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Mary Garnett Edwards Crafts Noir-Inspired Roots Country Single “Golden Eyed Boy” From Upcoming ‘Madhouse’ Album

Most often in country music lyrics, the idea of a “happily ever after” conclusion is more of the exception rather than the norm. Now North Vancouver-based singer Mary Garnett Edwards has penned a dark, tragic country roots tale in “Golden Eyed Boy,” a single packing a punch both lyrically and musically. Garnett Edwards, accompanied by a who’s who of supporting musicians, spins a story that is simultaneously haunting, harrowing, and heartfelt.

“‘Golden Eyed Boy’ is a little bit of fiction with a small bit of my life all wrapped up together,” Garnett Edwards says of the single from her forthcoming Madhouse release. “For me, writing songs like ‘Golden Eyed Boy’ is like writing a mini book. I imagine all kinds of characters and scenarios inside my mind’s eye and write down what it is I feel. That’s how ‘Golden Eyed Boy’ was born.”

A tale of prostitution and life’s grittier, wrong side of the tracks, “Golden Eyed Boy” features Garnett Edwards, 67, and her raspy delivery recalls a country-fied Kim Carnes. Methodical and moody, the single comes to life thanks to producer Andreas Schuld’s gorgeous guitar work in the bridge. Meanwhile drummer Pat Steward, bassist Norm Fisher, keyboardist Darryl Havers, dobro wizard Chas Williams and backing vocalist Gord Maxwell — who have played with everyone from Bryan Adams and Jann Arden to Nanci Griffith and The Bros. Landreth — flesh out the roots-based murder ballad to its chilling conclusion.

He looked upon her beauty
In a room dark and grey
Her sweet lips were smiling
Made him feel lonely in every way
When he dressed to go on home
And looked to where she lay
He went and sat beside her
And asked to take her away

The song, produced by the JUNO Award-winning Andreas Schuld (Kenny Wayne, Raffi, Long John Baldry), exemplifies the creative partnership the tandem have. “I can start the words to a song like ‘Golden Eyed Boy’ and bring it to Andreas and he just knows what to do with it,” Garnett Edwards says. “He will shuffle or write more words and add music to it. There’s chemistry there, and because of that, we have written quite a few songs.”

A music video for “Golden Eyed Boy” has also been created and directed by Jennesia Pedri and cinematographer Dale Shippam. Set in a brothel in the ’40s era, the video features Garnett Edwards singing while the narrative plays itself out: a prostitute and man developing a romance before the brothel owner’s muscle violently resolves the issue, causing the prostitute to take her life tragically.

“I loved writing songs as a child,” Garnett Edwards says. “I was a very good fabricator imagining characters and scenes coming to life. It was easy to make up little worlds to escape. ‘Golden Eyed Boy’ never would’ve come to life unless I had gone to that place mentally.”

Garnett Edwards, born in Edmonton, released her debut album White Lightning at age 63. And there’s no slowing her down now thanks to her own world-weary delivery that grabs your attention. It’s a style described by The Vancouver Sun as “part high lonesome twang, part folk blues croon with a fair bit of cosmic country thrown in.” Thanks to “Golden Eyed Boy,” look for Mary Garnett Edwards to continue to weave wonderfully wicked tales of life’s dark side.

Luna Collins, Strangers In A Strange Land and Vince Melouney Cover The Bee Gees’ “Lemons Never Forget”

Before the Bee Gees were ha ha ha Stayin’ Alive as ’70s disco kings, they actually had a psychedelic period in the late ’60s that was equally brilliant and intriguing.

Manchester-based singer-songwriter Luna Collins, and duo Strangers In A Strange Land, pay tribute to this period in the career of the brothers Gibb with a cover of their 1968 song “Lemons Never Forget.”

The song is very Beatles-esque, and it originally appeared on the Bee Gees’ second UK album Horizontal. This Bee Gees’ era is one of Collins’ favorites, and it’s expertly captured in this current iteration by these musical colleagues that include Vince Melouney as lead guitarist.

“My thoughts about covering the song went back quite a few years, but I decided to ask Vince if he would be interested in playing on a remake featuring my great musical friends, Strangers in a Strange Land,” recalls Collins.

Surprisingly, Melouney had already been toying with similar plans. “I was absolutely thrilled when Vince said he was also thinking about re-recording a version of ‘Lemons Never Forget,’” recalls Collins. “He immediately sent me his already-recorded guitar work, and we began the journey of putting the single together.”

On the song, Collins shares vocal duties with Paul Kopf, while Alec Palao contributes bass and keys. Working from various parts of the world – Manchester and Somerset (UK) as well as the San Francisco Bay Area – proved to be somewhat challenging.

“The time differences made communication tricky, but we managed to lay down all the components and voila!” says Collins.

The result is both sweet and zingy, and also plenty psychedelic in the vein of the original. The vocal harmonies performed by Collins and Kopf pay tribute to the magnificent harmonies the Gibb brothers are known for, while Melouney’s guitars are powerful and set the groovy mood for the song.

