Snow Strippers, Ducks Ltd., Haruomi Hosono, Kim Gordon & More: Also Cool's Playlist Refresh

Kim Gordon by Danielle Neu

It seems that every musician we like here at Also Cool has released new music in the past few weeks, so we put it all together for you to enjoy.

This edition of our Playlist Refresh includes everyone from Kim Gordon to Haruomi Hosono, and you can listen along via our regularly updated playlist on Spotify.

Snow Strippers and Turnabout - “Luctus Mane (Snow Strippers Remix)”

Snow Strippers (Nice Bass Bro) have permeated the music scene with their signature sound, reviving the nostalgic appeal of late-2000s electroclash with haunting vocals and hyper-pop nods. In their latest endeavour, the Detroit duo step up to remix Turnabout’s “Luctus Mane,” softening its trap metal roots with a celestial touch. Vocalist Tatiana Schwaninger’s hypnotic inflections rise above the distortion and conjure a light all their own.

Allie X by Marcus Cooper

Allie X - “Weird World”

Avant-pop fixture Alexandra Hughes, better known as Allie X, has emerged with her third album Girl with No Face, out today via Twin Music Inc. This new record anchors itself in a swath of ‘80s synth-pop and dark wave—entirely self-produced by Hughes—and “Weird World” marks its latest single. This impassioned track mourns the notion of a past life while erupting with freedom, sprinkling a touch of German musings over eerie instrumentation fit for the likes of Drab Majesty.

Kim Gordon - “I’m A Man”

Kim Gordon has offered the second cut from her forthcoming album The Collective, set to release March 8th via Matador Records. Swiftly following The Collective’s breakout single “BYE BYE,” “I’m A Man” is an equally noisy testament to Gordon’s triumphant domination of post-rock. Awash with a blistering collage of dissonant guitar and an ear-splitting trap underbelly, “I’m A Man” is best played cranked at full volume, with Gordon’s meditations on the disappointments of Western masculinity taking centre stage. While some have argued that Gordon’s reflections harbour passé feminist sentimentality, we wonder if Gordon (now 70) is making space for the music she would have wanted to write in her Sonic Youth days.

Watch the video for “I’m A Man,” starring Gordon’s daughter Coco Gordon Moore.

Hot Garbage by Laura-Lynn Petrick

Hot Garbage - “Look at My Phone”

Toronto psych rock four-piece Hot Garbage barreled into 2024 with Precious Dream, the band’s second full-length on Montreal indie label Mothland. Flush with rippers from front to back, Precious Dream sneers with dark surf flirtations, motorik rhythms, and sinister synth-laden chaos. The album’s second track “Look at My Phone” is a super-charged headbanger for coping with the horrors of this cruel world.

Tyla by Annie Reid

Tyla - “Butterflies”

Tyla hit superstardom after releasing her Grammy Award-winning song “Water.” Quickly after, she dropped her debut EP Tyla via Fax and Epic Records and proved she wasn’t going to be a one-hit wonder. “Butterflies” highlights a softer, almost ethereal side to the singer – let this song transport you to a magical place!

Nick Schofield by Christopher Honeywell

Nick Schofield - “Resonant World”

Self-proclaimed “ambient raver” Nick Schofield (Best Fern, Saxsyndrum) recently dropped his third solo sonic venture, Ambient Ensemble, via Halifax label Forward Music Group. Along with a band of masterly local collaborators (Yolande Laroche, Philippe Charbonneau, and Mika Posen), the Hull, QC-based electroacoustic composer achieves otherworldly splendour on Ambient Ensemble. Likened to works by masters Brian Eno and Philip Glass, Schofield's delicate yet profound Ambient Ensemble is a kaleidoscope of lush, instrumental bliss.

Loving - “Any Light”

Loving has been a longtime staple of Also Cool’s playlists, bringing well-considered tenderness to the Canadian indie music scene. “Any Light” is the title track of their latest album, guiding us into the contemplative world of Jesse Henderson and David Parry. The 10-track album weaves through themes of love, existential uncertainty, and "the psychic consequences of living in an increasingly digitized world."

Max Leone - “Kirkland”

There’s nothing that hits harder than going back to your hometown just to discover that your memories have been paved over and replaced by parking lots and big box stores. California-based Max Leone submerges himself in this flavor of bittersweet nostalgia with his latest release “Kirkland,” which is accompanied by a music video made of home videos that act as a portal into his childhood. Watch the video below.

Moon King - “Go To My Head”

Comfortable in a cold blue light, Moon King brings us yet another slinky synthy single “Go To My Head,” off of his upcoming album Roses (which is set to release later this year on Arbutus Records). Inspired by loops found on ‘future music’ CDs from the mid-90s, FM synths, and 808s, the track rounds out with his layered, pitched-up vocals – perfect for grooving to anytime, anywhere.

Born at Midnite - “*69 (Patrick Holland Remix)”

The great music minds of Montreal have merged to create an absolute banger remix of an already great song. Born at Midnite's “*69 (Patrick Holland Remix)” will soon be added to DJs’ USBs worldwide, and dancefloors everywhere will rejoice.

In the words of Born at Midnite: “If you are anything like me, the second you hear Pat’s remix of *69, the tears will roll, everything you’ve ever heard will suddenly seem irrelevant, tingles will go up your spine and you’ll drop your Timmie’s on your Rick Owens Crocs.”

Ducks Ltd. by Dylan Taylor

Ducks Ltd. - “On Our Way To The Rave”

“Memories I'll barely retain, We're on our way to the rave.” Relatable for almost every party person, and eerily reflective of the theme of our FSR radio show (music ranging from the indie rock show to the rave), Ducks Ltd. have returned with an excellent single off of their recent album Harm’s Way.

Reliably jangly, and always fun, Tom McGreevy and Evan Lewis of Ducks Ltd. deliver a highly-anticipated expansion on the sound they established in 2021. We were able to catch their set at Taverne Tour this year, and are happy to report that the sold-out show was one of the highlights of the festival.

Haruomi Hosono & Mac DeMarco - “Boku Wa Chotto”

Mac DeMarco has teamed up with Japanese legend Haruomi Hosono for their latest release, “Boku Wa Chotto,” via Stones Throw Records. While it may seem like an unlikely pairing, Hosono has long been one of Mac DeMarco’s musical idols and had previously covered his song “Honey Moon” in 2018. For those unfamiliar with Haruomi Hosono, we suggest listening to his 1978 album PACIFIC and the classic track “SPORTS MEN” off of his 1982 album Philharmony as an introduction to the incredible world of Hosono’s Japanese pop music.

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2023 in Review (Also Cool's Top Albums)

2023 in Review - Also Cool’s Top Albums

Listen along with the official Sounds Cool 2023 playlist!

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100 gecs - 10,000 gecs

100 gecs - 10,000 gecs (Dog Show, Atlantic Records)

Can an album be both cohesive and chaotic? 100 gecs defend their reign as hyperpop harbingers, bringing feral music into the mainstream. Starting off strong with a THX sample, “Dumbest Girl Alive” screams into the void with relatable–yet questionable–choices, like texting people back that you should probably leave on read. 

The throughline is glitchy, punky, technicoloured rage, sometimes with an in-your-face attitude, and sometimes more laissez-faire. “757” is a barrage of party-anthem lyrics, while “The Most Wanted Person in the United States” gives more of a “I guess I’m a serial killer or something” attitude.

Overall great listen if you’re okay with being overstimulated. Read our review of their show with Machine Girl here.

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Alice Longyu Gao - Let’s Hope Heteros Fail, Learn, and Retire

Alice Longyu Gao - Let’s Hope Heteros Fail, Learn, and Retire

Unphased, unapologetic and unfiltered, Alice Longyu Gao’s breakthrough album Let’s Hope Heteros Fail, Learn, and Retire opens with one of the greatest lyrics of all time, “Imagine a world with no heteros.” Hot off the heels of her first world tour, the NYC-based wildcard and self-proclaimed CEO of ALG enterprises is delightfully impossible to keep up with on Let’s Hope. A bombastic concoction of hyperpop (understatement), industrial metal, EDM and flirtations with pop punk and sometimes dinner theatre-esque polka, Longyu Gao’s Let’s Hope makes one thing clear: gender is just as real as genre (it’s not).

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Blonde Redhead - Sit Down for Dinner

Blonde Redhead - Sit Down for Dinner (Section1) 

NYC avant-rock trio Blonde Redhead gifted listeners Sit Down for Dinner this past September after a five-year marinade. Beguiling yet humble, tormented yet sexy, Sit Down for Dinner marks the band’s first release in nearly a decade, and perhaps their most genuine musings to-date. This balancing act is translated elegantly in the band’s live rendition of Sit Down for Dinner, with an evident chemistry that can be best described as the kind of mind-reading that comes from powerful creative kinship. 

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Club Casualties - Bridge Under Water 

Club Casualties - Bridge Under Water 

This was easily one of our most listened-to albums of the year. Club Casualties is the joint project of LUCY (Cooper B. Handy) and Nick Atkinson, with Bridge Underwater being their second full-length album. The project provides a more dance-centric take on the duo's independent musical identities, while still highlighting their vocal-focused approach. The album also includes collaborative tracks with God's Wisdom, Mal Devisa, Sen Morimoto, and thoughtfully-layered vocals from both Nick and Cooper. 

Bridge Under Water feels like biking home after a summer evening that may or may not have impacted the direction your life is taking. The album is best listened to start-through-finish via Apple headphones.

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Debby Friday - GOOD LUCK

Debby Friday - GOOD LUCK (Sub Pop) 

Not to brag, but we’ll note here that we have it on the record that Debby Friday’s GOOD LUCK was ranked one of our most-anticipated albums of 2023 before its release and Polaris Prize win: 

“On ‘So Hard To Tell’, Friday subdues her metallic, industrial-punk foundations to unveil raw, reflective and luminous R&B by allowing her unmodified singing voice to surface. [...] Upon first listen, the dynamism of ‘So Hard To Tell’ made Friday’s GOOD LUCK one of our most-anticipated albums of the year (yes, already!).”

(Also Cool Playlist Refresh, January 21st, 2023) 

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Jordan Gardner - Rhythm Acceleration

Jordan Gardner - Rhythm Acceleration (CRSL)

If you go out dancing in Montreal, you’ve probably seen Jordan Gardner on at least one DJ lineup – whether it be at Datcha, Système, or an underground rave. Rhythm Acceleration is his first EP, drawing on rhythmic inspiration from the UK, Detroit, Chicago, and his many years in the field (AKA in the club). The album also features Montreal party scene staple Martyn Bootyspoon, who provides fiery vocals to “Rhythm Acceleration.”

The album’s sound is across the board party-ready, but draws inspiration from the spiritual unification that occurs on the dance floor, the ubiquitous pulse of Maori Hakka, and the the legacy of the Maroons, a revolutionary group in Jamaica that rebelled against the British colonists who enslaved them. Also Cool’s standout track, “Celine Dior,” is inspired by Gardner’s love for fashion, Chicago house music, and dancehall.

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La Sécurité - Stay Safe!

La Sécurité - Stay Safe! (Mothland) 

Interview with La Sécurité by Rebecca L. Judd (June 15th, 2023):

“From the arresting synths of debut track ‘Suspens’ to the domineering bass line of ‘Serpent,’ the band has set a standard of heightened sonic volatility, and the remainder of the record continues that thrill. Stay Safe! provokes the senses with its bilingual musings and jagged new-wave arrangements, traversing between subjects like flirtation and bodily autonomy with the same crafty cool. “

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Lil Yachty - Let’s Start Here.

Lil Yachty - Let’s Start Here. (Motown Records, Quality Control Music)

Rap-rock has picked up in popularity lately, and is easy to get wrong. Lil Yachty, however, brings a beautiful, elevated take on the genre, enlisting the likes of Alex G, Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s Jake Portrait, and Daniel Caesar, as writers on the project. There’s no misdirected angst, but rather careful consideration of the blending of genres and evolution of his sound.

We had the opportunity to see Lil Yachty perform live with his band earlier this year. The show’s production was excellent, with his live band all equally highlighted and clearly appreciated on stage. Lil Yachty performed flawlessly, providing an interlude featuring all his top hits, and then returning to the second half of the album to close out the show. Overall the album was unexpected, and one that’s easy to return to for deeper listening, or for a casual addition to your psych-indie-rap-rock playlist. 

