No Illusions Here! This Is Real Rock From Toronto's FAKE MAGIC And Their New Album "N.A."

Fri Dec 11, 2020

Despite their band name of Fake Magic, there’s nothing but authentic sonic alchemy pouring out of Canadian rockers Greg Markham and Bryan Paccagnella’s newly released sophomore album, N.A.— available now!

While lead single “Father” is about the day-to-day lives of the Heaven’s Gate cult, the concept around the new LP orbits a road trip across North America — as heard in follow-up track, “Always Nice.”

Watch “Always Nice” (Official) here:

“It’s an exploration of the unique places and the ‘animals’ of the continent,” Paccagnella offers. “The album art is based on an original photo Greg took while on tour with Whosarmy; the album is meant to evoke an upside-down slide in a slideshow.”

“The initial recording was done in my apartment downtown Toronto at Bathurst and Bloor,” Markham shares. “We incorporated elements of the apartment and street into the songs, like the sounds of fans, car alarms, and sirens.

DJ AURO is Out to “Move That Body” with New Latin Groove

Fri Dec 11, 2020

At 10,000+ streams and counting, Canadian artist, producer and DJ Auro is delivering a delectable groove guaranteed to get you out of your seat with “Move That Body”.

It’s sultry. It’s vibe-y. And it’s anything but a cliché, Auro and his collaborators Lucky Widmore and Jonas Music assure.

Give a listen and groove out to “Move That Body” here:

“We didn’t want this to be a typical Latin tune talking about señoritas and far-off paradises,” Auro shares. “We wanted it to have an urban vibe and a universal message about love, and chance meetings with beautiful strangers.”

The track is a fitting testament to teamwork and technology. “In this brave new world, ‘Move That Body’ confirms you don’t need to all be in the same room to collaborate and release meaningful art,” Auro shares from his home base in Saskatchewan.

At 200,000+ Streams, Songwriter, Artist & Producer DAVID Bray debuts “Overdue” His New Single

Fri Dec 11, 2020

Adding to his 200,000+ streams, Canadian artist, songwriter and producer David Bray debuts “Overdue,” his latest Neo-soul single.

With vocals described as “stunning” by the likes of Bristol Funk, EARMILK, Alfitude, and more, the single also features the knock-out vox of Bray’s long-time musical partner, Lorraine Reid.

Check out “Overdue” here on YouTube:

Produced alongside multi-JUNO Award winning and Platinum-selling producer and composer Chris Birkett (Steve Earle, Sinead O’Connor), “Overdue” lands as the premiere preview to Bray’s forthcoming album, Land of Extremes.

His third full-length release — and the final installment in a specialized trilogy — Land of Extremes follows Night Rains (2016), and Crowded Isolation (2018) — the latter of which received international critical acclaim following features across 100+ stations worldwide.

Life Gets Strange, Indeed — New EP from Award-Winning Singer/Songwriter Cliff Hillis

Fri Dec 11, 2020

Life Gets Strange is the newest six-song EP by indie pop singer-songwriter, Cliff Hillis.

This happy and uplifting EP is available on streaming services Spotify and Soundcloud, with the first single “Let’s Pretend” on YouTube.

Check it out here:

“This is the fourth EP I’ve released, I decided it’s a much easier format to digest in such a short attention-span world, and it allows me to get music out quicker than recording a full album at a time,” says Hillis about the format of this EP. “I had to get fairly creative with social distanced recording. A number of the drum tracks were recorded in my garage (which, as it turns out, sound good!)

Pop Singer/Songwriter Astrid Tanton is “Better Off” with the Release of Her Latest Single

Fri Dec 11, 2020

When it comes to following her own intuition — and her latest track — Canadian indie pop singer/songwriter Astrid Tanton is decidedly “Better Off.”

The sophomore single from her forthcoming debut album, From My Eyes, “Better Off” continues to pair the fast-rising 18-year-old artist’s insights with her unique sound; the album’s premiere song, “Comfort,” was released earlier this Fall.

“‘Better Off’ follows me trying to navigate what I think is best for me vs what the people who I care about think is best for me,” Tanton says, sharing the song’s meaning. “It’s about the battle between what you feel in your heart going against what those who know you and care for you think.

Give a listen to ‘Better Off’ on YouTube here:

Alt-Pop Singer/Songwriter Wallish Releases Biting Candid New Single, “Give It To Me Straight”

Fri Dec 04, 2020

Edmonton, AB-based alt-pop singer/songwriter Wallish is three for three this year as she weaves her incredible artistry around her next set of emotionally biting lyrics. The new result? “Give It To Me Straight”.

