Win Tickets to Ciel Noir Featuring Codeine, Duster, Pelada, Model/Actriz & Snow Strippers

All your favourite bands, in the same place? For free? 

You heard us right. We know you've been eyeing Ciel Noir tickets for a minute now, and we've got you. The lineup is expertly curated, and feels like it's straight from our Spotify algorithms, featuring everything from slowcore to 2006 adjacent electronic music.

We've partnered with Ciel Noir and Blue Skies Turn Black and are giving away two tickets to the event! 

RULES:

Follow @alsocolmag & @cielnoirmtl on IG

Repost this post to your story & tag us @alsocoolmag

Winners will be announced on March 25th, bonne chance!

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In the meantime, get to know the bands. We've put together a sampler playlist to get you in the mood.

Ciel Noir is a series of special events produced by Blue Skies Turn Black. This edition features lowcore legends Duster and Codeine for rare Canadian appearances and some of the most exciting acts straddling the lines between electronica, post-punk, hyperpop, and techno with Snow Strippers, Model/Actriz and Pelada. 

Duster

Duster is a reclusive, experimental electronic slowcore band from California. They have been around for a long time. 

Snow Strippers

Snow Strippers is an electronic music duo formed by Graham Perez and Tatiana Schwaninger based in Detroit, Michigan. The duo seems to have time-travelled to 2008 in reminiscence of Crystal Castles, placing the duo squarely in the electronic underground's resurgence. 

Codeine

Codeine is an American indie rock/slowcore band formed in 1989 by Stephen Immerwahr (vocal/bass), Chris Brokaw (drums), and John Engle (guitar). The band pioneered the slowcore and sadcore subgenres of indie rock but with a more experimental attitude. 

MODEL/ACTRIZ

Model/Actriz is an American rock band whose music has been described as visceral post-punk. Its music features a pulsing blend of danceable noise and a live performance that mirrors the way its records unravel. The band is an experiment in the primal aspects of human experience.

PELADA

Pelada, the duo of singer Chris Vargas and producer Tobias Rochman, broke out of Montreal's underground warehouse rave scene in 2014 after uploading tracks to Soundcloud, which caught the attention of the global dance music scene. Their collaboration is a blend of urgent Spanish language vocals centred around power, control, and social justice themes with hardware samplers, synths and drum machines. 

Ciel Noir I Blue Skies Turn Black

Tickets

Malaika Astorga is the Co-Founder & Creative Director of Also Cool. She is a Mexican-Canadian visual artist, writer, and social media strategist currently based in Montreal.

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The Dandy Warhols Go The Distance at Le Studio TD

The Dandy Warhols’ setup at Le Studio TD

2024 marks 30 years of The Dandy Warhols. The Portland psych-rock group have achieved a truly remarkable feat, with 11 studio albums and two compilations thrown into the mix. But with such a legacy comes the responsibility to uphold it, which poses its own challenges; many musicians hide behind the enduring glow of their greatest hits, while others grasp so tightly onto the notion of reinvention that it slips through their fingers. Where do the Dandy Warhols go from here? 

Last night at Le Studio TD, they attempted to chart this very course. Montreal marked the halfway point of The Dandy Warhols’ Spring 2024 tour, with this stop falling just days before the release of their twelfth record ROCKMAKER. An occasion full of promise for the Dandys and their devotees – and one that fortunately (mainly) delivered.

The Dandy Warhols capitalized on a roaring welcome by settling nicely into “Ride,” dousing the audience with a sea of shoegaze. Keyboardist/percussionist Zia McCabe commanded the stage all night, handling multiple instruments with ease as her auburn hair billowed in the air. Moving through the ROCKMAKER single “I’d Like To Help You With Your Problem” and synth-disco smasher “We Used To Be Friends” felt similarly organic.

Zia McCabe of The Dandy Warhols

Zia McCabe of The Dandy Warhols

Despite the heavy fluorescent haze, the middle of the set is where things hit a slump. For something that boasts such a distinctive distortion, new tune “Danzig with Myself” (a Frank Black collab) felt lost in the shuffle. A string of Dandy classics seemed to melt into each other, though fans who prefer the band at their breeziest may not have minded. I was grateful for the jolt of B-52’s-esque “The Summer of Hate” and the clarity of “The Last High” to lift the spell. At least Courtney Taylor-Taylor’s obligatory French quips proved charming to the crowd, with the lead vocalist joking that he was working his way up to “chewing out a waiter.” Priorities!

Judging by the resounding reaction, it was the seething bite of “Godless” that brought the Dandy Warhols back to where they needed to be. Just in time, too, for the sticky-sweet “Bohemian Like You” deserved such respect. (I am a Gen-Z music writer – I would be remiss if I did not attach great significance to the soundtracks of DreamWorks Animation films.)

Brent DeBoer and Courtney Taylor-Taylor of The Dandy Warhols

17 songs later, many fans would have been content to keep going, but McCabe drew the night to a close on her MS-20. “Let’s not wait so long,” urged McCabe, offering “je t’aime” before she departed the stage. While several people scattered around to try and find Taylor-Taylor’s guitar pick, other groups could be heard eagerly speculating on ROCKMAKER’s sound. 30 years have come and gone, but the Dandy Warhols continue to juggle an illustrious catalogue with that trademark satirical spark.

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The Dandy Warhols

Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

Rebecca Judd is the features editor of Also Cool Mag.

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What's Cool at Taverne Tour 2024

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It goes without saying that Taverne Tour is our go-to fest for thawing the wintertime slump. In line with years past, the 7th edition of the Montreal music festival is packed from brim to brim with stellar inter-genre programming, highlighting artists from the city’s local music scene and beyond. On this weekend from February 8th-10th, here is our list of must-see acts from the festival’s lineup. Read along while jamming to our offical Taverne Tour playlist below.

Full disclosure: Some shows have already sold out — we hope you scored your tickets in time!

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Ben Shemie via Taverne Tour

Montreal’s Ben Shemie—known as lead vocalist and guitarist of art rock outfit SUUNS—moonlights with his experimental solo pursuits. Playing on his classical compositional training, Shemie dabbles in astral string arrangements, frenzied, yet melodic, feedback loops and contorted vocals in his latest avant-pop feat. 

Shemie plays La Sala Rossa Thursday, February 8th.

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DahL via Taverne Tour

With their forthcoming album That’s It in the works for March, Montreal’s DahL has perked up our ears with their savvy splicing of trip hop know-how, post-punk textures and arresting flow. The project is the brainchild of Nassir Liselle and Purplefield, who have joined forces with long-time collaborator and producer William Winston on synthesizers and Edward Scrimger on drums for an unparalleled live performance. 

DahL plays La Sala Rossa on Saturday, February 10th. 

Tickets are sold out!

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Daniel Romano’s Outfit via Taverne Tour

Daniel Romano’s Outfit is road tripping once again in anticipation of their next release, Too Hot To Sleep, arriving March 1st on You’ve Changed Records. Sporting power pop sensibility on Too Hot’s first two offerings—“Field of Ruins” and “Chatter”—we’re keen to experience the Welland, Ontario group’s newfound spunk alongside their longtime country flare. 

Daniel Romano’s Outfit plays La Sotterenea on Saturday, February 10th. 

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Marie Davidson via Taverne Tour

Reigning queen of Montreal’s clubscape, Marie Davidson, made an impressionable comeback performance at M For Montreal this past fall. The local electronic music producer, singer, songwriter and poet floored the audience with her coy stage presence and enthralling beats. Knowing that we’d accept a taste, but are eager for more, Davidson’s appearance at Taverne Tour is sure to bring the house down. 

Marie Davidson plays Le Belmont on Saturday, February 10th. 

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Pantayo via Taverne Tour

Toronto ensemble Pantayo promises to entrance audiences with its harmonious dialog of kulintang, electronica and indie pop. Combining traditional Filipino music with contemporary influences and experiential sounds, the queer, diasporic Filipinx quintet inspire mesmerizing, powerful and grooving atmospheres through collaborative percussive magic.

Pantayo plays Le Ministère on Friday, February 9th.

Tickets are sold out!

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Safia Nolin via Taverne Tour

Revered Quebec City singer-songwriter Safia Nolin is a breath of fresh air amidst our heavier Taverne Tour selections. Strumming with tenderness, Nolin’s stilling voice is like a reverie paired with her uncluttered, frank acoustic compositions. Nolin’s recent EP ET SI, DE/main l’oiseau chills with its poignant dexterity — charting fragility and renewal all at once. 

