Some albums whisper, others wail. Answer Me Smartass, the seventh full-length from Calgary’s Dominic Demierre under his solo art-pop moniker Celogen, doesn’t choose. It’s a liminal howl, equal parts lullaby and exorcism, tethered by the cracked but defiant voice of someone who’s barely holding on—and somehow building symphonies anyway.

Demierre—Celogen’s sole member, composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist—emerges from a period of intense personal crisis. “To be frank,” he writes, “Answer Me Smartass comes out of trying to figure out why you’d carry on. Why you’d bother to choose life.” It’s a record forged in hospitals, real and metaphorical: his father’s near-fatal heart infection, a friend’s psychiatric admission, and his own time in crisis stabilization. Instead of yielding silence, he made music—a dense, mercurial, genre-elusive work that tackles trauma, hope, and human absurdity with unflinching precision.

After another incredible year of unforgettable performances and seaside celebration, Whitecap Entertainment is officially kicking off the countdown to next summer with the announcement of the 2026 Bell Presents Cavendish Beach Music Festival (CBMF) headliners. 

Set to return to the picturesque coastal town of Cavendish, Prince Edward Island from July 9-11, 2026, the East Coast's biggest country music festival will feature show-stopping performances from two-time CMA Award winner HARDY, viral chart climber Tucker Wetmore and multi-platinum hitmaker Cody Johnson.

Toronto-based, Newfoundland-born songstress Tonia Evans Cianciulli returns to her roots this August to debut her powerful new single, Nightingale of the North — a soaring tribute to Georgina Stirling, Newfoundland’s first international opera singer. The single arrives July 17, 2025, just ahead of a deeply meaningful series of live events and performances across St. John’s and Twillingate from August 1–10.

Written during the stillness of the pandemic, Nightingale of the North is more than a song—it’s a sacred offering to Stirling’s life, legacy, and spirit. “I dreamed of her taking my hand,” Tonia shares, referencing a vivid, spiritual encounter that guided her through writing The Heart’s Obsession—a co-authored biography of Stirling with her grandfather, Newfoundland historian Calvin D. Evans. “That dream felt like a passing of the torch. I’ve been holding it close ever since.”

Get ready for a raw and raucous ride as Toronto's own The Slow Drags drop their brand new album, "Off The Cuff Rock N Roll," available now on all major streaming platforms. The Slow Drags are a three-member band powerhouse for their high-energy, stripped-down rock n' roll sound.

Featuring John Ross and Murry Robe on guitars and Owen Wolff on drums. Delivering a sound that's a wild fusion of rock history.

Expect a sonic journey that pulls from the raw energy of 1960s garage, the classic cool of 1950s rock n' roll, the soulful grit of Delta blues, and the infectious harmonies of doo-wop. Mixed and produced by David Matta, largely recorded live off the floor, the album captures the band's explosive live energy. It also features some new elements, with bass and piano making guest appearances which the band normally does not have live.

"Off The Cuff Rock N Roll" is a high-octane blast from the past, perfectly packaged for today's music scene.

LISTEN HERE: linktr.ee/theslowdrags

INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/theslowdrags

Filip Olvenius musical journey began deep in the forests of Småland, Sweden, where the distant echoes of the legendary Hultsfred Festival would drift through the trees every summer. Surrounded by music from an early age, a passion for creating was born; one that would eventually lead him from his home studio to London, where he studied music production and sound engineering at BIMM University. It was there that The Indigo Echoes came to life.

Formed in the heart of London’s eclectic music scene, The Indigo Echoes blends introspective, guitar-driven indie rock, with dreamy Americana-pop. The result is a sound that’s as cinematic as it is intimate, and unmistakably personal.

Shoemaker Levee is back, and they're not pulling any punches. Their new single “Resistance” —leading the charge for their third studio album Between the Lines— is a furious anthem for the unheard, the unbroken, and the beautifully noncompliant.

 “This is no time to have your own mind / Get back into line…”

But Shoemaker Levee never got in line. They weathered every storm and came back louder and sharper. When they laid down tracks for Resistance at Orange Lounge on Queen Street in Toronto, a Free Tibet rally marched by. Something clicked. “We weren’t originally going to release it as a single,” the band said. “But world events took a turn, and we knew the time was right.”

Multi-talented singer, songwriter, producer, and instrumentalist Sean Thomas has released his deeply personal new single “She’s Mine”, now streaming on all platforms. The release is accompanied by a breathtaking music video filmed among the mountains of Palm Springs, offering a cinematic companion to a track already pulsing with emotion.

Born and raised in Vancouver, the 23-year-old Berklee College of Music graduate has already worked with legendary artists like Debbie Gibson, Joey McIntyre, New Kids On The Block, and New Edition. With “She’s Mine,” Thomas takes center stage, delivering an intimate acoustic love song that showcases not just his talent, but his heart.

