Backstage Pass

This week, JESSICA RHAYE – Foolish Heart Finally, I have the chance to share this wonderful conversation with Jessica Rhaye about her newest EP ‘Foolish Heart’ and the heart felt tender songwriting that created this magical set of songs. Beautifully produced and performed by her remarkable band ‘The Ramshackle Parade’. ‘Foolish Heart’ was released on March 20,2026 and it is deep honour to share this wonderful interview. Foolish Heart is a five-song EP that leans into love, reflection, and quiet vulnerability. Produced by longtime collaborator Dale Murray and recorded across Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Nashville, the songs move easily between country-folk warmth, confessional moments, and cinematic swells — including an incredible Laurel Canyon–inspired reimagining of KISS’s “I Was Made for Lovin’ You.” While each song on Foolish Heart stands on its own sonically, they are bound together by a shared emotional thread. These are love songs, but not only the romantic kind—some are tender, some restless, others quietly questioning. Jessica Rhaye is a Canadian independent singer-songwriter, performer, and visual graphic design artist with a 25-year career rooted in folk and Americana. She performs solo, with her folk trio Preeper Rhaye MacKay, and with her folk-rock band The Ramshackle Parade. My Heart Belongs to You. https://youtu.be/c42kkEx9bFw?si=uC4WJW0gtv-2Pspc https://www.jessicarhaye.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, MARC JORDAN - authorized biography, ‘Rhythm of My Heart’. Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee Marc Jordan brings his remarkable story to life at Huntsville’s Algonquin Theatre on June 12,2026 with the launch of 'Rhythm of My Heart', his authorized biography. With a night full of songs and stories, the evening offers an intimate look into the five-decade career of a songwriter whose work has sold over 35 million units and shaped generations of pop and jazz. Known for his poetic lyricism, distinctive voice, and collaborations with artists like Rod Stewart and Bonnie Raitt, Jordan invites audiences into his creative world through stories, music, and reflection, making this a rare and personal event with one of Canada’s most enduring musical voices. Marc Jordan, the visionary Brooklyn-born, Toronto-raised singer-songwriter whose work has defined the landscape of popular music for over fifty years, today announces a multi-dimensional celebration of his storied career. With the release of his authorized biography, Rhythm of My Heart, a chart-topping audiophile collection, and an intimate series of live performances, Jordan continues to expand his legacy as one of the most essential voices in the musical canon. The biography offers a vivid window into Jordan’s unique creative process, including his "savant-like" ability to visualize music in three dimensions—a gift he cultivated while navigating profound dyslexia. The song serves as the heartbeat of a narrative that celebrates redemption through art and the unwavering dedication to the craft of songwriting. https://www.marcjordan.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, DAVE GUNNING - Field Notes ‘Field Notes’ is one of those rare, memorable albums that comes along once every generation reflecting not only the urgency of the times, but reveals an artist in full force and flight, sharing the craft, precision and imaginative power beneath the song writing With his Ontario tour continuing, Dave Gunning joins Backstage Pass in a wide-ranging conversation about his phenomenal new album and writing songs in a modern turbulent world. With over two decades on the road and fifteen albums to his credit, Nova Scotia’s Dave Gunning has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s most engaging and respected folk singer-songwriters. A multiple East Coast Music Award and Canadian Folk Music Award winner, Gunning is celebrated for his warm stage presence, razor-sharp wit, and songs that honour everyday heroes while tackling hard truths. His music has long reflected his deep roots in Pictou County, where stories of working people, small-town struggles, and local pride shape his songwriting. Whether he’s shining a light on unsung community champions or confronting social and environmental issues close to home, Gunning brings an honesty and empathy to his work that have become his trademark. Over the years, Gunning has shared the stage with many folk greats, yet he continues to carve his own path, grounded in the values of community and craftsmanship. In June 2025, Gunning travelled to Point Lonsdale, Australia, to record his fifteenth studio album, Field Notes. Stripped-back and emotionally rich, the new collection returns to the heart of what he does best: telling stories that remind us who we are, where we come from, and what matters most. https://www.davegunning.com LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, KAELEY JADE - ‘The Great Unknown’ Alternative-folk singer-songwriter Kaeley Jade crafts full-hearted songs that dig deep. Growing up on the outskirts of North America’s most northern metropolis, the Edmonton-based Métis artist has been sculpted by icy winter winds and sweeping prairie skies. Whether through gently textured acoustic ballads or rip-roaring full-band cuts, Canadian Folk Music Award-winner Kaeley Jade’s powerful voice captures life’s most challenging moments with sincerity and precision. Her cinematic forthcoming album, The Great Unknown, invites listeners to release what no longer serves them and celebrate the beauty found within the ever-shifting tides of experience. https://kaeleyjade.com YouTube | Kaeley Jade | Includes live performance videos and official music videos: https://www.youtube.com/c/KaeleyJade Facebook | @kaeleyjademusic https://www.facebook.com/kaeleyjademusic Instagram | @kaeley_jade https://www.instagram.com/kaeley_jade/ TikTok | @kaeley_jade https://www.tiktok.com/@kaeley_jade?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/0uHvg2Vc2T0NrCvSkbSb2t Bandcamp https://kaeleyjade.bandcamp.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, JENN GRANT - Queen of the Strait Her 2026 album, Queen of the Strait (2026), is her most personal work yet. Co-produced with Joshua Van Tassel and longtime collaborator Daniel Ledwell, it is a modern-day classic of country and Americana, elevated by Jenn’s unmistakable pop-infused charm. The title draws its name from the MV Abegweit passenger ferry - Abegweit being an anglicized version of the Mi’kmaw word Epekwitk, meaning “cradled by the waves” - which carried Jenn and her brother as children between two parents after a tumultuous separation. That crossing becomes both a literal and metaphorical passage in her work, weaving together the Canadian landscapes of her childhood and universal stories into a profound reflection of the human condition; exploring life’s deepest thresholds: childhood wonder, love, abuse, aging, childbearing, loss, survival, and resilience. To celebrate the album, Grant has created a groundbreaking live tour ‘Cradled by the Waves’ - The Live Experience, which will take place across Canada, beginning in Charlottetown, PEI, on March 5th. This tour will transform the album into a stunning multimedia performance blending music, film, theatre, and dance. With Queen of the Strait, Grant affirms her place as one of Canada’s most compelling storytellers - an artist whose songs feel both timeless and urgently present, carrying us across waters both real and imagined. https://www.jenngrant.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, THE BURRITO BROTHERS / The Magic Time Machine of Love “The idea will keep going. It’s not like it’s dead. Whether I do it or anybody else does, it’s got to keep going.” Gram Parsons 1972 Chis P James in converstation about the new album from The Burrito Brothers,The Magic Time Machine of Love, which was released in November through Think Like a Key Music. How can music that sounds so completely new and inventive sound so familiar at the same time? Well… it does. That’s The Burrito Brothers for you! The legacy and experiences that inform the wonderful music of today’s BBs is so rich, so fertile, and so far-reaching that it sounds like an old friend even as your ears are treated to something quite unlike anything you’ve heard before. It’s an amazing alchemy. But being amazing is standard practice for The Burrito Brothers. Ever since two Byrds left the “Sweetheart of the Rodeo” mothership nearly 60 years ago, The Burrito Brothers have been ever evolving and putting out wonderful albums. The musicians in today’s group, Chris P James, Tony Paoletta, Peter Young and Steve Allen, have performed and recorded numerous notable previous works of their own and with countless other artists. This is a fully realized, forward-looking group of masterful musicians and vocalists. Essentially, this current lineup of Burritos has been carrying the ball, Gram’s baby, for more than a decade now. This cool album not only features the current lineup but has wonderful guest appearances from Gram Parsons himself, as well as Al Perkins, Ian Dunlop, Jon Corneal, Michael Curtis, Bob Hatter and others. The circle is complete. https://www.theburritobrothers.net/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

