Wren Astra’s New Single ‘Concussed’: A Musical Journey of Resilience and Social Justice

Wren Astra embodies a unique blend of creativity and academia, seamlessly navigating her roles as an indie blues musician and a respected professor at USC. 

Her new single, “Concussed”, is a profound exploration of societal issues, drawing from a diverse range of musical influences to tell the story of experiencing concussion at the hands of an abuser.


It is a powerful and emotionally charged song that delves into the harrowing experience of living through physical assault and the complex dynamics of trauma bonds.

The decision to release it on leap year day adds an extra layer of symbolism, reflecting the disorienting and surreal nature of the events depicted in the song:

“This was a very difficult video for the crew and actors to make. I wanted it to be a graphic and realistic retelling of the very real events that survivors live through. I want viewers and listeners to live through and feel why many of us return over and over to our abuser with hope that things will turn out differently.

The collaboration with guest vocalist Zero Surico of @for3sthills brings additional depth to the vocals, amplifying the intensity of the message. It’s evident that a lot of thought and emotion went into creating both the music and the accompanying video, making it a compelling and thought-provoking piece of art.

The song also explores the confusing thoughts, feelings, and physical disorientation that occurs in real time of an abuse event. It features Wren Astra reading the legal restraining order for her abuser as she whispers, with haunting melancholy vocals by Surico and the moody strings of guest celloist Christopher McCarthy.

In her dedication to inclusivity, Wren actively collaborates with artists from marginalized communities, diversifying the artistic landscape and fostering a sense of representation and belonging.

Crafting the Wren Astra brand as an outlet for pain and trauma through music reflects a courageous and inspired endeavor. Music’s capacity to convey profound emotions serves as a perfect medium for sharing her story and fostering healing, not only for herself but also for others who have encountered similar challenges.

Through her interdisciplinary approach, informed by her background in social justice medicine and medical writing, she brings depth to her music, offering insights into the systemic issues she addresses.

Wren ensures that her commitment to inclusivity extends to her live performances, creating spaces where individuals of all backgrounds and identities feel welcomed and celebrated.

Her work serves as a powerful catalyst for social change, inspiring others to join the fight for justice and equality through artistic expression.

Keep up to date with Wren Astra on Instagram and Facebook

Stream music on Spotify and YouTube

Lady Charles’ New Single “Bedroom Pop” ft. Zoe Towne is a Captivating Tribute to Indie Spirit


Lady Charles’ latest release, “Bedroom Pop,” featuring Zoe Towne, is a mesmerizing journey into the evocative ambiance of the early 2010s indie music scene.

Channeling the spirit of DIY creativity and the raw intimacy of lo-fi sounds, the song serves as a poignant tribute to an era where artists carved out their own spaces within the musical landscape, often from the comfort of their own bedrooms.

At its core, “Bedroom Pop” weaves a narrative rich in themes of self-discovery, collaboration, and the shadows that lurk beneath the surface of the music industry. Through a lyrical exploration of the protagonist’s journey, Lady Charles confronts the spectre of exploitation and the quest for autonomy in a world where artistic integrity can often be compromised.

The song unfolds like a conversation between friends, each verse and chorus revealing layers of emotional depth and introspection. Zoe Towne’s ethereal vocals provide a captivating counterpoint to Lady Charles’ introspective lyrics, adding an additional dimension to the song.

“I have seen a lot of predatory behaviour aimed at young, talented artists, and I wanted to affirm that if you’re finding yourself disrespected or worse you do not owe anything to these types” says Charles of the lyric.

“I’ve always felt very protective of my artistic friends’ output, and there is little more disheartening than seeing someone’s energy sucked away by the promise of success with a hidden cost. The song isn’t inspired by a particular experience, and that’s partially just because of how unfortunately widespread this is. I have helped bands re-record their demos after producers began to demand dates in return for what was supposed to be free help, I have been kicked out of a band only to find out that a remaining member isolated and verbally abused the other once it was just the two of them. I have seen incredibly talented people absolutely burned out by the ludicrous parasatism of these types.”

Musically, “Bedroom Pop” represents a departure from Lady Charles’ usual style, incorporating a blend of major and minor 7th chords that evoke a sense of harmonic richness and complexity.

The inclusion of saxophone refrains and a soulful guitar solo further enhances the song’s atmospheric allure, transporting listeners to a realm where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur.

“The song differs a bit from my usual writing. I used a lot of major and minor 7th chords and arranged the progression such that adjacent chords share harmonic content but the entire progression doesn’t stay in one key. It’s effectively like how a lot of jazz is composed, and I did it because it has a certain airy, open sound that I associate with dreaminess – a major tendency with bedroom pop music is a certain hazy dreamlike quality and because the track isn’t actually that lo-fi I think it helps evoke that atmosphere well. The chorus is a bit more like a traditional pop chorus, and I think it anchors the flow of the verses well – here the lyric is far more direct and less stream of consciousness. The guitar solo is completely opposite my playing on Manic Pixie Dream World – a clean, gentle melodic line drenched in reverb not unlike what you might find in bedroom and dream pop of the era.”

