East Van’s Coolest Kids: Blue Jay Valley

If you won the lottery, would you move out of your neighborhood? For some Vancouverites, that answer depends on which side of Main Street they live on. West of Main? You’ve got your Teslas and yoga studios. But East of Main? That’s where you’ll find graffiti-splattered alleys, bubble tea joints, and community that somehow still feels real.

And that’s where Blue Jay Valley calls home.

Before jumping to the conclusion that this is just another indie band trying to make its mark in the Lower Mainland, here’s something to chew on: every member of Blue Jay Valley is under 12. Yeah—you read that right. Five kids, all from East Van, and already playing fuzzed-out, guitar-heavy rock that would make Green Day proud. They’re proof that you don’t need a mortgage or a driver’s license to have something to say about growing up in the city.

Their latest song, “Living In the City,” doubles as a love letter to Hastings-Sunrise-the band’s backyard and playground. The music video follows them down familiar East Van streets, for some after-school retro vibes. 

Musically, “Living In the City” sounds like the moment you discover your parents’ record collection and realize distortion pedals might actually fix life. It’s got that thick, grunge-inspired groove where the bass rumbles like a freight train, the guitars crash and swirl, and the drums hit hard enough to shake a locker loose. Their influences run deep—Sloan, Green Day, AC/DC, and even the Beach Boys show up in their DNA—but the end result feels fresh, loud, and very East Van.

What really sets Blue Jay Valley apart is their energy. Maybe it’s because they’re still kids, or maybe it’s because they’re writing about what they actually know—bike rides, after-school hangs, and that weird feeling when you realize your neighborhood isn’t like anyone else’s. There’s something authentic, even rebellious, about that.

They’ve already got an EP under their belt (2024’s We Like to Rock, pressed on sky blue vinyl, no less), and their new single “Breakaway” dropped this fall. That they celebrated with a release party at Green Auto Pop Up yesterday, and the buzz is still bouncing around East Van.

So yeah, maybe you’d move if you hit the jackpot—but Blue Jay Valley makes a strong case for sticking around. After all, the city sounds a lot better when you play it loud.

Kerala Dust Takes Over Vancouver

Tonight, Fortune Sound Club is turning into a hypnotic dreamscape as Kerala Dust takes over with their signature blend of smoky vocals, pulsing electronica, and after-hours swagger with their new album An Echo Of Love. It’s the kind of show that doesn’t just pull you onto the dance floor—it keeps you there until you forget what time it is.

Kerala Dust isn’t your typical indie band. Formed in London and now based partly in Berlin, they fuse elements of house, blues, and psychedelic rock into a groove that feels equally suited for headphones and hazy nightclubs. Their sound has this beautiful tension—melancholy melodies drifting over deep, driving beats that tug at something visceral. It’s mood music that moves.

Their live shows have become the stuff of whispered legend—mesmerizing lighting, subtle transitions, and the feeling that the whole room is breathing to the same rhythm. If you’re heading to Fortune tonight, prepare for layered synth textures, guitars smeared in reverb, and moments of silence that hum louder than words. Kerala Dust knows how to build a set that grabs your bones before it even reaches your head.

Fortune Sound Club, with its dim lighting, industrial edges, and intimate atmosphere, couldn’t be a better fit. It’s the ideal place for music that straddles worlds—the digital and the organic, the emotional and the mechanical. By midnight, it’s not going to be a concert anymore; it’ll be a communal drift, a sonic trip stitched together by basslines and shared glances.

Kerala Dust’s performances have been earning praise across Europe and North America for being transportive yet grounded—an electronic act that still feels deeply human. Songs like those from their album “Light, West” capture what makes them stand out: music that’s cool and cerebral but still aches in all the right places. For Vancouver’s indie and alt-electronic scene, this show is one of those rare nights where art-house sound and underground energy collide perfectly.

So, if your night’s looking quiet, do yourself a favour and head to Fortune. Wander in with an open mind, grab something to sip, and let Kerala Dust pull you under. Tonight, the city’s heartbeat is slow, steady, and pulsing through the speakers on East Pender Street.