“This song was something that was not anticipated or planned,” Amy Wallish shares. “Like much of my life…

“I had been frustrated with my current circumstances in love, life, and music, and could sense things coming to an end in my new relationship and in my musical partnerships,” she continues. “In each case, the individuals seemed to be more distant and not communicating as clearly or as often until, one day, the only response I received was radio silence.

“The silence left me with a multitude of unanswered questions, and left my mind to wander and come up with only the worst conclusions. I realized that, even if the reasons for these relationships ending were because of my worst conclusions, I would rather have somebody tell me straight up than leave me suspended in a place of uncertainty.”

TORTURED SOUL Flees From The DJ Booth With 'Remixes Japan Edition'

Fri Dec 04, 2020

Offering 100% live, modern, deep, and soulful house music freed from the DJ booth, Tortured Soul have released for the first-time ever in digital stores Remixes Japan Edition.

Check out Tortured Soul Remixes (Japan Edition) here:
open.spotify.com/album/1tiNu1hUQ9i0nFTMJ7Rn7j?si=CM_0WGXWRn2cIC9m-hhL3A

Frontman and songwriter John-Christian Urich leads the group while simultaneously drumming and singing with effortless mastery. Listeners will now be able to hear the rare remixes from Jon Cutler, Tangerine, and Yusuke Nakamura (aka Coregion), as well as a release highlight — focus track, "Another Lover (Co Region Remix – Radio Edit)" — remixed by Co-region aka Yusuke Nakamura.

Yusuke Nakamura is a Japanese composer and music producer. He is responsible for music with a variety of media, including Square Enix "Mobius Final Fantasy," Shiseido corporate visual music. As a remixer and music arranger, Yusuke has worked for TLC, Earth, Wind & Fire, and Kiyoshiro Imawano.

Chef and Popstar Luke Hayes / SEKSI Sparks Holiday Spirit with “Be My Christmas Dream Tonight”

Fri Dec 04, 2020

With the holiday season fast-approaching and the COVID-19 pandemic still looming over our heads, it’s uncertain what Christmas is going to look like in 2020. Despite the second lockdown and a concerning lack of good news around the world, Toronto-based chef Luke Hayes has returned with his popstar alter-ego — SEKSI — to make a difference and spread a little joy this holiday season, by releasing an all-new single entitled “Be My Christmas Dream Tonight.

Inspired by the likes of Max Martin, this instant pop classic takes its listeners on a journey, complete with a surprise gospel ending. The two-minute, 45 second-spanning dance track is chock full of enough jingling bells and heartfelt, romantic verses to leave anyone with a wide-eyed grin on their faces.

While it’s an undeniably fun and wholesome song that reminds the listener of many of the traditional joys that, pre-pandemic, come along with the holiday season — including caroling and partying with friends — when you listen closely, it actually becomes clear that there’s a deeper message embedded within this bass-driven Christmas single.

Jazz Chanteuse Michele Mele Harnesses The Spirit Of Christmas On Yuletide EP

Fri Dec 04, 2020

Despite her having graced most prestigious stages, it’s all about home for Schomberg, ON’s Michele Mele: her YouTube “Michele in the Kitchen,” where she reveals the secrets of home cooking — and sings, and her series “Concerts at Michele’s,” where she meets famous musicians in a comfortable domestic atmosphere of her Schomberg home — and, again, sings.

So it’s a little wonder that Ms. Mele’s latest release, out on November 16th, is titled “Cozy Christmas” — but then, it has to be a little wonder, because it’s an EP, a mini-album comprising four pieces. Preceded by a scintillating single “Christmas Time In Canada” — Michele’s original song — this record, a small collection of seasonal favourites, oozes class the listeners associate with the Ontarian and is more than likely to multiply the number of her fans.

Check out “Christmas Time in Canada” here:

Grunge Trap / Alt Hip Hop Rocker KROSST OUT Offers “Intro” & Sophomore Release, Phone Calls With Ghosts

Fri Dec 04, 2020

Grunge trap and alt hip hop rocker Krosst Out is leaving it all on the line with the release of his sophomore album, Phone Calls With Ghosts, and single “Intro (Preface)”.

Watch “Intro (Preface)” here via YouTube:

The track lands alongside the project-at-large that had the Toronto-based artist squaring away with his small-town upbringing. “Some kids treat piano lessons like a chore, but I treated them like a lifeline,” Krosst Out — nee Aaron Siebenga — offers. “They were my way out.”

The sentiment and its translation into Phone Calls With Ghosts are in reference to his upbringing in the small Northumberland County town of Campbellford, Ontario — population 3,500.

