Catchy and unique indie rock from Toronto is what I’m pickin’ up from boy wonder. His latest single is an acoustic ditty called “Care” that I think Jack White would like when he’s in his acoustic mood. It has an old school feel to it. The vocals are unusual in a good way and the video appears to be shot in a previous generation. A comical and self-depracating ending is the cherry on top of this video. Boy Wonder has his EP release show at 187 Augusta on Friday June 14^th. – Kris Gies

Laurie is a new three piece band from Toronto formed in late 2018. This noise rock trio have dove headfirst into the Toronto scene with their self-proclaimed “sad, existential and often sarcastic music”. Their first single “Anxiety” was released in February and now they have a wild and bright music video to accompany it. Shot by Here Kitty Kitty Productions; this video is a bit bizarre which matches the song perfectly. It also might cause seizures. Be sure to follow them on Facebook so you can catch their next franticly energetic live show!  – Kris Gies

Toronto folk singer/songwriter Merival has released a new track “No Brakes”. It’s a pretty little folk tune with some obscure moments that give the track a very theatrical feel. In her words “It feels messed up to walk that line of mental anguish vs. stability, ‘bad’ art vs. ‘good’ art, but I think we all do it at some point. With this song, I was basically wishing that I was depressed again so I could write ‘better’ music.” Merival’s debut full length album is set for release on June 21^st. – Kris Gies

Retro singer/songwriter Lily Frost has released the lead single from her upcoming album “Retro Moderne”. Produced by Gus Van Go (The Stills, Terra Lightfoot, among others) this first track “I Dodged A Bullet” aligns well with the “Retro Moderne” idea. It has a great 60’s doo wop feel to it but also could be a from an old action movie soundtrack. The new album will be available June 1^st at The Rivoli for the record release party. – Kris Gies

This 4 piece Toronto rock n roll band was born after a few popular local bands dissolved a few years ago. Pink Leather Jackets have been making a name for themselves workin’ the local bar scene playing weekly shows of cover tunes along with some originals. They have now released their debut original track “Shed”. I’m pretty sure the band members get along better than they do in this super hero themed music video. The tune has a nice 90’s alt rock feel to it with a surfy drumbeat carrying the chorus. The vocals sound great and there’s a killer little solo to finish it off. Big tune from their upcoming EP “Good Love” (release date TBA). You have two opportunities to see these fellas perform live on Friday May 17^th. At 6:30 they’ll be playing a set at Yonge/Dundas Square before heading over to Cherry Cola’s for a big night of rock n’roll.  – Kris Gies