“If you could see yourself from my point of view / Then you’d understand it girl / You’d say the same thing too…”

With his signature blend of raw honesty, retro charm, and deeply lived storytelling, Francis Baptiste returns with “Rent Free In My Mind”, a vulnerable new single about love, memory, and the grace of second chances. Following the hard-hitting “Aspirin for the Soul”, Baptiste now turns inward — trading the blues of survival for the quiet ache of nostalgia.

“Memories of you / and the thoughtful things you do / live rent free in my mind,” he sings with warmth and weariness. The track, out August 1, blends classic pop-rock textures with the heart of a man who’s grateful just to still be here. “It’s a little cheesy, a little retro,” Baptiste admits. “But I have to remind myself — I’m a 41-year-old retro guy. Sometimes you gotta let an old dog do his old dog music.”

Baptiste handles vocals and guitar, backed by a trusted circle of collaborators: Rob Thomson (bass), Max Ley (drums), Ricardo Pequenino (vocals, piano), and Kevin McCarthy (backup vocals). Together, they channel something between The Cars and Poison — a “dad rock” energy that’s worn-in, melodic, and sincere.

With a guitar in his hands and a story etched deep in his bones, Damn Coyote Chris returns with “Bethy’s Gift”, the soul-stirring fourth track from his 2025 album Departures — a record he describes as “an honest and personal collection of comfort-food songs from my Private Reserve.” “Bethy’s Gift” is a love letter, a farewell, and a reflection all at once — a gentle lullaby for those learning to live with loss.

“Stars out tonight / Dreams in my eyes / Wishin' I could fly up to that cloud and give it a bite…”

From the opening lines, “Bethy’s Gift” floats like a whisper across the night sky, full of memory and moonlight. The song is sparse but rich, tender but grounded — a snapshot of grief, wrapped in practical philosophy and unshakable human warmth.

Winnipeg rockers D2UR (pronounced Detour) are fanning the flames with their scorching new single, “Fire”, now streaming everywhere. With blistering riffs, hypnotic rhythms, and lyrics that urge you to “get on your rocket” and “set yourself on fire,” the track is both an invitation and a declaration: now is the time to burn bright and rise higher.

Originally sparked by a request to create theme music for a podcast, “Fire” was never meant to be a full song. But as co-founder and guitarist Mike Isbister explains, “Once Diane heard the riff, she lit up. She said, ‘I want to write to this—I feel something.’ And she did what only she can do: she turned it into a story.” That story is one of self-belief, drive, and the sheer, soaring thrill of going all-in on your passion.

Ready to let the good vibes roll? Singer-songwriter Peter Foldy returns with Sunday Afternoon -a breezy, sun-soaked ode to love, nostalgia, and simpler times. Co-produced by Foldy, John Zych, and Peter Howard, the track blends retro charm with modern polish, evoking lazy beach strolls, vintage vinyl, and golden-hour romance.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFT-cQ9I5Es&list=RDoFT-cQ9I5Es&start_ra…

Foldy first rose to fame in Canada with his #1 hit Bondi Junction, earning him two Juno Award nominations. Signed to Capitol/EMI Canada and later RCA Records (U.S.), he lit up the charts with songs like Julie-Ann and Roxanne.

Mystery Romance returns with the sultry new single “Thing for You” from the upcoming album Electric Love. Pop rock revivalists Mystery Romance are turning up the heat this summer with the release of their smooth and seductive new single, “Thing for You,” available now on all major streaming platforms.

Listen on Spotify here: open.spotify.com/track/6tdyFnOD8TDIbLZaRU7z2N

Once a five-piece outfit known for radio-ready anthems, Mystery Romance now operates as a dynamic duo: founding members Mike Scullion and Rhys Green. Reuniting under a reimagined creative vision, the two have crafted a fresh sonic identity that merges lush synth-pop textures with silky R&B grooves—all culminating in their forthcoming album, Electric Love. “Thing for You” is the result of years of evolution—reshaped through experimentation with sequencing and virtual instruments, before additional artists were brought in to elevate the final version.

Known for her infectious positivity and radiant energy, Moonlyn continues her mission of spreading joy through music with her latest release, 'In Heaven,' is a love-infused, celestial song filled with emotion and atmospheric production.

“In Heaven” is a song that came from a very personal place. I wrote it during a time when I needed to believe in something beautiful — a love that felt pure, transformative, and timeless,” Moonlyn explains. “Although I’ve experienced deep love, this song wasn’t written about any particular person. It’s more of a dream — a heartfelt imagining of what it might feel like to be completely, overwhelmingly in love. It started as a mantra I would sing to soothe myself, and over time, it evolved into this love story. To me, it’s about how love — even just the idea of it — can lift us out of pain and remind us of the magic of life. I poured my heart into every note, and I hope listeners can feel that sense of wonder and heavenly escape too.”