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Nabihah Iqbal - DREAMER

Nabihah Iqbal - DREAMER (Ninja Tune) 

With her sophomore studio album DREAMER, English musician, producer, DJ, broadcaster and curator Nabihah Iqbal reimagines her approach to music to overcome creative burnout. Conceived in its earliest forms on harmonium and guitar after her studio—and DREAMER’s buddings—were burglarized, Iqbal’s anticipated return transverses spacey dream sequences with 80s synth pop sensibility. For fans of A.R. Kane and Broadcast, look no further.  

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No Waves - Postcard

No Waves - Postcard (Stomp Records)

Montreal’s punk scene sweethearts No Waves shared their first EP this year after signing with Stomp Records. The album is a compilation of songs written from when they were teenagers, and thematically is as emo as you can get. Postcard covers everything from the feeling you get when life starts to change a little too quickly to hometown angst. The obvious sonic comparisons are Surf Curse, Joy Again, and FIDLAR, but the band pulls inspiration from CRABE, LUCY (Cooper B Handy), ultra-pop hits, hyperpop and the Mexican punk scene.

Listen to our podcast episode with No Waves to learn more about the band, their inspiration, and Postcard.

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Sasha Cay - Spin

Sasha Cay - Spin (Lighter Than Air) 

Spin is the striking debut record of Montreal born-and-raised indie rock singer-songwriter Sasha Cay. Recorded amongst friends in her bandmate’s home studio, Spin is a stunning, silvery portrait of vulnerable vignettes shared from Cay’s heavy heart. Between twinkling tunings and Cay’s hushed vocals, the songstress’ gritty inclinations shine through in both songwriting and sentiment. 

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Turnstile & BADBADNOTGOOD - New Heart Designs

Turnstile & BADBADNOTGOOD - New Heart Designs (Dine Alone Records)

Hardcore-turned-jazz is an unexpected, but deeply appreciated, fusion of genres – especially when it comes from two of Also Cool’s favourite artists, Turnstile and BADBADNOTGOOD. 

Turnstile have always been arguably accessible as a hardcore band, drawing inspiration from classic hardcore song structures and indie rock sounds. It was a surprise to see them transform so elegantly with the help of BADBADNOTGOOD’s jazz fusion. However, for those of us who grew up going to BADBADNOTGOOD shows, you would know that although their music is pleasantly jazzy, there is almost always a moshpit IRL.

It’s the perfect album to get to know both bands, and stretches the boundaries of what a collaboration from two artists in very different genres can sound like.

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Half Moon Run’s Salt and the Beauty of Everyday Miseries (BMG)

Half Moon Run by Jennifer McCord

Tackling heartbreak, longing, and climate change, Half Moon Run crafts a universe bursting with melancholy and familiar, commonplace despair, navigating through it with an unexpectedly fitting groove. The Canadian indie rock band’s fourth studio album Salt, released on June 2, is gentle and introspective in its lyricism without lacking alluring instrumentation.

Although the pieces on the album have been in the works for many years, they don’t sound out-of-place or irrelevant to a world that changed in such a significant manner. Time treated Salt kindly, and instead of being overcooked, the album seems only uplifted by the efforts taken to craft it. Every element of the album is carefully chosen and revised to be its best version of itself.

The opening track of the LP, “You Can Let Go”, is a definite highlight of the album, combining layered instrumentals with candid lyrics to capture the everyday anxieties that come with personhood, quietly reminding the listeners that “the only way out is through”. The track is a perfect mix of slightly abstract imagery and painfully real and relatable lines, with the rhythmically-enunciated “Self-medicate, self deprecate / Self-help books on the shelf, help meditate” at the beginning of the song mimicking the fast-paced rhythm of contemporary life. “You Can Let Go” instantly captivates the listener with its hypnotizing drum line and bewitching vocals, making it an obvious choice to put on repeat on just about any occasion. This alluring introduction to the world of Salt is immediately followed by “Alco”, a groovy and fun yet musing piece – a perfect track to blast while driving with your windows down on a warm summer evening.

The signature use of string sections throughout the album adds a feeling of nostalgia and an ethereal sense to a work that’s otherwise so grounded in reality by its piercingly honest contemplations. A great example of that is “Everyone’s Moving Out East”, an incredible combination of layered vocals, subtle drums, magnetic strings and illusive lyrics, all of which come together in a wonderful ballad about growing up and dealing with loss.

Salt doesn’t shy away from talking about destruction, both that which is present around us and that of the self. “Gigafire”, an initially soft track with transcendent instrumentals and vocals, quickly reveals itself to be about climate anxiety, with the singer reminiscing of the times “…before the change in the weather”. Similarly, “Goodbye Cali” doesn’t shy away from candid recollections of the singer’s experiences with travelling across America, bringing up the panic attacks and burnout that came with life on the road.

Salt tastes and feels bittersweet, brilliantly capturing the experience of dealing with adulthood, love and loss. Despite its grounded, contemporary subject matter, the LP still manages to have an enchanting, whimsical vibe to it, taking all the good elements from folk and indie rock and turning them into an intimate, rewarding listening experience and an essential summer listen.

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Salt

Out June 2, 2023 via BMG

1. You Can Let Go

2. Alco

3. Hotel in Memphis

4. Everyone Is Moving Out East

5. 9beat

6. Dodge the Rubble

7. Heartbeat

8. Gigafire

9. Goodbye Cali

10. Salt

11. Crawl Back In

All songs written by Half Moon Run

Produced and engineered by Connor Seidel

Mixed by Chris Shaw and Connor Seidel

Mastered by Ryan Morey

Recorded at Treehouse Studio and Hammerjam

Tracks 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, and 8 feature the Esca String Quartet

Tracks 4 and 11 feature Camille Roy-Paquette on cello

String arrangements by Antoine Gratton and Dylan Phillips

Album photography by Jennifer McCord

Layout by Alex Tomlinson

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Half Moon Run

Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify | YouTube | TikTok

Magdalena Styś is a jack of all trades and a master of putting them all into their schedule. You can check out their work here or follow them on Instagram.

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PREMIERE: Public Appeal Shares Party Girl Anthem "So Bad"

Public Appeal by Alice Atisso

We heard you wanted a party girl anthem, so we found the hottest track of the summer; "So Bad" from up-and-coming Montreal artist Public Appeal. It's one for our 4 am ravers and for fans of That Kid, Isabella Lovestory, Slayyter, and Shygirl.

Public Appeal’s explosive first release embodies the perfect amount of bitchy, it-girl energy, whether you're getting pumped up for the club or walking home the next morning. Lyrics like, "Fear god when you should fear me," and, "Everyone wants my name, and I'm like au revoir," ooze enough ultra self-confidence to give anyone a boost.

Public Appeal by Alice Atisso

Public Appeal, known as Kyle to their friends, has lived in Montreal for four years and has been working their way through the music scene. Pulling inspiration from artists like Uffie and ClubEat, as well as the electroclash and techno genres and producers like SOPHIE, Public Appeal is in your face and exaggerated, with songs that have a whole lot of attitude.

Public Appeal by Alice Atisso

Stay tuned for future releases from Public Appeal, who might just become your new favourite pop star by the end of the summer.

Public Appeal

Instagram | Spotify

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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Tennis' Love Sprawls Towards the Sun on "Pollen" (Mutually Detrimental)

Tennis by Luca Venter

With the release of Pollen, the latest chapter of Alaina Moore and Patrick Riley’s love story has unfolded. The indie pop duo better known as Tennis has captivated audiences for over a decade with their signature lovesick mystique, and with its mellow delivery and emotive conviction, this sixth studio album carries the torch.

On the foundations of Pollen, Moore notes that the pair set out to produce an album that gestured more definitively towards the mainstream, and balanced their dexterous production with a clearer concentration on affective lyricism. The inspirations behind the record narrow down—in the loosest sense of the phrase—to “small things with big consequences: a particle, a moment, a choice.” 

Indeed, the overarching feeling across the release is that a psychic balance is at stake. Simple motifs like a summer breeze or a winding road act as vessels of complexity; Moore remains fixated most steadily on the gravity of her devotion and its ability to topple over. 

Album opener “Forbidden Doors” sets an arresting stage, with Moore’s inquisitive recollections layered overtop of a satisfying bassline. The folk-rock grit on “Glorietta” feels exciting and unexpected, with crispy feedback bookending subtle swipes: “Their patriotic displays are so loud / They’re controlling Eden from the clouds / You can’t resist the urge to dominate / Like it’s written in your DNA”. The sharp retro-pop production that encapsulates Pollen is best exhibited on “Let’s Make A Mistake Tonight”, with a late-disco groove and an earworm of a bridge elevated by Moore’s syrupy-sweet tone.

In comparison to this bold start, the second half of the album feels a bit more familiar. This is not to say that it’s disappointing—devotees of the duo will find plenty to enjoy—but certain moments fade with a passing sigh that feels comparatively less impactful. “Paper” has this floating quality that feels like the song’s on the tip of your tongue – its airiness complements Moore’s confessions of uncertainty. “Gibraltar” sparks some intrigue with its vocal melodies and psychedelic licks but doesn’t land as convincingly as its counterparts.

Ultimately, Pollen builds on the sophisti-pop legacy that Tennis has cemented, sprinkling tasteful experimentation throughout a timeless musical premise – the overpowering beauty of a love that lasts.

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Pollen

Out February 10, 2023 via Mutually Detrimental

1. Forbidden Doors

2. Glorietta

3. Let's Make a Mistake Tonight

4. One Night with The Valet

5. Pollen Song

6. Hotel Valet

7. Paper

8. Gibraltar

9. Never Been Wrong

10. Pillow For a Cloud

All songs written and produced by Alaina Moore and Patrick Riley

Drums and engineering assistance by Steve Voss

Ambient noise on “Gibraltar” by Griffith James

Latin translation on “Never Been Wrong” by Alan Sumler

Mixed by Claudius Mittendorfer

Mastered by Joe LaPorta

Album artwork by Luca Venter and Allison Freeman

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Tennis

Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

Website | YouTube | Apple Music

Rebecca Judd is the features editor of Also Cool Mag.

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Tame Werewolf Releases Italo Disco Inspired Track "5th Wave"

Blast off into the synth-wave world of Tame Werewolf, the electronic artist from Tehran, Iran blending J-Pop and Italo Disco.

Tame Werewolf's discography evokes 80s anime late-night aesthetics, the upbeat melodies of early Nintendo soundtracks, and granular sounds of old-school-style arcade games. He creates a unique retro electronic sound by incorporating space-synth, Italo-Disco, City Pop, vaporwave and Eurobeat influences.

Formed in 2018 by Keivan Hosseini, Tame Werewolf has since released two albums, and now his latest single, "5th Wave." Being raised as an only child, Keivan picked the keyboard as his best friend and began his exploration of music with early Persian pop, Jean-Michel Jarre, Giorgio Moroder and Koto.

He later took inspiration from Yellow Magic Orchestra and the 16-bit-age of Yuzo Koshiro, as well as the indie electro-pop of the 2010s, like M83, Hot Chip and Crystal Castles. The video game influences came in 2017 while playing “Streets of Rage,” sparking a deep dive into 80s inspired genres, eventually leading him to the Synth Wave world.

Tame Werewolf makes easy fans of those familiar with Tatsuro Yamashita, Khruangbin, and those chill-wave compilations on YouTube. We recommend starting with "Phasermania," "Lost in Lush Heavens," and "5th Wave."

Tame Werewolf

Instagram I Bandcamp

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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Isabella Lovestory, Magi Merlin, and Mitch Davis Reignite Montreal's Music Scene (POP Montreal / Bar Le Ritz)

via Isabella Lovestory on Twitter

If there's one thing I know for sure, it's that Montreal is coming back to life. The streets may still be full of half-defrosted garbage, but the music scene is in full swing. I was feeling pretty discouraged about going out (as I'm sure many of us are), but the POP Montreal show at Bar Le Ritz last night reminded me why I love this city and seriously gave me hope for what's to come.

Mitch Davis by Richmond Lam

The show began with Mitch Davis, who brought a smooth and jazzy energy to the stage, having just returned from playing SXSW. By the end of their set, the venue was almost full, with friends slowly recognizing each other and reuniting after a long winter. (It's really hard to see who anyone is in the dark when everyone's wearing a mask — I had more than one "OMG, HI! I didn't know you were here!" moment.)

Magi Merlin by Feng Jiang

Magi Merlin was up next, having also just returned from playing in the States. From the beginning of her set, it was clear that something had shifted since the last time I saw her play. Magi has stepped into herself as an artist, bringing fiery confidence and maturity to her performance. Alongside her songs from her last release, "Drug Music," she shared some new music that embodies a heated punk-rock energy. Magi's band heightened this energy, amplifying her ability to transform her anger about racism, sexism, and fake friends into a mesmerizing performance.

