Wainwright planned to create a more simple piano and voice album originally , but began leaning towards more lush sounds once the recording process started . Guests on '' Release the Stars '' include : Richard Thompson , longtime friend and fellow singer-songwriter Teddy Thompson , family members Martha Wainwright and Kate McGarrigle , Neil Tennant , Joan Wasser , and actress Siân Phillips . The world tour supporting the album lasted from May 2007 to February 2008 , and included appearances in North America , Europe , Asia , and Australia . Wainwright received two Juno Award nominations for '' Release the Stars '' , including Adult Alternative Album of the Year and Songwriter of the Year , and won the Outstanding Music Artist award at the 19th GLAAD Media Awards
Juno Award nominations
Juno Awards of 2008
Release the Stars