MEET THE BANDS
THE DREW THOMSON FOUNDATION
THURSDAY JULY 10TH
Drew Thomson has lived through his share of ups and downs. The same kinds of trials and tribulations that most people encounter. What sets him apart is his how he captures and relates the highs and lows. Whether you're a businessman in the city or a gold prospector 14 hours north of anything, there are always highs and lows.
Having lived both of those extremes and just about everywhere in between, Thomson has a unique ability to tell stories that while seeming outrageous and not at all relatable, also feel deeply personal to the listener. Life lived both on the road and stuck in one place has helped Thomson craft his first EP, 'Stay.' These songs are the culmination of his experiences focused heavily on family, love, death, excess and longing . As a songwriter better known for his scathing delivery in punk bands, like Single Mothers, this EP also serves as an introduction for Drew as a solo artist.
These songs were crafted on acoustic guitars. They come from couches and quiet afternoons. They come from the backseat of vans in other countries or even other continents. They come from the bush and they come from the cheap end of the city. One touching song is a message to his grandmother who passed while he was on tour, where he asks her to, 'stay.. stick around for a little while. See the changes that I have made.." After listening, I expect that's exactly what you'll want to do.
SINGLE MOTHERS
SATURDAY JULY 12TH
Single Mothers broke up in 2009, 2011, 2015 and have been playing shows ever since. Founded by Drew Thomson in 2008 Single Mothers only relied on only one main principle: it wouldn’t have any members. For the most part - they have stayed true to that, and only that. Spanning a discography of genera morphing LP’s and a myriad of EP’s the only constant is that none of it sounds the same. Each album has different members, different song writers, different ideas. For a while there were even two versions of the band going at the same time, with completely different people. Through all this Thomson left the band and moved to Swastika, Ontario to be a gold prospector. Single Mothers continued without him. While Thomson was searching for gold in Northern Ontario Single Mothers released their first S/T EP, which they recorded before he left, with Jeremy Bolm’s (Touché Amoré) Secret Voice Records. The band with no members played a sting of shows with different singers before Thomson returned. That EP sent the band touring with Title Fight, Quick Sand, Touché Amore, The Bronx and many others. The first LP Negative Qualities was recorded twice, produced by Joby Ford (The Bronx) and came out in 2014 - 10 years ago, on XL Records imprint Hot Charity to critical acclaim and led to festival appearances like Pitchfork Fest, Redding & Leeds, Primavera Sound, Riot Fest and many others. Then, as Single Mothers were picking up speed, they fell apart and started over. Now 10 years later - in celebration of the record that tried to kill the, they’re back to play it in full. “These are the best songs from the worst years of my life” Thomson recounts, “and I wouldn’t have it any other way”.
MVLL CRIMES
FRIDAY JULY 11TH
Aggress against, worship again, new as new is, suffocate me, suffocating. There is always someone to praise, the demagoguery of modern media makes it hard to see the forest for the trees. Put your phone in the other room, sit back, and soak in the distorted view of MVLL CRIMES. Steal away this moment for your own. Thank you for listening.
// DON’T BE A COP //
PKEW PKEW PKEW
SATURDAY JULY 12TH
Pkew Pkew Pkew are one the most criminally underrated bands in North America. Hailing from Toronto, this pop-punk four-pack of party-loving delinquents have spent the better part of a decade relentlessly touring Canada, the US and Europe with bands like PUP, Reel Big Fish, The Flatliners and a bunch more. Their song “Mid 20s Skateboarder” was featured in the 2020 reboot of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 1+2. They’ve appeared on Late Night With Seth Meyers and performed at Riot Fest. They’ve released a slew critically acclaimed albums and EPs on kickass labels like Side One Dummy, Dine Alone and Royal Mountain….and the list of accolades just keeps going. Basically they’re just rad af and you should be listening to them right now
DONNY CROSWELL
THURSDAY JULY 10TH
Donny Croswell came on the scene a few years ago with a mission to make country music fun and gay. Now backed by members of Pkew Pkew Pkew. The group played their first show to a sold out audience at the famed Monarch Tavern. The audience dressed in their best “slutty country garb” at the behest of the band was a vendiagran of punks, queers, and artists. Even before the band took the stage, the energy in the room was electric, a capacity crowd unapologetically drunk and looking to hoe down. By the time Donny emerged (dressed in barely there Daisy Dukes with Warne and the backing band in matching Western shirts) things were at a fever pitch. Building a sizeable social media following as the self described Kylie Jenner of Fat Gay People, Donny is used to the attention. As a genre, new country often gets dismissed as uncool outside certain southern states. Written off as something decidedly for other people. But with big catchy tunes about drinking and heartbreak, backed by some of the genre’s favorite party punks, Donny’s tunes are fitting happily with the punk scene while expanding beyond an audience of cranky dudes in black t-shirts. It’s a welcome change of pace in a scene that can feel myopic.