Last Night, The Pearl Rocked Like It Was 1986

Last night, The Pearl in Vancouver turned back the clock and turned up the amps as Canadian alt-rock icons The Pursuit of Happiness hit the stage. It’s been decades since they first made being “an adult” sound like the ultimate rock confession, but their songs still land with the same punch—funny, real, and full of heart. For fans of raw guitars, sharp wit, and 80s-90s nostalgia, the show felt like a reunion with everything great about Canadian rock.

The Pursuit of Happiness first broke out in 1986 with their debut single “I’m an Adult Now,” a tongue-in-cheek anthem that perfectly captured the confusion of growing up and realizing no one really figures it out. Led by front man Moe Berg, the band quickly became a defining voice in Canada’s alternative scene, mixing clever lyrics with power-pop riffs that stuck in your head for days. They influenced countless up-and-coming Canadian acts who followed their blend of sincerity and sarcasm—finding charm in the awkward chaos of real life.

Last night’s show at The Pearl was pure energy. It was one of those rare gigs that bridged generations—fans who danced to The Pursuit of Happiness on vinyl were shoulder-to-shoulder with newer listeners discovering them through playlists and retro revival tours. The crowd sang along to every word like it was the first time again.

The Pearl’s intimate setup proved to be the perfect home for this kind of show. It had enough room to move but still felt close enough to catch every grin the band shared on stage. If you’ve never been to a TPOH concert, imagine fast guitars, punchy harmonies, and a dose of self-deprecating humor that makes the whole room feel like one big inside joke.

Vancouver’s music scene thrives on nights like that—those that celebrate legacy while keeping the vibe fresh and alive. Between indie newcomers lighting up East Van stages and legends like The Pursuit of Happiness reminding us where it all began, there’s never been a better time to be a live music fan in BC.

So if your Saturday night plans were quiet, you kind of missed out. Nostalgia kicked in hard, and everyone left reminded that growing up is overrated—but great rock and roll never ages.

The 502s take on Vancouver

Tonight, Vancouver gets a shot of pure serotonin as The 502s bring their Easy Street Tour to the Commodore Ballroom, turning an ordinary Friday into a full-blown folk-pop celebration. If you’ve been craving something to lift your November mood, this show might just cure even the most stubborn case of seasonal gloom.

The 502s are a six-piece folk-pop band from Florida known for their high-energy, horn-filled, banjo-laced anthems that sound like sunshine feels. They exploded into global attention after their hit “Just A Little While” went viral on TikTok, earning millions of streams and cementing their reputation for spreading unfiltered happiness. But the truth is, The 502s have been building their joyous sound long before social media found them. Their shows radiate community, spontaneity, and a shared sense of “you had to be there” magic.

Walking into a 502s concert is like stepping into the world’s most upbeat backyard party. From the first note, it’s nothing but good chaos—singalongs, tambourines, laughter, and a level of crowd participation that turns everyone into part of the band. Lead singer Ed Isola has said in interviews that their goal is simple: make people feel good. And judging by the way their fans beam through entire sets, they’re nailing it.

The Commodore Ballroom could not be a better fit for this kind of musical mayhem. Known for its spring-loaded dance floor and legendary energy, it’s almost like the venue was built for nights just like this—sweaty, packed, and impossible not to dance through. Whether you’re a longtime fan or you just discovered them on your “Feel-Good Indie” playlist, tonight’s show promises that carefree, heart-pumping atmosphere that defines the best of live music.

The 502s specialize in songs that sound like freedom—road trips, beach days, and big moments with your favorite people. Their Easy Street Tour captures that spirit perfectly, bringing together fans across all ages who just want to forget the world for a night.

So if you’ve been staring at the rain a little too long this week, grab a ticket, grab a friend, and get ready to dance your way into the weekend. Tonight, Easy Street runs right through the heart of Vancouver.

 

Daniel Wesley and The Boom Booms Perform

Get ready, Vancouver—Hollywood Theatre is about to spark with some serious west coast magic this Friday! Daniel Wesley and The Boom Booms are teaming up for an epic night that’s all about good vibes, killer tunes, and heart-thumping energy. If you’re hooked on the BC alt and indie scene, this is your perfect excuse to let loose and discover two homegrown acts who make every show feel like a summer block party with your best friends.