Safia Nolin plays Le Quai des Brumes Thursday, February 8th. 

Tickets are sold out! 

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Slash Need via Taverne Tour

Our standing review of Toronto’s Slash Need is that we would gladly let them step on us. The duo’s floorboard-thumbing crossover of industrial punk and performance art is always a treat. For seduction, camp, leather, lace and hounding instrumentals, look no further than this spectacle of daring debauchery.

Slash Need plays Le Ministère Thursday, February 8th. 

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Sun Entire via Taverne Tour

Sun Entire is a three piece shoegaze outfit made up of Montrealers June Moon, Nico Serrus and Ivan Urueña. Hot on the heels of their debut LP Fit To Break, the band intrigues with their honeyed sound — awash with 90s-tinged, luminous whimsy.

Sun Entire plays L’Escogriffe on Thursday, February 8th. 

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Sweeping Promises via Taverne Tour

All the way from Lawrence, Kansas, post-punk pair Sweeping Promises charms with their playful take on raw angularity. The band’s 2023 LP Good Living is Coming For You inspires shoulder shimmying from back to front, complete with surfy bass riffs, vintage synths and Devo-esque vocals. 

Sweeping Promises plays La Sala Rossa Friday, February 9th.

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Roost.World via Taverne Tour

Fall into a dark wave rabbit hole at our Taverne Tour co-pro with Burlington, Vermont synth troopers Roost.World. Shake the week’s edge off with the Roost.World’s intergalactic goth rhythms, and introspective sets from special guests Lola 1:2 and Marontate.

Join us at Casa Del Popolo on Friday, February 9th!

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Taverne Tour

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What's Cool at M For Montreal 2023

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What better way to curb the effects of daylight savings than a weekend of music? The wide-ranging curation of the M For Montreal music festival returns from November 15th-18th, 2023. Offering exceptional programming from two distinctive lineups, the shows from the festival’s Official Selection are available exclusively to festival delegates and pro pass holders, while the Marathon bills are open to music fans alike. Discover Also Cool’s M For Montreal top picks in the highlight below, featuring never-before-seen artists for the mag to keep on your listening radar. Also Cool’s official M For Montreal playlist will be updated with more must-see acts in the week leading up to the festival.

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Cartel Madras via Bandcamp

Marathon

Calgary-raised, Chennai-born Cartel Madras promises to stir a fervent atmosphere. The Desi experimental hip hop duo, composed of sisters Eboshi and Contra, commands audiences with their explosive blend of trap, punk, house and South Indian aesthetics - a genre they’ve coined as “Goonda rap.” For bold flows and anthems of resistance, hit Sala Rossa for the Consequence showcase on Saturday, November 18th.

Cartel Madras at M For Montreal

Alix Fernz via Instagram

Marathon

Sainte-Thérèse expat Alix Fernz (AKA Blood Skin Atopic) is the latest mistfit darling of Montreal indie label Mothland. Thriving in the allure of mischievous freak-pop, Fernz’s debut single “Wax” intrigues with its tightroping of post-punk and synthwave. Fernz plays alongside Hippie Hourah, presented by Simone Records, at Ausgang Plaza on Saturday, November 18th.

Alix Fernz at M For Montreal

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Blesse by Gaëlle Leroyer

Official Selection

blesse is the sonic renaissance of former Zen Bamboo members Léo Leblanc, Charles-Antoine Olivier, and Xavier Touikan. Hot off the arrival of their debut album normal (Simone Records), the Montreal trio recently rocked Festival De Musique Émergente and Le Phoque Off with their distinctive garage-meets-hyperpop flare. See what all the fuss is about on Thursday, November 16th at Quai des Brumes.

blesse at M For Montreal

Heaven For Real by Beatrice Scharf-Pierzchala

Marathon* (available to pro and festival pass holders)

Quaint Toronto-via-Halifax art rock outfit Heaven For Real is the brain child of twins Mark and J. Scott Grundy. Between jangly rhythms and playful musings on every day life, the group has endeared audiences with their breezy, yet contemplative, songwriting for over a decade. Embrace the warm and fuzzies at their M gig, presented by The Current, at Café Cléopâtre on Saturday, November 18th.

Heaven For Real at M For Montreal

Poolblood by Kate Killet

Marathon* (available to pro and festival pass holders)

Polaris long-lister poolblood—the nom-de-plum of Toronto singer-songwriter Maryam Said—has made a splash with their full-length debut mole (Next Door records). Recorded entirely analog, poolblood’s mole is a tender, lush collection of bedroom-folk introspections. For a moment of poignant stillness, catch them alongside Heaven For Real at Café Cléopâtre on Saturday, November 18th.

poolblood at M For Montreal

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M For Montreal

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Ten Seasons of Pique – Ottawa's Finest Multidisciplinary Festival (Debaser)

Pique at Arts Court in downtown Ottawa

Last Saturday night, Pique returned to Ottawa’s Arts Court for a triumphant fall edition.

Produced by the renowned arts organization Debaser, Pique has built something of a cult following across the National Capital Region. Each chapter of the underground music and arts festival has seemingly hypnotized audiences, showcasing dynamic rosters of programming across seven stages while maintaining a humble, community-oriented atmosphere. With this most recent iteration of Pique, which marked its milestone tenth edition, this appears to have still rung true.

Dorothea Paas performing on the Terrace stage

The first standout set of the evening was Dorothea Paas, who performed an intimate outdoor set on the Terrace stage. Her chilling vocals and ruminative lyrics, reminiscent of artists like Weyes Blood and Phil Elverum, brought the crowd to a standstill. It was a pleasure to see her return to the Terrace as part of the Marker Starling ensemble, fronted by acclaimed musician Chris A. Cummings. Known for his signature funk and ample Wurlitzer backings, Cummings delivered a soft rock summer sendoff to a delighted audience.

Syana performing in the Alma Duncan Salon

The Alma Duncan Salon hosted luscious techno treats, emerging as the other top stage of the evening. DJ Don’t Trust Ryan drew in an incredible crowd with his magnetic blends of Y2K pop and frenzied electronica. Multidisciplinary artist Syana kept up the momentum, commanding the room with tracks from her album 19 Years of Rage alongside surprise guest Mossy Mugler. Illuminated by Dayglo patterns of all shapes and sizes, the dance floor remained packed with festival-goers for most of the night.

The Ottawa arts scene—the Canadian arts scene!—awaits this festival with bated breath, and for good reason. As Pique continues to outdo its promising reputation, it is difficult not to dream of the next one before fully savouring the last. Its inclusive atmosphere and curatorial boundlessness will be beloved for seasons to come.

Pique event poster by Ajeeb Sir

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Pique

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Debaser

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What's Also Cool at FME 2023

FME’s full schedule

As August comes to a close, we’re counting down the sleeps until the most glorious festival of the year… FME. The Festival de Musique Émergente returns to Abitibi-Témiscamingue this weekend! 

Featuring 81 artists, this four-day frenzy offers entrancing programming for music lovers from every pocket of the country. We couldn’t be happier to take part in the 21st edition of the festival. Whether you need some help planning your itinerary or you’re looking to shake up your playlists, we’ve got you covered with our top picks!

THURSDAY

N NAO by Naomie de Lorimier and Charles Marsolais-Ricard

N NAO

We had the pleasure of witnessing N NAO opening for P'tit Belliveau a few months back, and it was nothing short of the most ethereal goblin mode music we’ve heard in a while. Generally leaning more towards shoegaze fairy-pop, N NAO brings her dreamy world to life through her strange and wonderful compositions.

Pressure Pin via Taverne Tour

Pressure Pin

High-strung and minimally angular, art-punk group Pressure Pin are sure to hit the grounds of FME with a bang. Originally a pandemic-born solo project of multi-instrumentalist Kenny Smith, the project has since expanded to a full band operation. For fans of Devo, NOV3L, and Eastern Canadian post-punk.

Yocto via Bandcamp

Yocto

Yocto is one of Montreal’s supergroups, and legendary bands emerging from the Esco-Quai Des Brumes-Rockette Bermuda triangle. Inspired by the underground rock of the mid-70s (think Television and the Talking Heads), they credit their creativity to the sci-fi soap operas of the same era.

FRIDAY

Elisapie by Leeor Wild

Elisapie

The ethereal Inuk singer-songwriter Elisapie is set to take the stage in Rouyn-Noranda. Elisapie’s performance comes just weeks away from her release of Inuktitut, a cover album featuring selections from artists like Blondie and Queen that will pay homage to her youth in Nunavik.