SUN JUNKIES
FRIDAY JULY 11TH
Sun Junkies are a 4-piece band from Brantford, Ontario. In 2018 freshly out of high school the band formed with sole intention of playing as many shows as possible. Cutting their teeth in the Southern Ontario indie scene as well as touring the USA and Canada’s east coasts, the four best friends have had plenty of time to hone their songwriting abilities and become a strong unit. Over the course of almost 5 years, Sun Junkies have self recorded and released a full length LP, a 7 track EP as well as various singles.
Having just finished recording their magnum opus: “Parachuting”, the band’s sound and image are more realised than ever before. Sun Junkies’ sophomore LP discusses the detrimental nature of the romanticization of one’s past, the existential dread that comes with measurable time and the pressure of fully utilising your fleeting youth. Although it’s mainly about time, “Parachuting” has many other recurring themes and deals with topics such as the soul crushing monotony of the 40 hour work week as well as the coping mechanisms and anxiety that come with such a mundane reality. Featuring an orchestral arrangement of pianos, violins and horns juxtaposed with growling feedback and distorted guitars, these songs feel like the most introspective party you’ve ever been to.
Blending the fast, melody-forward nature of modern indie with the raw feeling and emotion of punk and emo music, the band brings forth a fresh and versatile sound. With an almost masochistic dedication to the tried-and-true ethics of DIY, Sun Junkies record, produce, and mix their own material. They spend their remaining hours honing the craft of their explosively fun live performances, turning every crowd into a dance floor or a mosh pit. You do not want to miss out on the experience that is Sun Junkies.
LITTLE JUNIOR
FRIDAY JULY 11TH
Little Junior is a rock band from Toronto known for blending punchy guitar driven rock, with infectious pop melodies, and raw punk vitality. Little Junior's signature sound is magnified by their fuzz soaked high octane live performances and equally captivating music videos. Listen closer, and Little Junior's songwriting reveals their undeniable sense of humour and penchant for astute personal and social observation.
LOVIET
THURSDAY JULY 10TH
A powerhouse of 90’s-tinged indie-rock, alt-pop, Loviet (pronounced low-vee-it) has established herself as one of Canada’s brightest up-and-coming artists to watch. Praised for her “signature, shimmery hooks with emotionally honest lyrics” (Notion) and “addictive, retro pop-rock...a polished, highly danceable project” (CBC) Loviet has made a name for herself supporting critically acclaimed artists The Beaches, Giant Rooks and Jesse Jo Stark and performing at festivals such as Lollapalooza, Summerfest and Ottawa Bluesfest.
She’s reaching even greater heights on her EP The Nighttime Is All In The Timing, produced by Cacie Dalager and Bradley Hale of American indie-rock band Now, Now. This five-track offering is sonically expansive and emotionally charged, described by Loviet as “…lots of guitars, energy, power, and mess.” From the unabating urgency of her boldly breathtaking anthem “Broken Lips” to the intimate, heated unpacking of trauma on “Wide Eyes” (billed as “a love letter with teeth”) to the unapologetic roar of “Star Treatment,” The Nighttime Is All In The Timing finds Loviet soundtracking moments of reckoning and raw reflection through catchy and cathartic upheavals that hit hard and leave a lasting mark.