Here’s the deal: Daniel Wesley is a true staple of our local music world. Whether you first caught his “Outlaw” album back in ’06 or got swept up by the infectious beach groove of his new track “Best Friend,” Wesley brings sunshine and soul to literally every stage he plays. Expect laid-back, singalong rock with a bit of edge—his band kicks off with feel-good hits and carries that easy livin’ vibe all night. And that’s just the start.

Sharing the stage are Vancouver legends The Boom Booms, whose funk, soul, and Latin rhythms pack a punch you’ll feel from the moment the first trumpet blares or the bass drops. Imagine storytelling with a beat you can’t sit down for, and lyrics that’ll have you thinking, “Yup, that’s my life!” These guys know how to bring crowds together, having toured everywhere from Pemberton Fest to Brazil (their “Boom Boom Brazil” doc is wild, by the way) and scooping up five straight “Best Unsigned Band” wins. Their sound is pure energy—and yes, the dance floor will overflow all night.

Why does this show matter for Vancouver? Because Hollywood Theatre is iconic—a place where music history gets written every week—and these two bands are lighting the way for BC’s indie scene. It’s about genuine connection, new friends, and music that makes you want to shout, groove, and remember why you love living here. Daniel Wesley and The Boom Booms together is not just a concert; it’s that feeling when you hear your story in a song—or when the whole crowd sings along and you realize you’re part of something big.​

Pro tip: If you can’t make it, check out their latest videos and social posts (@thedanielwesley and @theboombooms) for all the highlights, backstage moments, and fan stories. 

So, whether you’re hitting the dance floor, catching every lyric, or soaking it all in from the balcony—Friday night at Hollywood Theatre promises epic memories and non-stop, BC-grown talent. Grab your friends, lace up those dancing shoes, and be ready to have your world rocked. This show isn’t a maybe—it’s THE event you’ll be buzzing about all weekend. See you there!

 

The Della Kit

If you’ve been craving some sonic medicine that feeds both your soul and your Spotify playlist, meet The della kit. She’s a BC-based artist who’s been quietly changing the way we experience alternative R&B. She is not your typical “lo-fi beats and candles” vibe. Think neo-soul, stargazing, meditation, and a dash of rebellion, and it is all wrapped in a honey-coated voice that could be as gentle as sunlight breaking through a winter storm.

Born and raised in Vancouver’s creative swirl, The della kit (aka Danielle Hayley Bellas) has built her own little galaxy within the BC music scene. She’s not just a vocalist; she’s a producer, DJ, and self-titled “sound alchemist.” Translation: she doesn’t just make songs—she brews emotion and energy into frequencies where you don’t just hear it—you feel it.

Her debut album, moonbeams + frequencies, hit over a million streams and earned applause from CBC, Range Magazine, and soul legends like Bilal and Grammy-winner Chris Sholar. The record sounds like what would happen if Erykah Badu, Little Dragon, and Hiatus Kaiyote all jammed together on the Sunshine Coast with a pile of synths and herbal tea. It is a cosmic, warm, and real. Just like your best friend giving you life advice mid-dance floor.

Now signed to Birthday Cake Records, her newest project Imma Give A Damn About Me is one of  her boldest yet. The title alone says it all—it is all about reclaiming power, celebrating femininity, and showing up authentically in every frequency you emit. Each track bounces between soulful R&B grooves and meditative soundscapes, filled with buttery Rhodes keys and J Dilla-style drums that pull you into stillness and sway.

The della kit’s live shows are something else. JUNO-winner KALLITECHNIS described her performance as a “transcendence through music and spirit,” and that feels about right. Whether she’s looping harmonies on stage or DJing at a late-night set, she makes space for community, breath, and healing. She’s shared stages with Mos Def, ?uestlove, and Madison McFerrin, yet still feels grounded— just like she could walk off stage and join you for a coffee after.

