Alex Exists is the new solo project of Alex Pulec, frontman of The Nursery (awarded Best Independent Rock/Pop Band in Canada at Indie88’s 2018 Indie Awards). His music is inspired by absurdism, hyper surrealism and optimistic nihilism with an acid tongue firmly planted in his cheek. He is fascinated by pop culture and ego. The signature of Alex’s creative work is his unique sonic touches, drum heavy rhythms and classic “pop through a blender” melodies. 

Alex wrote the song “Mindful Madness” in the heat of worldwide lockdowns. The lyrics touch on themes of self-reflection, questioning reality, and describe a sense of widespread confusion and a desire for clarity. Overall, this is a song that explores themes of self-discovery, rebellion, and societal disillusionment. It encourages embracing individuality, questioning the status quo, and finding solace in the chaos of life.

Everybody’s Famous is an album that encourages listeners to navigate the chaos and complexity of life with a mindful and critical perspective, to resist being controlled or deceived, and to find solace and empowerment in embracing their own unique perspectives and experiences.

The album artwork is a satirical take on the “Best Pop/Rock Album of all time” but instead it’s filled up with the heroes, villains and most infamous people of our time, showcasing how absurd life has evolved since then.

“Long Shadow” is the latest single from If Only For The Night, the new and third album from Toronto’s Philip Vonesh. Philip, as a songwriter, crafts his music to be vulnerable and evocative with a penchant for mixing folk with rock hooks.

Ruminating on a quote he had heard about the duality of love and pain; Phillip found inspiration for “Long Shadow” both in lyrics and instrumentation. “The rhythm is driving, there’s tension in the muted minor chords. It is a verbatim retelling of the last goodbye of a relationship. My goal was to be painfully honest.”

The single is part of a deliberate collection of music that weaves together on If Only For The Night.  Originally intended to be a concept album, Side A about falling in love Side B falling out of it.  Coming to the realization that his strongest work was on Side B, the album became dedicated to breaking up. “It is nostalgic, melancholic, and just plain sad. Sometimes love doesn’t work out, and it’s no one’s fault.”

Kalila Badali is a unique and captivating songwriter/alt-folk artist emerging from Toronto. As a licensed Psychotherapist and personally neurodivergent person her music is both outwardly and inwardly cathartic. Kalila has started a unique and vibrant psychotherapy practice working with neurodivergent, LGBTQ2SIA+, and arts workers providing Music-Integrated Psychotherapy. This has led to offering workshops to emerging artists on musician’s mental health.  

“Helpless” is an ethereal, galloping single with a triumphantly manic pacing driven from its lyrical meaning. “Helpless is a guilt ridden, anxiety induced dance track lamenting the slow process of changing unhelpful behaviours.”  “Helpless” is the deliberate start track from her cohesive upcoming EP, Panaceas. “Realizing you don’t really know how to change is a great way to spur the search for Panaceas (A.K.A a cure all).” 

Decades spanning Toronto outfit Vicky von Vicky’s unique sound is a blend of punk, grunge, and classic rock – think Neil Young meets REM meets Modest Mouse, with occasional elements of funk thrown in. But their music is more than just melodies mixed with noise and chaos. They tackle themes like love, loss, and self-discovery with honesty & vulnerability. It’s this combination of raw emotion & raw power coupled with lyrical quirkiness that sets them apart.On “Jealousy” they deliver a body-moving jangly track that was written from the perspective that the end of a relationship is not the end of you.  “I hope that this song can serve as a source of empowerment for those who may be going through a tough breakup, and remind them that they are not alone and that brighter days are ahead.” – Michael Wynn (Vox/Guitar)

Originating from Red Deer, Alberta, Harehound is the rebrand of the alt rock trio previously performing under the name “Rebecca Raabis.” The band consists of members Rebecca Raabis (lead vocals, bass) Colin Langstraat (drums, backing vocals), and Craig Gomez (guitar) – who are no strangers to the music scene.

Their mix of alt pop and punk rock influences makes for a hard hitting, catchy sonic attack that is sure to make you proudly dance your night away. 

The term “Devil May Care” suggests the willingness to take risks and the lack of concern for what others may think or how things may turn out. The term also implies a sense of adventure and daring, as well as a willingness to embrace uncertainty and to live in the moment. That’s what frontwoman Rebecca Raabis wanted to convey with their song “Devil May Care” – she strives to reach her own goals and to do what makes her happy in spite of the scrutiny and opinions of others.

“The inspiration for this album comes from a deeply personal and introspective place. I was and still am going through a period of growth and self-discovery, where I am learning to set healthy boundaries and prioritize my well-being,” explains Raabis. “Overall, this EP is a powerful and transformative work of art that can hopefully inspire listeners to prioritize their own well-being and inner strength. It could be a testament to the importance of setting boundaries and cultivating self-love, and a reminder that we are all worthy of love and respect, both from ourselves and others.”

Toronto based singer-songwriter and real life mermaid Sia Shells rhymes about the everyday magic we find through relationships, self love, reflection and dreams. Her emotive contralto vocals juxtaposed against enchanting lyrics and upbeat dream pop sounds instantly transport you underwater.

Coinciding perfectly with Disney’s live action version of The Little Mermaid, Sia has created “Your Mermaid,” an anthem for her ocean loving beach babes. The tropical seashell sounds evoke the nostalgia of Ariel, Flounder and co. while the chorus resembles the ethereal calls of a siren, managing to keep it positive and uplifting instead of too moody and dark.