GRAVEN - Geographics Releasing two singles a week throughout February 2026 on Bandcamp, Graven has finally released his newest stellar album. Thoughtful and inventive, as always, Graven captures the mood of the times with this exception set of songs. ‘Geographics’ was sonically birthed in 6 days in Halifax, NS at Ocean Floor Recording with Matty McKechnie (Graven), Melissa Payne, Charles Austin, Jamie Kronick, Jordan Murphy and Franc Lopes. The album has a real travel theme to it, and spans across many real geographic locations, but it's also sort of a statement on the world at large today and a bit of a map of Matty's sometimes chaotic mind. It was an album that congealed quickly but it took a ton of time to form the cinematic shape and colour of these songs in the editing room. I've never had another vocalist on any Graven material so to see Melissa step up to the plate and hit melodic homers almost every time was a beautiful thing. She added so much to this record and I'm forever grateful. GRAVEN (Matty McKechnie) is an independent folk-rock singer-songwriter from Ottawa, Canada. An innovative Nepean-born songmaker with a key focus on cultivating joy and wonder in Canadian geography, Matty (Graven) is a wiley wordsmith whose passion is to create a highly accepting and inclusive community of music lovers. FIND GRAVEN ON BANCAMP. https://www.graven.ca https://graven.bandcamp.com/album/geographics https://www.facebook.com/gravencanada LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, STEVE JENSEN – mrSTEVE and friends From the opening track to its beautiful closing, Steve Jensen’s 2026 album, ‘mrSTEVE and friends’, is a gentle reminder of all that is good and loving in this tumultuous world. The gifted British Columbia songwriter has crafted a set of songs that in lyric and melody, span genres and musical approaches with an airy hopefulness and enthusiasm reminiscent of a time when music was meant for dancing in the streets and lifting our hearts and voices high in good faith and enduring acceptance. Guitarist and songwriter, Steve Jensen released his third full length studio album in early 2026. Backstage Pass took the opportunity to talk to the journeyman musician about its creation and his current situation as a working musician in the Vancouver / Burnaby area. Steve talked about the musicians who helped bring the songs alive including the guests and friends who made the album possible. Notable for some inspiring music, ‘mrSTEVE and friends’ is filled with delightful performances, witty and truly catchy tunes that pay homage to his influences but also showcase his continued grace and power as a pop-rock song master. A man of wry humour and social conscience, Jensen cover themes of home, love, attraction and appreciation for each other, channelled through anthemic and deeply personal reflections. A must have album for 2026. Featured: All Around the World/ City Girl Steve Jensen Productions. https://stevejensenmusic.com/ https://www.facebook.com/steve.jensen.441960 https://www.youtube.com/@stevejensenmusic6380 LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, BOB D'EITH – ‘A Career in Music: 10 Steps to Success’ “You make your own luck” Bob D'Eith Highly accomplished musician, lawyer, author and consultant, Bob D’Eith shares details and foundational advice from his book, ‘A Career in Music: 10 Steps to Success’, a master class in developing a solid, universal approach to achieving success in real terms in every changing and evolving music business. With insightful lessons from songwriting to social media presence, Bob outlines a path to establishing and maintaining a viable, sustainable and life long career as a working musician. Bob D'Eith has worked in the music industry for 30 years as a lawyer, musician, author and consultant. He was appointed King's Counsel in 2021. Bob was the CEO of Music BC, the trade organization for the BC music industry for 14 years. He was the co-creator of the award-winning PEAK Performance Project. Bob was also the executive chair of the 2009 Vancouver JUNO Awards Host Committee. As a musician, Bob started his career in Rymes with Orange and is celebrating 25 years with the group Mythos. Bob has been nominated for two JUNO Awards. Bob is the author of A Career in Music: 10 Steps to Success (text book) and The Displaced (novel). Bob was a member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia representing Maple Ridge - Mission from 2017-2024 serving as Parliamentary Secretary for Arts and Film. He served as the Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, and sat on Treasury Board (cabinet committee) and the Legislative Review Committee (cabinet committee). https://www.adagiomedia.ca https://www.bobdeith.com https://www.facebook.com/adagiomedia?pnref=lhc LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, WILLIAM 'GRIT’ LASKIN - THE STRADIVARI FORMULA GRIT LASKIN – making the book As a luthier (maker of stringed musical instruments) for more than half a century I was aware of Stradivari and knew that despite him being a violin maker he also made some mandolins, a harp and some guitars. (There are currently 5 known Strad guitars still around, although only 1 is playable). That anomaly stuck in my head and made me wonder why Strad made guitars. My next thought was to imagine why that happened. The answer to that question began with “What If?” What if the most celebrated violin maker in history (yes, his instruments are considered superior to any other) really did have a secret that enabled his instruments to be better than those being built by his contemporaries such and Amati and Guarneri. And, what if someone close to him felt the need to hide that secret somewhere his competitors would never find it. Jump forward to our modern era and we find people who believe the secret exists, have been hunting for it for decades. One of them wants the secret to be revealed; the other desperately needs it to stay hidden. Into this volatile conflict we find some Canadian guitar makers, tasked with repairing one of the Strad guitars in prep for a major exhibition, who stumble across something unexpected. That discovery ultimately sends our protagonists to London, Paris, Cremona, Sardinia, Phoenix, Ottawa, Toronto, as they dodge violence and try to uncover the mystery. As the author, I loved having the chance to make luthiers (my people!) the heroes. And I also loved having the chance to show the collegiality that exists between luthiers around the world (it’s true!) https://williamlaskin.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, CARMEN TOTH. ‘Fix the World’ On October 7, 2025, Toronto-based singer-songwriter Carmen Toth released ‘Fix the World’, her most personal and politically charged album to date. Anchored by its searing title track - written in a single burst of inspiration - the record blends raw honesty with lush, guitar-driven instrumentation to deliver a message that is both intimate and universal: break free from prescribed roles, embrace authenticity, and reclaim power. Toth wrote Fix the World after attending a women’s gathering where she felt alienated by performative femininity, inspiring her to examine deeply ingrained expectations placed on women. “I feel like from birth, my generation of women was collectively brainwashed to put others first, cater to men, compete with each other, and obsess over beauty and having a perfect home and family,” she shares. “We need to hold ourselves accountable for enabling the patriarchy and start rebelling against it. The only way we’re going to fix the world is by supporting each other fiercely and stepping fully into our power.” The album’s tarot-inspired artwork, illustrated by Peter Guidon (also behind Toth’s Pretty Dresses animated video), reflects that message of liberation. It reimagines the World tarot card, depicting Toth with both acoustic and electric guitars, drumsticks in place of batons, and her two late cats - Snowshoe and Fritzy - as spirit guides. “The woman on the card is liberated and joyful, dancing without caring what others think,” Toth says. “That’s what my music and art represent for me. We must not be afraid to be who we really are and express ourselves authentically. Only by doing that can we fix the world.” Produced by Joel Wasson (The Discarded) and John Critchley (Lowest of the Low), the 11-track album features Wasson on drums, Drew Atkins on bass, Michael McKenzie (Lowest of the Low) adding guitar textures, and Lee Rose (Ace of Wands) on viola for the haunting ballad Ghost. The record was mixed by Critchley and mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer João Carvalho, reflecting a team effort rooted in Toronto’s indie community. Carmen Toth is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter known for her hook-driven power pop, heartfelt storytelling, and retro-influenced sound. Drawing inspiration from artists like Stevie Nicks, Kate Bush, Cyndi Lauper, and Sheryl Crow, her music blends vulnerability with classic pop-rock grit. Over the past two decades, Toth has evolved from solo acoustic sets and her early duo Social Potion into a fully realized indie artist, performing in both band and solo formats and building a loyal following through regular livestreaming. Her 2018 EP Safety Net, produced by Derek Downham, marked a shift toward a modern pop sensibility. https://socialpotion.tumblr.com/ https://www.facebook.com/CarmenToth111/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, LLOYD SPIEGEL. CANADIAN MINI-TOUR On his way to NAMM in California, 2026; Lloyd Spiegel took time before his mini-tour in Ontario to talk to Backstage Pass. Bakehouse Dozen (2023) is a masterclass in tone and soul. Band is cooking and Llyod is in fine form with incredible guitar mastery and deep soul blues vocals. Great album with a baker’s dozen of powerhouse songs. Melbourne Blues artist Lloyd Spiegel has been touring the globe for 30 of his 40 years. The 14-time Australian Blues Award Winner has one of the most interesting stories in music, having grown up on stage, learning from and touring with the founding fathers of modern Blues. Spiegel’s guitar wizardry, powerful lyrics and knack for humorous story telling delivers a truly unique performance that reinvents the genre and dispels the cliches associated with the Blues. https://www.lloydspiegel.com https://www.facebook.com/lloydspiegelmusic LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, CLELA ERRINGTON - ‘Walkin’ Each Other Home’ Comprised mainly of newly arranged blues and country material and two originals, this album stands out for its authentic, resonate connection, that singer- guitarist, Errington makes with the material. She embodies the essence of blues-soul singing with song choices, some of which date back to the earliest of recorded music. In a voice, filled commanding authority, Clela plumbs the depths and intricacies of blues songs written long before her own time, making them sound as vital and prescient as if they were composed this year. More importantly, she has chosen to present tunes that are synchronized with the mood and sorrow of our times in a poignant, clear vocal that makes you proud to be human, moreover proud to be a courageous, self-defined woman. Produced by Jimmy Bowskill of Blue Rodeo and Brooks and Bowskill, with a collection of meritorious studio musicians, Clela and band recorded straight to tape as it were, the mood and feeling she drew out of the songs. It more than amply demonstrates the power that music holds in our life and the emotional revelations that they bring. Thematically, the songs are about standing up, standing tall and standing firm in your faith and love and out stretching a helping hand to bring us all back home safe and out of harm’s way. Born in Montreal and raised on the St Lawrence River in Brockville, ON, in the 1000 Islands region, Errington followed the river to Prince Edward Island on Canada’s East coast. There, she was first introduced to blues, folk, country and Celtic music. She lived in PEI and performed throughout the Maritimes in a duo with Island vocalist Dawne Fraser. Eventually returning to Ontario and settling in Toronto, Errington is now part of the city’s rich music scene – as a featured performer and a backup vocalist, often collaborating with other artists, both onstage and in the studio. Most recently, Errington’s composition “White Dove” was arranged for choir by Toronto musicologist Mike Daley, and was performed in March 2025 by the University of Toronto Hart House Chorus under the direction of Daniel Norman. https://clelaerrington.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, LAYNE NEGRIN - Gurdjieff in Tibet In an extensively researched and detailed study into the background training and inspiration for the teachings of George Ivanovich Gurdjieff, Layne Negrin takes the reader on a profound journey of one man’s path to self-discovery, against seemingly impossible odds, to become one of the most influential thinkers and teachers of the twentieth century. Layne Negrin is a writer, publisher and musician. Layne began his spiritual path in 1988, practicing the Gurdjieff tradition exclusively for 19 years, then Mahayana Buddhism (primarily the Soto Zen of Shunryu Suzuki but also the Shambhalian Buddhism of Trungpa Rinpoche) exclusively for the next 13 years, and since 2020, after having realized that the two ideologies are the same in essence, practices both. Gurdjieff in Tibet is divided into three parts: Part One, looks at the evidence of Gurdjieff's presence in Tibet; Part Two, researches the direct students of Gurdjieff who explored Tibetan or other Buddhist sects to one degree or another; and Part Three is a collection of comparative studies showing the influence of Tibetan Buddhism upon Gurdjieff's teaching. Interspersed with the author's writing on the individuals discussed in Parts One and Two are relevant texts by them, many of which were previously unavailable in English. George Ivanovich Gurdjieff was a philosopher, mystic, spiritual teacher, composer, and movements teacher. He taught students throughout Europe and America from 1913 to 1949. His approach to inner development influenced many scholars and artists during his lifetime and continues to impact many seeking solutions to the conundrum of human existence today. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561963072520 https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/gurdjieff-in-tibet/9780974107905.html LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, DUKE & GOLDIE. Romance and Ramblin’ “Romance and ramblin’ There’s two hearts, one’s free the other bleeds Tumbling dice, paying the price, the winner who walks with it all Teardrops of diamonds will fall” Romanticized Cowboy Rarely do artists give us the type of lyrics that take the listener on deep inner journey that provoke wonder and pondering at the same time. In an easy going, refreshing conversation, Jena “Goldie” Gogo and Eric “The Duke” Duquette talk about their newest EP, Romance and Ramblin’- their second EP of powerful evocative songs. As they embark on a eastern tour, please welcome DUKE & GOLDIE to Backstage Pass. Duke & Goldie blend the soul of warm folk storytelling with an upbeat, mystical country twang to create a sound uniquely all their own. The Vancouver-based musical partnership of Eric “The Duke” Duquette and Jena “Goldie” Gogo (longtime members of roots rock band Blue Sky Miners) has forged a style that feels both timeless and refreshingly new. Described as a revival of the sun-kissed Laurel Canyon vibes of the ‘60s and ‘70s, their music invites listeners to journey through heartland stories and wide-open landscapes. The collection showcases Duke & Goldie’s range within Americana and country, from the free-spirited singalong “West End Queen (Abattoir)” to the gritty anthem “Outsider,” which celebrates individuality in defiance of conformity. On the dreamlike “Romanticized Cowboy,” Goldie’s ethereal vocals explore love, longing, and myth, while “Small Town Talk” delivers fire and humour in a sharp critique of small-town gossip. Closing with “The Low Desert,” a sweeping and poetic reverie, the EP demonstrates their ability to balance nostalgia, grit, and cosmic wonder—all while staying rooted in heartfelt storytelling. On stage, Duke & Goldie weave cascading harmonies over acoustic guitar-laden arrangements, bringing stories to life that travel from the towering Rocky Mountains to the quiet mystery of remote deserts. They explore the complexity of their roles as modern-day settlers, grappling with identity, place, and purpose in the beautiful land they call home. Yet it is their magnetic on-stage chemistry—playful, intimate, and deeply connected—that truly hooks audiences, making every performance feel like an invitation into their world. https://www.dukeandgoldie.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, JORY NASH – THE LIGHT STILL SHINES ON THE MAIN. October 24, 2025 - After stepping away from music in 2019, acclaimed folk singer-songwriter Jory Nash returns with his 10th album, The Light Still Shines On The Main, co-produced with longtime friend Chris Stringer (The Wooden Sky, Elliott Brood, Timber Timbre, Megan Bonnell, Holly McNarland). The road to this record has been anything but easy. In 2019, Nash experienced a breakdown that led him to quit music, facing depression and financial struggles. The pandemic compounded these struggles, and in early 2021, his partner, Brittany, was diagnosed with multiple cancers, beginning an intensive journey through chemotherapy and surgeries. That summer, a fire damaged their Toronto rental, prompting a move to Cobourg, ON, where Brittany could focus on recovery and their young son could start kindergarten. “This album is about coming through the darkness,” says Nash. “It’s about hope, resilience, loss, and finding beauty in new beginnings.” https://jorynash.com LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, THE EAST POINTERS. - Jake Charron joins Backstage Pass to discuss ‘Schoonertown’ JUNO Award-winning Canadian contemporary folk group The East Pointers are excited to announce their anticipated fourth full-length album, ‘Schoonertown’, which will be released on January 23, 2026, via Nettwerk. To celebrate the news, The East Pointers' have released a series of new singles which showcases the power and strength of what’s to come on the upcoming new record. Schoonertown, Tim Chaisson and Jake Charron share, “is rooted in our early years as a band, and depicts what it’s like growing up in a small East Coast seaside town. Through the eyes of a young fisherman, each song traces the highs and lows of life on and off the water—the struggles and triumphs, love, growth, and self-realization that come with finding your place in the world. It's also the first album we've written, produced, and recorded entirely on our own, and we're so excited for you to hear it!” The East Pointers have always been furiously energetic, musically complex, and technically brilliant. Their fusion of folk, pop, electronic, and dance sensibilities has generated strong fan bases worldwide. Representing the seventh generation of traditional Prince Edward Island and Ontario-based Celtic players, The East Pointers pay homage and advance the art form by parlaying folk music into the pop arena. https://theeastpointers.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgmweY4XKtvfpFLPukMP8Mw LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, JASON SCHNEIDER- the Strange Saga of rock’s most enduring song, ‘Hey Joe’. Music journalist, editor, publicist and musician, Jason Schneider has written extensively about Canadian Music legends such as Leonard Cohen, Joni Mitchell, Gordon Lightfoot, in his book ‘Whispering Pines’ (2009); Art Bergmann, in ‘The Longest Suicide: The Authorized Biography of Art Bergmann’ (2022). In his most recent book, ‘That Gun In Your Hand: the Strange Saga of ‘Hey Joe’ and Popular Music’s History of Violence’ (2025), Jason Schneider explores, in minute detail, the creation of one of the most enduring and re-recorded songs in rock history, “Hey Joe”. “This is the story of a song, a song that binds nearly every strand of 20th century American popular music. “Hey Joe” was written at the dawn of the 1960s by a man named Billy Roberts, an obscure singer and guitarist from South Carolina who moved to New York City, drawn by the burgeoning folk music scene in Greenwich Village. It was a time when new, original material was scarce, leading other singers to quickly adapt songs of quality in the spirit of folk music’s oral traditions. Thus began the long journey of “Hey Joe” from New York coffeehouses to the bars on L.A.’s Sunset Strip to the ears of a young guitarist named Jimi Hendrix who launched his career with his radical, electrified interpretation.” In exacting detail, with newly uncovered stories, Jason Schneider maps the intricate elements of a song that has provoked dramatic response from the multitude of musicians who have recorded the song, to audiences who still find the track irresistible. In its unusual construction, and mythical history, “Hey Joe”, remains a powerful reminder of what makes rock music such an exciting, complex and influential art form. Its history is, in many ways, a history of the foundations of modern pop and rock music. https://jasonschneidermedia.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560292990370 LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, GRANT LYLE - And Now Released September 12th, 2025 Toronto-based Grant Lyle is a powerhouse frontman known for his electrifying presence and dynamic guitar playing. Grant blends raw, punchy chops with smooth, fluid phrasing, crafting a sound that captivates audiences from start to finish. Lyle's guitar solos are sharp and emotive, effortlessly blending technical skill with soulful improvisation. His commanding stage presence keeps the audience on their toes, while the rhythm section locks in tight, creating a groove that's impossible to resist. Grant Lyle's performances transcend the setting - whether he's playing a small, intimate venue or a festival stage, his music connects with the audience no matter the distance. His ability to command attention with just an acoustic guitar and his voice is a testament to his skill as a musician and storyteller. With every note, Grant captures the essence of the blues, making even the most familiar classics feel fresh and raw. On September 12th, 2025 Lyle is set to release his eighth recording, aptly titled And Now. The new songs highlight Lyle's many talents both as a guitarist and a singer-songwriter, showcasing deep respect for the traditions of blues and roots music while putting his own spin on it. With eight original songs and one masterful cover of The Spencer Davis Group's "Gimme Some Lovin'" With And Now, Grant Lyle has created an experience that speaks directly to the soul. https://grantlyle.com/home LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, GORDIE TENTREES International touring award winning Canadian (Yukon) artist has arrived. This authentic road poet travels North America, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, UK/Ireland and Scandinavia with 9 records under his belt. From Celtic Connections (UK) to the National Folk Festival (AU) his ability to hold an audience, weave melody, while juggling the dark with the light is infectious. Gordie Tentrees & Jaxon Haldane 2023 International Acoustic Music Award (IAMA) winner Gordie Tentrees (Yukon) met Jaxon Haldane (Manitoba) in 2005 (Fred Eaglesmith Picnic, Ontario) and swapped records before hitting the road with disparate musical aspirations. Gordie performed over 3000 concerts around the world, often touring as Eaglesmith’s opening act, learning about the music business, and leveraging his previous experience in the boxing ring (3x Golden Glove champ). Tentrees also toured with James Cotten, Mary Gauthier, Kelly Joe Phelps, Steve Poltz, and Ray Wylie Hubbard, to name a few. Jaxon was meanwhile tearing up stages from Churchill to Belfast (D.Rangers bandleader/banjo player), producing records for his indie label (Dollartone), and touring with the likes of Petunia, The Sadies, Jon Spencer, and Romi Mayes. His close relationship with lifelong musical hero and mentor Willie P. Bennett led to Haldane recording Willie’s last record, Sharpen The Plow, just prior to Bennett’s passing in 2008. Haldane founded the Willie P. Bennett Legacy site to pay tribute to his deceased friend. Interestingly, Bennett and Eaglesmith spent 25 years performing and touring, setting an example of camaraderie and excellence that still guides the way for Tentrees and Haldane. Fast forward to 2014 in Beaumont, Texas. Gordie and Jaxon made their stage debut and quickly realized their friendship off the stage made for something special on it. Armed with an arsenal of instruments (Fiddle-Saw, Harmonica, Resonator, Cigar Box Guitars, Foot Percussion, Acoustic Guitar, Banjo, and Mandolin), they have performed over 1100 concerts in 11 countries, creating an unscripted, dynamic electric/acoustic show built on brotherly harmonies and masterful storytelling. In 2018, they released GRIT, their debut live album recorded over 5 nights in Western Canada by Scott Franchuk (Corb Lund, Old Reliable, Mariel Buckley, Del Barber), propelling appearances at major festivals such as Celtic Connections in Glasgow, UK, the National Folk Festival in Canberra, Australia, and the Woody Guthrie Festival in Okemah, USA. They recently recorded a studio record in Nashville TN titled Double Takes with acclaimed Australian Nash Chambers (Paul Kelly, Archie Roach) with special guests Charlie McCoy (Elvis Presley), Tania Elizabeth (Avett Brothers) and Lucky Oceans (Asleep at the Wheel). The music of Tentrees and Haldane draws from a century of North American music traditions and is rooted in truth, social justice, and the human condition. Their performances are heartfelt and honest, seldom shying away from challenging topics and tough subject matter. https://www.tentrees.ca/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, DAVID FRANCEY - MAPS (A Collection of Fan Favourites, Personal Picks, and a Brand-New Track) "I have been writing songs for over 50 years. 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." - David Francey One of Canada’s most beloved folk voices, David Francey, is set to release 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." David Francey, born in Ayrshire, Scotland, is a Canadian folk singer-songwriter. He is the recipient of four Juno Awards and three Canadian Folk Music Awards. He has no formal training in music. Francey worked as a rail yard worker and a carpenter for 20 years. At age 45, he began a career in folk music, finding success on the folk festival circuit Francey's experiences in working-class life strongly influenced his 1999 debut album, ‘Torn Screen Door’. Maps is David Francey’s fourteenth album. It is a breath-taking compilation of a master songwriter’s work to date, deeply moving and inspiring. For any artist for knows what it means to follow the muse, this is a conversation about the grace and humility that one needs to pursue a life in art and music. https://www.davidfrancey.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, BREE TAYLOR – ‘Wake Up!’ Bree Taylor has quietly but steadily built a reputation as one of country music’s most compelling new voices—an artist whose work cuts through the genre’s conventions with a blend of grit, honesty, and rock-infused energy. This summer, Bree made her landmark Nashville debut at the CMA Fest Spotlight Stage earlier this month, marking a major career moment and expanding her growing audience south of the border. Her latest single, “Wake Up!,” out now, further solidifies her place as a force to be reckoned with, and with over 2 million streams across digital platforms, the momentum behind her career is gathering real steam. “Wake Up!” is a high-octane punk-rock country blends country storytelling with lyrics, including the evocative line “Saw you kiss her on a Tuesday / But you call me on the daily,” confront the rawness of unreciprocated love with a frankness that feels both personal and universal. Bree’s commanding vocal delivery cuts through the song’s driving instrumentation, making it clear this is your new breakup anthem and a call to recognize what’s right in front of you before it slips away. Co-written with Alex Seier and Kelly McKay, the song emerged quickly, capturing a real-time emotional urgency. Bree has said she wanted to craft a song with an edge reminiscent of Taylor Swift’s “You Belong With Me,” but infused with her own unmistakable bite. The result is a vibrant, energetic anthem perfectly timed for the summer season and for Bree’s ongoing rise. The single builds on the foundation laid by her breakthrough track, “Standing Still,” which garnered significant recognition including a spot in CBC Searchlight’s Elite Top 50 and finalist placements in the Unsigned Only and International Songwriting competitions. Her raw vocal power and candid songwriting also earned her the Established Vocalist MARTY Award from the Mississauga Arts Council—a nod to both her artistry and her growing influence. Bree’s music reflects a lineage that spans from the storytelling traditions of Carrie Underwood to the rebellious spirit of Joan Jett. Her sound embodies a genre-defying spirit, pairing country’s emotional directness with the raw power of rock ’n’ roll. Her journey, marked by overcoming a hearing impairment, informs the authenticity and resilience that resonate throughout her work. Her debut full-length album is set for release on October 10, 2025. https://www.breetaylor.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, STEVE MARRINER – Hear My Heart With over twenty years of relentless touring and recording, Steve Marriner now enjoys his hard-earned reputation as one of the most hard-working and talented musicians in Canada and beyond. In addition to being one of the world’s foremost blues harmonica players, ‘The Swiss Army Knife’ is also known to be a wildly skilled multi-instrumentalist, soulful singer and creative record producer. Since 2008, Marriner has been a celebrated co-founder, baritone guitarist and lead singer of the acclaimed blues outfit MonkeyJunk, with whom he has won two Juno Awards (2012, 2018) for Blues Album of the Year. Another career milestone was achieved with MonkeyJunk in 2010 when they became the first-ever Canadian band to be recognized with a win at the Blues Music Awards in Memphis, Tennessee. For the past decade, Marriner has been touring and recording with the legendary Canadian blues-rock staple, Colin James, lending his skills on both harmonica and bass guitar. While touring with James, Steve realized several long-time dreams by performing in such hallowed halls as The Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, The Moody Theatre in Austin, and Massey Hall in Toronto. As a songwriter, Marriner has earned critical praise for the depth and vulnerability of his works. “Everybody has a story to tell, and I try to write songs that let people know they aren’t alone in this world. That somebody has been through the same trials they face, and come out the other side.” As a dynamic performer, Marriner has shared the stage with many legends across the blues, rock, and folk genres. In the world of blues, he’s accompanied bonafide legends like Buddy Guy, Pinetop Perkins, Sam Myers Jimmie Vaughan, Kim Wilson as well as contemporary masters such as Jimmie Vaughan, Kim Wilson, Sue Foley and Mike Zito. His rock collaborations include Colin James, Big Sugar, Sass Jordan, JJ Grey & Mofro and Randy Bachman while his folk connections have put him on stage with Harry Manx, Foy Vance, Sue Foley, Blue Rodeo and Xavier Rudd. Today, Marriner continues to explore his ever-expanding musical boundaries, blending a wide range of influences to forge his own, unique musical identity. He is currently set to release his latest album, Hear My Heart, in 2025 via Cordova Bay Records. https://www.stevemarriner.com/ https://www.facebook.com/stevemarrinermusic/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, EDDIE SCHWARTZ - Film School. Film School is one of those impressive albums filled with songs that simply stay with you like a call for a forgotten friend of long ago. For decades, Eddie Schwartz has remained one of the most respected figures in the music world—an iconic Canadian songwriter, producer, performer, and rights advocate whose songs have echoed across generations. With his new single “We Win,” Eddie marks a bold and inspiring return to his roots as a solo artist, leading into the release of his new EP Film School, both out now. The project showcases the full spectrum of his brilliance: lyrical poignancy, musical craftsmanship, and the indomitable spirit that has defined his legacy. “I wrote ‘We Win’ as a song of hope,” he says. “I hope people hear it and feel the power of standing up again. Because there’s always a reason to try again, to keep moving forward.” With Film School, Eddie Schwartz continues to do just that—creating music that uplifts, empowers, and endures. A Member of the Order of Canada and the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, Eddie Schwartz is the architect behind enduring hits like “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” popularized by Pat Benatar, and “All Our Tomorrows,” later covered by Joe Cocker. His catalog spans more than 200 recorded songs and over 65 million physical sales worldwide—long before streaming platforms entered the conversation. With Film School, Eddie adds a powerful new chapter to his discography and creative journey. The lead single “We Win” pulses with optimism and resolve, themes that mirror the artist’s own return to songwriting after a prolonged pause. “We’ll break down the walls, we’ll tear up the rules / Come out swinging, fighting, not afraid to lose,” Eddie sings in the chorus—his words now layered with personal and cultural meaning. “We get up off our knees / We stand up and believe / No matter how the story ends, we win.” Delivered with trademark sincerity, “We Win” feels as timely as it is timeless. “These songs didn’t come easily,” Eddie writes in his artist notes. “After stepping away from writing, I wasn’t sure I’d ever return. But with encouragement from my wife Joanne and friends in Nashville and beyond, I found my way back.” His creative rebirth is deeply felt throughout Film School, a collection of mostly new songs that channel reflection, purpose, and an undiminished creative spark. Born in Toronto in 1949, Eddie Schwartz holds a degree in music and English literature from York University. He first made his mark in the band Icarus alongside industry titans Bob Ezrin and Ben Mink, before launching a solo career that led to multiple hit singles and an enduring role as one of Canada’s great musical exports. “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” may have been dismissed by a publisher early on, but Benatar’s iconic recording turned it into a cultural lightning rod. Eddie, ever gracious, always let the music speak for itself. His songs have been recorded by an astonishing roster: Paul Carrack, The Doobie Brothers, Carly Simon, America, Donna Summer, Rita Coolidge, Rascal Flatts, and Mountain, among many others. As a producer, his credits include the Doobie Brothers’ Cycles, Carrack’s Groove Approved, and his own albums, all resonating with an unmistakable blend of craftsmanship and soul. https://www.eddieschwartzmusic.com/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, THE PLANET SMASHERS - On the Dancefloor After more than three decades of two-tone swagger, punk attitude, and brass-blasted joy, Montreal’s beloved ska lifers The Planet Smashers return with “Meet Me On The Dancefloor,” the first single from their forthcoming tenth studio album, On the Dancefloor lands August 22,2025 on Stomp Records. It’s a summery, anthemic invitation back into the band’s world of groove-driven rebellion, self-deprecating humour, and dancefloor catharsis. Formed in 1994 and still going strong, The Planet Smashers have carved out an impressive and enduring legacy in the global ska-punk movement. With over 30 million streams on Spotify, countless sold-out shows, and a catalogue that soundtracked everything from MTV’s Undergrads to Japan’s cult animation series Catman, the band has remained a fixture through every wave and reinvention of the genre. They've toured extensively across North America, Europe, and Japan, and shared stages with icons while remaining staunchly DIY and true to their fans. Founding frontman Matt Collyer also co-founded Stomp Records, a label that helped launch some of Canada's most celebrated alternative acts. “Meet Me On The Dancefloor” is pure Planet Smashers—hooky, high-energy, and deeply fun. It channels their signature up(off)beat sound with a sharp rhythm section, cheeky lyrics, and that unmistakable horn section that still hits like a confetti cannon. The track also teases the range and spirit of the full-length album: On the Dancefloor features 13 tracks spanning love songs, breakup anthems, protest tunes, and party bangers, all threaded with the band’s infectious optimism and biting wit. And they’ve brought reinforcements: ska legends Neville Staple (The Specials), Charley “Aitch” Bembridge (The Selecter), and Sara Johnston (Bran Van 3000) all contribute to the record, bringing extra depth and pedigree to the chaos. The band’s live show is still a thing of sweaty, horn-laced legend—equal parts punk rock and carnival—and the new material was crafted with that experience in mind. “On the Dancefloor was the funnest of our 10 albums to record,” says Collyer. “I can’t wait to play these songs live! The process was rad from start to finish. All of my bandmates got their hands in there. Plus we had the pleasure of teaming up with ska legends and longtime friends. Fun times!” That spirit of collective joy and resistance runs throughout the record, offering a little light in a world that sorely needs it. Whether you’re a lifelong skanker or just discovering the band through a playlist rabbit hole, The Planet Smashers deliver exactly what the name promises: fun, energy, and total sonic uplift. With new music, new videos, and new tour dates on the horizon, “Meet Me On The Dancefloor” isn’t just a single—it’s a reminder that no matter how weird or bleak things get, there’s always room to move your feet and turn up the volume. https://youtu.be/iaYiFSefQ6A?si=mrZciEm7fKdXrkbg https://planetsmashers.ca/ https://www.facebook.com/ThePlanetSmashers/ LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, ELLEN BRAUN – The Doldrums Indie-folk singer-songwriter Ellen Braun shares her debut solo album, The Doldrums, on August 22,2025 (Independent). Ellen’s musical journey has taken many turns — from growing up in Ottawa to studying Biology at the University of Guelph, earning a Master’s in Environmental Science at the University of Calgary, and eventually settling in Canmore, AB. Produced by Grammy-nominated Howard Bilerman at Montreal’s Hotel2Tango, the 10-track LP is a deeply personal collection written over five years - a time marked by co-parenting, creative delays, and Ellen’s journey back to herself. Inspired by the likes of Brandi Carlile, Sarah Harmer, Indigo Girls, and Kim Richey, Ellen’s songwriting is rich with emotional clarity and poetic honesty. From the slow burn of recent single “You Had My Love” to the powerful title track and the soaring album focus single “Nashville” - a triumphant anthem of artistic reclamation - The Doldrums reflects on love, loss, identity, and the courage to be authentic. With contributions from a trusted circle of collaborators, the album is as much about healing as it is about craft. “I only wanted to work with people I loved and who loved me back,” says Ellen. The result is a stunning, full-band debut that’s both intimate and expansive. https://www.ellenbraunmusic.com/ https://youtu.be/CLIIxE_hP-A?si=fiFbBpTMF55xg7ZR LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, THE HEAVYWEIGHTS BRASS BAND - Knockout Trombonist, RJ Satchithananthan, joins Backstage Pass in an informative conversation. After 15 years of bringing the party wherever they play, The Heavyweights Brass Band are ready to make you dance, strut, and testify with their fifth full-length album, Knockout, dropping June 27, 2025. With a sound steeped in New Orleans brass traditions, Toronto’s reigning brass band champions fuse jazz, funk, and soul into a heady, horn-heavy celebration of everything that makes music joyful and alive. Knockout was recorded over two days at Taurus Studios, with the entire band playing together in one room. That energy — that sweat-on-the-walls, live-off-the-floor magic — is the soul of the album. With 11 songs and contributions from a new generation of jazz trailblazers like Kae Murphy (trumpet) and Nolan Murphy (tuba), the album is both a celebration and a passing of the torch. “The Toronto brass scene has grown so much,” the band says. “Including younger musicians who are pushing boundaries was vital for this project.” In their own words, “The Heavyweights Brass Band is a flag planted in the middle of the dancefloor. We hit hard with groove, energy, and originality. We’ve always believed in putting our personalities in the music, from gritty funk to bold soul to pure brass band joy. This record shows where we’ve been — and where we’re going.” Formed in 2010, HWBB has carved out a unique place in Canadian music. From sweaty club gigs to festival stages, they've opened for The Roots, jammed with Trombone Shorty, and recorded with everyone from Giovanni Hidalgo to Joe Lastie of Preservation Hall. https://heavyweightsbrassband.com/ https://youtu.be/2fXQmfpoCV8?si=DNoBJywkz9HRHQNY LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, KATE MAKI – Returns with Impossible Knot Recorded on tape at Little Bullhorn in Ottawa and co-produced by Maki and Dave Draves, the acclaimed Sudbury songwriter has created a powerful, emotional chapter in her musical saga. In an open and long ranging conversation, Kate shares the inspirations and process that produced this extraordinary set of songs and their deep felt meaning. Impossible Knot is an album that sneaks up on you and then stays in rivetted in your thoughts for a good long while. Take the time to listen for yourself. https://katemaki.bandcamp.com/album/impossible-knot Born and raised in Sudbury, Ontario, Canada, Kate Maki’s voice and musical style are as wide and expansive as her hometown’s moon-like terrain. She began writing songs during her first-year of teaching as a way to deal with the sudden death of a friend, and recorded her first record, Confusion Unlimited, in 2003 with Dave Draves. Originally intended to be a Christmas gift for her family, the record received international attention and quickly sold out of its initial pressing. Finding it impossible to maintain the teacher-by-day, musician-by-night lifestyle, Maki quit her day job and began crisscrossing the country on self-booked, self- promoted tours. Fast forward to today, six records, two kids, and countless tours and collaborations later, Maki returns with Impossible Knot. “I suppose I have come full circle, teaching high school and writing songs to help deal with life-changing circumstances. After a long period of grief, it was a relief to be reunited with the songwriting process, and of course, reunited with Draves and his trusty tape machine.” During the summer and fall of 2024, Maki travelled back and forth from Sudbury to Ottawa to work with Draves in his backyard, analogue studio where she recorded her first three records in the early 2000s. Little Bullhorn’s familiar, creative environment combined with her longtime friendship with Draves and his family, provided Maki with the comfortable space needed to share her first new material since 2016’s Head In The Sand. With Maki on guitars and Draves on keys, they formed a core band with Peter Von Althen on drums, Jon Hynes on bass, Dale Murray on pedal steel, guitars, and background vocals, Dan Levecque on guitars, and Anne Boulton on background vocals. Celebrated songwriters, Jim Bryson, Ruth Minnikin (The Guthries), and Ryan Levecque (Ox), also make guest appearances. The result is a warm, eclectic collection of “beautiful hurt” as described by Draves, and Maki sounds confident and hopeful despite the heavy subject matter. https://www.killbeatmusic.com/media-releases/2025/3/5/kate-maki-returns-with-first-new-music-in-nine-years-announces-upcoming-album?rq=Kate%20Maki "All I Get" by Kate Maki https://youtu.be/8pNcaW8ZsAQ?si=ScjQBLU48ICfeH7R LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, RUSHFEST CANADA – IN CONVERSATION with Steve Brown and Paul Beaulieu Taking place Friday, August 1 at Massey Hall and Saturday, August 2 at TD Music Hall, this two-day event marks 10 years to the day since Rush played their final concert in Los Angeles on August 1, 2015—and brings together fans, friends, collaborators, and tribute artists. Curated by RUSHfest Scotland founder Steve Brown and Canadian superfan and music journalist Paul Beaulieu, RUSHfest Canada is more than a fan convention—it’s a legacy event with heart, history, and an extraordinary mission: all profits will be donated to Brain Cancer Research at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto in honour of Neil Peart. Steve Brown is a lifelong musician from Scotland who launched RUSHfest Scotland in 2014, inspired by his late songwriting partner Angie Townsend, who passed away from cancer in 2016. To date, the events and albums have raised over $265,000 CAD for cancer charities. His tribute band, Moving Pictures, will perform. https://www.movingpicturesuk.com/ Paul Beaulieu is the founder of The Canadian Music Scene and a longtime Rush historian. He has interviewed band members, road crew, and chronicled Rush’s rise through Canadian and international media. https://thecanadianmusicscene.com/ Limited tickets remain and can be purchased here: Friday, August 1 at Massey Hall – masseyhall.mhrth.com/tickets/rushfest Saturday, August 2 at TD Music Hall – tdmusichall.mhrth.com/tickets/rushfest VIP packages are available via www.RUSHfestCanada.ca. To learn more visit - RUSHfestCanada.ca Facebook.com/groups/RUSHfestCanada LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, LENNIE GALLANT - Shelter From the Storms Episode 65. Sit down to a relaxed conversation with legendary songwriter and performer Lennie Gallant, speaking about his newest album and some of his adventures such as a working with Jimmy Buffet and others, and particularly his inspirations for this powerful new set of songs. “In the song, ‘Shelter From the Storms’, I kind of took the voice of one of a particular character and his partner and, you know, she's a bit drawn by conspiracy theories, and they're off on a journey. They feel, like many people, very disenfranchised, very outside of what is happening in the world that seems to have passed them by and they're looking for some answers to their questions and so they're taking off to a journey made perhaps to some mountain what they see they expect to find some answers there that they heard about perhaps online and so it's a bit vague fill in the dots you know in a way but at the same time as you say it is kind of specific to some things that are happening in the world right now. And I think the way so many people are, you know, just searching and trying to reach out for something to latch on to and believe in, whether it's real or imagined.” Lennie Gallant, from Rustico, PEI, an acclaimed East Coast singer-songwriter with 16 albums and numerous awards, returns this June with Shelter From the Storms, his first English album in seven years. The album reflects on the turbulent times we live in, while celebrating the human ability to navigate through hardship with community, love, and laughter. "One of my favourite Canadian songwriters" Jimmy Buffett East Coast musical icon and masterful storyteller Lennie Gallant releases his first English-language album in seven years. Shelter From the Storms released was June 6th. The accompanying lyric video of his acclaimed first single, “Counting on Angels” is available on YouTube. https://youtu.be/UHDgJZ30fn8?si=yzPyQDlP-dcOyxkc https://lenniegallant.com LISTEN TO THE MUSIC: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2uIq5kxXDHDEk6D7OzZa6C?si=BCR-hEwAR1KEcqPHq7yJyw This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM. https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, MATTHEW HOLTBY Matthew Holtby, Canadian singer-songwriter, is a delightful conversationalist. Affable, immediately likeable, with a trademark smile and an easy-going, relaxed charm, Matthew shares some of the inspiration and approach he takes to writing and producing his growing collection of heartfelt and quietly hopeful songs. On Episode 64 of Backstage Pass, Matthew discusses the geneses of ‘This Old Heart’, ‘A Certain Place in Time’, and his newest single, ‘This is Bliss’. “Matthew Holtby has been slowly adding to his collection of singles, one song at a time for the past two years. Working with Peterborough Producer, Michael Phillips, the pair have been digging out the sounds Holtby creates on his acoustic guitar with the help of his bandmates, best friends and even his father. Last year saw the release of two independent singles which caught the ear of the CBC, and also helped to land him a few festival spots. He also had the pleasure of opening for legendary blues rocker David Wilcox to a sold-out crowd in his hometown of Oshawa. He's just released a brand-new EP, and is looking forward to a very busy and exciting year ahead. https://www.matthewholtbymusic.com/ https://www.facebook.com/officialmatthewholtbymusic This podcast is hosted by CANOE FM https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, SUZIE UNGERLEIDER, SHARES SOME INSIGHTS INTO AMONG THE EVERGREENS. "I love origin stories,” says Vancouver musician Suzie Ungerleider. “I love finding out where people are and how they got there, so I'm constantly thinking about that. Everybody's carrying around their own narrative.” Among the Evergreens is the latest chapter in the revered Americana singer-songwriter's own story. The thrice JUNO nominated artist continues her tradition of storytelling on her eleventh release, due out on June 6, 2025, via MVKA. “At the beginning of my musical journey, I was afraid to show myself, so I took on a persona, and I wrote songs in a fictionalised way," Suzie reflects of her lifelong journey towards becoming more comfortable with the vulnerability of revealing herself. “It is this idea of trying to merge the musical person and the human being that I am, and get closer to what is important to me. And it's interesting, because the more specific I get, the more universal it is.” Indeed, Suzie’s beautifully evocative and atmospheric songs may draw the listener into her world but they are universally relatable, traversing the typical chapters of a person’s life. These are tales about teenagehood, the loss of innocence, the breakdown of relationships, young love, marriage, motherhood, survival and second chances, fights and forgiveness. And they are utterly captivating. Among The Evergreens is divided into two parts: “Then” and “Now” – songs inspired by the past and by the present. Suzie reflects on what it means to be in the middle of life, seeking answers to who she was and who she is now. “It’s about being like a tree with all those rings around you, the layers of your life telling you who you were and where you've been,” she says. Imagery of the outdoors, of green valleys and trees shedding their leaves, infuses this new collection. It was written in America-born, Canada-raised Suzie’s hometown of Vancouver, a city among the evergreens – the cherished place to which she returned after being lured by the thrill and promise of Toronto. Her long-time collaborator Jim Bryson produced the record, augmenting the atmospheric intimacy of Suzie's evocative songs. Suzie credits him with pushing her out of her sonic box when he stepped in to produce her 2014 album Namedropper. He was also the one who encouraged her to tell her own stories instead of hiding behind a character. What makes this album so compelling, and ultimately one to long treasure, is the delicate poetic lyrics that Suzie spills into these alluring melodies. Sung and played with an intuitive simplicity that lays the foundation for the sorcery, the alchemy, that producer Bryson wands through each. Moreover, Suzie creates the space and depth for these fine musicians to explore and propel these memories and the heart-rending questions that Ungerleider poses to herself and the listener. https://suzieungerleider.com This podcast is hosted by CANOE FM : https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, TWO WOLF - Lance Lopez https://www.facebook.com/twowolfofficial/ In a relaxed, informative and generous conversation, guitarist Lance Lopez joins Backstage Pass to discuss his impressive background and extensive history as a lead guitarist for Two Wolf and their new album, along with anecdotes about legends Johnny Winter, Jeff Beck and his own prodigious output as a stellar rock and roll and southern blues guitarist. This is a band not to be missed. Born from the raw spirit of American hard rock, Greg T. Walker’s Two Wolf is a high-voltage powerhouse straight out of Florida, setting stages ablaze with their electrifying fusion of Southern grit and thunderous rock energy. Two Wolf released on June 6 on Los Angeles-based Cleopatra Records their self-titled debut album; a hellacious, blistering, absolutely kickass new album that is rife with energetic Southern rock and hard rock/hard blues influences. Lance Lopez and Kris Bell lead the charge, while Greg T. Walker’s legendary bass lines and Rusty Valentine’s seismic drumming drive the band’s relentless groove. https://www.twowolfrocks.com The band’s two leading lights are founding member bassist/songwriter Greg T. Walker, who was also a co-founder of the classic Southern Rock/hard rock band Blackfoot and an early member of Lynyrd Skynyrd, and original member Lance Lopez, a blues rock/ singer, guitarist, and songwriter whose primary influences are Jimi Hendrix, B.B. King, Johnny Winter, Billy Gibbons and Stevie Ray Vaughan. The band also includes Kris Bell (vocals/guitar) and drummer Rusty Valentine. With a twin-guitar attack that cuts like lightning and vocals that roar with untamed intensity, Lopez and Bell lead the charge on guitars, while Walker’s legendary bass lines and Valentine’s seismic drumming drive the band’s relentless groove. https://www.twowolfrocks.com This podcast is hosted by Canoe FM : https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

