On the affirming “Superpower,” KIRBY and D Smoke make for a dynamic duo. KIRBY’s dreamy melodies and D Smoke’s concise bars give the song an empowering sense of leadership.
Why We Like It: Dende’s “Phone Number” Ft. Chris Patrick, Bairi
“Phone Number” feels like a low light neon-tinged love song but opens a window to lessons Dende has learned about keeping a tight circle. Guest features from Chris Patrick and Bairi make a bright blend of bars and R&B that’s easy to groove to.
Why We Like It: Milla Thyme’s “3 Dimensions”
Milla Thyme takes us to downtown Toronto and shows us around the city in “3 Dimensions.” His groovy flow is easy to settle into and the production is as alive as the city he describes.
Why We Like It: Vallé’s “Prodigy” Ft. John Givez, Sam V
The prodigal son, Vallé, is back to drop off barrels of bars on “Prodigy.” John Givez and Sam V join him as they cut through the competition in spectacular fashion. It’s hip hop on pop rock melodies.
Why We Like It: Dylan Owen’s “A Time To Move On”
Dylan Owen is moving on, and this full-bodied dedication to the home in which he grew is sure to hit you where you live. The keys and drums of “A Time To Move On” are steeped in hometown nostalgia and Owen’s reflections on growth are tied to the memories of growing.
Why We Like It: Mazyn’s “Tokyo Nights”
“Tokyo Nights” is Ottawa based artist Mazyn’s third single he’s ever released, and the third time truly seems like the charm. The bold piano and swirling synths form a natural pocket for his poignant falsetto.
Why We Like It: Thythy’s “Free As A Bird”
Freedom in simplicity. With just a guitar and some subtle vocal layering, Thythy grows wings on “Free As a Bird.” The minimalistic touch closes the gap between singer and listener making the experience intimate and refreshing.
Why We Like It: Hailes’ “Come Thru” Ft. Jonathan Singletary
On her debut single “Come Thru,” Hailes fuses her deft pen, sharp guitar and gorgeous vocal into an intricate arrival. While she sings her way through the floating instrumental, Jonathan Singletary’s bars texturize the flight with a melodic rap verse.
Why We Like It: Charlotte Lansman’s “Blind”
“Blind” is sensuous song steeped in a spacious guitar line and Charlotte Lansman’s own powerhouse vocals, the slow build from barebones to brassy is easy to miss, so gradual is the transition.
Why We Like It: The Spice Cabinet’s “Bittersweet”
A trans-Pacific jazz outfit based in Beijing, The Spice Cabinet has more moving parts than most, but you can hardly tell. “Bittersweet” is a compositional testament to the collaborative power of musicians in the internet age. The track was literally assembled around the world.
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