Fraud Perry by Alex Apostolidis

Fraud Perry

With an exceptional knack for melding genres, rapper-singer-songwriter Fraud Perry has set her sights on Rouyn-Noranda. Prepare to be charmed by the Montreal artist’s fiery delivery and dance-ready beats.

La Sécurité by Aabid Youssef

La Sécurité

As steadfast fans of Montreal art-punkers La Sécurité, there was no question in our minds about proclaiming them a top pick. Their frenetic arrangements and provocative lyrics make for captivating live performances that are guaranteed to please.

Nora Kelly by Gabie Che

Nora Kelly Band

Previously known for her success at the helm of Montreal punk trio DISHPIT, Nora Kelly has hit a compelling stride with her shift to alt-country. With sickly-sweet vocals and atmospheric instrumentation, Nora Kelly Band offers the perfect complement to fading summer skies.

SATURDAY

Les Louanges by Sacha Cohen

Les Louanges

The poignant lyricism and signature funk of singer-songwriter Les Louanges (also known as Vincent Roberge) are not to be missed. Known for his charming melange of R&B and jazz, the artist has transfixed audiences from Quebec and back again.

Night Lunch via Bandcamp

Night Lunch

Night Lunch are bringing the 80s to Abitibi for their 5 à 7 performance at Les Mooses. Known as light-and-dark pop rockers, Night Lunch sing of the vices of the big city, big romance, and anarchist fantasy. We saw them open for LUCY (Cooper B. Handy), and can confirm that their show is not to be missed.

Truckviolence and Jodie Jodie Roger via FME

Truckviolence and Jodie Jodie Roger

If you’re in the mood for something loud and rowdy, the fin de soirée show at Cabaret de la Dernière Chance will give you the fix you need. Jodie Jodie Roger will kick off the show with her metal-infused punk energy, followed by Truckviolence’s gloomy hardcore sound. Bring your earplugs and get ready to get sweaty.

SUNDAY

Knitting by Alex Apostolidis

Knitting

Bounce around the last day of the festival with Knitting, an indie bedroom pop/rock group from Montreal. By choosing knitting as a metaphor, the band aims to enhance the relaxed, artisanal side of the business. Sit back, relax, but also maybe get up and dance.

SAMWOY via sam-woy.com

SAMWOY

Closing out the festival, SAMWOY comes to rock the cabin with dark hues, on assaults of guitar, sharp synths and cavernous voices, as it should be. Inspired by Division, Bauhaus and Iggy Pop, it’ll be a perfect show to end the weekend.

We can’t wait to run from show to show at FME! Keep an eye on our socials to catch our daily live coverage of our favourite small-town festival.

Get your tickets below if you haven’t already, and as always, we’ll see you in the pit.

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FME

Tickets
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Interview: The Return of Montreal's Suoni Per Il Popolo is an Intergenerational Celebration of Musical Escape

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Suoni Per Il Popolo 2023 poster

Montreal’s world-renowned experimental music and art festival, Suoni Per Il Popolo, returns from June 1st to 23rd, 2023. The 23rd edition of the festival plans to animate the city’s beloved venues as a homecoming for music-makers, composers and the sonically curious. From the festival’s Plateau-bound nebulous and beyond, festival goers can expect a profusion of over fifty intimate concerts from local, national and international artists, and genre-defying programming spanning free jazz, avant-rock, noise/post-punk, avant-folk, afro-futurism and more. Along with concerts, the festival features sonic meditations, exhibitions, screenings, comedy shows, parties and a street fair. 

In anticipation of this year’s festival launch, we caught up with Kiva Stimac, Suoni Per Il Popolo’s co-founder and co-owner of Casa del Popolo and Sala Rossa. 

On this year’s edition, Stimac reiterates the significance of Suoni’s avant-garde programming as a means of community restoration: 

“With regards to anything in arts presentation right now, we have to consider the power and importance of music and creativity in healing from the turmoil of this global pandemic. What I’ve always looked for in experimentation and play is the questioning and liberation that you get from not only being a musician, but an audience member as well.”

Along with fellow festival co-founder and business partner Mauro Pezzente (Godspeed You! Black Emperor), Stimac established Casa del Popolo and Sala Rossa, two pillar venues in Montreal’s music scene. Acting as the festival’s homebase since its foundation, Stimac says their atmosphere brings Suoni’s values to life.

“As venues and as places, it has always been really important that we serve food and drink that is delicious and that when artists come, we provide them with a good stage and good lighting…and somewhere to stay in a really familial way! [Pezzente] is a musician and I’m a chef and a visual artist, so our model is based on both of us being artists and wanting to invite artists that we love to our home to celebrate and create with us.” 

While Suoni has expanded since its humble beginnings of “beer sales and selling sandwiches,” its DIY ‘til death mentality remains, with all of the festival operations continuing to happen behind the scenes at Casa and Sala on St Laurent boulevard. Likewise, the project continues to be funded by grants and unique collaborations, which Stimac feels fuels, rather than limits, Suoni’s spirit year after year.

“Though we have a limited budget, it forces us to look for money in other ways for special projects to do with artists. Like grants to fund local and international artists coming together to create a project,” identifies Stimac. “For example, this year we’re doing a deep listening sound walk with Pauline Oliveros’ life partner, IONE. It’ll be led by Ayelet Gottlieb, an Israeli-Canadian deep listening practitioner and vocalist,” she adds. “This makes it so there’s a multitude of ways you can experience the festival: You could go to a free meditation, a film screening, or a deep listening mountain walk, and then come to a performance.”

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Suoni Per Il Popolo 2023 poster

Of course, Suoni’s “by artists, for artists” grit has also willed its vibrant and off-beat curation. This has set the festival apart since day one, making it the premiere event for testing boundaries through music. At the same time, Stimac and her team’s willingness to take creative risks with their programming set an interesting precedent for Montreal, which hasn’t always been the hub for out-of-town acts we know today. 

“When Casa del Popolo opened in 2000, a lot of artists were actually skipping Montreal on their tour routes,” she articulates. “So, people would play Toronto… and they would play Boston… And eventually, [my partner] Pezzente reached out to his agent, who was managing a bunch of cool artists at the time, and was like, ‘Why aren’t these bands coming to Montreal? Why don’t we try having them come to Montreal?’”  

From this phone call, Stimac and Pezzente went on to put together their first show with Scottish indie rock group Arab Strap at the newly opened Casa del Popolo. To their surprise, it sold out in 10 minutes.

“From that show and eventually starting to program at Sala Rossa across the street, we realized there was a demand for international touring artists here. Another major incentive [to book these acts], especially in the experimental and avant-garde worlds, was to invite them to Montreal in the first place.”

This effort has remained integral to Suoni’s raison d’être, and a way for communities, both local and international, to work together and “transgress the physical space” through creative innovation, according to Stimac. 

While the definitions of experimental and avant-garde have evolved throughout the years, Stimac maintains that Suoni attendees can still anticipate generations coming together to appreciate underground and outsider art.

“The size of our rooms limit you to new and up-and-coming artists, or unheralded elders at the end of their careers. This year, we have three different groups performing who are in their eighties—and on the other end of the spectrum—local groups in their twenties performing and a piano recital for young kids who are just starting out. Inviting all ages has always been important to me because you can see the trajectory of their career, and that is impactful to so many.”

Likewise, the intergenerational aspect of the festival remains integral for Stimac, due to the universally transformative power of music. 

“The release of listening to or making music can really heal trauma, and that’s the music I’m drawn towards. Whether it be the free jazz of my dad’s generation or the punk rock music of my generation… Music is made for liberation,” she explains. “My vision for the festival has always been challenging revolutionary good times.” 

Expand your listening palette and attend this year’s edition of Suoni Per Il Popolo. The festival kicks off June 1st at Casa del Popolo. Tickets are available online below. Follow Also Cool on socials for more festival updates and coverage in the coming weeks. 

Festival Information

Artists | Schedule | Tickets

Suoni Per Il Popolo

Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter (she/her) is the co-founder and managing editor of Also Cool Mag. Aside from the mag, she is a music promoter & booker, and a radio host & DJ.

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3 Queer Happenings: Cosmic Drag-Pop Double Feature Review

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Photo by Emm Pics You

Last month, Montreal, arts interculturels (MAI) transformed their gallery space to be the thrust stage of our dreams for 3 Queer Happenings: Cosmic Drag-Pop Double Feature and we haven’t been able to stop thinking about the cosmic duo BiG SiSSY & Bijuriya.