Isabella Lovestory was the night's headliner and brought the pulse of the room to another level. It was my first time seeing her live, and it's safe to say that I'm obsessed. As a Mexican-Canadian, I've found the complete lack of any Spanish music genres and Latinx people in the music scene completely unacceptable, which is why I was excited to see Isabella gaining so much support. Her music intersects pop and reggaeton, making for a high-intensity performance. It's perfectly bitchy, and a great addition to any perreo playlist. If you're into La Goony Chonga, Ivy Queen, or La Materialista, you'll love Isabella Lovestory.

I was standing outside with some friends after the show, and someone said that this is the kind of show we'll look back on in five years with disbelief that all of these artists were on one bill for $13. I look forward to a Montreal music scene as diverse, high-energy, and community-oriented as this show was, and I expect nothing less from the promoters booking right now. The talent is here, and I think we've all had enough of all-white guy lineups.

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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Milk Jennings Shares Sombre New Track "Raincoat" Feat. Sam Cohen, Announces Debut Album (Telefono, ORG Music, Modern Sky)

Raincoat cover art via Milk Jennings

The gloomy feeling of stepping outside into freezing rain, hurrying home from the metro because the coat you brought isn't warm enough... These are the emotions summoned by Milk Jennings' (member of Chinese American Bear) latest single, "Raincoat," featuring Sam Cohen.

This is the second single from Seattle-based artist Milk Jennings, who worked with producer Sam Cohen on the release. It's a sombre yet dynamic and bold effort from Jennings, touching on the darker side of life. The song is loosely about self-paranoia and empowerment, and it gets under your skin. It features crisp, soulful instrumentals and backup vocals by Cohen and flute by acclaimed flutist/saxophonist Cochemea Gastelum (Beck, St. Vincent, David Byrne).

Still from Raincoat

"Raincoat" is laced with melancholy using lyrics that Jennings attests are still shrouded in mystery to himself - making each listen uniquely engaging as the wobbly wisps of narrative continue to morph and change.

Jennings is also announcing his debut album titled 'Sleep Talker', out June 3rd via Telefono (Digital), ORG Music (Physical), and Modern Sky (China). Pre-orders for vinyl will be available here.

Watch "Raincoat" featuring Sam Cohen below

Milk Jennings

Instagram I Spotify I Apple Music I Bandcamp

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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Milk Jennings Shares Debut Single "Head Talk" (Prod. Sam Cohen) via Telefono & ORG Music

Walking the line between dreamy ambiguity and the harsh complexity of untangling a friendship, Milk Jennings shares his debut single "Head Talk." Milk Jennings, who is one half of Chinese American Bear. Accompanied by a surrealistic music video released via Telefono and ORG Music, the single gives us a taste of his upcoming album to be released this spring.

"Head Talk" was created in collaboration with Sam Cohen (Kevin Morby, Alexandra Savior, Cass McCombs), with the music video produced by Milk Jennings. The mellow tune teeters between love and resentment in a friendship with non-linear, hazy lyrics imitating the complex, often chaotic inner monologue.

The "Head Talk" music video was shot, animated & directed by Milk Jennings. The process consisted of taking 3D photogrammetry scans of himself and importing them into Cinema 4D, where he then manipulated and edited them, adding in lights and cameras. The overall direction takes inspiration from 15th/16th-century renaissance portrait paintings, adapting them to the strange digital world. The literal exploding heads are an ode to the song's lyrics, partly to offset the seriousness of the song's message with a bit of humour. 

Watch the video below

Milk Jennings

Instagram I Spotify I Apple Music I Bandcamp

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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Sounds Cool 2021 (Also Cool’s Top Albums)

Illustration by Malaika Astorga

Once again, music has unsurprisingly gotten us through the year. Throughout the whirlwind of 2021, we here at Also Cool were lucky enough to discover a range of compelling releases across a spectrum of genres. What unites these projects is their radiance, their ability to captivate us through trials and triumphs and be a constant when seemingly nothing else was. In no particular order (except alphabetical), we’ve compiled a mix of stand-outs from our 2021 favourites. 

If you haven’t been introduced to these artists via our music section or radio shows on N10.AS and FSR, take a listen to our year in review. There’s something here for everyone, and maybe you’ll see one of your friends here, too – spread the love and send them this article to tell them that they are indeed also cool.  

We’d like to extend our gratitude to all the artists on this list for keeping us company through the last year. Our listening habits have been elevated and comforted by these selections, and we’re looking forward to what’s in store from here and beyond in 2022.

Whether experienced in-person during the brief resurgence of live music, or in solitude weathering out your headphones, here’s to music for filling the void in the best way possible. 

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Sounds Cool 2021 (Also Cool’s Top Albums)

Ada Lea - one hand on the steering wheel, the other sewing a garden (Next Door Records / Saddle Creek)

Interview with Ada Lea by Malaika Astorga (October 21st, 2021) 

“The introspective folk/pop songs walk with you through the process of finding your identity and losing it again to someone who's not worth it, daydreaming about life in other cities, and wondering when to go home again.”

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BACKXWASH - I LIE HERE BURIED WITH MY RINGS AND MY DRESSES (Ugly Hag Records)

Interview with Backxwash by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter and Rebecca L. Judd (June 20th, 2021)

“With I Lie Here, BACKXWASH claims her title as contemporary hip-hop’s greatest force to be reckoned with, and we are celebrating her reign.”

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Bnny - Everything (Fire Talk)

Interview with Bnny by Malaika Astorga (August 20th, 2021)

“Written in sessions that span several years by singer Jess Viscius as she processed the death of her partner, the album is a chronicle of love at its most complex and loss at its most persistent.”

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Clairo - Sling (FADER)

“On her second album, reluctant Gen Z ambassador Clairo turns back the clock, embracing classic touchstones of 1970s folk.” — Cat Zhang, Pitchfork

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Das Beat - Identität (Arbutus Records)

Interview with Das Beat by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter (June 3rd, 2021) 

“In four flawless tracks outfitted with celestial atmospheres and pulsating undercurrents, Identität offers a dioramic perspective of the couple’s intimate creative dynamics, backdropped with the essence of Berlin’s esoteric nightlife.”

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Dish Pit - DIPSHIT (Self-Released)

“Following the sudden closure of their record label, Montreal-based DISHPIT's long-delayed debut album is finally seeing the light of day as the band begins working on the follow-up. DIPSHIT — recorded with veteran producer Steve Albini — unleashes a devastation of post-punk and lo-fi grunge upon the world.” — Matt Owczarz, Exclaim!