Drawing from personal experiences and influences ranging from David Bowie to the glam-rock era, Lady Charles infuses “Bedroom Pop” with a sense of authenticity and vulnerability.

With its thought provoking lyrics and captivating dreamy sound, the song leaves a lasting impression and invites listeners to embrace their own unique voice and creative vision.

Listen to “Bedroom Pop” on Spotify now! 

Stay current with Lady Charles: 

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Soundcloud / YouTube Music 

Experience the Raw Power of Maryen Cairns’ Latest Single “Give To The Chase”

Singer-songwriter Maryen Cairns’ latest single, “Give To The Chase” explores a profound connection to nature and her dual roles as both a mother and an artist. 

The vivid imagery of her residing in an off-the-grid yurt while nurturing her children adds a layer of authenticity to her music.

Her choice to record the song in the solace of her home reflects the intimacy and personal nature of the track. This marked the start of a transformative journey which culminated in her 2002 album “Stories from the Red Tent” which explored women’s narrative and bonds within the sanctuary of The Red Tent.

The lyrics of “Give To The Chase” carry a poignant message about humanity’s relationship with the Earth, urging environmental consciousness and stewardship. Maryen’s solo performances amplify this message, transforming it into a rallying cry for a sustainable future.

Maryen’s adeptness at rhythm as well as owning a profound affinity with nature really shine through in her unique performance style. Her talent as both musician and storyteller is evident:

“Give to the Chase” is performed as a solo percussion & vocal piece… shamanic sound ringing in this song for our Mother Earth. Maryen is perched on a cajun with her feet utilising two pedals whilst wearing a rattle on one ankle, simultaneously playing a medicine drum & shaker whilst she sings.

Give to the Chase personifies Mother Earth herself, moving between singing as Mother Earth & singing as a member of the human race. A story of generations working to save the environment and live within nature, knowing that human’s race to survive, with only the fittest/strongest/smartest making it for the human race itself to survive.

Maryen Cairns’ has received widespread acclaim over the past three decades, and is well known for her allegorical themes. She has most famously been guided under the mentorship of Rolling Stones producer, Chris Kimsey.

With her brand new album “One Woman Band, Live at Echotown Studios Vol. 1” due to be released on May 3rd, fans will be delighted to listen to a collection of songs that truly encapsulate her unique sound as well as offer a glimpse into her captivating solo performances.

Maryen Cairns’ music continues to captivate and inspire audiences, offering a reflection on life, nature, and our interconnectedness with the world around us which is often forgotten in the fast paced world today.

Keep up to date with Maryen Cairns:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Apple Music / YouTube Music

Listen to Maryen’s New Single “Give To The Chase” on Spotify!

Faint Halos Drops New Single “Something To Lose” Ahead of Album Release – A Must-Listen for Indie Rock Fans!

Faint Halos, the brainchild of singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Paul Hashemi, has released their latest single, “Something To Lose,” from the eagerly awaited album “I can see a million lights.”

With a captivating blend of raw emotion and undeniable charm, “Something To Lose” delves into the introspective territory of questioning life choices, especially those that pertain to love and lost love.

Originally conceived with a modern rock sound upon its initial release in 2022, Paul Hashemi has taken the song in a fresh direction opting for a more intimate acoustic setup.

Reflecting on this fresh new take, Hashemi shares:

“After the original release, I felt drawn to explore a different dimension of the song. Stripping away the layers revealed a tender, almost folky quality that I wanted to bring to the forefront.”

The track narrates a poignant tale of lost love with intricate emotional lyrics and instrumentation.

“Something To Lose” exudes a lighthearted charm, seamlessly blending old-school indie rock sounds with a contemporary edge. With unconventional instrumentation, including a sofa repurposed as a kick drum, and the melodic richness of the accordion, Hashemi has an innovative approach within the indie rock genre.

The result is a refreshing departure in a sometimes-stagnant music scene of indie rock music today.

“Something To Lose” was recorded, mixed, and mastered in Paul’s home studio in Berwyn, Pennsylvania;. Vocals were also tracked at home in North Carolina. The instrumentation is two acoustic guitars, an accordion, and some couch slaps/floor stomps. (Although truth be told, the accordion and percussion were both MIDI and not real).

Paul’s daughter Cate joins in too, with vocal harmonies, lending a really bright sound.


Based in Philadelphia, Paul Hashemi is a singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. He is influenced by his formal training in classical piano, viola, and violin, and has taken much from the vibrant music scene of the 1990s, touring extensively with various rock bands along the East Coast.  

Paul says: “I play a half-dozen instruments and could never just focus on being a “singer” or “guitarist”, which is a really intriguing quality.

Despite a hiatus from music to prioritize familial responsibilities, Hashemi rediscovered his passion during the pandemic lockdown of 2020.

Under the moniker Faint Halos, he embarked on a new chapter in his musical career, crafting deeply introspective songs that explore themes of adulthood, fatherhood, and societal progress.

Connect with Faint Halos:
Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Soundcloud / YouTube Music

Listen to “Something To Lose” on Spotify and YouTube Music.

Animals In Denial Drop Exciting New Single “Chariot Ride”

Animals In Denial, guided by the highly versatile Christian Imes, represent a remarkable venture into the realm of alternative music. 

Imes’ journey, from receiving his first guitar at 14 to then establishing his own band, shows a strong commitment to artistic innovation and creativity. As a self-taught guitarist, Imes has had continuous musical growth and expanded his skills to encompass synthesisers, drums, and bass guitar. His relentless pursuit of creating innovative sound has resulted in a very diverse and captivating repertoire. 

The new single, “Chariot Ride” is a mesmerizing exploration of introspection and inner peace. Rooted in lush melodies and evocative instrumentation, the song demonstrates Imes’ growth as a songwriter and musician.

Inspired by moments of self-reflection and resilience, “Chariot Ride” invites listeners to embark on a transcendent journey of self-discovery. 

Musically, “Chariot Ride” shows Imes’ eclectic sensibilities, and seamlessly brings together alternative rock elements and electronica elements, to create a captivating overall sound. 

With anticipation mounting for his forthcoming album “ Beyond The Horizon”, set to release in the spring of 2024, this new single release solidifies his position as a visionary force in the alternative music landscape. 

Christian, a devoted family man with Asperger’s, treasures his roles as a husband and father of two boys. Their shared passion for jam sessions infuses their days with joy, serving as a guiding light through life’s ups and downs. And its his unique Neuro-divergent perspective that celebrates diversity, empowering those who feel like outsiders to embrace their differences proudly.

A true aficionado of old-school Rock ‘n’ Roll, Christian holds a deep reverence for the 80s and 90s rock era. Influenced by legendary bands such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, and Depeche Mode, he infuses his music with nostalgia while embracing futuristic sounds and AI technology to stay relevant in today’s music scene. Christian’s blend of past influences and modern innovation creates a captivating musical journey that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Working meticulously in his personal studio, Imes often with assistance from his wife Jeanine, imbues every aspect of his compositions with true artistic vision. This DIY ethos empowers Imes to create a diverse catalogue of music that is immersive and captivating. 

In 2006, Imes made a significant impact on the music scene with the release of numerous singles and four full-length albums across major streaming platforms. These releases garnered critical acclaim and highlighted Imes’ ability to challenge genre boundaries while maintaining a cohesive sound. 

Listen to “Chariot Ride” on Spotify.

Stay up to date with Animals In Denial on their Website and follow on Facebook and Instagram.

Stream music on Spotify , Soundcloud and YouTube Music

Canadian Pop Artist Keira Gray Shares Therapeutic New Single “After you”

Keira Gray grew up in Red Earth Creek, Alberta before eventually moving to Faust, Alberta. She has aspired to be a singer since she was a little girl listening to Ariana Grande, Rihanna, and Christina Aguilera. Most of her time was spent teaching herself to sing their songs. 

Keira currently lives in Slave Lake, Alberta where she works as a server. When she’s not working, you can find her collaborating with other music professionals writing songs and recording music to share with the world.

Her new single, “After you,” was inspired from a personal experience that Keira has since moved on from. It was very therapeutic to express her feelings at that time and she hopes you all enjoy it as much as she enjoyed writing it.

iskwē Unveils Passionate New Full-Length Album, ‘nīna,’ Featuring Cathartic Electro Pop Closer, “Exhale”

The creation of meaningful art can only occur in moments of despair or triumph; there is no grey area.

iskwē | ᐃᐢᑫᐧᐤ (short for waseskwan iskwew, meaning “blue sky woman”) is an award-winning Indigenous creator whose catalogue drips of a spectrum of emotions and is powered by resilience. Following several seasons of high highs being met with low lows, the Cree Métis artist retreated south to Mexico and inward to her soul to paint a 10-song collection that illustrates the gut-wrenching roller coaster ride that has been her recent life.

nīna, the opus of iskwē’s rebirth, is the Cree translation for “me” and was chosen as the title of her fourth solo album as an ode to the profoundly autobiographical elements. The album is the sonic manifestation of the divine feminine explored through vignettes of love, passion, anger, betrayal, and loss. 