The two drag artists and musicians came together for two sets of live music featuring their original songs, collabs, and cosmic covers as part of the greater series.

Starting off the evening was Bijuriya, inspired by her South Asian heritage and appreciated for her proud, festive, wacky, and critical outlook on Bollywood and other elements of Desi culture.

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Photo by Emm Pics You

Her performance brought us through many different emotional moments. She began with her melancholic baroque opera piece Cold Genius Aria, composed by Henry Purcell, to having the audience laughing hysterically through her throwback original song “Les bouchées doubles”.

Bijuriya closed the performance off with a magical piece called “Geeta”, written from the perspective of Geeta Dutt, one of her favourite Indian singers from the ‘50s and ‘60s film industry. Geeta’s husband was a filmmaker and had cast another woman in Geeta-like roles while having Geeta sing for the character. Allegedly, there was a love triangle between the two of them and this other woman — a story that has since inspired this beautiful piece by Bijuriya to give Geeta her voice back.

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Photo by Emm Pics You

Popping-in for a duet with Bijuriya in the first act—and dominating the second act with her witchy prowess—was BiG SiSSY, a favourite of Also Cool. BiG SiSSY is a drag/performance artist, vocalist, and producer who makes pro-Black, pro-sex, and beat-driven music. Mixing post-disco beat machines and electro-clash looped guitar riffs, SiSSY's subversive lyrics are drenched in Afro-futurism, humour, and blunt honesty.

The performance started out with some classics, contextualizing BiG SiSSY as an alien from the fictional “Black Starr Planet”. The songs are stars of her upcoming EP release Black Star, including the song “Black Supremacist”: “Whiteness will be your demise / Salvation lies between my thighs… / She was a Black Supremacist / The worst, reverse-racist queen.”

BiG SiSSY dazzled with her signature green glowing hair and stellar vocals.

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Photo by Emm Pics You

The duo collaborated on two songs throughout the eve. There was one original by Bijuriya called “Problematic Fantasy”, which was an ode to the objectification of men whose morals/existence are objectionable (hilarious), as well as a cover of Jamiroquai’s “Virtual Insanity”.

A highlight of the performance was when BiG SiSSY asked for a volunteer from the audience. A very enthusiastic volunteer raised their hand; she then deemed them “Cilantro”, and reminded everyone that it was Black History Month and Cilantro would be bringing around a hat for the audience to fill with their cash.

The lighting and costumes were beautiful – the stage at the MAI really elevated the performances, and made sure audience members were soaked in red for one of BiG SiSSY’s climactic pieces: “The Period Song”. After this performance, BiG SiSSY and her assistant blasted red party-poppers out into the audience as we all shouted “free bleed”.

The show ended with BiG SiSSY’s latest release “Cake”, featuring BACKXWASH (another Also Cool favourite), where she wants to “have [her] cake and eat it too.” You’ll have to listen to the lyrics for that one to get the full picture…

To experience the fun for yourself, join us at the BiG SiSSY EP release on April 6th. We’re also looking forward to seeing Bijuriya again quite soon – stay tuned!

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BiG SiSSY

Black Starr EP out on all platforms April 6

Instagram | Bandcamp | Website

Bijuriya

Bijuriya Chamke out now

Instagram | Bandcamp

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Also Cool Presents: NO WAVES, Whoredrobe, Beamskii, 1800pastamoney, Mayalabae and Corinita

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Poster by Vasco Cavalheiro

Though flooding dancefloors in spring attire may be hard to imagine in midst of this week’s major snow dump, we’re asking you to save the date—and potentially bear the cold—for our next show! We promise, it’ll be well worth your while.

On Thursday, March 30th, hit Bar le Ritz to experience both the gig and the rave in true Also Cool fashion. Open the pit with surf punk trio NO WAVES, taking the stage with fishnet-tearing hardcore ensemble Whoredrobe, followed by a deepcut dance party led by DJs Beamskii, 1800pastamoney, Mayalabae and Corinita,

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Also Cool presents: NO WAVES, Whoredrobe, Beamskii, 1800pastamoney, Mayalabae and Coronita at Bar le Ritz

Thursday, March 30th, 2023

Doors — 7:30PM | Show — 8:30PM | 18+

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In a recent interview, NO WAVES is described by Also Cool contributor Uma Nardone as:

Maybe a kaleidoscope of indie sleaze, where Blink-182 and Surf Curse intersect? Their sets radiate a joyousness and respect that's rare in the industry. They want to be there as much as the audience does, and it shows. 

Joining the bill is up-and-coming hardcore band Whoredrobe. “Never taking themselves too seriously,” Whoredrobe uses riot grrl, punk and metal influences combined with humour and irony to create music that is uniquely their own.

Get ready to mosh, dance and let loose at our punk show-turned-after at Bar le Ritz! Save the date and see you on March 30th.

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Also Cool Presents: Frankie Rose & Chiara Savasta at Taverne Tour on Feb 11th

It may be the coldest month of the year, but Taverne Tour is hitting the streets of Montreal this weekend to warm us up with too many good shows to count. 

We're excited to co-promote a Taverne Tour show of our own featuring Frankie Rose and Chiara Savasta at Casa del Popolo on February 11th. Almost all of the Also Cool core team will be in town, and we'd love to see you!

Get your tickets here. 

Taverne Tour will be taking over the many bars and music venues of Avenue du Mont-Royal, Boulevard St-Laurent and Rue St-Denis, and present the very best music from Montréal and abroad. Headliners include of Montreal, Lydia Lunch Retrovirus, BACKXWASH, The King Khan & BBQ Show, and Choses Sauvages.

The lineup also includes a ton of Also Cool forever favs, including Piss for Pumpkin, Laura Krieg, NO WAVES, Yoo Doo Right, La Sécurité, Boyhood, and SO many more. 

Good luck in the cold, we'll see you in the pit!

Taverne Tour

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Kickdrum & Also Cool present: Late Nite Laundry, Sophie Ogilvie & Lucy's Delirium at La Sotterrenea

Our favourite Chicago psychedelic soul band Late Nite Laundry is coming to Montreal, and we're happy to be co-presenting their show on February 12th at La Sotterrenea alongside Kickdrum. We recently interviewed the band about their self-titled EP,  Late Nite Laundry (released via Acrophase Records), which you can read here.

Late Nite Laundry will be joined by Sophie Ogilvie (feat. members of Helen Paradise and Bodywash) and Lucy's Delirium, who played our holiday charity event for the Mile End Mission. 

Sophie Ogilvie is a singer and songwriter based in Montréal, Quebec. Approaching songwriting with the confessional lyricism of folk and an indie rock penchant for pop song structures, Ogilvie's sound is set apart by her deft command of the voice. Ogilvie has performed in Montreal's synth-pop and indie-rock scenes with the band Helen Paradise, with whom she recorded their External World EP (2021). On her upcoming EP Coming Up, Crocus, Ogilvie uses both electronic and acoustic instrumentation, borrowing from downtempo, singer-songwriter, and R&B genres. 

Lucy's Delirium is an alternative rock band from Montreal, made up of members Addie, Franky, Lila and Hanak. They want to dance, jump, cry and yell with the audience while keeping the scene open and inclusive. They'll be releasing music this year and can't wait to scream on stage.

Portes/Doors – 20h30 I Spectacle/Show – 21h I $12 adv / $15 door

***Nobody will be turned away for lack of funds***

Tickets

*** ACCESSIBILITÉ / ACCESSIBILITY ***

Le lieu est appelé La Sotterrenea, situé dans le sous-sol de La Sala Rossa (4848 St. Laurent Blvd.). Des escaliers sont nécessaires pour se rendre au lieu. Il n’y a pas d’ascenseur.

The venue is called La Sotterenea, located in the basement of La Sala Rossa (4848 St. Laurent Blvd.). Stairs are required to get to the venue. There is no elevator.

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Enter Palingenesis: A Night of Independent, Genre-Defying Creative Expression

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To start off 2023, we’re unveiling the lineup of Palingenesis: a night of independent, genre-defying musical performances and multimedia installations animating multiple levels of church-turned-event space allsaints – 330 Laurier Avenue East, on Saturday, January 21st, from 7:00PM-2:00AM in Ottawa. Presented by Congrego in collaboration with Also Cool and Debaser, Palingenesis brings together cutting-edge talent evading the cultural mainstream from the curators’ hometown scene and beyond, including musical acts Pony Girl, Fraud Perry, Treus Jones, Crasher, Lesser Evil, maxime., DJ TRINIDADDY, Dimitri Georgaras and DJ Russ Plus, accompanied by works from local artists SLVR, Cheru Pompey and Andrew Doxtater.

