We seldom post on a Sunday, but with the sudden surge of great new music video releases, why not spend a little time this Valentine’s Day in the fine company of your favorite Canadian artists? And for those of you who are not on first-name terms with Cupid and his arrows, hey, you’re welcome to stop by and enjoy these amazing new tunes too, no bows required.
Laila Biali, “A Case of You”
We kick things off with a little jazz, and let’s face it, when JUNO Award-winning artist Laila Biali shares new music, the whole world should take notice. Releasing this live-off-the-floor cover of the popular Joni Mitchell classic hit, Biali is joined by her husband Ben Wittman on djembe, and George Koller on upright bass. “I think it’s the ultimate Valentine’s song because it can reach you no matter where you’re at,” Laila shares. “Whether you’re in love, longing for it, or mourning it.”
The Gracias A La Vida Project, “Gracias a la Vida”
Vancouver singer-songwriter Gisun collaborates on this latest music initiative that spans both countries and communities, partnering with the ‘Music Heals’ project to bring attention to the importance of music therapy. Gisun is joined here by another Canadian, Ada Lea (Quebec), and several other contributors from across the globe – ranging from Ecuador, Italy, and the USA. Filming their solo segments independently, the video is compiled and produced by Rodrigo Ferrat.
Emm Gryner & Rob Wells, “All Love All The Time”
St. Marys, ON JUNO nominated singer-songwriter Emm Gryner returns to our screens with this Valentine’s Day timed release, joining forces here with acclaimed songwriter and producer Rob Wells to create this synth and dance loaded electro-pop tune. Hard to believe that Emm’s previous video release was for “Butterflies,” the jazz song we debuted here last year, but once again demonstrates the ever-present versatility of this popular recording artist.
Summersets, “Afterthought”
Ontario-based folk-pop duo Summersets, comprised of Kalle Mattson and Andrew Sowka, share their first single release for 2021, and first that follows their impressive 2020 debut EP, “Small Town Saturday.” Offering a throw-back popular music sound reminiscent of The Association and Simon & Garfunkel, “Afterthought” sees the duo once again collaborating with producer Jim Bryson, engineer Dan Ledwell, and features additional strings courtesy of Kinley Dowling.
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.