“We are all very pleased with this project and can’t wait for everyone to hear our labour of love,” says Collins.

Luna Collins grew up in San Francisco and experienced the resounding changes to our culture during the Summer of Love in the late 1960s. She listened to the radio non-stop awaiting each new Everly Brothers and Motown tune, but when the Beatles hit the Ed Sullivan Show, she knew she wanted to do that. So, she moved to the UK at 17, and found herself in and out of pub bands, singing and playing keys with no great success – but she had loads of fun.

Back in the United States, she and her new band, The Relay, took advantage of the punk/New Wave movement. The band had many ups and downs, eventually disbanding, but Collins soldiered on, continuing to write and spend time in Celtic/folk bands.

After the upheaval of divorce and quite a few years of challenges, Collins decided it was time to pursue music wholeheartedly again. In her 60s, she moved back to England and began the journey of putting together new original material to share.

Her new single “Lemons Never Forget,” with Strangers In A Strange Land and special guest Vince Melouney, is available now.

What Does Kratom Feel Like: Understand The Effects Of Kratom

By Mitch Rice

Kratom’s impact on the user varies significantly, influenced by the amount consumed and the specific variety. 

At lower doses, typically around 1-5 grams, users often experience increased energy, focus, and social engagement, akin to a strong cup of coffee. This makes it a popular choice for those needing a mental or physical boost. 

As the dosage increases to the 5-15 grams range, Kratom’s effects lean more towards sedation, providing significant pain relief and a deep sense of relaxation, which some compare to the impact of certain opioids but from a natural source. 

Moderate doses can elicit mild euphoria and enhanced sensory perception, offering a unique blend of stimulation and serenity. 

Individuals need to start with a low dose to compute their response, as experiences with different kratom brands can differ widely. Adjusting the dose carefully allows for exploring its potential benefits while minimizing the risk of an overwhelming experience.

Effects of Kratom

Kratom, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, has a range of effects that can vary depending on the dosage, strain, and individual body chemistry. Here’s a breakdown of the primary effects of the best kratom products experienced by users:

Stimulating Effects at Low Doses: At lower doses, typically less than 5 grams, kratom acts as a stimulant, enhancing energy levels and alertness. Users report increased focus, stamina, and sociability, making it popular for endurance or social interaction tasks.

Sedative Effects at High Doses: Higher doses, usually over 5 grams, produce sedative effects. Users may experience pain relief, relaxation, and a sense of well-being. This dosage can also lead to euphoria and significantly reduce anxiety and stress.

Pain Relief: Happy Go Leafy offers red vein kratom that helps to relieve your pain.  Kratom contains alkaloids that activate opioid receptors in the brain, providing effective pain relief for both acute and chronic pain without the respiratory depression associated with traditional opioids.

Mood Enhancement: Many users turn to kratom for its mood-enhancing properties. It can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, contributing to an overall sense of contentment and happiness.

Anxiety and Stress Reduction: Kratom has anxiolytic effects, helping to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Some use it as a natural alternative to pharmaceutical anxiolytics.

Opioid Withdrawal Relief: Kratom is often used as an aid in opioid withdrawal, helping to mitigate withdrawal symptoms and cravings due to its action on opioid receptors.

How To Consume Kratom?

Kratom can be consumed in various ways, catering to personal preferences and the desired effects. Here are some standard methods, including selections from the Kratom Collection, which offers a variety of forms to suit different user experiences:

Kratom Powder: The most common form of kratom is a powdered leaf, which can be used in several ways:

  • Toss and Wash: This method involves placing the kratom powder in your mouth and washing it down with water or another liquid. It’s quick and efficient but can be unpleasant due to kratom’s bitter taste.
  • Tea: You can make kratom tea by boiling the powder in water for about 20-30 minutes, straining it, and then drinking the liquid. Some people add honey, lemon, or other sweeteners to improve the taste.
  • Mix with Food: Kratom powder can be mixed into food, such as yogurt or smoothies, to mask its taste. This method may delay the onset of effects due to digestion.

Kratom Extracts: These are potent concentrates of kratom alkaloids, often available in liquid form. Extracts are much more potent than regular kratom powder, so it’s essential to be mindful of the dosage.

Kratom Capsules: Kratom capsules filled with kratom powder offer a convenient and tasteless way to consume kratom. They may take longer to take effect as the capsules need to dissolve in the stomach.

Chewing Fresh Leaves: In countries where the kratom tree grows, some people chew the fresh leaves of green Borneo kratom, maeng da kratom, and many more to extract the compounds. This method is less common elsewhere due to the availability of leaves.

Kratom Tablets: Similar to capsules but pressed into a tablet form, these offer a precise dosage and another tasteless option to consume kratom.

How Does Kratom Feel Like?

The experience of using kratom varies widely among individuals, mainly depending on the strain, dosage, and personal body chemistry. Here’s a general overview of how kratom can feel:

 

At Low Doses (Stimulating Effects):

  • Energized and Alert: Many users report feeling more awake and alert, similar to the effects of drinking coffee.
  • Increased Focus: There’s often an enhanced ability to concentrate, making tasks and work seem easier to manage.
  • Improved Mood: Users frequently experience a mood lift, feeling more optimistic and motivated.