Advance tickets are available for purchase here. Limited quantities available at the door. 

Excited? Us too. Save the date and meet the Palingenesis musical guests below and get ready for the hottest event of the season (on the coldest day of the year)!

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Pony Girl

Pony Girl are masters of artpop, invigorating stages with a prismatic sound that’s all their own. Hailed for their “evocative soundscapes” (CBC Radio), “ability to push the boundaries that define pop-rock” (Mixtape Magazine), and “musical depth quite astonishing to experience in person” (Exclaim!), Pony Girl is a rare gem worth uncovering.

Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

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Fraud Perry

“Fraud Perry is a vibe, a don't take shit type. Emerged from her chrysalis to ride a beat like a dick type...”

Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify | SoundCloud

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Treus Jones

Instagram | Spotify | SoundCloud

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Crasher

“Crasher is a new three-piece electronic punk band fronted by Airick Asher Woodhead (Doldrums, errhead). Crasher formed during COVID while ‘bubbling’ in a shared jam space, and recorded the tape Street Cleaning Machines of the World, which released in spring 2021. They performed it live at Montreal’s OXYGEN outdoor rave event series in summer 2021.” — Suoni Per Il Popolo

Bandcamp

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Lesser Evil

Lesser Evil is Ariane and Christophe, who grew up strangers in houses next to one another in the same small town, met years later and morphed into a haunted two-headed beast of a musical duo as if it was always in the cards. Driven by Ariane's vocals, Christophe's electronics and a shared propensity for refined-meets-broken production, they plumb the depths of sound and mind in ways equally intense, intricate and immediate.

Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

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maxime.

maxime., born Maxime Trippenbach, is an alt-pop artist (self-released/AWAL) who writes, records, produces and engineers his music in his bedroom in Montreal. For his live show, he is accompanied by two friends: James Clayton on guitar and Lucas Kuhl on drums.

Instagram | Spotify | SoundCloud

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DJ TRINIDADDY

“DJ TRINIDADDY (they/he) is an Odawa based and Tkaronto-born DJ, musician, & overall multidimensional artist. As a queer & trans Coolie femme boy in the DJ & music community, they aim to make party & gathering spaces accessible & safe(r) for QTBIPOC, and hope to inspire & create community through their sounds. From soca, chutney, & dancehall to afrobeats & sick club edits, there's no way yuh cah free up & feel up yuhself when they're spinning!” — Pique

Instagram | Mixcloud

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Dimitri Georgaras

Ottawa-born composer, sound artist, and instrument builder. Dimitri's compositional voice is informed by deconstructing the fundamentals, limitations, and chaotic behaviours of analog electronics and digital signal processing, creatively exposing their musical potential through composition and performance.  

Instagram | Website | Bandcamp

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DJ Russ Plus

Instagram | SoundCloud

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Palingenesis Floor Plan

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NO WAVES, Sweet Flood, Büntsa, and Lucy's Delirium Play La Sotterenea for the Mile End Mission

What's better than an all-ages show? An all-ages show for the Mile End Mission! Join Also Cool for our last show of the year at La Sotterenea this Friday, December 16th, with NO WAVES, Sweet Flood, Büntsa, and Lucy's Delirium. Tickets are $10 at the door, or $5 with two or more food donations, with all sales and donations going to the Mission.

Now to tell you a bit more about the bands...

NO WAVES are our favourite surfy punk rock Gen Zs, who recently appeared on our N10.as radio show. They played the most chaotic combination of tracks, ranging from blink-182 to Ellie Goulding, in preparation for this week's set.

Sweet Flood began by organizing DIY shows and events in Montreal's punk scene. The name Sweet was inspired by combining two songs that heavily influenced the band's sound. The heavy sludge-sounding tones of "Sweet Leaf" by Black Sabbath and the melodically atmospheric composition of "Floods" by Pantera. You can find the band at Traxide, an underground punk venue, with an energetic crowd smiling and moshing at the same time.

Büntsa is a three-piece progressive alt-metal band from Montreal. In 2020 during the "red zone" of COVID, Chris and Matthew began meeting up in a backyard shed, composing a hybrid of progressive metal and noisy grooves with a punk rock sensibility. They soon recruited the "old guy," Eric (Chris's dad), to flesh out the sound with heavy beats and rhythmic flourishes. They then moved into Eric's recording studio, practicing their unique blend of fast, heavy grooves and tight, gritty riffs.

With high-energy riffs and their instrumental prowess, Büntsa will make you want to jump, mosh, and slip into a barnyard square-dance adrenaline-fueled ecstasy.

Lucy's Delirium is an alternative rock band from Montreal. Made up of members Addie, Franky, Lila and Hanako, the band is hitting the scene with bratty songs and an energetic attitude. They want to dance, jump, cry and yell with the audience while keeping the scene open and inclusive. They'll be releasing music in the next year, as well as playing more local shows, so keep an eye out!

All Ages Dec 16TH 8PM $10 at the door/$5 with a donation of 2 or more food items.

See you in the pit.

Malaika Astorga is the Co-Founder & Creative Director of Also Cool. She is a Mexican-Canadian visual artist, writer, and social media strategist currently based in Montreal.

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Also Cool's M For Montreal Top Picks: Round Two

Priors by Lynn Poulin

The 17th edition of M for Montreal begins tomorrow, November 16th, and the city’s music scene is positively buzzing with anticipation. With emerging and established artists from coast-to-coast (and then some!) expected to set the night on fire, it’s hard to resist a taste for what’s to come. Luckily, you don’t have to – Also Cool is here to help, with our second round of selections from this year’s M for Montreal lineup. Be sure to check out our first round, too, and then get busy with your own scheduling… accompanied by our festival playlist, of course.

Priors 

Montreal mainstay punk quintet Priors nose-dived into this past spring with their latest EP NEWNEWNEW. Complete with signature lassoed thrashing and low-fi grit, the band’s punchy ardour remains as they return to the stage from an all-too-familiar pandemic lull. We’ve been parched for a loud gig and are ready to be tossed around by Priors’ angular flirtations. Sandwiched on an absolutely stacked festival lineup—co-presented by Mothland—including Crasher, Absolutely Free, Gloin and Grim Streaker, Priors and their entourage of feather-rufflers are guaranteed to stir up an evening of danceable DIY fervor. 

Priors plays La Sala Rossa on Friday, November 18th at 10:00 PM. 

Tickets

Priors

Instagram | Facebook | Spotify | Bandcamp

Emma Beko by Samuel Fournier

Emma Beko

If you’re not already familiar, the sinister stylings of Montreal-based rapper Emma Beko are bound to break your heart. Since rising in the scene as one-half of Heartstreets, Beko has refined her solo sound and tilted heads for her candid and grungy stream-of-consciousness flow. The release of Beko’s latest EP Superficial Stains fits comfortably into her catalogue, fresh off the heels of Digital Damage from earlier this year, so expect a show filled to the brim with lyrical gut-punches. Catch Emma Beko alongside SLM, Lary Kidd, and more for an unforgettably dynamic hip-hop showcase.

Emma Beko plays Club Soda on Friday, November 18th at 8:00 PM.

Tickets

Emma Beko

Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Spotify | Bandcamp

NO WAVES by Malaika Astorga

NO WAVES

Our favourite Montreal Gen-Z punks will be playing the festival this year, so naturally we couldn’t help but add them to the group. From playing absolutely packed free outdoor shows where the crowd takes over the stage, to opening for NOFX and playing FME over the summer, NO WAVES continues to hold their own in the local rock scene. Stay tuned for an upcoming interview with the band by one of their peers, and in the meantime, catch them at M!

NO WAVES plays with Mobina Galore at Turbo Haüs on Saturday, November 19th at 10:00 PM.

Tickets

NO WAVES

Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify | YouTube

Grim Streaker by Kevin W Condon

GRIM STREAKER

Playing alongside many of our faves—like Gloin and Priors—in the Mothland showcase this week, Grim Streaker made an impactful first impression on Also Cool at this year’s FME Festival in northern Quebec. Singer Amelia Bushell’s stage presence is direct and haunting – a worthwhile experience to feel totally undone by her stare. The band’s song “Mind” captivated us for a month after the festival, and they’re here in Montreal for more to see! Grim Streaker specializes in the genre-bending punk tunes that seem to reach out and grab you by the collar – they would be a shame to miss.