Contemporary Jazz Singer Katie Ditschun Sends Peace & Warmth with “Be Still”

Fri Dec 04, 2020

Contemporary jazz pop singer/songwriter Katie Ditschun offers a moment of calm and cause for pause this holiday season with the release of her new single, “Be Still”.

“For me, this is a winter song to sing during Christmastime,” Ditschun says, “but the lyrics don’t mention a specific holiday, so it’s really for anyone who enjoys the warm glow of light on a winter’s night.

“My hope is that people will listen to it, maybe all cozied up by the fire, and feel the calm and peacefulness I wanted to bring them. I consider ‘Be Still’ to be a kind of ‘Silent Night.’

To watch and enjoy “Be Still” here:

“In January of 2020, I found myself inspired to write this song,” she reflects. “Christmas 2019 had been a quiet, peaceful holiday for me, so the lyrics are simply about taking the time during the holiday season to slow down and fully appreciate the beauty, joy, and peace that we can see, feel, and share.

Canadian Indie Wonder Delyn Grey Taps Into Bloodied Heart Of Heavy Blues On Latest Single

Fri Nov 27, 2020

To some people the sound of thunder may seem to be a portent, yet to young Toronto artist Delyn Grey it signals empowerment. Her rise has been a striking contrast to the dreary air of 2020, and though Delyn’s forthcoming EP is titled Disappointment Girl — and singles “Battle” and “Ghost Town” addressed the dark issues of depression and quarantine — Grey’s songs strike a chord with too many a listener to dub her a disappointment.

The Canadian’s new cut “Listen To The Thunder” will surely multiply the number of her fans because it’s a testament to Grey’s maturity as a musician — a writer and a performer.

Check out “Listen To The Thunder” here:

#2 on Indigenous Music Countdown, blind singer MATTMAC from Manitoba releases Debut Album "20/20"

Fri Nov 27, 2020

Blind music producer and recording artist Mattmac has harnessed his melodic pop-trap beats and inspiring story, quickly establishing himself as ‘one to watch’ on the national scene with his debut album, 20/20.

At 180,000+ streams across platforms, Mattmac’s premiere release features poppy vocals combined with hard-hitting trap beats, and thoughtfully honest lyrics that give listeners a glimpse into the mind of a blind creative as he paints vivid sonic pictures of struggle, healing, celebrating love, family and life on the rez.

The eight-track album’s lead single “Paradise” has risen to become a popular song in the Canadian music circuit; garnering more than 50,000+ streams on Spotify, it hit Top 3 on the NCI FM Indigenous Music Countdown hosted by SiriusXM, and Top 50 on the Mediabase radio charts. With heavy local support from Virgin Radio Winnipeg, the song has become both a national and local sensation — including features with CBC Indigenous, CTV National News, Winnipeg Sun, and more.

Watch and experience “Paradise” here:

The James Clark Institute Release Moe Berg Produced SIngle “Should I Tell Her”

Fri Nov 27, 2020

Whether he’s in the institute or not James Clark is a doctor of pop. His prescription is simple, three minute blasts of medicinal music.

For his new ten song album “The Colour Of Happy” James once again called upon the talents of producer/musician Moe Berg (The Pursuit Of Happiness) a man who knows his way around a hook. As well as being a fan Moe also added his unique guitar sound and vocals to the new record.

When he wasn’t listening to his parents early rock’n’roll and country-western records, James, persuaded by his guitar playing brother, settled in behind the drum kit and discovered the songwriters that would influence him, Lennon & McCartney, Ray Davies and Elvis Costello. Their influence can be heard on his last full length 2016’s “Yesterday’s Misadventures” an album which ended up on many a year-end best of list.

Moe Berg adds “James takes the power pop traditions of The Beatles, Jellyfish and Split Enz and combines them with the high IQ lyrics of Elvis Costello and Joe Jackson. The result makes him one of Canada's greatest unsung songwriters”.

Bronte Road Music Releases “This Christmas” By Peter Foldy

Fri Nov 27, 2020

Two-time Juno Award nominee, Peter Foldy is back with an up-beat, radio friendly pop single, “This Christmas.” Written by Foldy, the track was co-produced with award-winning Quebec born  - L.A. based Gerry Stober, and Rokman.

Give a listen to “This Christmas” here:

Foldy is best known for his classic #1 Canadian hit, “Bondi Junction” as well as his infectious follow ups, “Roxanne” and “Julie-Ann,” both chart toppers in Canada released by Capitol/EMI Canada.

Beyond enjoying a long run as a singer/songwriter Foldy is also an accomplished film director who has worked with major stars such as Paul Rudd, Eugene Levy and Beverly D’Angelo, among many others.

