Crazy! If asked (once again) to summarize the amount of new music releases from across Canada this season, crazy is the first metaphor that springs to mind. We loaded up the GDW Jukebox just a little after the US Memorial Day holiday weekend with some spring singles, and here we are – once again – having to restock the virtual Wurlitzer with a bunch of fresh 45s.
The summer months are always busy here at GDW HQ, and even with our own seasonal increase in editorial volume, we remain overwhelmed by the amount of great music being created. While we simply do not have enough room at the inn to share them all, we can at least close out July with a dozen summer sizzlers that you need to go and spin right now. Every one of these tunes came to us via email submission – we can’t promise to read them all, but at least we know you’re out there…
Ada Lea, “Baby Blue Frigidaire Mini Fridge”
Yes, Ada’s last single, “Something in the Wind,” was found on our most recent Video Vault feature – but we’ve had this previous tune saved for a rainy day, because it is quite simply stunning and deserves to be heard. Enough said – stream it, you won’t regret it!
Sourwood, “When I’m Gone”
Always looking out for new bluegrass music, we had mile-wide smiles when recently discovering this Canada/US folk collective. Loaded with fiddle, banjo and mandolin, this impressive tune confronts the quiet resignation that can follow emotional upheaval.
Pony Gold, “Impossible Dream”
Seeking some amazing Americana music – with a sprinkle of added grit – then add Victoria, BC singer-songwriter Pony Gold to your playlist. With similarities in sound to Mariel Buckley, and with an extended guitar solo to close this tune – we are craving much more!!!
Dirt Road Opera, “Clay Pigeons”
You want more Americana music out of BC – consider your request granted. Kelowna, BC band Dirt Road Opera share this gorgeous, laid-back interpretation of the Blaze Foley tune “Clay Pigeons” – and load it up with stunning harmonies, dobro, and accordion. Bliss!
Breagh Isabel, “Carrie”
A staple tune of the summer season is a pop jam, and we are including this latest cut from Halifax, NS artist Breagh Isabel as our signature summer sound! With dreamy vocals and a playful groove, for Breagh, this tune turns “a daydream … into a feel-good summer jam.”
Maggie Andrew, “Emotional Touchdown”
And now you want more pop from NS – you got it! Halifax artist Maggie Andrew echoes some genuine 80s pop vibes with this delightful toe-tapper. Take some time to find the official music video – where inserting a cassette into a player sets the scene perfectly.
Superstar Crush, “Fire Escape”
Sharing pop tunes, I can already hear cries for that top down, wind in your hair, summer road trip anthem! Hamilton, ON baroque-pop quartet Superstar Crush singlehandedly heed your requests, and share this chaotic, cinematic, whirlwind about unrequited love.
Thunder Queens, “Birds On A Wire”
So, we found a road trip anthem, but you want something with a little more ‘grunge’ now? Okay, you’re in luck, as London, ON garage-punk trio Thunder Queens recently shared this latest banger – a high-energy anthem about breaking free from expectations. Crank it!
The Strumbellas, “Hardlines”
With a sound that has shifted from indie folk to indie pop over the years, The Strumbellas have consistently created great music (remember “Spirits”?). With “Hardlines,” the focus is on upbeat, anthemic power pop, further demonstrating their evolving creative vision.
Georgia Harmer, “Farmhouse”
This Toronto-based singer-songwriter has released so many great tunes during the first half of the year, and all shall be available on Georgia’s upcoming “Eye of the Storm” album out next month. “Farmhouse” is a heartfelt ode to the evolving nature of love and friendship.
Ron Sexsmith, “Don’t Lose Sight”
New music from JUNO Award winning artist Ron Sexsmith shall never be overlooked. A longtime favorite here at GDW, Ron’s upcoming “Hangover Terrace” album was recorded in London – his first recording in the UK since 2007. New music and US tour dates too!!!
Julianna Riolino, “Seed”
Another ON-based artist that we never choose to ignore, Julianna Riolino follows her stunning “On a Bluebird’s Wing” single with “Seed” – and it’s a doozy! Julianna’s shift from her punk/alt-country roots migrates now to pop-soul-doowop, and it’s outstanding!
The British guy that crossed the ocean and crash landed in central Pennsylvania (to quote Greg Keelor, “And I wonder what am I doing here?”). As the youngest of four siblings, exposure to music from a very early age nurtured my passion and appreciation for many musical genres. Continuing to discover some amazingly diverse and talented musicians based in Canada, I gravitate to live music experiences and remain devoted to spreading the word about such a vibrant music scene.