With a growing global fanbase and increasing recognition, Moonlyn continues to create music that touches the heart and elevates the spirit and the new single “In Heaven”.

Mark Ledlin is swinging for the fences again. His new single “Wish I Was,” out now via XOXO Entertainment Corp./Believe, is more than a summer anthem—it’s a working-class dream set to a driving country-rock beat, penned by a man who traded his pro hockey gear for a guitar and never looked back.

Written by Ledlin alongside powerhouse collaborators Dan Botch, Garrett Ward, and David Borys, guaranteed Song of the Summer "Wish I Was" is sure to reach the same success as his breakout hit "Jealous of Jesus" which has amassed 2 million streams across your favourite streaming platforms. "Wish I Was" is the next chapter in a story that's inspiring fans from coast to coast.

Kris might be a young 24-year-old singer-songwriter from Canada but the song is timeless and shows a maturity of a soulful, heart wrenching vocal and lyric delivery.

youtube.com/shorts/3kTN3pi8Ng4

In 2023, she released her first EP, ‘Where do I Begin?’ It featured several singles that made their way to radio and online streaming platforms, as well as featuring in press all over the world.

Now, Kris is recording her first full album, ‘The Way of the World’, featuring the first single, “Keep it Simple,” followed by “Fall Right Through”, an upbeat tune that sarcastically advises people to take shortcuts in life - a commentary on people who take little pride in their work.

Featuring Kris on piano, most of her tunes have Kris on piano, as she is known to be a piano-based singer, much like her inspirations, including Billy Joel, Elton John, and Carole King.

Kris is currently in the studio finishing up recording the new album, ‘The Way of The World’, at George Rondina’s Number 9 Studios, which will be released soon.

Cover Art Beth Girdler

One of Canada's most beloved folk voices, David Francey, has
released MAPS, a new album that looks back on a songwriting journey spanning
more than five decades. This poignant and powerful collection draws from
both fan favourites and the songs most meaningful to Francey himself, and
includes one brand-new track, "Corpus Christi."

youtube.com/user/franceyvideos

Born in Ayrshire, Scotland, David Francey immigrated to Canada at age 12 and
spent decades working as a rail yard worker, carpenter, and labourer-singing
and writing songs as he went. Encouraged by his wife to share his music
later in life, he released his first album at age 45. Since then, his deeply
human storytelling and strikingly honest songwriting have earned him
international acclaim.

"I have been writing songs for more than 50 years," says Francey. "Each song
is a map that helped me navigate through the ups and downs life put in my
way. I'd have been lost without them."

Cowessess First Nation singer-songwriter (Uncle) Trent Agecoutay unveils his latest single “The Devil,” a hypnotic and emotionally rich track that captures the haunting beauty of forbidden connection. Based in Calgary, Alberta, and raised in Red Deer, Agecoutay once again draws from his deep storytelling roots to deliver a song that echoes long after the final note.

Barrie-based indie folk artist Rogan Mei celebrates the release of his personal and contemplative single ‘Lefroy’. ‘Lefroy’ is the first single off Rogan’s upcoming EP “Dickie Green Plaid Jacket”, which releases this fall. Its soft acoustics and beautiful vocals are accompanied with the personification of the Canadian landscapes that are reminiscent of John Mayer, Jack Johnson, and The Tragically Hip.

Watch Rogan Mei perform “Lefroy” Live at the Supermarket here: youtube.com/@roganmei

Written and performed by Rogan Mei, this track explores the moment of clarity that comes from stepping back — only to realize that escape is temporary, and the real work waits below. With Jacob Diamond on electric guitar, Saint Shepherd on violin, Cousin Anthony Mei on drums, Gweneth Covey singing background vocals, and Wes Covey holding down both bass and mixing duties, the band builds a spacious, dynamic sound that mirrors the emotional climb of the song. Mastered by Dawson Vivieros, it’s a reflection on perspective, responsibility, and the inevitability of return.

“The Lonely Sea Monster of Pigeon Lake, Alberta” Out Now From ‘The Paranormal Adventures of Uncle Mike’

Mike Rud has always stood at the intersection of intellect and imagination. A Juno Award-winning jazz guitarist, vocalist, and composer born in Edmonton, Alberta, and based now in Nelson, BC, Rud unveils the latest chapter of his creative journey: The Paranormal Adventures of Uncle Mike. With his new single, “The Lonely Sea Monster of Pigeon Lake, Alberta,” Rud delivers a poignant and whimsical tale from his youth—one that blends folk roots, jazz textures, and a touch of the otherworldly.

With roots in Seattle, Washington and a creative home now in Hoover, Alabama, roots-rock artist Michael Lawson continues his extraordinary musical resurgence with the release of his heartfelt new single “It’s Love.” Out now on all streaming platforms, “It’s Love” is the lead single from Lawson’s upcoming seven-song EP Vibe Talking, a piano-forward collection of songs that showcases his melodic sensibilities and hard-earned perspective.