Leahy Releases Holiday Traditional Classic O Come All Ye Faithful in Time for the Christmas Season

Fri Nov 27, 2020

Who better suited to record traditional holiday music than Canadian group Leahy, one of the country’s most highly regarded progressive folk-roots bands? Their well-tuned sibling harmonies and exceptional arrangements are legendary, as can be heard on  their new single, a rendition of  the Christmas hymn, “O Come All Ye faithful.” Having just released their single “Good Water” to great acclaim, the JUNO Award-winning group will also be releasing their upcoming album of the same name, in 2021.

From its strikingly original piano-chord opening to its gorgeous solo vocal ending, Leahy's achingly beautiful version of "O Come All Ye Faithful" moves through the sparsely-backed, haunting voice of Denise Leahy; a glorious chorale of the second verse; a tender violin solo; and a mesmerizing, repeated incantation of the line "Let us adore him." It feels pure and heartfelt.

"Love At Christmastime" Single by Heather Christine & Featuring Donovan Locke

Fri Nov 27, 2020

“Love at Christmastime,” a new jazz composition by Mississauga’s award-winning vocalist Heather Christine, flawlessly mixes the joy of the holiday season with the romance and sexiness of jazz. Heather Christine is accompanied by some of Canada's top jazz musicians: Mark Kelso on percussion, Pat Collins on bass, Anthony Panacci on piano, Brian O'Kane on trumpet, and Donovan Locke on guest vocals.

“Deep in my heart I know you’re the one for me
This holiday I know it’s meant to be
For once in my life I find a love at Christmastime
For once in my life I know love’s here to stay”

“Love at Christmastime” is written by Heather Christine and Eddy Ruyter, produced by Anthony Panacci, mastered by Reuben Ghose, and vocal arrangement by Justin Bacchus.

Empty Streets & Collective Concern Inspired Winnipeg Rockers D2UR’s New Single, “Slippin’ Away”

Fri Nov 27, 2020

Inspired by Winnipeg’s empty streets and the nation’s collective concern for COVID-19, Canadian modern rock outfit D2UR channeled their straight-to-the-point songwriting into this, their newest single “Slippin’ Away”.

Check out “Slippin’ Away” on YouTube here:

Co-fronts Diane Isbister and Mike Isbister — plus Dave Sikorski-Thorn, John Colburn, and Stephen Broadhurst — continue to bring their signature rhythms to the forefront in the riff-filled rock piece and serve “Slippin’ Away” as the latest in their library of recently released tracks.

“Upon returning from a well-deserved break in Palm Springs in March, COVID-19 hit Canada hard and restrictions were put in place,” Diane recalls. “Self-isolation for two busy people was going to be a challenge if we didn’t find ways to entertain ourselves!”

ECMA Winner CHRISTINA MARTIN Releases New Holiday Single, “Kisses For Christmas” and Announces Holiday Show

Fri Nov 27, 2020

The Martin & Murray Virtual Holiday Party
Sunday, December 13th @ 3:00pm AT / 2:00pm EST
$10 via Crowdcast

Ahead of her virtual holiday party this December 13th, ECMA Award winning singer-songwriter Christina Martin has released her newest holiday single, “Kisses for Christmas” — available now!

Check out “Kisses for Christmas” on YouTube here:

Following her 2018 hit holiday tune, “This Christmas” — which has 750,000 streams on Spotify alone, and includes features from Dale Murray and Jordi Comstock, as well as a video by Seela Misra — “Kisses for Christmas” speaks to the simple joys of the season: spending time with the people we love.

“Who remembers all the presents they got growing up?” Martin asks. “Maybe it was that Playmobil mansion, or a first electric guitar, or a prized stuffed animal or G.I. Joe...

Alex Whorms Sings the Bittersweet Sentiment on Holiday Classic “I’ll Be Home For Christmas”

Fri Nov 27, 2020

With a voice CBC calls “incredibly earnest” with an “honest purity,” award-winning Canadian singer/songwriter Alex Whorms delivers a stunning and timely rendition of “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” in time for an unprecedented season.

“The idea for this project came about last year,” Whorms recalls. “I was on tour to promote my EP, Burgundy, and I met producer Micah Doern at a radio interview at Ryerson University’s CJRU. We became friends after that, and decided to try recording together.”

Whorms’ rendition of the holiday classic first recorded by Bing Crosby in 1943 was recorded and mixed by Doern, and mastered by JUNO Award-winning and GRAMMY Award-nominee Dan Brodbeck.

Enjoy “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” here: