Recognized by CBC as one of the top 25 Canadian rappers of all time, chart-topping Cree hip-hop artist Joey Stylez credits his success to faith, family, and commitment after overcoming the struggles common to North American Indigenous youth. With many awards and accolades under his belt, he cites that the greatest award he has ever received is knowing that his strong work ethic has inspired others to succeed.

On his new self-produced single “The Wild,” Joey calls back to the hip-hop basics that his fans appreciate. “As Native Americans, we pride ourselves in being land protectors and social rights activists, but on this one, we just wanted to create a mood that could lift people from their problems.”

His song “Indian Girl Driving Me Crazy” picked up the Pop Music Video award at the 2022 Native American Music Awards. Now, he’s partnered with director/producer Aurelien Offner again for “The Wild” music video.

Creating unique music with his multi-genre flair, the JUNO-nominated artist was recently featured on the popular Reservation Dogs TV show as well as on Mayor of Kingstown. Over the past couple of years, the hit sensation Yellowstone series starring Kevin Costner featured the song “Save Your Soul.” With online streaming in the tens of millions and collaborations with big names such as Dragonette, Bun B & Ty Dolla $ign, he has opened for artists such as Snoop Dogg, 50 Cent, and Billy Ray Cyrus.

1. Tell us the story of this song, why did you choose to visualize this song specifically? “Wild” has many meanings and I think I understand all of them. 

2.What was the inspiration behind this video(visuals, storyline, etc.)?

I grew up wild as a latchkey kid in the city and had opportunities to visit the wild hills and woods where my parents were raised. Now, “wild” could be visiting the places I dreamed of as a child, and sharing them with my family. 

3.What was the process of making this video? 

I got together with The Offners for this video because they have the creativity and vision to run with my ideas. 

The Rumble Wagon is an electrifying Americana, Roots, Folk, and Soul band hailing from Hamilton, Ontario. Known for their infectious melodies and captivating performances, The Rumble Wagon draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences, including the legendary Tom Waits, Bruce Springsteen, Van Morrison, and Cake, along with the modern stylings of Counting Crows.

The band’s unique sound is a testament to their eclectic musical tastes, which also incorporate unexpected sources such as old telephones, TV static, underwater cop dramas, and broken lenses. This fusion of traditional and experimental elements creates an immersive sonic experience that is truly one-of-a-kind.

“Overall the themes are more hopeful, reverent that we are mired in some regards, but music and art will provide some solace,” the band says. “The Rumble Wagon will be a shaky ride but she’ll get you there.”

Once hailed by Paste Magazine as “a band to watch,” Jiants is a three piece indie-pop band from Toronto lead by the songwriting of ex-professional skateboarder Jesse Landen. Their fourth LP, Tall Tales, was engineered and produced by Gavin Gardiner (The Wooden Sky).

“The Hard Way” is basically a classic “get your girl back” song. It’s about realizing you have a special bond with someone and deciding whether to step forward with them or leave each other behind forever, with the knowledge that if you attempt this relationship again it’s either going to be the best decision you ever made or destroy you both completely. 

Tall Tales is Jiants’ most straightforward pop album to date. It was written with very little expectation of people even hearing it – being able to maintain that mindset of artistic freedom was what made this record such a gem. 

“I definitely was uncertain about a few of these songs at first but kind of made the decision to try to let go of the personal hang ups and just make a shameless pop record that would be a little more accessible than our previous releases,” explains lead songwriter and vocalist, Jesse Landen. 

Drawing influence from a diverse spectrum of artists, Toronto-based SWiiMS blends elements of ‘80s new wave, ‘90s shoegaze, indie rock, brit pop and dream pop together to arrive at a sound that is all their own. Singer Mai Diaz Langou and guitarist Colin Thompson started writing songs together in late 2018, uniting her elegant poetry, textured melodies and languid voice with his fuzzy, jangly, swirling guitar tones. Bassist Cian O’Ruanaidh joined shortly after, bringing a fresh voice, unique influences and hooky bass lines to the group.

Love, loss, loneliness, self-isolation, beauty, joy, nostalgia and remembrance: Into The Blue Night, was inspired by bits of all of these emotions and how they intersected during the pandemic. Produced by Josh Korody, this is their first full-length LP.“In Puzzles” is the first track, serving as an uplifting introduction, encapsulating the sense of freedom, lightness and excitement in a blossoming romance. “In Puzzles” is optimistic, with the euphoric guitar riff hitting you right in the heart, the verses wrapping you in a cozy blanket and the chorus feeling like levitation. Stefan Loebus was enlisted as the drummer, offering a blast of energy.

Sam Sussman (drums/vox), Angel Parra Vela (guitar/vox) and Cyril Harvin Musgni (bass) formed NO WAVES in Montreal when they were in their early teens. Together they create a massively energetic, raw and authentic sound that is all their own. This ‘weirdo’ punk trio has become known for their all-ages events and guerrilla shows across the city. Described as “Nu-Punk,” they draw from a wide variety of influences and explore all types of genres and sounds, ranging from hardcore to pop, without ever being afraid to leave their comfort zone. Their versatility and drive has allowed them to play with artists like NOFX, Death From Above 1979, Gulfer, and Ptit Belliveau among others.

Now, they drop their pensive and angsty EP Postcard, made up of songs written years ago with the intent of recording them before the pandemic. Since then, they have reworked them to resemble the way we play now and to sound like the energy of their shows.

“Missing All” came about in their senior years of high school as they faced uncertainty about the future. The featured track is about closing chapters as well as accepting change, leaving your comfort zone and being whoever you want.