BURNER
SATURDAY JULY 12TH
BURNER from Toronto, ON is a ground-breaking "noise quartet" who objectively presents one of the best live sets in Ontario, if not Canada.
Captivating and frantic, the empowering live performances of front-person Deshaun Molloy mesh seamlessly with the incredible musicianship, providing a sonic backdrop that will surely send your senses directly to the late 90’s.
One of the hardest working bands in Ontario, BURNER has recently shared the stage with bands like Show Me The Body, The Armed, Metz and Little Junior, amongst a host of others.
PRO WRESTLING THE BAND
THURSDAY JULY 10TH
Pro Wrestling The Band is characterized by its potent blend of punk urgency and rock sensibility. The band claims the influence of Tom Petty, The Menzingers, The Bronx, and The Replacements as inspiration for their sound. Infused with heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies, the band produces anthemic songs with raw edges and enduring spirit.
Emerging from the vibrant music scene of London, Ontario, Pro Wrestling The Band is a powerhouse ensemble formed in 2021. The band consists of Danny Kidd on guitar and vocals, Nathan Stock on drums, Bob Calwell on bass, Patrick Briggs on guitar and vocals, and Craig Gignac on guitar, vocals, and keys. Each musician, well versed in the local music scene, brings their own experience and perspective. The result is a new sound that's both dynamic and hard-hitting. Their ability to connect with audiences through both their recordings and live performances has quickly established them as a rising force in the rock landscape.
Pro Wrestling The Band continues to push the boundaries of their genre. Technical skill, heartfelt and memorable songs, and lively, joyful stage presence combine to make a band that connects with diverse audiences and brings people back for more. The band is poised to take their sound to new heights, making waves both at home and abroad. Pro Wrestling The Band is not just a group of musicians; they are a testament to the power of collaboration, passion, and the unyielding spirit of rock 'n' roll.
STRAWBERRY COUGH
FRIDAY JULY 11TH
Strawberry Cough is the little band that could from Brampton Ontario. The trio have a truly unique sound which can only be described as falling under the rock umbrella. They are the auditory version of the Rorschach test, you’re going to have to listen for yourself. Strawberry Cough formed during Covid and have been playing every show they can since music venues opened back up. Their sound, energy and passion have established their presence in the local music scene. Strawberry Cough is currently writing their debut LP and are expanding their audience one city at a time.
DUMB CRUSH
FRIDAY JULY 11TH
WARNING: Dumb Crush is corrosive, raw and unrelenting. Handle with caution.
The world can't crush you if you crush yourself first.
Dumb Crush is a united front of tenured DIY musicians Owen Hooper, Liam Colbert and Elliott Isaac who in their own rights have played hundreds of shows across North America and Europe and collectively amassed over a million streams.
In an effort to subvert the current zeitgeist of Type-Beats and cookie–cutter pop, their lead singles “Witches In The Dark” and “Get Away” were recorded live-off-the-floor in one day on August 30th, 2024.
“Witches In The Dark” landed radio rotation on SiriusXM The Verge, CBC Radio, was played on Sportsnet’s Hockey Night In Canada three weeks straight (averaging 1.27 million viewers per broadcast) and was playlisted by Line of Best Fit, DORK and Exclaim! Magazine.
Their next single “Get Away” touts a music video directed and edited by Jack Harrison (the designer of J. Cole’s “Might Delete Later” album artwork and Kings of Leon’s latest video wall, plus visual collabs with Vulfpeck, A24 Films, BADBADNOTGOOD, Marc Rebillet, etc.)
These songs see the band navigate a fever dream of proto-apocalyptic shoebox condo capitalism and the devastating weight of the warm and fuzzy nostalgia industry.
Having just formed in June 2024 and already queuing up two singles, Dumb Crush is one of the best kept secrets, soon to be spilled.
WASTE YOUTH
SATURDAY JULY 12TH
Hailing from the gritty underbelly of Toronto, Canada, noise-punk duo Waste Youth have quickly made a name for themselves since the release of their fan-favourite singles, "BFF" and "No Shit."