At Moderate Doses (Balanced Effects):

  • Relaxed Yet Alert: A balance between being comfortable and alert, where one feels more at ease but still capable of focused work.
  • Mild Euphoria: Some people describe a gentle sense of well-being and happiness, less intense than what’s associated with stronger substances.

At High Doses (Sedative Effects):

  • Deep Relaxation: High doses can lead to profound relaxation, where physical and mental stress diminish significantly.
  • Pain Relief: There’s notable pain relief, which can relieve those suffering from chronic pain conditions.
  • Sedation: In very high doses, kratom can induce a state of sedation, making it easier to fall asleep or enter a state of deep calm.

Conclusion: Is Kratom Feel Energetic?

Kratom, a versatile plant known for its unique ability to offer both stimulating and sedative effects, has become a popular choice for those seeking natural alternatives for energy, pain relief, and mood enhancement. At lower doses, kratom acts as a stimulant, providing users with increased energy, focus, and a sense of well-being, reminiscent of a mild caffeine boost. 

This makes it ideal for tasks requiring concentration or for social engagements. At higher doses, it transforms into a powerful sedative, kratom offering profound relaxation and pain relief, which can be a boon for those suffering from chronic pain or seeking a natural way to unwind and alleviate stress.

 

Moreover, kratom’s efficacy in mood enhancement and its potential in aiding opioid withdrawal symptoms highlight its multifaceted benefits. Whether consumed as powder, tea, capsules, or extracts, kratom caters to a range of preferences, allowing for personalized use that fits individual needs and lifestyles. While the experience of kratom varies per individual, its ability to provide energy, pain relief, and emotional upliftment underscores its growing popularity. As with any supplement, mindful usage, starting with low doses to gauge personal tolerance, is key to maximizing kratom’s benefits while minimizing potential downsides.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

The Impact of Music on Student Creativity and Innovation

By Mitch Rice

The modern generation of students is a bit different from the previous one. We can see that they are more creative and knowledgeable. They know how to use various technologies, and they incorporate them into their lives with ease. It seems that they know how to fit this world into their expectations. Modern students know that if they need help with their academic duties, they can get CustomWritings’ help with coursework, for example, and have some free time.

At the same time, having busy schedules, modern students experience a lot of problems because they have too little time for themselves. Of course, they can turn to professionals for help, but they are often pressed for budget, which becomes a significant obstacle.

In this article, we will discuss how music can help students with their academic and personal issues, as well as how it can impact their performance in college.

Hundreds of years ago, people used music for storytelling, religious rituals, and social gatherings. It also influenced emotions, enlarging community bonds and uplifting spirits during celebrations or offering solace during grief.

Today, we can see young people with headphones everywhere, and music has become one of the most frequently used options among students to spend time with pleasure or simply stay with themselves in a loud, crowded place. Thus, music plays a significant role in students’ lives today, and entertainment is the only benefit it provides.

How can music help students handle their issues?

College life is one of the most challenging periods of life. College students are adult enough to start their lives outside their houses, but at the same time, they are too young for some extraordinary issues that many students face. Thus, having a reachable helper is essential to maintain mental health. Let’s look at ways music can help students overcome challenges and what kinds of music should be in your playlist for sure.

Ambient or classical music for stress relief

This is the kind of music that can create a calming atmosphere, helping you unwind a bit. It is well-known that soothing melodies reduce tension, promote relaxation, and enhance focus, making it easier to cope with stressful situations. As student life is often full of stress, this type of music is a great way to reduce stress. This kind of music activates areas in the brain associated with relaxation, and the soothing melody lowers cortisol levels as well.

  • “Weightless” by Marconi Union is specifically designed to reduce anxiety.
  • “Clair de Lune” by Claude Debussy is a calming piano piece that promotes relaxation.

Soft instrumental or nature sounds for anxiety management

If you want to alleviate anxiety, this is just the music you need to turn on right now. Such gentle tones create a serene environment, helping you feel grounded and relaxed and fostering a sense of peace amid overwhelming feelings. Moreover, such sounds perfectly engage the brain’s auditory processing centers, creating a serene mental space. Thanks to this feature, you may feel less anxious.

  • “River Flows in You” by Yiruma is a soothing piano melody that helps ease anxiety.
  • Rain or Ocean Sounds are nature soundtracks that can create a peaceful environment.

Upbeat pop or instrumental for motivation-boosting

Need some inspiration? Here it is! Upbeat pop music will definitely boost your creativity and help you concentrate on a certain question. These lively rhythms and positive lyrics elevate mood, encouraging perseverance and enhancing productivity, making even overwhelming academic tasks more manageable and enjoyable. Pop music stimulates the release of dopamine, also known as a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and reward. As a result, this enhances motivation in college students.

  • “Happy” by Pharrell Williams is an uplifting anthem that can elevate mood and energy.
  • “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor is a classic motivational track perfect for pushing through tough tasks.

Jazz or eclectic for a creativity boost

With its improvisational elements and diverse sounds, Jazz or eclectic music can easily stimulate creativity. This genre encourages free thinking, helping students brainstorm ideas and think outside the box in their projects. In this situation, music activates the brain’s creative centers by encouraging divergent thinking. The improvisational nature of jazz stimulates novel connections, helping to brainstorm ideas.

  • “Take Five” by Dave Brubeck can inspire creativity with its unique rhythm.
  • “Feel Good Inc.” by Gorillaz is an eclectic mix that can help you brainstorm new ideas.

Soft piano or ambient for sleep

This is the music that promotes restful sleep by providing a calming background. The gentle melodies ease the mind, facilitating relaxation and a smoother transition into a peaceful night’s rest. Such a monotonous melody helps regulate sleep cycles, facilitating more profound and restful sleep.

  • “Weightless” by Marconi Union is also effective for promoting sleep.
  • “Moonlight Sonata” by Beethoven is one of the melodies that encourage relaxation before bedtime.

Positive, upbeat tracks for mood improvement

If you want to elevate your mood or foster happiness, listen to some positive, upbeat tracks. Their infectious energy encourages a brighter outlook, helping students combat negativity and embrace positivity, boosting overall emotional well-being. Upbeat music can increase serotonin and endorphin levels. As a result, you feel better and can combat feelings of depression.

  • “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys instantly lifts spirits with its cheerful melody.
  • “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves is a classic feel-good song to brighten your day.

Music is not only about entertainment; it also provides us with positive effects in our brains that can help us handle various issues easily and concentrate on the positive side. If you are upset, try listening to calming music and see the result.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Newfoundland and Labrador Mi’kmaq Country Artist Jason Benoit Delivers With “I Wanna Hear That Song”

You bought the tickets months ago. Stood in line to get in. Waited for the opening act to finish their set. Now, at last, the band or musician you waited for is playing that hit single or deep cut that definitely made all the time, cash and travel invested worth it. Now Newfoundland and Labrador Mi’kmaq country sensation Jason Benoit nails that feeling with the impressive single “I Wanna Hear That Song.”

Benoit says “I Wanna Hear That Song,” co-written by him and friend Gerry Foote, was inspired from more than a decade performing in Canadian country music circles and noticing one simple, universal fact. “EVERYONE wants to hear a song they can sing along to, whether that be a song by the artist themselves or even a cover song,” he says. “So with this in mind, while traversing the highways and byways of Ontario on tour, we wrote this track.”

The joyous single, with its toe-tapping beat and some fine banjo playing by musician and multi-instrumentalist John Hynes (who co-produced the song with Benoit), resembles quality, radio-friendly material recalling the likes of Keith Urban or Tim McGraw. And like those artists, Benoit, who wrote “I Wanna Hear That Song” while touring Ontario in 2019, clearly does not take his audience for granted for a split-second.

Oh I never wanna leave
Can we just stay here please
If we get loud enough
Everyone get on your feet
Play the one that gets me through
The one for me and you
Never wanna go back home

“This song is a tribute to the songs we love, as they are the reason why the fans spend their hard-earned money to come see live artists,” Benoit, based in Fox Island River, Newfoundland, says. “It’s a very profound moment when you hear your favorite song being sung by your favorite artist while you’re in the same room; it creates a memory that lasts forever and you will always look back at that time, who you were with, and what life meant to you, and remember that for a second in time you truly got to experience something both magical and personal with the audience as a whole. It’s truly a beautiful thing.”

Benoit, who won a 2024 East Coast Music Association Country Recording of the Year Award for his Time Traveller album, has had a busy few years. This included a 2023 Canadian Country Music Association nomination for Alt-Country Album of the Year and four 2024 MusicNL nominations including Album of the Year for his EP The Deadwood. In 2023, he earned MusicNL’s Fans Choice Entertainer of the Year and Indigenous Artist of the Year. And “I Wanna Hear That Song” should only result in a few more nominations down the road.

Now “I Wanna Hear That Song,” the follow up to Benoit’s “1000 Mile Grin” single, will only propel that popularity both nationally and beyond. It’s also a tremendously apt, appreciative crowd-pleaser that’s bound to make fans old and new buy the tickets, pay for the babysitter, and make the late bedtime worth it all just to see Jason Benoit. In short, you’ll wanna hear this song!

Canada’s Teen Jam Announces Second Finalists Showcase Due to Overwhelming Submissions

Canada’s Teen Jam is thrilled to announce a second Finalists Showcase due to an overwhelming number of submissions. Mark your calendars for February 27, 2025, when the nation’s most talented teen musicians will take the stage at the iconic TD Music Hall. The October 10, 2024, showcase is now officially complete, and the response has been nothing short of phenomenal.

Renowned live music producer Mark Higgins, the visionary founder of Canada’s Teen Jam and Big Music Fest, which has featured legendary acts like Aerosmith, Soundgarden, Bryan Adams, Slash, The Tragically Hip, and ZZ Top, shared his enthusiasm for the program’s success:

“Our Discovery Program is creating the next generation of musical superstars, and I only wish I had started this program a decade ago,” said Higgins. “Teen musical growth is absolutely essential for the future of our music industry! Without supporting our musical teens, the creative wall will stop.”

