Originally from Uxbridge, Ontario, Tom Hanley began his musical journey as the singer/guitarist in a slew of pop punk bands with “terrible names,” performing at high school parties. It was there he fell in love with playing in bands and writing music. In college, he started a six piece funk band, JUICE, recording and touring for eight years. After years of deliberation, countless wedding band gigs, and 60 songs written later, he’s ready to share his debut single, “Overnight.”

Mike Ruby is a singer-songwriter from Toronto with a story that’s far from ordinary. He moved to New York at 19 to pursue a career in jazz as a sax player, receiving a full scholarship at the Manhattan School of Music. That education and exposure gave him a unique sense of musicianship that shines through his melodic writing to this day. After signing a record deal to a subsidiary of Universal Music, he began playing with Brooklyn-based synth pop band St. Lucia, which opened his ears to a realm of synth and dance-like possibilities. His first fully independent release, from debut EP You Wrote These Songs, was the single “Close” which broke Top 40 radio across Canada and on the Billboard charts.

His second solo EP, A Million You’s, consists of what-ifs, self-discovery, and introspection. The emotive feature track “A Million You’s” encompasses all of these themes, taking the listener on a vulnerable journey through an emotional songwriter’s lens. Co-produced with Nathan Ferraro, an incredible songwriter in his own right, this raw lyrically driven single is complimented by real instrumentation which gives both the soaring melodies and visceral lyrics room to breathe, bringing you face to face with Mike’s inner monologue.

3x GRAMMY Award/2x JUNO Award-winner Chin Injeti’s cathartic new album, VESSELS: Volume Three, was inspired by the art of collaboration and made through conversations and friendships. Produced mostly by Injeti aside from daysormay (who features on “Make You Understand,” the record’s focus track), a lot of the tracks deal with self-realization and remind its listeners that no one is truly alone.

“Make You Understand” was inspired by a melody Injeti put on TikTok that he then sampled with daysormay. The title is about trying to make someone see you for what’s really happening in your life. Stylistically, the production is all about dynamics on and off/loud and soft in order for the lyrics to shine through.

Growing up in small-town Oklahoma, Gwyn Love (they/them) knew they were destined for something bigger. Now, as the first-ever American artist signed to Vancouver-based 604 Records — they’re ready to take on the world together with the multi-platinum producer and composer, La+ch (best known for the certified 4x platinum hit “2 Heads” with Coleman Hell). 

The lyrically heavy dance-pop song, “get over u,” captures the sadness of a breakup and what is portrayed on the outside to other people. It’s the feeling of wanting to stay home and be sad, but also wanting to go out to numb the sadness for a bit although you will still feel it. 

EMP, the Texas-based instrumental band consisting of Alex Erhardt, Nathan Mays, and Maxx Salazar, is making waves with their latest EP, “Empulsive,” which premieres today.

Distinguished by their unique and eclectic musical approach, EMP seamlessly blends an array of genres and influences to create a distinctive sonic palette. The incorporation of progressive rock, jazz, post-punk, and electronic elements contributes to a rich and diverse musical landscape. The unexpected addition of the vibraphone further sets EMP apart from the musical mainstream.

Having signed with Geodesic Records in 2022, “Empulsive” marks EMP’s inaugural full-length venture into the music industry. Notably, the EP showcases the trio’s diverse musical backgrounds, spanning punk, heavy metal, and upright bass in rock and roll, reflecting a fusion of influences that often leads to innovative and boundary-pushing creations.

The opening track, “Tryst Issues,” introduces listeners to a dynamic combination of the vibraphone, rhythmic electric guitar, and lively percussive elements, setting an adventurous tone for the rest of the EP. “Four on the Flores” follows suit with its bright and forward-looking atmosphere, incorporating electro-pop elements and synth chords that add a futuristic dimension to the track.

“Dr. Fillgrave” takes on a playful and jazzy character, placing the vibraphone at the forefront. The inclusion of dissonant chords introduces an element of tension and unpredictability, keeping the listener engaged throughout the piece.

In a testament to their versatility, all the songs on “Empulsive” are written and performed by EMP, with the exception of “African Flower” (written by Duke Ellington / Temp Music) and “Song of Storms” (written by Koji Kondo / Nintendo of America). The EP was meticulously produced by aCr & EMP, and the mixing and mastering were expertly handled by aCr.

“Empulsive” promises to be a compelling and diverse debut from EMP, showcasing their musical prowess and the boundless possibilities within their inventive sound.