Grim Streaker plays at La Sala Rossa on Friday, November 18th at 9:00 PM.

Tickets

Grim Streaker

Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Spotify | Bandcamp

M For Montreal

Website | Instagram | Twitter

Also Cool's POP Montreal Top Picks: Round Two

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Jane Inc. by Shelby Fenlon

Our next round of POP Montreal 21st anniversary top picks has arrived! Listen along to our playlist below and discover some of our favourite artists from this year’s lineup taking over Montreal from September 28th to October 2nd!

Jane Inc. 

Toronto’s Jane Inc. (Carlyn Bezic) charms with parasocial pop. Between galactic rhythms, dreamy harmonies and Bezic’s meditations on the self, Jane Inc. dazzles with endearingly-alienating stage antics that you can dance to. Jane Inc. came on the scene first in 2021 with Number One (2021), a supercharged disco dissertation on capitalistic fragmentations of identity. Jane Inc.’s latest offering, Faster Than I Can Take, arrived earlier this year and shut down the possibility of Bezic resting on her laurels. Instead, Faster Than I Can Take boasted Bezic’s dexterity as a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, with arrangements reminiscent of 1960s California pop with elements of 90s trance and Italo disco. 

Jane Inc. plays Ursa on Saturday, October 1st at 8:30PM. 

Jane Inc.

 Instagram | Bandcamp

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FUJI​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​TA via Bandcamp

FUJI​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​TA

To put it simply, Japanese sound and installation artist FUJI​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​TA (Yosuke Fujita) realizes the unexplored potential of ubiquitous sounds. Hailing from Yamanashi, Japan, the neo-classical drone musician and instrument builder mesmerizes audiences, performing unorthodox arrangements with peculiar tools. Notable examples include recorded water sounds from multiple aquariums and audio captured from black soldier fly maggots burrowing in soil. The former was brought forth on his 2020 LP iki, his first album in nine years. The work documents a ten-year-long exploration of a pipe organ that he built—and taught himself to play—without any prior knowledge of its inner workings. 

FUJI​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​TA plays St. James United Church on Sunday, October 2nd at 8:45 PM.

FUJI​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​|​TA

Instagram | Bandcamp

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Tiger Balme by Felice Trinidad

Tiger Balme 

Toronto indie outfit Tiger Balme plays POP Montreal in advance of their debut self-titled release, set to arrive later this fall. The four piece’s first offering “Saving Face” beams with lush undertones and whimsical embellishments like violin, vibraphone, harp and lulling harmonies. Without giving too much away, listen for a masterful musical shift and prepare to be wowed a second time. Trust us, this breakthrough track alone makes Tiger Balme an act to watch out for!

Tiger Balme plays Casa del Popolo on Thursday, September 29th at 9 PM. 

Tiger Balme

Website | Instagram

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The Linda Lindas by Zen Sekizawa

The Linda Lindas

Rounding out our next collection of top POP picks is none other than LA’s plucky punk outfit The Linda Lindas. Garnering praise from the likes of Kathleen Hanna and Carrie Brownstein, these teen sensations have customized Riot Grrrl stylings for a whole new generation. Their energetic album Growing Up channels a little bit of everything, highlighting the highs and lows of adolescence within the confines of a global pandemic. For a taste of what to expect, check out their viral performance of "Racist, Sexist Boy” at the Los Angeles Public Library’s AAPI Heritage Month celebration in 2021.

The Linda Lindas play the Rialto Theatre on Thursday, September 29 at 7:30 PM.

The Linda Lindas

Instagram | Website | Bandcamp

POP Montreal

Website | Instagram | Facebook

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Also Cool's POP Montreal Top Picks: Round One

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Isabella Lovestory via Bandcamp

September’s end is upon us, which means POP Montreal is just around the corner! Celebrating its 21st anniversary this year from September 28th to October 2nd, POP Montreal is an integral fixture in our hometown’s music circuit as a five-day festival; presenting more than 400 artists between panel discussions, film screenings, fashion shows and more! As per usual, this year’s lineup does not miss a beat with legendary headliners and movers & shakers from our local music scene and beyond. To get into the festival spirit, take a listen to our POP Montreal selections and jump venue to venue with us!

Isabella Lovestory

Isabella Lovestory is Montreal’s resident reggaeton-pop princess. The alter-ego of Honduras-born Isabella Rodriguez, the vocalist and producer meshes sugary hyper-pop tendencies with entrancing, bass-heavy club beats into a rousing, Y2K-reminiscent frenzy. Her breadth of influences chart her musical upbringing; drawing inspiration from reggaeton acts like Plan B, to Britney Spears and MIA, as well as alternative Brits like The Smiths and The Cure. Since her emergence on SoundCloud, Lovestory has released her debut album Mariposa (2020), a handful of ear-worm singles-turned-EPs, and appeared in Nylon and Dazed. A self-proclaimed “fashion freak,” Lovestory turns heads for her equally iconic sense of style, captured in her glamorous music videos and alluring online presence. Let her steal your heart this POP season. 

Isabella Lovestory plays Casa Bianca (terrace) on Saturday, October 1st at 6PM.

Isabella Lovestory  

 Instagram | Bandcamp

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PACKS via Bandcamp

PACKS

Slack-rock quartet PACKS has been on our artists-to-watch radar since their debut LP Take the Cake (2021). Led by Madeline Link, the project began as a creative back-and-forth between Ottawa and Toronto, with Link sending her bare-bone bedroom demos to her bandmates for exploration via Google Drive. The resulting album was a smash and saw the band tour their slow-burning, timeless sound extensively. Since, Link has made it clear that she isn’t resting on her laurels with the release of her latest EP WOAH this past summer. Accompanied by an acoustic guitar, WOAH has Link returning to her solo, unbrushed songwriting roots with a refined lyrical palette and imaginative composition (and an ode to Ottawa commercial radio on the track “fm”).

PACKS plays Casa del Popolo on Friday, September 30th at 8:15PM.

PACKS

Website | Instagram

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Boyhood by Monika Kraska

Boyhood

Boyhood is the moniker of alt-pop singer-songwriter Caylie Runciman. Since 2014, the Belleville-expat brews jangly, brooding mirages, sprinkled with atmospheric synth and candid vocal grit. Runciman now calls the woods of Central Frontenac home, where she has been writing, composing and producing her upcoming LP My Dread - out this coming November. Long-anticipated since her beloved 2019 debut Bad Mantras, teaser singles from My Dread “Don’t You Dare” and “Stroke It” find Runciman standing ground against darkness past, reconciled between tough basslines and twinkling oscillations. Though a limited vinyl-run of My Dread is now available for pre-order, we implore you to catch Boyhood live in her element before its release.

Boyhood plays La Sala Rossa on Thursday, September 29th at 8PM.

Boyhood 

Instagram | Bandcamp

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Strange Froots by McKim Jean-Pierre

Strange Froots

Supporters of Also Cool since day one, Strange Froots is Mags and Naïka Champaïgne: a duo of multifaceted singer-songwriters, beatmakers and musicians based in Montreal. Originally planning to attend a series of workshops for femmes in hip-hop, the alt-soul group met in 2014 at NoBad Sound Studio, and shortly after formed Strange Froots. Strange Froots describe themselves as “the coming together of different backgrounds of the same Black diaspora [...] to convey the message that everyone should embrace who they are, no matter where they’re from or what they’re going through.” Performing extensively with an emphasis on nurturing community, Strange Froots have taken the stage at Slut Island, Suoni Per Il Popolo, Fierté Montréal and will be returning to POP Montreal for the first time since 2017 this year!

Strange Froots plays Théâtre Fairmount on Friday, September 30th at 9PM. 

Strange Froots

Website | Instagram

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Cymande

Active in the 1970s, British group Cymande are revered for their blending of funk, soul, R&B, jazz, rock, African rhythms and West Indian folk. Though they disbanded in 1975 after releasing three albums, their legacy and sound were kept alive through a cult-following and samples from acts like Wu-Tang Clan and De La Soul. In the 2010s, the band reunited with a new vision and rekindled excitement from the early years. After touring alongside artists like Al Green, Patti LaBelle, KC and The Sunshine Band and Kool and the Gang, Cymande will now be making a stop at POP Montreal for a show you won’t want to miss.