The October 10, 2024, showcase at TD Music Hall promises an unforgettable evening as these young artists take the stage to share their talent and passion.

Some of the greatest, most innovative musical acts began their careers as teenagers – from The Runaways and The Strokes to The Arctic Monkeys. Canada’s Teen Jam recognizes the immense talent and creativity that can flourish during these formative years. This groundbreaking performance showcase is dedicated to nurturing the next wave of musical talent in Canada.

Canada’s Teen Jam’s Discovery Program has been a resounding success, uniting undiscovered musical teens and providing them with unparalleled opportunities. These young artists have the chance to perform on the same concert stages that have hosted iconic Canadian music stars, offering them an invaluable glimpse into the professional world of music.

Since its inaugural launch at the Wayback Festival in Kitchener, ON, in July, Canada’s Teen Jam has attracted an incredible 300 submissions from aspiring teen musicians. The program’s success has garnered the attention of major sponsors, including United Van Lines Canada, which has signed a multi-year deal to support the initiative.

As part of this partnership, last year’s finalist, 15-year-old rock guitar prodigy Brandon Ahmet, will be flown to Miami Beach for an all-expenses-paid performance at United Van Lines’ convention.

Opportunities for Aspiring Musicians
Canada’s Teen Jam continues to offer teens ages 13 to 19 the chance to showcase their musical talent. Teens can submit video performances along with a $10 submission fee for a shot at cash prizes: $1,000 in the band category and $500 for solo artists. All musical styles and sounds are encouraged, including both original songs and covers.

Mark Higgins expressed his excitement about the program’s impact: “When musical teens experience this level of excellence, they develop a great sense of worth and a clearer path to fulfilling their dreams. Canada’s Teen Jam will help create the next wall of sound.”

Kylie Fox Strikes a Balance Between Nostalgia and Moving On with Her Double-A-Sided Single “Confetti/Alberta”

There are two ways you can approach nostalgia: You can either reject it as a seductive illusion, or you can concede that it may have a point. Fredericton, NB, alt-rocker Kylie Fox opts for a little of both on her new double-A-sided single, “Confetti/Alberta,” which offers a pair of distinct yet complementary visions of yesterday.

A jaunty, jocular “no” to the specters of the past, “Confetti” finds Fox fielding the sudden, unexpected entreaties of an old boyfriend who had dropped her like a hot potato after deciding there might be more opportunities for “glitter on [his] sleeve” without her around—but who is now having second thoughts:

There is no alternate universe for us, babe
I’m not your Scorpio, you aren’t my twin flame
So don’t waste my time with elegies of you and me
I was there too
I remember it clearly
The rose and the rust, and the end of the story

“It’s a bright and brooding alternative rock ballad that speaks to the nostalgia of novelty,” Fox explains. “I was thinking about how the newness of romance can fall and simply be swept away—like confetti.”

For many East Coasters, heading west to work as tree planters is a quintessential part of the Canadian experience—exchanging the warmth of home for the endless expanse of Alberta’s straight roads and BC’s winding hills. Like Fox’s reflection in “Alberta,” this journey often brings a mix of longing and resilience, as they navigate the vast, unfamiliar landscapes while yearning for the comfort of the life they left behind, pining for a more familiar and comforting life in “the winding hills of British Columbia.” In her mind’s eye at least, that’s highly preferable to her current environment, where “the roads are long and the roads are straight” and there are “no gas stations or corner stores/ Just trees on trees on trees on trees on billboards.” In retrospect, the life she used to know was far more livable:

Though the work it was hard
And the mountains they were cold
Still I had arms to hold around me
I’m worried about Alberta

The music is somewhat slower and more somber than “Confetti’s,” yet every bit as captivating. What we have here are two instant earworms that are the perfect commercial conduits for Fox’s alternately homey and obscure lyrical sentiments.

The videos for the two tracks likewise represent opposite sides of the same thematic coin. On paper, both focus on the performing charisma of singer/guitarist/pianist Fox and her band (lead guitarist Sean Hutchins, bassist Camilo Villamizar, keyboardist Kelly Waterhouse and drummer Ryan Barrie). But the “Confetti” clip adds a layer of thrift-shop glamour to a group rehearsal, whereas “Alberta” is a more naturalistic, video-verité montage of life on the road.

Both songs are from Fox’s new album, Sequoia, and each in its way buttresses the album’s central philosophical motif: acknowledging those moments in life when we don’t realize what we have, while simultaneously uplifting love and life as blessings to treasure.
Even the title of the record was no arbitrary choice. Sequoia is a nod to the summer vacations of Fox’s past, several of which she spent planting trees in British Columbia. More directly, it references a recent news story she had read about firefighters who worked throughout the night to save a Sequoia tree from a forest fire.

“It resonated with me how severely nature and time have been taken for granted,” she says.

Produced by by six-time ECMA-winning producer Daniel Ledwell (Jenn Grant, Fortunate Ones, The Good Lovelies) and funded with the help of ArtsNB, Music New Brunswick and the Canada Council for the Arts, the new album is deeply rooted in the folk-Canadiana elements Fox is known for, while also dipping its toe into folk-rock and jazz-pop fusion.

The artist herself describes the overall effect of the record as “‘70s Sesame Street meets Sharon Van Etten.” Divine Magazine is a little more straightforward—and effusive—in its assessment: “Get ready to be transported to a world of lush soundscapes and poignant storytelling with Sequoia, an album that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your musical palate.”

Then again, Fox has been turning heads and pricking up ears ever since she dropped her debut EP, Balcony, in 2017, then followed it up with her first full-length album, Green, in 2020. Those releases laid the foundation for an extensive tour of Canada, in which she shared stages with the likes of Bahamas, The Strumbellas and Joel Plaskett. She’s also showcased at the East Coast Music Awards, Folk Alliance International and the Canadian Song Conference (all in 2021). In 2020, she participated in the Banff Centre for the Arts International Songwriting Residency, and she’s been featured on lineups for festivals like the Cavendish Beach Music Festival (2022) and Area506 (2021). Fox was named “Breakthrough Artist of the Year” at the 2020 PrixNB Awards and “Innovator of the Year” at the 2023 PrixNB Awards.

Next up for her is celebrating the launch of the new album with a Saturday, September 14 gig at the Harvest Festival in Fredericton. Just over a month later, on Thursday, October 24, Fox will be opening for Matt Minglewood at the Imperial Theatre in Saint John. It’s going to be a busy sprint indeed until the end of 2024, capping a year of major growth spearheaded by her new manager, Joe Bamford (The Kings, Glass Tiger, The Headstones, Leslie Spit Treeo). And just about everybody in the industry is sitting up and taking notice.

“Her lens is finely focused,” says Rob Pinnock of Bounce 105.3. “It’s quite clear Kylie Fox is poised to become an important East Coast artist.”
She sure is. As long as she keeps one eye set squarely on the future and one foot planted firmly in the past.

KYLIE FOX ONTARIO DATES:
September 25, 2024 Early Bird Coffee, Woodstock
September 26, 2024 Parkwood, Owen Sound
September 27, 2024 Midnight Run Café, Waterloo
September 30, 2024 Rainbow Bistro, Ottawa
October 2, 2024 Moonshine Café, Oakville
October 3, 2024 Cameron House, Toronto
October 4, 2024 The Bunker, Stratford
October 5, 2024 Casbah, Hamilton
October 6, 2024 Homegrown Hideaway, Norfolk County

Power Pop Outfit Dany Laj And The Looks Release “Meet Me On The Floor” And Announce North American Tour

After their last single, ‘You Should Know’ (I-94 Recordings, 2022) The Looks are back with a brand new track, ‘Meet Me On the Floor,’ out now.

The band hasn’t been able to do their usual brand of extensive touring since 2019, and was getting restless. “Honestly, we were sick of not touring,” says Laj. “We miss it and the road is where we belong.”

That all changed when Laj received a message one late night in March, culminating in a conversation leading to the beginnings of a good old fashioned tour – Laj decided at that moment to dust off the van and get the band back together, as they say. Things were starting to line up and shows were getting booked, and as the reality set in, excitement was sparking within the ranks of The Looks. “In 2021 we made what we thought was a great record, ‘Ten Easy Pieces’,” continued Laj. “But we haven’t had a chance to tour it yet. Every time we tried to go out on the road, the world just kept stopping.”

In the intervening years, The Looks kept busy by releasing albums such as ‘Ten Easy Pieces’ (We Are Busybodies), RetroSpectacle (KOTJ/Snap Records), and singles like ‘Annie/Mâ Tête’ (KOTJ/Snap Records), and the aforementioned ‘You Should Know’.

Once the wheels were set in motion, Dany Laj and the Looks needed a party anthem – there’s no better cure for a bad day than a good party, after all. Laj put his songwriting skills to work, and set out writing what would become ‘Meet Me On the Floor’.

Recorded at the band’s own Montreal studio, La La Pop Shoppe, ‘Meet Me On the Floor’ is the band at its power poppiest, garage rockiest best. Featuring alongside Laj’s lead vocals and guitar is longtime bassist/vocalist Jeanette Dowling, as well as new Looks David Laplante on guitar and drummer Alex Pauzé keeping your feet on the dance floor (with a guest cameo from Stacey Case [Tijuana Bibles, Weirdies] on tambourine).

The Looks will (finally!) be hitting the road once again this fall, journeying from Northern Ontario to BC with K-Man & The 45s starting in Sept through mid-October, and then heading out on their own until the end of October in the US, from the Midwest to the Northeast. They’ll pick it back up again in November, playing Canadian dates with Paul Collins’ Beat.

