It’s always important to pay attention to the music scene where you live. Yes, there is quite amazing talent all over the world, but supporting local artists is important right now. There are many awesome bands that Evolution plays. You may hear their songs on the radio, but do you really know them? Do you know why they do what they do? BC and Canada have incredible talent that many people look past. You might hear a song and think “Oh that’s a good song,” and then never hear it again. But you should support local musicians in BC and Canada! Shazam that song you hear on the radio, check out the band when they announce who the artist is, look them up and see what they’re doing. Maybe they have live stream shows every Friady night from their home. We are all missing live music these days so why not indulge in every way we can. Here’s a list of some awesome Canadian bands to check out!
- Mother Mother
If you have not heard of Mother Mother you must be living under a rock. Although it is highly possible you’ve heard and enjoyed their songs without actually knowing who they are, so I forgive you. Mother Mother is a five-member Canadian indie rock band based out of Vancouver. In 2005 they released their debut self-titled album and have continued putting new music out until their most recent album “Dance and Cry,” in 2018. They are still actively involved in the music industry and working on new tunes. They actually had a show in Vancouver exactly one year ago. A few of their most popular songs that you may already love, are “Ghosting,” “Get Up,” and “It’s Alright.” I’ve also gotten the chance to meet this lovely band in person, and they were the most welcoming group. So, if you haven’t already, look them up!
- City & Colour
This beautiful voice and songwriting abilities come from a Canadian gentleman named Dallas Green. He is a musician, singer-songwriter, and record producer who goes under the name “City & Colour.” Something really interesting about his stage name is that it comes directly from his real name. Dallas, a city and Green, a colour. Dallas Green has been producing this music since 2001 and is currently creating more amazing content. The lyrics, the instruments, and the meaning in his songs are incredible. These songs really make you feel something, which is special in songwriting. City & Colour began performing in small venues and also working with the band Alexisonfire as a singer, guitarist, and songwriter. Truth be told, City & Colour is one of my personal main artists I listen to. A few of my favourite songs by him are “Sleeping Sickness,” “Comin’ Home,” “The Girl,” and “Hello I’m In Delaware.” His music is truly breathtakingly beautiful and if you have not heard it, I highly suggest giving it a chance.
- Our Lady Peace
This band is a little more rock-inspired with some awesome tunes. The lead singer Raine Maida has a voice that reminds me of the band “Hinder,” which I love. They formed in Toronto in 1992, OLP released their first album “Naveed,” in 1994 and are still going strong with their most recent album released in 2018. Our Lady Peace have sold several million albums worldwide and has won four Juno Awards, and 10 MuchMusic Video Awards, which is the most one band or artist have ever received. During the years 1996 and 2016 OLP was the third best-selling Canadian band in Canada. With this much popularity, it surprises me how many people still don’t know who they are. I thought everyone knew them! Considering that’s not the case, they are totally worth getting to know, with top hits such as “Somewhere Out There,” “Innocent,” and “Clumsy.” I’m looking forward to potentially interviewing Our Lady Peace for my podcast.
- Said The Whale
Vancouver based rock band “Said The Whale,” is a Juno Award-winning band formed in 2007. They released their debut album in 2008 called “Howe Sounds / Taking Abalonia.” In 2011, STW toured the U.S.A for the first time and spent the duration of the tour being filmed for a CBC documentary “Winning America.” This was a really cool opportunity for them to get some publicity in the U.S., as well as in Canada when it was aired in British Columbia in 2011 and across the entire country in 2012. They also got 2nd place in the “Peak Performance Project” in 2010 which was run by 102.7 The PEAK. Some recognizable songs they have are “Camilo – The Magician,” “UnAmerican,” and “I Love You.” Loving this indie rock band from Vancouver!
- Dan Mangan
This indie-rock musician is also Vancouver-based. Don’t you love local artists? Dan Mangan was actually born in a small town called Smithers, BC. At age 20, he completed his first set of recordings and his first EP called “All At Once.” In 2010 and 2011 Dan started collaborating with other Vancouver musicians including the drummer from Mother Mother. He has been invited to perform at many international music festivals in cities and countries all around the world including the UK, Australia, Germany, Croatia, and of course, over 15 in Canada. His music is calming and elegant, with the indie/rock/folk vibe. One of his most popular songs is “Troubled Mind,” released in his album “More Or Less,” in 2018. A couple more well-known songs of his are “Fool For Waiting,” and “In The Aeroplane Over The Sea.” Overall awesome musician.
All five of these artists I’ve listed above are incredible local talent that need some more love! Due to COVID 19 many shows, and concerts have been cancelled, but they still need a way to make a living. Everyone is hoping live music will be allowed back in BC and Canada soon but until then let’s do our part by watching local musician’s live streams, following their social media, subscribing to their YouTube channel, and keeping on top of what they are doing, because you never know when they might surprise you with a tour! Everyone loves some tunes, so let’s make the most of this year and continue to listen to awesome music.