Known for their high-octane performances and unapologetic sound, drummer and vocalist Dan Aguiar and bassist Chris Power have been pushing the boundaries of what is possible when two instruments, usually confined to the rhythm section, are brought to the forefront and used to their full potential.
Currently, Waste Youth are hard at work on their debut EP, Slipping Away, a highly anticipated project that has been shaping up over the past two years. The EP promises to showcase their unique sound, with its intense, danceable rhythms and infectious bass licks reflecting their commitment to producing a sound that gets people moving.
CAPTAIN WILDCHILD
SATURDAY JULY 12TH
Hailing from Hamilton (The Hammer) Captain Wildchild boasts a sonic feast for those who love their music loud. Predominantly rock with some added flavours, this Canadian power trio will keep you guessing throughout your listening experience as they are full of surprises. From collaborative projects to ripping the occasional set, one must keep their eyes & ears out for what they do next!
ROACH
THURSDAY JULY 10TH
Roach was formed in 2018 by close friends and aspiring musicians Violet de Rege-Braga, Jackson Seaward, Carly Harris, and Michael O’Meara. The lineup today consists of Violet on vocals and guitar, Carly on drums, guitarist Fraser McClean (Casper Skulls; Burner), and Kieran O'Connor on bass (Gossamer Blue; Joncro). Over the years Roach has released one EP (Taste Test), several singles, one LP (No One to Lose), and two music videos. Their most notable shows have been opening for “Bif Naked”, “Speedy Ortiz”, “Good Morning” and “Packs”, and Michael Imperioli’s band “Zopa”.
ACCELERANT
FRIDAY JULY 11TH
Bing bang boom, lock up your drugs and money. Lock up your pets cause this band will f*** anything that moves. Who is this band that survives off of f*** juice and springtime road salt? These fools, balancing on the brink of tomorrow, fighting the incessant march of time and sleep so you can rest your sweet head and nod off to existential blissful ignorance.
Influenced by the likes of Primal Scream (the fuck juice of anyone worth their spring road salt), The Butt Hole Surfers, Sonic Youth, and that feeling you get when the sun catches the day of a morning you never really knew you needed.
From the death of every band, there are bodies that are large enough to attract other bodies of mass. This is the coming together of Accelerant. A gravitational pull of influences, bands upon bands, mysteries upon mysteries, and filth recognizing filth.
CASSIDY JANE
THURSDAY JULY 10TH
Canadian singer-songwriter Cassidy Jane embodies a musical moment that intends to leave a joyful tear in your eye. No stone will go unturned as you take a sonic stroll through the lens of her life.
"Breathe Again; it started off as a song of oppression. It was about being under somebody's thumb, so severely that the only way you're okay is if they acknowledge your existence in the most minimal ways...
...but then I found love and started to reinterprit the meaning of the song, giving it a brand new outlook. It's a good memory now." - Cassidy
PERFECT STRANGERS
SATURDAY JULY 12TH
Perfect Strangers is a Hard Rock band formed in 2021 from Brampton, Ontario. Made up of Anthony Vitanza (Vocals/Guitar), Brian Warren (Drums), and Tami Sorovaiski (Bass). Perfect Strangers sound is an eclectic mix of hard rock, punk rock, and experimental art rock but all together it’s a soundscape that even the gods envy. The bands live shows are energetic and packed with roaring sounds from all aspects of the band that leaves anyone attending wanting more. The band released their first self titled EP “Perfect Strangers” in July of 2022 which was met with positive reviews and fan acclaim. Perfect Strangers took their music to new heights with a Canadian tour and a slot in the Canadian NXNE music festival. They released their second EP “Running From A Nightmare” in June of 2023 which was an instant classic with songs like “Want To Leave” and “Street Prowler”. The band released their third EP titled “Social Decay”on May 3rd 2024 backed by a short but strong Canadian tour. Perfect Strangers has proved they are here to make a statement and put their stamp on music history as we know it.