Dany Laj and the Looks is a vibrant power pop band hailing from Montreal, known for their infectious melodies, high-energy performances, and a distinctive sound that blends garage rock sensibilities with modern flair. Led by the charismatic Dany Laj, whose songwriting prowess and distinctive vocals drive the band’s creative vision, they’ve earned a reputation for their electrifying live shows and compelling studio recordings.

Formed in 2010, the band quickly made a name for themselves with their constant touring, showcasing their knack for crafting catchy hooks and singalong choruses. Their music draws inspiration from the golden era of power pop, as well as punk and garage rock, resulting in a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh.

Laj, originally from the small Northern Ontario mining town of Kirkland Lake, has been honing his skills in songwriting and guitar in various bands since his teen years, culminating in the razor sharp, edge-of-your-seat songs the Looks are known for.

The Looks—featuring Jeanette Dowling on bass, David Laplante on guitar, and Alex Pauzé on drums—complement Laj’s vision with tight rhythms, quirky guitar riffs, and an undeniable sense of fun. Over the years, they’ve released a series of well-received albums and singles, each marked by their signature blend of upbeat tempos, heartfelt lyrics, and an unrelenting passion for their craft.

With a growing fanbase and critical acclaim, Dany Laj and the Looks continue to push the boundaries of power pop, making their mark as one of Canada’s most exciting and innovative bands. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their sound, their music promises an exhilarating experience that celebrates the joy of pure rock and roll.

LIVE AND IN PERSON:
September 26th – Lou Dawg’s – North Bay ON w/ Smooth Brains
September 27th – Townhouse Tavern – Sudbury ON
September 28th – Eagles Hall – Sault Ste Marie ON
October 1st Thunder Bay ON @ Black Pirate’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 2nd Winnipeg MB @ Bulldog’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 3rd Regina SK @ Cure Kitchen w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 4th Calgary AB @ Palomino’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 5th Edmonton AB @ The Aviary w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 6th Jasper AB @ The Whistle Stop w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 7th Banff AB @ Rose & Crown w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 8th Kelowna BC @ Jackknife Brewery w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 9th Penticton BC @ Clancy’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 10th Victoria BC @ Lucky Bar w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 11th Vancouver BC @ Lana Lou’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 17th Minneapolis MN @ Uptown VFM
October 19th Green Bay WI @ UFO Museum
October 20th Rockford IL @ Mary’s Place
October 21st Dayton OH @ Blind Bob’s
October 22nd Detroit MI @ Outer Limits Lounge
October 24th New York NY @ Berlin under A w/ Movie Movie
October 25th Rochester NY @ Lux Lounge w/ Sweet Pete
November 7th Montreal QC @ Le Ritz w/ Paul Collins’ Beat
November 8th Burnstown ON @ The Neat Cafe w/ Paul Collins’ Beat
November 8th – Neat Coffee Shop – Burnstown ON w/ Paul Collins’ Beat
November 9th – Paddy’s Underground – Tillsonburg ON w/ Paul Collins’ Beat
November 10th – The Garisson – Toronto ON w/ Paul Collins’ Beat

ANOXIA Bleeds the Agony of Betrayal in Their Haunting Anthem ‘Tears, I Bleed’

Everybody needs a good cry once in a while. And if you’re really hardcore, you cry blood.

Anoxia are very hardcore. On their “Tears, I Bleed,” powerhouse vocalist Chrystal James and her crew don’t just shed a few drops of type O negative from their ducts: They rain down a torrent of eye plasma that proves why they’re the pride of Baltimore’s post-industrial metal scene.

The song rams home its aggressively wounded sentiments with a piledriving, mechanistic feel that’s elevated by immaculate orchestration and arrangement. The key is James’ astounding voice, which segues effortlessly from a throaty moan to an operatic soar as she takes stock of a love affair that’s left nothing but devastation in its wake:

Can’t you see
Look what you’ve done to me
I can’t explain it
But I can’t breathe
And I hope it hurts when you think of me
Drown in the tears I’ve bleed
I hope I drown in my tears I bleed

It’s an intense, emotionally charged odyssey the band wrote to convey “the agony of betrayal and the powerful emotions that follow.” James’ impassioned delivery symbolizes the internal struggle between holding onto love and acknowledging that it’s been tainted beyond repair—albeit with cleansing catharsis, not pointless self-flagellation, as the intended outcome.

Call ‘em drama queens and they’ll probably thank you. “I’ve always been extremely theatrical,” James told Laura Williams of the website Vinyl Lollipops, explaining her approach to both musical performance and the band’s concept in general. The gist of the Anoxia mythology is that the musicians—guitarists Relic and Dust, bassist Ash and drummer/programmer Void—are “guardians” summoned by a spell and appearing before the audience in the form of undead animals. Their masked anonymity is totally in keeping with the modern-day Ghost/ Slipknot school of presentation that’s become a subgenre unto itself. And it’s showed off to appropriately eerie effect in the “Tears, I Bleed” video, which alternates starkly backlit performance footage with shots of James kneeling on a concrete floor and marking it with chalk. What she’s drawing is the Norse vegvisir, also known as the Viking Compass, a magic stave that’s said to help the bearer find their way through rough weather.