Cymande plays L’Entrepôt77 on Wednesday, September 28th at 7:30PM. 

Cymande

 Website | Instagram

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Kamikaze Nurse by Dennis Ha

Kamikaze Nurse

Vancouver rock outfit Kamikaze Nurse’s music has been described as “ethereal skronk,” “Deleuzian rock” and “best of the 90s.” Their melodic, confrontational sound is encapsulated on their sophomore album Stimuloso, which arrived earlier this spring via Mint Records. The album was conceived during the first wave of the pandemic, with each band member self-recording their parts over a six-month period. The result is a flowering wall of noise that combines the group’s interests in poetry, film and literature. Keep a pulse on Kamikaze Nurse’s psychedelic-rock-meets-shoegaze sound with their inaugural POP Montreal performance.

Kamikaze Nurse plays The Diving Bell Social Club Wednesday, September 28th at 8:30PM.

Kamikaze Nurse
Instagram | Bandcamp

POP Montreal

Website | Instagram | Facebook

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Also Cool's FME 20th Anniversary Top Picks: Round Two

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OMBIIGIZI by Rima Sater

You thought we were done with FME top picks? Think again! The abundance of incredible artists playing the the festival this year made it impossible to fit all of our faves into one article. Honestly, two articles isn’t even enough but we’re doing our best to not overwhelm you.

To help you get into it (and maybe make that last-minute impulse festival pass purchase), we’ve also assembled an accompanying playlist to listen along as you discover our top picks.

OMBIIGIZI 

Together as OMBIIGIZI (om-BEE-ga-ZAY), Zoon (Daniel Monkman) and Status/Non-Status (Adam Sturgeon), steer Indigenous Futurism with their hard-hitting, yet vivid, unification of shoegaze, dream pop and post-rock. On their debut release Sewn Back Together, the pair establish a nurturing back-and-forth in sound and spirit, sharing stories of heritage, kinship and seeking truth through reviving and engaging Anishinaabe traditions in their creative process. Throughout Sewn Back Together, both melodic vocals and assertive spoken word lather in flanging drones and delicate, acoustic reveries. In Anishinaabemowin, ombiigiizi means “s/he is noisy,” and we couldn’t be more enthralled by the dynamism of distortion and murmurs these two have brought to the table thus far. 

OMBIIGIZI plays Diable Rond - 165 Avenue Carter on Sunday, September 4th at 6PM. 

OMBIIGIZI  

Instagram | Bandcamp 

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CDSM by Ben Rouse

CDSM 

Does anyone remember Pop Rocks candy? CDSM (Celebrity Death Slot Machine) embodies the same kind of fizzy spike: with convulsing, darkwave undertones flirting with disco indulgences. Based in Atlanta, the collective jolts with a circus-like frenzy that is irresistibly sinister. The group’s most-recent EP, Hell Stairs, spirals into a feverish affair between angry-robot instrumentals, sneering saxophone and bombastic rhythms. For fans of skull-crushing acts like Viagra Boys and Black Midi, queue-up and spin out with CDSM. 

CDSM plays the basement of Petit Théatre du Vieux Noranda - 112 7e Rue Saturday September 3rd at 11:59pm. 

CDSM

Instagram | Bandcamp 

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Pelada by Liza Kin

Pelada 

Montreal synth-punk fixture Pelada have gone viral in the nightlife canon after breaking out in their hometown’s warehouse afterhours scene in the 2010s. Composed of Chris Vargas and producer Tobias Rochman, the duo has garnered attention in diverse circles for their energetic and urgent arrangements dissecting power and injustice through pulsating, acidic agitation. Since their Soundcloud beginnings, Pelada have added notches to their raver belts since performing at the infamous Berghain, the iconic LGBTQiA2+ Zoom dance party Club Quarantine, and most recently, Primavera Sound. 

Pelada plays the basement of Petit Théatre du Vieux Noranda - 112 7e Rue Saturday September 3rd at 11:59pm. 

Pelada 

Bandcamp

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Magi Merlin by FENG

Magi Merlin

Is it any surprise that we’re excited to see Mag Merlin? We’ve been obsessed with her music and creative expansion as an artist since we first interviewed her in 2020. Her most recent album Gone Girl has brought her international stages, nonstop shows, and well-deserved recognition. We’re looking forward to reconnecting with this rising star and self-described “cheeky nihilist.” 

Magi Merlin plays Scène Fonderie Horne - Guinguette Chez Edmund, Chemin de la Grande Place Friday September 2nd at 8pm.

Magi Merlin

Instagram | Spotify

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NO WAVES

Barely old enough to get into the club, but punk enough to fill an entire skate park with moshing Montrealers, NO WAVES will play the closing party of FME. Known for their rowdy and respectful local shows, the group has been working hard to make a name for themselves these past few summers. With a sound that draws on 2014 surf rock and punk genres, NO WAVES is sure to shake Rouyn-Noranda to the core.

NO WAVES plays the basement of the Petit Théatre du Vieux Noranda - 112 7e Rue on Sunday September 4th at 11:59pm.

NO WAVES

Instagram | Spotify 

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Gloin by Nikki Dicunto

Gloin

Gloin is a four-piece noise rock group from Toronto, known for their cathartic live sets and eclectic songwriting. Their latest single “Shoot to Kill,” sets the tone for their upcoming debut album We Found This (to be released via Mothland on October 21st). It’s a discotheque-friendly post-punkish scorcher about breaking the monotonous working life cycle, drawing on influence from Sonic Youth, Pixies, and Battles. 

GLOIN plays at Cabaret de la Dernière Chance - 146 8e Rue on Friday September 2nd at 11:59pm.

GLOIN
Instagram | Spotify

FME

Website | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok

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Also Cool's FME 20th Anniversary Top Picks: Round One

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Elizabete Balčus by Zane Zelmene

Once again, we’re packing up and heading to Rouyn-Noranda over the Labour Day long weekend to hit FME in Abitibi-Témiscamingue! The jam-packed four-day festival never disappoints, and this year’s lineup in celebration of its 20th anniversary is stacked with familiar favourites and new must-see acts for us here at Also Cool (and maybe you, too!) Get a taste for the artists we’ll be catching this weekend in the first edition of our FME 20th Anniversary Top Picks below!

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Mitch Davis by Richmond Lam

Mitch Davis 

Montreal producer and multi-instrumentalist Mitch Davis boasts a smooth take on indie rock that we’re excited to hear in a live context for the first time! We became acquainted with Davis’ sunny breakup songs over the pandemic, and have been hooked on his Easter egg-laden jams ever since. In our recent interview with Davis, we entertained touring his debut LP The Haunt with a full band, so it feels full circle to have this long-anticipated set on our list.

Mitch Davis plays Café L’Abstracto on Sunday, September 4th at 5PM. 

Mitch Davis

Instagram | Bandcamp

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Alicia Clara by Tess Roby

Alicia Clara 

Dream-pop songstress Alicia Clara brings a delicate whimsy to her songwriting, refined on her brand new single “Only Fools Wish For Love”. The track invites anticipation for her next offering, her EP Velveteen, which arrives on October 28th via Hot Tramp. When guesting on our podcast Also Cool Sounds Like, Clara spoke to the isolation she was experiencing in contrast to the momentum of moving to Montreal from Switzerland. With a taste of what’s to come from Clara, we’re eager to hear new work from her at the festival. 

Alicia Clara plays Guinguette Chez Edmund - Scène Fonderie Horne on Sunday, September 4th at 2PM. 

Alicia Clara

Website | Instagram | Bandcamp

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Elizabete Balčus by Zane Zelmene

Elizabete Balčus 

All the way from Rïga, Latvia, neo-psychedelic avant-gardist Elizabete Balčus weaves spectral vocals, flute and electronics into otherworldly sonic collages. We were introduced to Balčus’ Nina Hagen-meets-Björk compositions through our friends at Mothland and instantly fell in love with her surreal performance theatrics. Balčus plays FME hot on the heels of her upcoming album Hotel Universe, set to arrive September 16th via Mothland. We implore you to fall down the rabbit hole into Balčus’ fantastical daydream where she rules with innovative fascination. 

Elizabete Balčus plays the Videotron Stage - 200 Murdoch Avenue on Saturday, September 3rd at 8PM. 