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Dorothea Paas - Anything Can’t Happen (Telephone Explosion)

Interview with Dorothea Pass by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter (May 7th, 2021)

“On her new LP Anything Can’t Happen, Paas illuminates how she came to define success as encountering and reconciling self-discovery through her work, all while establishing growth on her own terms.”

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Ducks Ltd. - Modern Fiction (Royal Mountain)

Interview with Ducks Ltd. by Malaika Astorga (August 17th, 2021) 

“Toronto's Ducks Ltd.'s new single How Lonely Are You? is the perfect soundtrack for your mildly existential end-of-summer playlist.”

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Hildegard - Hildegard (Chivi Chivi / Section1)

Interview with Hildegard by Malaika Astorga (June 8th, 2021)

“Their debut record has been described as the result of merging their identities, coupled with a complete loss of ego. The result is a beautiful and experimental eight-track experience, documenting the creative bond they share.”

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Jane Inc. - Number One (Telephone Explosion)

Interview with Jane Inc. by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter 

“Building off samples, break-beats and Ableton tutorials, Jane Inc.’s debut Number One serves as a reminder that Bezic is no one-trick-pony.”

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Kekko - Dreaming Life (Spirit Goth Records) 
Interview with Kekko by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter

“If not already evident by the band’s namesake —which combines the last names of the husband and wife duo, Tim Kek and Cherie Ko— Kek’s lush atmospherics intertwined with Ko’s ethereal vocals manifest a radiance unique to a soulmate connection.”

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kolenżanka - Place Is (Bar/None)

Interview with kolenżanka by Malaika Astorga (June 16th, 2021)

“To leave an old life behind and begin a new one is an anxiety-inducing and transformative process that Phoenix-born and NYC-based singer kolenżanka has mastered.”

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L’Impératrice - Tako Tsubo (microqlima)

Interview with L’Impératrice by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter (May 22nd, 2021)

“L’Impératrice’s latest venture is a shimmering think-piece on life’s ever-perplexing phenomenon of broken-heart syndrome, which derived from the name Tako Tsubo (meaning “octopus trap” in Japanese).”

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Magi Merlin - Drug Music (Self-Released)

Magi Merlin “Mock Meat” review by Malaika Astorga (February 23rd, 2021) 

“A little spooky, a little bit sultry, Magi Merlin's "Mock Meat" draws you in with textured sounds and silky vocals.”

Magi Merlin Drug Music premiere by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter (March 5th, 2021) 

“Throughout Drug Music, Magi Merlin owns her truth between entrancing beats and smokey basslines, while getting hot and heavy with lush vocal harmonies and a playful raspiness.”

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May Rio - Easy Bammer (Dots Per Inch)

Interview with May Rio by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter (June 22nd, 2021) 

“Much like its origin story, May Rio’s Easy Bammer documents and celebrates the romantic unexpectedness of everyday life.”

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Motorists - Surrounded (Bobo Integral / We Are Time / Debt Offensive)

Interview with Motorists by Malaika Astorga (September 16th, 2021) 

“Comparable to various eras of punk, jangle rock, and mid-2000s Canadian indie rock, Motorists express their struggles with isolation by pairing a post-punk vocal tone with optimistic and upbeat melodies.”

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New Chance - Real Time (We Are Time) 
Interview with New Chance by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter (July 28th, 2021) 

“On her latest offering Real Time, Cheong brings her reflections on nature’s abstract cycles to the forefront, between spellbinding textures and an eclectic sampling of everything from Calypso percussion to a sunrise rooster crow.”

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Ouri - Frame of a Fauna (Born Twice / Lighter Than Air) 
Interview with Ouri by Rebecca L. Judd (October 30th, 2021) 

“Marking the latest notch in Ouri’s belt, Frame of a Fauna carefully wields experimental and classical curiosities to seek deeper truths between the bars.”

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Oxford Drama - What’s The Deal With Time? (Self-Released)

Interview with Oxford Drama by Rebecca L. Judd (July 7th, 2021)

“Inspired by the never-ending mazes of modern technology and society, the duo – consisting of Małgorzata Dryjanska and Marcin Mrówka – transforms crushing emotions and uncertainties into a musical experience that transcends the turmoil.”

Oxford Drama “Too Busy” video premiere by Malaika Astorga (December 9th, 2021)

“Although it may seem like everyone else has their lives together, they're probably just good at keeping a curated online presence. Our Polish pals Oxford Drama encapsulate this chaos energy perfectly in their music video for “Too Busy”, a single off their recent album What's The Deal With Time?”

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PACKS - Take The Cake (Royal Mountain / Fire Talk) 

Interview with PACKS by Zoë Argiropulos-Hunter (May 17th, 2021) 

“Toronto’s PACKS are filling an indie-rock void with their sound that is equal parts laid-back and jangly, while also sophisticatedly pensive and bright.”

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PinkPantheress - to hell with it (Parlophone) 

“The 20-year-old UK producer broke out on TikTok with snippet-sized songs that ache with nostalgia for the recent past. Her intimate, lived-in music succeeds where cheaper imitations fail.” — Arielle Gordon, Pitchfork

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Yves Tumor - The Asymptotical World (Warp Records) 

“Even on a brief EP, Yves Tumor’s prismatic world seems to get bigger as it mutates into certain conventions of goth rock, dream pop, and shoegaze.” — Sasha Geffen, Pitchfork

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Listen to our year in review below!

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Julia Daigle Shares Glittering New Album "Un singe sur l'épaule" (via Lisbon Lux Records)

Julia Daigle (member of the duo Paupière) has released her album "Un singe sur l'épaule" via Lisbon Lux Records. The album is a collaboration with producer and multi-instrumentalist Dominic Vanchesteing. Drawing on Kate Bush, Charlotte Gainsbourg, and even some krautrock, glittering psychedelic melodies carry Julia's latest body of work. 

The song Nanette was inspired by the biography of Nanette Workman and the energy of New York City. Julia whispers, "Fifth Avenue dans l'infini Sous les néons, les dieux sourient." It's the perfect soundtrack for your weekend adventures and your "I'm The Main Character" playlists. 