The BC music scene is having a renaissance, and The della kit is at its heart—genre-fluid, soulful, and unbothered by boundaries. Next time you are  up late hunting for something vibey and meaningful, queue up Imma Give A Damn About Me. You might just catch a little moonbeam of your own.

Eli Hart is BACK

Elli Hart is back and better than ever, and the Lower Mainland is listening. After a five-year pause that included motherhood and a hard look at burnout, the desert-dusk mood of her earlier work has evolved into something sharper, louder, and more intimate. This isn’t just a comeback; it’s a reclamation—a statement that rock can be both raw and relatable, especially when sung with a voice that cuts through a crowded room like a knife.

Hart’s new ten-song album marks a bold turn. Produced by Dave Genn and featuring Pat Stewart and Shaun Verreault, the project tightens the screws on rebellion, resilience, and vulnerability. The production team brings a spectrum of Canadian rock DNA to the table, spanning the glossy edge of Bryan Adams-adjacent sensibilities to the muscular stomp of indie guitars that breathe on the edge of fist-pumping relief. Singles rolling out through 2025 to 2026 tease a journey that’s expansive yet intimate—think wide-open desert skies meeting the scrappy energy of a Vancouver dive bar at midnight.

What to expect from the music: a blend of haunting atmospherics and driving riffs. Hart’s vocal delivery remains absolutely fearless, but it’s tempered by a lived-in maturity that makes the lyrics land with extra weight. Lyrically, she leans into rebellion and resilience without tipping into cliché, turning personal reclamation into a universal anthem for anyone who has ever had to restart a career—especially in the face of burnout and the demanding rhythm of parenthood. There’s a newfound swagger that doesn’t abandon vulnerability; instead, it complements it with smarter, more assertive phrasing and hooks meant to linger after the last note.

Live scene notes: Elli Hart’s return is not just about the studio. In the local circuit, expect intimate club shows across Vancouver and BC halls that dim the lights just enough for the guitar to glow, with a set that intersperses old favorites with new material. It’s that sweet spot where a long break creates excitement, while a polished, contemporary production guarantees a modern punch. Fans can anticipate a live show that balances those high-energy points with a quieter, reflective passage, allowing Hart to navigate the full spectrum of the album’s emotional terrain.

So stay tuned, because the countdown to the Comeback Tour has begun, and us Evolution listeners are in for one wild ride as Hart takes the stage with old favorites and bold new material, proving she’s reclaimed her voice with swagger and heart.

 

Sigur Rós with the Wordless Music Orchestra

Last night, Vancouver got transported somewhere between the clouds and the Northern Lights as Sigur Rós took over the Queen Elizabeth Theatre with the Wordless Music Orchestra. And honestly, there might not be enough words in any language to describe what that means.

If you’ve ever listened to Sigur Rós, you know they don’t just play music—they build worlds. The Icelandic trio has spent decades crafting soundscapes that blur the line between dream and waking life, balancing haunting beauty with earth-shaking emotion. Add a full live orchestra to that, and it stops being a concert—it becomes a total sensory experience. It’s the kind where the room goes quiet, one sustained note fills the air, and you forget to breathe because your heart hasn’t quite caught up with what your ears just heard.

The Queen E is built for moments like these. Its rich acoustics lift Jónsi’s falsetto and let it drift like northern mist across every seat. It’s a rare stage that can hold that much emotion, that much power, without breaking under the weight of it. Last night, indie kids, art rock fans, and classical music lovers all shared that same sacred space, bound by something wordless yet deeply understood.

For those lucky enough to have been there, it must’ve been one of those nights that ends in quiet awe instead of loud applause. And if you couldn’t score a spot in the theatre, do not worry, social media filled up with clips of slow fades, glowing lights, and people wiping their eyes without quite knowing why.

Sigur Rós shows aren’t about the hits, or even the setlist—they’re about presence. About losing yourself for a few hours in sound that feels ancient and brand-new at the same time. It’s the kind of music that doesn’t just fill a venue; it changes the air inside it.

