juxtaposition between the stress of suburban life that Colliard faces whenever she comes down into more populated areas of Monterey County, and the refuge that her home represents for her. “I’m most comfortable when I’m home,” she says. “People don’t realize how constantly stressed they are in the city.” Brianna Mai Colliard and The Desert Marigolds perform 7pm Saturday, March 28. Hacienda Carmel, 7180 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel Valley. Queen of the Mountain releases on streaming services March 27. DANIEL DREIFUSS Mountain Majesty Brianna Mai Colliard debuts her album after training to sing in her off-grid home. By Sloan Campi Brianna Mai Colliard grew up listening to folk, classic rock and folk rock before learning to play acoustic guitar to accompany her singing. Two Portola Plaza Monterey, CA 93940 (831) 649-4511 portolahotel.com TRADITIONAL BREAKFAST Including Cinnamon Swirl French Toast Bake, Eggs Benedict & more ARTISAN DISPLAYS Including Wild King Salmon, Ahi Tuna with Wakame, Cheese Tortellini, California Cheeses & Cured Meats & more CARVING STATION Maple Glazed Pit Ham Prime Rib with Creamed Horseradish SWEET TREATS Pastries, Scones & Carrot Muffins Strawberry Short Cake Apple Crisp Truffles, Petit Fours & Holiday Cookies PETER COTTONTAIL’S PICKS Macaroni & Cheese, Grilled Chicken Fingers, Ranch Dressing, Sun Chips, Apple Slices, Grapes & Baby Carrots and an egg hunt EASTER BRUNCH Sunday, April 5, 2026 | 10AM to 2PM Easter Egg Hunts 10AM & 12PM Meet the Easter Bunny Live Piano Music RESERVATIONS & PRICING $89.95 Adults | $74.95 Seniors (over 65) $29.95 for Children 12 & under | Under 5 free Prices exclude tax and gratuity | 20% Service charge for all parties Reservations are required To reserve a table, please call (831) 649-7892 or email brianhein@portolahotel.com
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