James has had to brave some storms of her own. She founded Anoxia all the way back in 2004, only to have its momentum stalled by an eight-year hiatus she pointedly describes as involuntary—a case of being “silenced.” (“A hiatus is never something ANY artist wants to experience,” she says, somewhat cryptically, “but sometimes the universe makes you sit down for a while.”) Having re-emerged in 2022 with a new configuration and focus, the group has been on a real roll ever since, including the release of their first ever full-length album, Relinquish the Quiet, in 2023. They’ve also established themselves as vital and energetic collaborators on the Baltimore scene: James performed a duet with Carbonstone’s Corey James on that band’s 2022 song “Pins & Needles” and in its accompanying video.

Not surprisingly for an outfit with such a visual orientation, Anoxia is in heavy demand as a live act. Next up for them is a high-profile appearance set for October 19 at Baltimore’s Zen West. Needless to say, it behooves you to materialize. Don’t wait to be summoned.

David Gogo Says “Yeah” to the Rock on Electrifying New Album

Even if a guy has given his life to the blues, there are times when he just can’t resist the primal urge to rock out. Especially when his friends are there to egg him on. That’s where David Gogo finds himself on his new album, YEAH!—a dizzying compendium of career bests that pulses with the kind of energy that only comes from just the right combination of commitment and camaraderie.

Song like “One More Day” and “Moose Hall Brawl” have the raw, zealous abandon of a boys’ night out. And that’s the kind of prospect that gets all the more inviting when your boys happen to be some of the greatest players on the Canadian blues scene. Leadoff track “Diamond In The Rough” sets the tone in no uncertain terms, absolutely storming out of the gate with a fiery declaration of passion both musical and lyrical:

She’s my sugar, she’s my spice
I still love her when she’s not playing nice
She’s my diamond in the rough
And I can’t get enough of that stuff
She really perks me up
She’s my diamond in the rough

“I wanted a good, solid rock and roll song to kick this album off, and I believe that this one delivers,” Gogo says. “I love the fantastic ’70s rock bands like Bad Company and T-Rex, and we had a gas laying this track down!”

It sure sounds like it. The track has all the guitar bite of classic FM, with some insanely catchy chants to push it over the finish line into “crowd favorite” territory. Close your eyes, and you can practically see the band’s own heads nodding and their fists pumping between riffs.

“I have recorded many albums, worked with many talented people and had a lot of fun, but this album is my favourite to date,” Gogo enthuses. For that, the Nanaimo, BC-based singer/guitarist can thank his decision to leave his comfort zone and travel to snowy Ontario to work at The Ganaraska Recording Co., under the trusted production guidance of fellow Canadian blues great Steve Marriner. Gogo even restricted himself to bringing one guitar of his own, recording the rest of the album on the studio’s collection of vintage axes. With Marriner and fellow blues mainstays Jimmy Bowskill and Gary Craig forming his backup ensemble, Gogo had all the ammo he needed to create something truly special.

“This group was a pleasure to create with—top-notch performers and super cool to hang with,” he says. “I feel that the new songs are very strong, and there was such a great vibe in the studio. Though it was a relaxed and supportive environment, we worked at a quick rate and utilized plenty of first or second takes to keep the live energy happening.”

The result is 10 tunes that positively quake with power, Gogo’s guitar reaching levels of string-bending expressiveness that need to be heard to be believed on the nine originals and one cover (a shimmying rendition of Shuggie Otis’ “Hurricane” you could absolutely frug to).

The whole project is a more-than-worthy addition to a CV that’s already seen its share of highlights. Over the course of his illustrious career, Gogo has been nominated for six JUNO Awards, won Guitarist Of The Year three times at the Maple Blues Awards, been named Musician Of The Year at the West Coast Music Awards, won Blues Recording Of The Year at the Western Canadian Music Awards and received the Great Canadian Blues Award (as voted by the listeners of CBC’s Saturday Night Blues) for his lifetime contribution to the blues in Canada. Whew! And even if you don’t own one of his records, you’ve probably heard his songs in films and on TV, or heard them covered by a panoply of fellow artists like Buddy Guy.

Perpetually in demand as a live performer, Gogo has played alongside the likes of BB King, Johnny Winter, Albert Collins, Bo Diddley and Otis Rush. And he’s opened shows for ZZ Top, George Thorogood, The Tragically Hip, Little Feat, Jimmie Vaughan, Robert Cray, Robin Trower and Wishbone Ash.

Now that the new album is out, that proud tradition of tearing joints down is free to continue. You can catch Gogo’s act at one of the shows he has coming this summer to a stage near you:

Sept. 27: Knox United Church, Parksville BC
Oct. 11/12: The 98, Whitehorse, Yukon
Oct. 19: Duncan Showroom, Duncan BC
Nov. 23: Char’s Landing, Port Alberni BC

One thing’s for sure: These shows are going to be a pure shot of musical adrenaline. Come on out, and bring your friends. You’ll never regret saying “yes” to the YEAH!

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That Eric Alper
6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week, a 16-time JUNO Award winner overseeing PR campaigns, and have also been truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

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