This week, Episode 61, Skydiggers on their incredible new album 'Dreams & Second Chances' Andy Maize and Josh Finlayson join me to discuss their new album and more. For my part, this is a powerful new set of songs perfectly in tune with the times and the creative energies of this legendary band. Iconic songwriter Harlan Howard believed that songs exist in the air all around us. That’s how these new Skydiggers songs began — in the air. There were no charts given in advance. There were no tunes that were road-tested. It began with some off days during a busy November tour, with a revisit to the Tragically Hip’s Bathouse Studio. This studio, a heritage home transformed into one of the unique recording rooms in the world, is not just part of Skydiggers history, but is also part of our Canadian Music DNA.Surrounded by trees on three sides, and water on the fourth, it is a setting without distraction. The silence of the vast lake provided the perfect tone for what was to occur. The creation would begin when each song was first played in the studio’s kitchen by Josh with a guitar and Andy’s voice — many of these songs heard by the larger group for the first time. Led by original band mates Andy Maize and Josh Finlayson, and featuring Noel Webb on drums, Derrick Brady on bass, Jessy Bell Smith on vocals, Aaron Comeau on guitars, and Michael Johnston on keyboards, Dreams & Second Chances reveals these Skydiggers at the peak of their ability - a collective with the intrinsic ability of finish each other’s musical sentences and weave a sound that is uniquely their own. https://skydiggers.com/ https://www.facebook.com/skydiggers This podcast is hosted by https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