Yesterdays performance was way more than a concert—it was a reminder of what live music can do when it pushes past language and dives straight into emotion. Sometimes the most powerful stories are the ones told without words.

April Wine takes on Vancouver

Tonight, classic rock is rolling into Coquitlam louder than your dad’s vinyl collection as April Wine hits the stage at the Great Canadian Casino Vancouver. The vibe? Pure nostalgia, with a distinctly local edge. Few bands can bridge the gap between rock history and living energy quite like these Canadian legends, who are proving that timeless music doesn’t fade—it just plays louder.

April Wine has been at it since the early 1970s, and they’ve weathered every shift in the rock landscape with style, grit, and guitars turned way past eleven. With hits that have soundtracked everything from small-town parties to arena singalongs, this band knows how to make a night feel big. Tracks like “Sign of the Gypsy Queen” and “I Like to Rock” still hit that perfect mix of power and emotion that reminds fans exactly why they fell in love with rock in the first place.

Tonight’s show promises more than nostalgia—it’s a revival. The Great Canadian Casino’s venue balances intimacy with power: close enough to make eye contact with the band, but big enough to feel the crowd’s energy ripple through the room. Picture denim jackets, beers raised high, and the unmistakable hum of guitar feedback warming up the night. If you’ve been debating grabbing those last-minute tickets, take this as your cue to go. Your streaming playlist can wait—live rock can’t.

And if you’re skipping the concert, you’ll still see the ripple online. Expect fans flooding X and Instagram with grainy-but-glorious videos, wild crowd shots, and the inevitable moment when someone shouts out, “We love you, Halifax!” because, well… it’s April Wine. They’ve carried that East Coast heart across decades and generations, and it still beats loud.

What makes this show stand out is how it fits perfectly into BC’s ever-evolving music scene. Last weekend might’ve been a set of indie dream-pop bands from East Van, and the next one could be a punk blowout at the Rickshaw. But tonight belongs to the classics—the musicians who carved the path everyone else walks.

So wherever you end up, raise a glass of actual wine to one of Canada’s most enduring bands. Tonight, the amps are buzzing, the solos are soaring, and rock and roll is very much alive in Coquitlam.

 

Set It Off Comes to Vancouver

Get ready, Vancouver! Tonight, the legendary Commodore Ballroom is about to light up as Set It Off hits the stage for their Self Titled Tour — and yes, it’s going to be totally epic. If you’ve never seen Set It Off live, you’re in for a wild ride of insane energy blended with killer alternative rock vibes. 

So, here’s the deal: Set It Off isn’t your average band. Front man Cody Carson and his crew mix pop, punk, and some seriously dramatic storytelling that hits home with anything from heartbreak to self-empowerment. Fun fact: Cody is super into turning song titles into stories. Like their hit “Skeleton” for example, started from just a chord progression named literally after a skeleton, and boom—instant inspiration struck! They craft albums that are not just music but entire worlds to dive into if you want to get deep or just jam out and party.

For those who dig the indie and alt scene in BC, Set It Off is exactly the kind of band that bridges the gap between new sounds and classic rock heart. Their shows are packed with contagious energy—think jumping around, singing your lungs out, and catching moments that’ll make you smile or scream along. And, this tour? It’s stacked with other cool acts like Fame on Fire, Vana, and The Pretty Wild, so the whole night is a treasure trove for all of the music lovers.

Here’s why this gig is a big deal for Vancouver’s music lovers: the Commodore Ballroom is iconic, and Set It Off’s theatrical flair will turn tonight’s show into a vibrant, colorful eruption of vibes you don’t want to miss. Plus, the band is big on connecting with fans through social media and videos, so even if you can’t make it, checking out their latest YouTube stuff or X (Twitter) posts will get you hyped.

So, put on your comfiest dancing shoes, grab your friends, and get ready to sing every word because Set It Off tonight is about more than just music—it’s an experience. And if you can’t get enough, they even have their own podcast called “Talk It Off.” So once that post concert depression hits I’d go take a listen to it.

Let’s just say, Set It Off + Vancouver + tonight = a night to remember. Don’t sleep on this show—it’s what the BC alt music scene is all about.