The album’s focus track, “Exhale,” is a reassuring call to the self, as iskwē encourages herself: “Blue sky woman, it’s time for you to breathe out.” The tense yet shimmering song holds onto the vulnerability at iskwē’s core.

“I needed to remind myself that I am vibrant, that I hold life in me,” she explains of the song. 
“I am an artist, a creative, confident and soft. I needed to remind myself that I hold love in my being. It was time I remembered these pieces in me which had been dormant for some time. So now I start again, to rebloom. To be reborn. To look at myself in the mirror and exhale. It’s time for me to breathe out…”

iskwē’s collaboration with 10x Grammy nominee Damian Taylor serves as the bedrock of this LP, creating a lush and textured world of electronic pop which branches further out through Latin strings (Waiting For The Laughter) and a dreamy psychedelic sound on Top 20 Alt-Rock charting lead single “I Get High” featuring Nina Hagen.

nīna reaches into the most personal and tender crevices, opening with the artist at a point of dissolution and overwhelm (“A Little Piece”), unfolding into an exploration of the deep, visceral experience of love, through to liberating herself from those who would rather see her fail than succeed (“Sure To Come”).  

Martha Johnson and Company Release Uplighting Anthem “Slow Emotion” with Documentary on World Parkinson’s Day to Raise Awareness 

Martha Johnson is a founding member and the lead singer of the Canadian art pop band Martha and the Muffins which formed in 1977. Her career, spanning more than four decades and eleven albums, has had many highlights. In 2000, Martha was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease and was eventually forced to stop performing live.

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Martha Johnson and Company’s “Slow Emotion” began with the suggestion of her neurologist Dr. Fasano at Krembil Research Institute/University Health Network in Toronto. He encouraged Martha to collaborate on a song with another of his patients, songwriter/musician Fabio Dwyer, to show that life and creativity doesn’t end with a diagnosis. Released on April 11th, World Parkinson’s Day, the uplifting anthem was largely performed by musicians and singers with PD.

“I came up with the title, Slow Emotion, years ago and it seemed like a good fit with the theme of accepting and adapting to the changes both physically and emotionally you go through when you are living with PD. I’m hoping that people are moved by the song to a place of better understanding. Parkinson’s is continuously a life changing event for me. Life is what you make of it and you’ll have a better time if you just slow down a little and really take it all in.Martha Johnson
With the support of Krembil Research Institute/University Health Network and Parkinson Canada, there is an accompanying documentary by Toronto filmmaker Jason Cipparrone that looks at the creation of “Slow Emotion.”

stardrop Inspires Female Empowerment with Debut Pop EP ‘I Feel Everything’ feat. Resilient Track “Tiger”

Indie pop artist stardrop is a creative force from Thunder Bay, ON. She partnered with Tennyson King and Dan Hosh to produce her debut EP, I Feel Everything, which showcases catchy, soulful self-love anthems that celebrate femininity, authenticity, and resilience.

Fueled by big feelings, stardrop is using the power of music to rewrite her narrative and explore a new way of existing in the world. “After many years of feeling completely disconnected from myself and my self-worth, I was ready to claim my own space in this world,” she elaborates. “It was a real ‘fake it til to make it’ type of thing, or rather, ‘sing it til you believe it.’”

The lyrics for focus track “Tiger” poured out of her like magic, at a time she longed for the strength and courage to feel powerful and begin to heal. The tiger represents the instinctive animal laying dormant inside, ready to protect us when needed.

In collaboration with cinematographer Scott MacKay, the “Tiger” music video explores the effects trauma has on the ability to be present. It demonstrates an out-of-body experience by creatively distorting reality in different ways.

Winnipeg Alt-Folk Singer Tyler Del Pino Shares the Fierce Single “Wolf In The Hen House”

Winnipeg’s Tyler Del Pino has always struggled to fit in, and there’s nothing like his music that truly challenges the concept of genre and delivers his one-of-a-kind brand of Canadiana. Del Pino has a pure passion for songwriting and an honest sound infused with starry-eyed narratives; a hybrid of Rock-Pop, Americana, and East Coast folk-rock that stays true to the roots of timeless tunes.

Unlike Del Pino’s usual bright and upbeat tunes, “Wolf In The Hen House” is rooted in raw anger. It’s a rock anthem with a punch, a departure from his usual vibe that adds a whole new dimension to his music. The song delves into the portrayal of a sinister individual, drawing from various observations in Del Pino’s life. It’s a deep dive into the depths of human deceit and malice, crafted from the shady characters that he has personally encountered over the years. 

“I wrote this during a period in 2018 when I was grappling with my own encounters with less-than-desirable individuals,” says Tyler Del Pino. “This coincided with the second year of Trump’s presidency, a time when political drama seemed to unfold daily. It sparked contemplation—what truly makes someone a snake? What twisted journey leads them to embrace deception and malice?”