“Each song is its own character trait, telling its own story—from falling in love, to falling out of it, to figuring myself out in adulthood.” It’s the sound of someone coming into his own—and it shows. Produced by Joshua Van Tassel and David Myles, ‘Character Traits’ balances raw honesty with lush, genre-blurring production. Logan Richard is one of music’s rarest creatures—a compelling and diverse songwriter who shreds. The PEI-born-and-based artist has been sharpening both skills since he first picked up the guitar as a pre-teen, building a reputation as a deft, genre-fluid songsmith and peerless hired gun for some of Canada’s most exciting musicians. Influenced by his axe-slinging brother, artists like Stevie Ray Vaughan and John Mayer, his dad’s record collection, and his Acadian mom’s fiddle-playing family, Richard hit the stage at just 12 years old, cutting his teeth playing gigs around the island with a blues group filled out by his fellow young peers. He’s built his career as both a solo artist and in-demand live and session player, racking up experience over more than a decade and playing everywhere from dim blues dives to historical soft-seaters. An award-winning songwriter, many of Logan’s songs have been placed in an array of film and TV programs. All the committed hours have refined his work with nuances in technique and composition that allow him to express his many multitudes—a predilection that powers and deepens his new record, and reveals the wide scope of Richard’s artistry. https://www.loganrichardmusic.com/ https://www.facebook.com/loganrichardmusic HOST: https://backstage-pass.zencast.website/