Elizabete Balčus

Instagram | Bandcamp

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Kee Avil by Lawrence Fafard

Kee Avil 

The brainchild of Montreal-based composer Vicky Mettler, Kee Avil combines guitar, voice and electronic production “to create songs that teeter on the edge of collapse while oozing forward, like sticky wax picking up and shedding disparate elements along the way.” Mettler’s intimate songcraft entrances listeners with whisper-like vocals and post-punk structures, transforming a space of any size into an immersive musical experience. Mettler’s striking stage presence struck a chord with us at the most recent edition of Ottawa-Hull’s PIQUE festival, making their debut LP Crease now a constant rotation. 

Kee Avil plays the Hub Desjardins - 218 Murdoch Avenue on Friday, September 2nd at 5PM. 

Kee Avil

Website | Instagram | Bandcamp

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Sheenah Ko via Bandcamp

Sheenah Ko

Also a core member of Besnard Lakes, Montreal-based synth-pop artist Sheenah Ko’s work is “avant garde electronic pop for those who want to get into a trance, get into a vibe, get deep and get real”. We virtually co-presented Sheenah at Taverne Tour x Also Cool Present: Into the Matrix with Andy Jon and Sheenah Ko in early February of this year, and cannot wait to hear songs from her latest album Future is Now, released this past May.

Sheenah Ko plays Guinguette Chez Edmund - Scène Fonderie Horne on Friday, September 2nd at 9PM.

Sheenah Ko

Website | Instagram | Bandcamp

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Grim Streaker via Mothland

Grim Streaker

Brooklyn’s Grim Streaker sport weirdo sing-talk rock that you cannot help but bop to. Their latest album MIND is described as “a surreal, subversive world of four songs that reflects on the current state of mental health, laughable social constructs and the inescapable working grind”. Grim Streaker, now signed to Mothland, have been making their way around the United States opening for acts like Idles and METZ.

Work for a dime/Get back in line/Zip up your mouth - MIND

Grim Streaker plays Cabaret de la Dernière Chance on Thursday, September 1st at 11:59PM.

Grim Streaker
Instagram | Bandcamp

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Tamar Aphek by Rotem Lebel

Tamar Aphek

Israeli concert-pianist-turned-distortion-guitarist Tamar Aphek takes the stage at FME opening for Chad Vangaalen. She’s been a part of Israel’s underground scene for over a decade, known for asking her collaborators to “play as crazy as [they] can.”

Aphek thinks of her performances as plays or cinematic experiences and considers the characters and roles she and her bandmates play. In her song “All I Know”, she peels back so many layers of who they are and what the characters want that “eventually nobody knows who is who in the song.”

Tamar Aphek plays Scène Hydro Québec - 112 7e Rue on Friday, September 2nd at 9PM.

Tamar Aphek

Instagram | Bandcamp

FME

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Side By Side Weekend Returns to Club SAW July 29th-31st

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Side By Side Weekend logo by Anna Rickenbacher

Side By Side Weekend is putting the notion that Ottawa is a sleepy city to bed! Returning in-person this weekend at Club SAW from July 29th-31st, Side By Side Weekend is the 613’s hottest independent music festival. Championing a DIY ethos while granting artists of all experience levels and styles centre-stage, the three-day festival features co-presentations from fellow all-star local programmers: Cinqhole, Debaser, First Crush, Sitting On The Outside, and Ottawa Showbox.

The stacked, genre diverse lineup features shoegaze, alternative folk, hardcore, bedroom pop and post-gig dance parties! Whether you’re gearing up to watch your friend’s band or eager to find your new favourite artist, Side By Side Weekend always has something for everyone. We’re excited for the weekend all-around and some of our top picks include Boyhood, Jasmine Trails, fanclubwallet and Bitch Stick!

We’ll see you in between sets on both Club SAW’s indoor and outdoor stages all weekend long!

Side By Side Weekend

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Side By Side festival poster by Anna Rickenbacher

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Arbutus Founder Seb Cowan Opens Système - Montreal’s Newest Nightlife Venue

Système by Sarah O’Driscoll

As we welcome Système into the neighbourhood, it only feels right to reminisce on the venues of previous years that helped shape Montreal's scene into what it is today. From Torn Curtain to Poisson Noir, La Plante, Silver Door, Cyberia, and of course the iconic Durocher lofts where Arbutus first had their HQ, venues and shared spaces have always acted as incubators for the scene, allowing creatives to find each other.

We spoke with founder Seb Cowan (Arbutus Records, N10.as) about the space, his experience in Montreal from the late 2000s to now, and his inspiration for this new venue.

Système by Sarah O’Driscoll

Malaika for Also Cool: Tell us about the space and why you wanted to open a club.

Seb for Système: It's a 1700sqft space located at the confluence of Little Italy, Villeray and Petite-Patrie. It has the feel of a wine bar in the front with a dedicated dance floor in the back. I wanted to open an establishment like this for a few reasons.

The inspiration first came when I moved here in 2007. Montreal can be a transient city, and many people move away. It can act as a springboard for creative talent, and especially if one sees success, they often move to larger cities like New York and LA.

I noticed that those who did stick around put back into the community in tangible ways by starting venues, labels, festivals, etc., the foundation of which in turn helps the next generation of artists. I was conscious of that and made a point to do the same with projects like n10.as radio and now with Système.

I also, like many others, moved to Villeray a few years ago and felt a sincere lack of a bar with a musical offering. There's Le Ritz, of course, but you tend to only go there when you're interested in a particular show, so it doesn't function as a social hangout like Casa del Popolo or Datcha does. There are plenty of fun bars in the neighbourhood, but most don't really have late-night music as a core part of their mission.

Also Cool: What can we expect IRL? What kind of shows are you interested in book, and what's on the menu?

Seb: I'm trying to decentralize the booking, or, to be more specific, I'm looking to find people who will then make the bookings. This way, rather than the bookings reflecting the sole taste of the person doing them, they can incorporate the diversity of all the different people who, in turn, are putting together the evenings. Also Cool presenting a night is exactly that! There will also be a full food menu, but we've only started piloting and testing a few items. The idea is it'll be a snack bar :)

Système by Sarah O’Driscoll

AC: How have other spaces in Montreal (or elsewhere) influenced your decision-making with Système?

Seb: My decade-plus of throwing loft parties at Lab Synthèse, La Brique, the Arbutus loft on Durocher, etc have all given me the education I needed to pull off a good party. I have to say it's been incredible to have the cops come, and then leave, without the party getting shut down or me getting a fine. It's a first for me!

Places like Nowadays (New York) and Brilliant Corners (London) are incredible, and I'm sure contributed to the concept either directly or indirectly. I'm also a big fan of architecture, design and urban planning, and the chance to plan and design a space from the ground up was a real privilege. I love seeing how people interact and use it in ways I never thought of. It's going to continue to evolve and remain flexible. I think it's important to learn, adapt and change when new ideas present themselves.

AC: During a time when many of our beloved spaces have closed down, what's something you hope that Système brings to the community?

Seb: I want to develop a space that performers will use to try out new things and experiment. Not to worry about making the perfect set, but rather just focusing on playing great songs and having fun trying something new. I hope the space is a little extra-ordinary (certainly the sound setup is!) to help catalyze this.

I'd like the patrons to have fun, make memories, and find new friends from which new collaborations and projects will emerge. I want it to be the kind of place that you'd go to, even if you have no idea who's performing that night. In the future, I'd like to also incorporate more live music than we currently do, but our sound setup isn't versatile enough to do more complicated live acts at the moment.

Système by Sarah O’Driscoll

AC: How can someone get involved with booking a night at Système or in any other way?

Seb: Get in touch! We'd love to hear new show or event proposals, but please be patient as we're a very small team and have a lot on our plates right now trying to just get this thing off the ground. We're even trying to set up a Google form where the bill could be selected by the crowd for one night a month. We'd have to control for those who are already booked and any spammy submissions, but I think it could be a great way to get people more involved with the space and have artists play that maybe wouldn't otherwise have the opportunity to do so.

Come dance at Système this Saturday, July 23rd, from 10pm-3am. Free before 11, $10 afterwards. It'll be a disco-themed night curated by DJ Flleur B2B Revlux, Sperdakos (Cyberia, Disco Troopers), and Transpacific Express (NGL Flounce & Frantz Lin), VJed by Amelia Scott.

Malaika Astorga is the Co-Founder & Creative Director of Also Cool. She is a Mexican-Canadian visual artist, writer, and social media strategist currently based in Montreal.

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