The video for Nanette is inspired by The Star, Arcanum XVII of the Tarot de Marseille and the work of Henry Corbin. It's an excursion into a haunted landscape, an emotional labyrinth that has become physical, where a figure retraces, in an infinite ring, the path of her inner wanderings. In this liminal space between night and dawn, she wanders through strange - and unexpectedly familiar - places in search of a sign, a key. Territory without landmarks of the exile of the heart. 

For fans of Melody's Echo Chamber, Wild Nothing, and TOPS, Julia's Daigle's "Un singe sur l'épaule" is for you.

Julia Daigle by David Cannon

Julia Daigle

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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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Never Better Releases Mellow Tracks Downtown (Feat. Mitch Davis) and Silver Lining

Album art by Jem Woolidge

There's this feeling I get when I enter a new era of my life when I realize that the last chapter is slowly slipping away but not quite gone yet. I feel the change around me but can't see it yet other than the faintest signs that things won't be how they are for much longer. 

This moment usually comes during mundane moments, walking home from the grocery store, waiting for the light to change at Parc and Fairmount. Never Better's (AKA Rhys Climenhage) latest tracks Downtown (feat. Mitch Davis) and Silver Lining encapsulate this feeling. 

Lowkey vocals and gentle guitar take you by the hand, guiding you through an existential crisis that you're pushing out of your mind, walking you home through the rain. Light drums and the occasional instrumental interlude break up the vocals just long enough to gather your thoughts before you get home. You're left feeling comforted yet aware that you'll have to process these emotions sometime soon.

Rhys Climenhage is a multi-instrumentalist originally from Peterborough, Ontario, currently living in Montreal, Quebec, where he performs as Never Better. Prior to his solo endeavours, Rhys was active playing in bands Stacey Green Jumps, Texas Wayne, Frank Mothman, and Sasha Cay.

He draws inspiration from his father, a painter and career musician who taught him his first few chords on guitar. After a few years of fiddling on all of the instruments available around the house, Rhys picked up more technical training in his high school jazz band. Today, he plays every instrument on his recordings in his apartment studio built over the years while working in kitchens around the city.

Never Better

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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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Rozi Plain Shares Ephemeral New Track "Silent Fan" (via Adult Swim 2021 Singles Programme)

There's this feeling I get every time I start a new era or chapter of my life. I know it's happening again when I begin to realize that I'm settling into routines. I suddenly have a preferred way to walk home again, and the uncertainty of what comes next begins to mesh with the reality that change has come. It washes over every aspect of life, coming in like a gentle tide.

Rozi Plain's latest track, "Silent Fan" (commissioned by Cartoon Network for Adult Swim's 2021 Singles Programme), embodies this sensation. Gentle and unassuming, preparing us for these upcoming winter months, encouraging us to continue evolving despite the cold. Rozi's airy vocals land between free-floating jazz, guiding us along a cold beach towards a warm fire. "Silent Fan" feels like a dream from a long time ago, yet familiar enough to assure us that we're going in the right direction.

"Silent Fan" features contributions from the Rozi Plain band – Jamie Whitby Coles (drums), Neil Smith (guitar), Gerard Black (keys) and Amaury Ranger (bass) with extra help from Kate Stables (This is the Kit), Danalogue (The Comet Is Coming) and Cole Pulice. Rozi says of "Silent Fan": "I think the song is thinking about encouragement and tension - giving it and receiving and where it is. I was particularly thrilled Cole Pulice was up for contributing to this track - their album Gloam got me through the spookiness of last year".

Listen to the track below

Rozi Plain

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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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Swedish Electronic-Indie Songwriter sir Was Tackles Mortality on New LP "Let The Morning Come" (Memphis Industries)

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sir Was by Malin Ingrid Johansson

Being confronted with one’s own mortality is, suffice to say, fodder for personal reflection. Let The Morning Come, the third feature album release by Swedish songwriter and instrumentalist Joel Wästberg, or sir Was, deals very closely with themes of mortality and time, but not with a sense of panic or urgency, rather it’s calm and collected. 

Following 2019’s Holding On To a Dream, Wästberg was set to open for Swedish electronica mainstay Little Dragon during the summer of 2020. However, following the pandemic and the cancellation of tours worldwide, he was told tests revealed he inherited a hereditary condition causing multiple strokes.

“At first I got very sad and scared,” Wästberg says of the diagnosis. “But at the same time, it was like all the other worries I carried suddenly didn't matter. I just got this very intense feeling of being alive.”

The entirely self-produced album released October 15th on Memphis Industries. The ten-track project showcases Wästberg’s knack for subtle electronica compositions and charming songwriting. Singles like “Waiting For The Weekend” and “I Need a Minute” touch on themes of time and place, supported by rich instrumentals that refrain from overcrowding the mix, but that bloom and develop in their own ways.

“I Need a Minute is about the strong wish to stick around for a bit longer. A cry for more time. At the same time, it’s a wish for a pause,” said Wästberg.

Let the Morning Come is out now on Memphis Industries - listen below.

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Let The Morning Come album cover by Damien Priest

sir Was

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Gabriel Lunn is a writer, multimedia journalist, and pop music enthusiast based out of Victoria BC. When he isn’t trying to decipher the human condition he can usually be found going for long runs or collecting vinyl records he really doesn’t need.

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Backxwash and Maryze Share Spooky Music Video for "Squelettes" (Dir. Méchant Vaporwave)

Still from Squelettes

Happy Halloween from Also Ghoul! We hope you're all enjoying this spooky Sunday, whether you're recovering from a night out on the town or cozying up for some classic scary movies (or both). We're celebrating by sharing the work of our two favourite spookies, Backxwash and Maryze, who have released the long-anticipated music video for their track Squelettes.

Directed, edited, and shot by Backxwash's esteemed creative director Méchant Vaporwave, the black and white footage features glitchy performances from the two Montreal artists in creepy makeup and fantastical costumes and delivers witchy twists sure to delight their Halloween-loving audience.

Inspired by gritty black and white horror films, Méchant Vaporwave set out to create a nauseating fever dream aesthetic à la David Lynch, using quickened shots and flashing images to establish unsettling feelings of disappearing dissociation and dysmorphia. The bilingual banger, released last fall, is an arresting reflection on addiction and how it consumes us. Futuristic producer Margo delivers the track's feverish beat and hyper pop sensibilities.