JOHN MCANDREW – BETTER SIDE OF ME – MAY 2025 In a long ranging interview, Nashville songwriter, John McAndrew shares some of the inspiration for his beautiful and haunting new album release,'Better Side of Me'. Better Side of Me is a collaboration with notable producer Denny Seiwell, the co-founder and drummer of Wings, and Fernando Perdomo. Their combined expertise promises to deliver an exceptional listening experience. John McAndrew is a unique storyteller and it can truly be said that it is his passion for telling a tale that is attracting the attention of Americana listeners and blues/pop fans. With his jagged and soulful voice, his music is uplifting, inspiring and is captivating audiences across the United States. https://www.johnmcandrew.com https://www.facebook.com/johnleomcandrew This podcast is hosted by [Canoe.FM]https://canoefm.com/listen/podcasts/

STEPHEN FEARING - THE EMPATHIST A legendary musical force in the Canadian music world, Stephen is well known for his numerous solo and spirited collaborations, including his membership in the much beloved band, Blackie and Rodeo Kings, Fearing joined me in a remarkable conversation, November 2024, to discuss his newest album and how he came to discover his inspiring ways of approaching songs and creative activities. “In early 2022,” says Fearing, “as the pandemic's lockdown grip was loosening, I got a phone call from Ken Coomer, who'd heard my version of Gordon Lightfoot’s ‘Early Morning Rain’ and asked if I wanted to record with him. Not recognizing the name, I dug in and discovered that Coomer was in Uncle Tupelo and a founding member of Wilco, playing on their first four albums, and now is a producer/drummer who's worked with everybody from Al Green to Steve Earle to Sheryl Crow to Emmylou Harris, and many more.” Which is how Fearing came to record THE EMPATHIST at Coomer's studio, Cartoon Moon Recording in Nashville, alongside producer Coomer, doubling on drums; his Blackie and The Rodeo Kings bandmate John Dymond, on bass; and masterful multi-instrumentalist Jim Hoke, on almost everything else. They also wrangled accomplished guest performers Colin Linden, Sue Foley, Dala, and Kelly Prescott. Inspired by such creative colleagues, Fearing recorded stellar versions of songs written at the peak of his storytelling skills. “Being called a storyteller is one of the best compliments I've ever received,” he says. “I love telling stories, but it wasn’t until I realized that my story is just a small part of ‘The Story’ that I found my true voice as a songwriter. Writing songs means opening to the emotions and experiences of others, as well as my own. That’s what inspired the album title – these songs are my stories, written through the lens of all the truths I’ve seen and felt around me.”

With the possibility of 25% tariffs being levied by new U.S. President Donald Trump on all Canadian goods as early as February 1st, the Cooper Brothers are re-releasing their song "That's What Makes Us Great". The 51tst State? Take off, eh! The Cooper Brothers are back with a song that’s as Canadian as a double-double, a frozen pond, and a game-winning goal in overtime. “That’s What Makes Us Great!” is a love letter to the True North, strong and free, celebrating the spirit, resilience, and unshakable pride that defines this country. Inspired by a chance encounter with young soldiers returning from Afghanistan, Richard Cooper channeled their passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in making a difference into lyrics that remind us of what it means to be Canadian. “We never seem to toot our own horn,” Cooper reflects, “but we have so much to be thankful for.” From universal healthcare to Tim Horton’s, from beavertails and poutine to the coldest beer and the hottest women, “That’s What Makes Us Great!” captures the essence of a country that doesn’t brag—but has every reason to. Produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Colin Linden, this track is infused with the classic Cooper Brothers sound: heartfelt storytelling, undeniable energy, and a chorus made for singing at the top of your lungs—whether you’re in a packed hockey arena or a campfire up north. The Cooper Brothers first gained international attention when they signed with Capricorn Records (famous for producing several of the most popular southern-rock acts of the time including The Allman Brothers and Marshall Tucker) in Macon, Georgia. Over the next few years, the Cooper Brothers released two albums under the Capricorn label, the eponymous Cooper Brothers and Pitfalls of the Ballroom. Subsequent singles “The Dream Never Dies”, "Rock and Roll Cowboys" and “I’ll Know Her When I See Her” all charted on The Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S.

Sandy Bell’s album,Break of Day: Songs for Colin, was born out of heart-wrenching grief, after losing her only son Colin Bell in a tragic train accident. He died at age 20 while walking home one night, listening to music on his headphones, in Brantford, Ontario. Says Bell: "Colin sparked joy wherever he went. He was caring, kind, wise, and fun. Everyone loved Colin – especially the girls, old people, and children, but none more so than his parents. His heart was wide open –- he’d always say “peace out” when leaving –- and he had a calm demeanor that put everyone at ease, a quick wit, and an enduring sense of justice that we should all do the right thing by ourselves and others. He's an inspiration to us all." Sandy Bell is best known for her fight to protect her natural garden in The Beaches, Toronto, and her precedent-setting court victory under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, that equated freedom of expression with religious freedom for the first time. She worked for several decades in Toronto’s music industry (for Arraymusic, The Esprit Orchestra, and the Jeff Healey Band), promoting and producing other artists’ concerts, and developing the groundbreaking Array Space in 2013. Bell co-founded the country-roots Toronto band The Wanted, and was co-lead singer of the group for 10 years. They enjoyed a residency at The Cameron House, and appeared regularly at The Gladstone Hotel, Moonshine Café, country fairs, corporate events, and performed at Hugh’s Room. The Wanted recorded and released five of Bell’s songs in 2020, on their self-titled album The Wanted. But it was only when she retired and moved to Nova Scotia that Bell was finally able to release her own solo album. As a girl, she studied voice and sang in choirs, later played in different bands, and worked with various writing partners over the years, but she’s always been a “naïve songwriter” who ekes out notes on a guitar, creates melodies in her head, and sings into a recorder to add lyrics.

Contemporary roots-folk singer-songwriter Howard Gladstone officially released his eighth album Crazy Talk (Sonic Peach Music) on September 20,2024. The twelve new songs cover genres from folk to jazz to folk/rock to world music. Howard Gladstone, Toronto-born singer/songwriter, is releasing his eighth album of original music in September 2024. He is also publishing a book of his collected lyrics titled "Timepieces." Veteran Canadian songwriter James Gordon has called the work a "remarkably compelling collection." Gladstone is continuing with his monthly residency at Toronto's Tranzac Club, where he is accompanied by regular band members (Tony Quarrington, Laura Fernandez, Bob Cohen, Ambrose Pottie). Previously Gladstone co-founded and produced the not-for-profit Toronto City Roots Festival from 2004 to 2010. He recovered from a life-changing spinal cord injury in 2014 and released the album Hourglass inspired by his healing journey, in 2017. While in recovery, he found new strength, resolve and solace in music, and understood more deeply its healing power. His follow-up album The Promise was recorded and released during the pandemic lockdown, with musicians working remotely. Gladstone continues to write, record, perform, and occasionally guest host "Corby's Orbit" radio show. Back in his university days, he was a journalist, and his interview with Robbie Robertson was re-published in Rolling Stone magazine. He and Laura Fernandez formed the boutique record label Sonic Peach Music.

ALFIE SMITH Every Rome Needs A Nero  Alfie Smith released his eighth album, Every Rome Needs A Nero, in October 2024. The Hamilton-based troubadour is a popular and crowd-pleasing fixture on the Ontario’s blues/folk/roots festivals and club circuit, but it has been a full decade since his last release, Come On In My Kitchen, a duo record with his wife, Nicole Christian. In a relaxed conversation, Alfie Smith shared some of his songwriting inspirations and discussed various tunes on the album, as well as some of his thoughts on guitars, tunings and songwriting in general. Every Rome Needs A Nero, is a timely and provocative album filled with some intimate lyrics and deeply felt performances. An album to treasure for years to come. “His return to the recording arena with Every Rome Needs A Nero finds Alfie at the height of his creative powers. He is a triple threat: a guitar virtuoso fluent on slide and vintage National and resonator instruments, an eloquent songwriter in the classic blues tradition, and a powerful singer with a voice to match his formidable physical presence. That deep voice sounds like it has been dredged from the depths of the muddy Mississippi River. It is rich and earthy, and capable of expressing tenderness, melancholy, joy, and, in the case of the new album’s title track, righteous anger. Alfie fully flexes his songwriting muscle on Every Rome Needs A Nero, and the gap between albums meant he had a large selection of material upon which to draw. The title tune and opening cut sets the stage sweetly, via a cool trumpet solo, crisp acoustic guitar and a laid back vibe. Smith’s voice locks into a mellow groove, while lyrics featuring historic references remain relevant today.

‘Shepherd’, Bywater Call’s third studio album, released August 9, 2024, is an emotional tour de force that sequences and builds from song to song into a profound musical statement and merits every bit of the attention and accolades it is receiving. Meghan Parnell, lead vocalist, gave us the time to discuss the album before heading off on an extended tour. Bywater Call has received many blues music award nominations, including most recently, Best International Artist for the 2024 UK Blues Awards. They have toured extensively in Europe where shows have been praised by Dutch, German and UK media, with references to Meghan as one of the best female voices in blues and roots today. The band’s music is an exploration of life’s highs and lows. From intimate ballads that lay bare the complexities of human emotion to electrifying anthems that demand to be played at full volume, their catalogue is a journey through the human experience, incorporating influences from the likes of The Band, The Wood Brothers, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, Little Feat, Sly and the Family Stone, among others. Bywater Call is a powerhouse seven-piece Southern soul, roots rock band from Toronto, Canada, featuring: Meghan Parnell (vocals), Dave Barnes (guitar), Bruce McCarthy (drums), Mike Meusel (bass), John Kervin (keys), Stephen Dyte (trumpet) and Julian Nalli (tenor sax).

Toronto based singer-songwriter Terry Donaghue is releasing his 4th solo album “Looking For Redemption” September 6th. The album was recorded at Toronto’s legendary Kensington Sound. Looking For Redemption is a roots/americana/alt-folk genre is a concept album of 9 tracks telling the story in film noir style of a man on the run from his past and a woman he meets along the way also on the run from her past. Born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, now based in Toronto I’ve been involved in music since my early teens. I remember vividly the music I heard on the radio in the ’50s and ’60s – the local stations with their mix of country and pop and faraway places like Chicago, Detroit and Wheeling West Virginia that my brother and I could pull in on an old tube radio at night when the weather was right. It was my older brother who really got me playing an instrument. He was playing electric guitar and big on Dwayne Eddy, the Ventures and ’50s/early sixties rock & roll. Somewhere he heard Gordon Lightfoot’s self-titled first album, went out and bought it, a Guild 12 string guitar (which I still have) and became a folkie. I began playing folk and bluegrass on the banjo, later picking up the guitar and more recently the mandolin. This all led to the folk groups we were in together in Sault Ste Marie. As The Natural Men together with some friends we were one of the top folk groups in the Sault during my high school years. All that music has stuck with me and forms part of my musical DNA. Over the past few years, I’ve channelled my songwriting output into a series of original solo albums. “Songs of Love and Longing” was released in May 2020. “Northern Reflections” was released in January 2022. In 2023, I celebrated the release of “Shades Of Blue.” All three albums were recorded and produced by Vezi Tayyeb at his legendary studio, Kensington Sound, he founded for more than 50 years ago recording over the years with an incredible range of artists and styles.

Jesse’s debut album, Mansion Full of Ghosts, heralded by Vancouver Sun, Penguin Eggs, and The Georgia Straight, was an exploration of a city’s duality, with all of its beauty and shadows, expressed through varying moments of lush, orchestral arrangements to hushed duets over expert fingerpicking. The result was a beautifully crafted album that celebrated the pursuit of hope, and gently reflected on an oftentimes weighty effort to “keep a light on in the dark”. Canadian Beats praised, “infused with a hopeful tinge, Mansion Full of Ghosts is a wholesome, masterfully written debut that will appeal to fans both old and new.” https://jessewaldmanmusic.com/home Jesse’s sophomore album, The Shimmering Divide, set for release September 20th, 2024, sees him collaborating with long-time musical partner Marc L’Esperance. The storytelling on Divide is deeply personal, delivered with the acuity of Jesse’s poeticism and Marc’s glittering harmonization and multi-instrument contributions. The songs are watercolours of people and places Jesse has encountered and truly cared about, presented humbly and gorgeously as an acoustic-based collection of alt-folk ruminations. The album holds a fresh wisdom gained since Mansion but maintains the virtuosity of playing and delicate ear for arrangements, serene and richly lulling like that of a train, which some of the songs just happened to have stirred from, jotted down in journals from the West Coast to Ontario. Reflecting on the album title, Jesse shares, “For me the title ‘The Shimmering Divide’ represents the age-old battle between good and evil, which path to take to do the right thing in your life. Those points are charged with possibilities that can change you forever.”

The new album “HAPPY LITTLE ACCIDENTS” by Dominic Quarto is fresh music but with hints of nostalgia from the many artists that influenced him since he was a kid, like the Beatles, Aerosmith, Rick Nelson, Johnny Cash, Hank Williams III. This album is laced with touches of humor, great melodies and catchy lyrics while paired with a completely unique vocal style which all help make this a extremely well balanced collection of get off your chair tunes. “HAPPY LITTLE ACCIDENTS” includes premier players like Doug Pettibone, Kenny Aronoff, Jorgen Carlsson from Govt Mule, Brent Harding from Social Distortion. Produced by Dave Jenkins (producer and co-writer, studied under Brian Wilson – produced Dolly Parton’s version of “Magic Man” with Howard Leese). Recorded the old fashioned way with stand up bass and vintage condenser microphones.

Coming off two acclaimed studio albums (Black Dawn, Tightrope), and an energized historic live album, Birth of Cactus, founding member and world-renowned drummer Carmine Appice returns with the ultimate tribute to his legendary rock band, CACTUS. Temple of Blues- Influences & Friends, merges the members of Cactus with a super ensemble of guest artists, all of whom have called the group among their biggest influences. Once heralded by critics as America’s answer to Led Zeppelin, Cactus recorded four hard rockin’ albums for Atco Records before Appice and bassist Tim Bogert left to form their own supergroup: Beck, Bogert & Appice. “The music of Cactus has always been steeped in blues tradition,” says Appice, who wanted the group to re-visit its best songs within a modern rock approach to traditional blues. “We kept hearing from so many of our music celebrity friends how much Cactus influenced them and how they would love to be a guest on a Cactus album. Even our label President, Brian Perera from Cleopatra Records, suggested to us that this album happens. So, Temple Of Blues was the logical next step.” In addition to Appice on drums and vocals on all tracks, original Cactus guitarist Jim McCarty also appears on Temple of Blues. Current band members vocalist/ guitarist and harmonica player Jim Stapley and bassist Jim Caputo also appear on many of the tracks. Appice announced today a new member to the band’s line-up: guitarist Artie Dillon will handle guitar duties for live tours and plays on one track for the new album. Founding member Jim McCarty currently contributes as a writing and recording member of Cactus on occasion but no longer does live tours. The current line-up of Cactus came together in 2021. Lead vocalist Jim Stapley comes from England and had worked with ex-Faces/ Who drummer Kenny Jones in the Jones Gang and Humble Pie. “Nearly five decades after I formed this band, the time had come to re-invent Cactus once again,”

On this record Devil Talking, David Myles cuts loose, bares his soul, and leaves it all on the table. The New Brunswick-based song and dance man has never been one to shy away from heavy topics like love, loss, and faith, but over his career he's tried his best to stay positive. Amongst the soulful, bluesy, rockin', and countrified grooves of Devil Talking, Myles knocks down the walls he's constructed to protect his vulnerable self, and instead dives headlong into what makes him—and all of us—human: suffering, and all the many ways we cope with it. Aptly, the album contains some of Myles' most intimate and honest songwriting, buoyed by the liberating power of accepting your flawed self. He's grown fond of calling Devil Talking his sinnin' record. Look no further than the title track for an acute introduction to a side of David Myles you may have only caught a glimpse of at a particularly rollicking live show. He wastes no time taking the advice of the pitchfork-wielding character on his shoulder, espousing the benefits of rolling and reeling on the weekend like a preacher possessed. The driving anthem "Break Free" finds him getting honest about the lies he's told to protect himself, and on "Twenty One," Myles' world-class band creates a shadowy vibe to set the scene for a tragic tale about a young man's past catching up with him well after he's turned a new leaf. Even when Devil Talking gets deep into its weightier subject matter, there's a lightness and inspired verve about the sound of it that abounds, as if Myles and the band feel certain that if one of them were to fall, the others would be there to pick them up. That's the result of a special camaraderie between these collaborators—Dean Drouillard, Asa Brosius, Leith Fleming-Smith, Reeny Smith, Alan Jeffries, Logan Richard, and Ray Legere—that's developed over the years. Joshua Van Tassel, an indispensable co-conspirator and multi-hyphenate, handled percussion, mixed, and co-produced the album alongside Myles.

The Janzen Boys have been playing music together since the very beginning, but it started as “The Janzen Boys” shortly after they moved back to Canada from Japan in 2012. They’re a rootsy, harmony-singing folk trio from Winnipeg, Manitoba, consisting of brothers Simon and Mick, and father JJ. Whether they’re playing at music festivals, theatres, venues, or intimate house concerts, they’ll have you laughing, crying, and singing along to classics that you know and love, and catchy original tunes that’ll be stuck in your head for days! https://www.thejanzenboys.com/ “We started playing music together from the very beginning, but it really only started as “The Janzen Boys” after we moved back to Canada in 2012 after a childhood spent in Japan. I (Mick) was 9 years old and Simon was 12 and he wanted to try busking at The Forks in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Dad (JJ) likes to talk about how I would never sing when we played together, so for me to join them at The Forks, I would have to sing harmonies. That was the condition. It was here that “the father-and-sons trio, The Janzen Boys” started. “In the summer of 2014, sticking with what we knew, we went on what we call our “Western Canada Busking Roadie.” This “tour” took us all the way to B.C., playing in music venues, farmers markets, on the street, and public spaces from Winnipeg to Kelowna, where we bought a baritone guitar from a friend and then turned around. It was the beginning of realizing that we could have a lot of fun doing the thing we love while getting paid for it. “In 2018 after a successful showcase at the Manitoba Arts Network Emerging Artists series, we booked concert dates in towns and cities all around Manitoba. We didn’t know what to expect but it turned out to be a great series of shows, in little historic theatres, many of them in the out-of-the-way parts of the province.

DON ROSS During fingerstyle guitar legend Don Ross’ spring, 2024 tour, I had the incredible opportunity to have long conversation with Don about his latest album, 2023’s “Water”, a stunning collection of tracks which includes “Seabright” and “Three Views of a Secret” (a rendition of the Jaco Pastorius classic). His 17th solo release—not counting numerous collaborations with other artists— “Water” was inspired by the aquatic vistas that surround Ross’ home in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The 10-song collection is a thoroughly modern version of a Don Ross album, blending solo guitar music with instrumental and vocal touches from pedigreed collaborators like Bruce Cockburn, Brooke Miller, Sean Hall, Atlantic String Machine and The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. Ross possesses almost supernatural skills, which made him the first two-time winner of the prestigious U.S. National Fingerpick Guitar Championship. In his 36 years as a recording artist and performer, he’s become widely recognized as one of the all-time greats in his field, possessing an uncanny ability to slap out percussive backbeats while speeding through a dizzying cascade of melodic runs. Styles from new age to Americana to jazz to pop to folk all fall effortlessly into the repertoire he’s performed on stages across the globe—on his way to picking up the Walter Carsen Prize for Excellence in the Performing Arts, administered by the Canada Council for the Arts. In addition to his landmark work as a solo player, Ross has been a member of the combos Eye Music, Men of Steel and Don Ross Louder Than Usual. During the COVID pandemic, he earned a master of arts in orchestration that’s led to a thriving sideline as a scorer of orchestral and electronic music for video games, films and TV. https://donrossonline.com/

GRAVEN (Matty McKechnie) - Always Everything A new album from Graven is always an eagerly anticipated event. Always Everything released June 30,2024, is a set of songs that look all the ups and downs, the highs and lows that every life must pass through, captured in a way that only songwriter Graven is capable of. GRAVEN (Matty McKechnie) is an independent folk-rock singer-songwriter from Ottawa, Canada. An innovative Nepean-born songmaker with a key focus on cultivating joy and wonder in Canadian geography, Matty (Graven) is a wiley wordsmith whose passion is to create a highly accepting and inclusive community of music lovers. Although exposed to classical tunes with piano lessons during childhood and playing the alto sax in Grade 9 - none of that moved the needle. Hearing his dad spin endless vinyl through the floorboards to the tune of Lionel Richie, Kenny Rogers, Whitney Houston, Neil Diamond and many others in his preteens, however, was the spark in Matty's musical fire. Later, he was enthralled by the rhymes and rhythms and wordplay of Hip Hop and rap music, with Run DMC, Beastie Boys, LL Cool J and the Fat Boys kicking open a door in his subconscious teen mind. Lyrics have always been Matty's true north and they provide the canvas for the rainbow-coloured paint spatter of his heart-sleeve songs. Graven's first release was a basement recording in 1999, and since then, he's shared stages with the likes of Steve Poltz, Jim Bryson, Danny Michel, Sarah Harmer, Elliott Brood, Joel Plaskett, Kathryn Calder (New Pornographers), Stephen Stanley, Ron Hawkins and many more. Focusing on the guitar and vocals, and having eclectic and broad contemporary Canadian musical influences with more than 16 major releases under his belt, Matty has toured all the way across Canada thrice, with a powerful mission to empower his listeners to embrace their authentic selves without judgment. https://www.graven.ca/biography