"The song personifies addiction as a destructive entity that creeps in and takes hold, becoming inescapable, as well as the loss of self with lyrics like "my face no longer looks like me, I've lost my shadow." I was so blown away by the way Méchant Vaporwave brought that vision to life and how perfectly Backxwash's verse fit in. It was an honour to work with them!" says Maryze.

Watch the video below!

Backxwash

Bandcamp / Instagram / Website

Maryze

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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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Ada Lea's "one hand on the steering wheel the other sewing a garden" Chronicles Montreal with Folk-Pop Ballads (Saddle Creek)

Standing on Parc and Bernard, wondering whether you should move back home for a while, Ada Lea's one hand on the steering wheel the other sewing a garden becomes the perfect soundtrack for your trying-to-make-it-work-in-Montreal life crisis. The introspective folk/pop songs walk with you through the process of finding your identity and losing it again to someone who's not worth it, daydreaming about life in other cities, and wondering when to go home again. 

Inspired by personal experience, daydreams, and Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan novels, Ada Lea's lyrics center storytelling on a bigger scale. The experience and emotions of a year are communicated through Levy's vignettes of city life. Her prose wanders through St. Denis in Montreal, conjuring memories from local haunts like Fameux, La Rockette, and Quai des Brumes in rearview reverie. 

We spoke with Ada Lea about her new album, favourite memories, and of course, Montreal.

Ada Lea by Kristina Pedersen

Malaika Astorga for Also Cool: Your songs chronicle your life in Montreal and the city itself. How has your relationship with the city changed over the years? Can you tell us about a favourite memory or two?

Ada Lea: It's definitely sad to see many of the spots shut down over the years, and hideous buildings take their place, rent increasing, friends moving out of Montreal. Having lived some time in the States, I've come to appreciate the higher standard of living, accessibility to medical services, and overall feasibility of Montreal. 

It's hard to name a favourite memory, but the ice storm of '98 was quite memorable. I was pretty young, and the images of that time are fragmented and magical. 

Also Cool: How have you felt the music/art scene in Montreal shift over the years? What has your experience navigating the scene been like?

AD: Either the DIY scene has dissolved, or I am just not aware of what the scene looks like now - I'm not totally sure - all I know is that all the venues that were important to us back in the day have shut down, and I haven't heard of anything new popping up to replace them. Those spots were instrumental to my musical development and the growth of my peers and bands newly forming around that time. It felt like a really strong community of musicians that had the time and space to explore new sounds and the ability to afford these experiences.

AC: Your lyrics tell the stories of your memories, but almost like you're reminding yourself of what happened so that you don't forget. How has your relationship changed with the art of storytelling? 

I know you were inspired by Elena Ferrante's Neapolitan novels, and I'm wondering how that impacted your writing.

AD: It feels like I have a better sense of what I'm after, what matters in a story, or maybe I'm quicker at identifying when I'm not touching on anything. There's also less of a desire to be awkwardly "poetic." When I was just starting out, I felt like I needed to embellish everything, to make it more abstract, or how I thought things ought to be said in a poem. These days I feel more confident in reaching for the concrete, adopting a conversational tone, or being open to the change of direction in a story. There is a whole range of different song types, too, and I'm just starting to explore which ones interest me most. 

I wrote the album as I was finishing the Neapolitan Quartet. I think her writing is something that I'll never grow tired of investigating. I became inspired by her character development, which will likely be explored in my third album, more so than this second one. 

“Hurt” Artwork by Monse Muro

AC: In your songs, you go through many cycles of change, acceptance, and release. What have you learned about this perpetual cycle of release in relationship with your own personal growth?

AD: Acceptance is everything! I feel most resistant to change when I'm not willing to accept it. Only in the past few months have I applied this to my own life, but what a difference it has made.

AC: What would your advice be to someone who had just moved to Montreal?

AD: Work at a cafe. Start a punk band. Be in an open relationship. 

Listen to one hand on the steering wheel the other sewing a garden below

Ada Lea

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Malaika Astorga is the co-founder of Also Cool. She is a Mexican-Canadian visual artist, writer, and social media strategist currently based in Montreal.

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Sunglaciers Release MGMT-Inspired Indie Pop Track "Draw Me In" (Mothland)

via Mothland

According to our recent Instagram polls and that one guy's TikTok, we've all been missing early 2010s indie-pop in a real way. MGMT, Phoenix, M83, and Passion Pit had held us with a vice grip for a while with their sparkly guitar riffs, upbeat vocals, and slightly dystopian lyrics.

Lucky for us, Sunglaciers (Mothland's latest signing) fill that nostalgic void with their latest single, "Draw Me In." The track is reminiscent of The Postal Service's "Such Great Heights" and embodies the band's self-blurring of dazzling indie-rock melodicism and icy post-punk experimentation genres. It's a departure from their earlier shoegaze sound and delves into MGMT-inspired pop.

Sunglaciers came together as a band in 2017 and are based in Calgary. The track was co-produced by Chad VanGaalen and mixed by acclaimed engineer Mark Lawson (Arcade Fire, Yves Jarvis, The Unicorns). It's also accompanied by a video directed by pluri-disciplinary artist Anthony Lucero.

"I went with the direction I did because the sound and spatial structure of the song was very fluid and encompassing. I found that when messing around with machine learning that flowers and daisies really fit the nature and energy of the song better than anything else could." -- Anthony Lucero

Watch "Draw Me In" below

Sunglaciers

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Malaika Astorga is the co-founder of Also Cool. She is a Mexican-Canadian visual artist, writer, and social media strategist currently based in Montreal.

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Danish Post-Punk Trio KONVOJ Release Debut Album "Basher"

There's nothing I love more than a high-energy post-punk show. It's one of the few genres where I actually see people dance a bit, even if they're just subtlely bouncing up and down, trying not to spill their beer.

KONVOJ, the Danish post-punk trio, is the perfect band for this kind of setting. The word 'post-punk' is often thrown around in music writing, usually referring to the cold, angular guitars and monotone vocals found on the East Coast. KONVOJ breaks out of these stereotypes and abides by their own strict rules. Their vocals are joyful, their music still structured but less harsh than others in the genre, allowing space for elements of grunge, psych and garage rock to seep in.

For fans of IDLES, Parquet Courts, and shame, you’re sure to find a song for your daily Spotify rotation off of KONVOJ’s debut album “Basher.”

The trio met in high school in Gladsaxe over ten years ago. They're the kind of band you'd be pleasantly surprised by, playing at the local bar with your friends' band. The members have played together in different bands over the years, eventually forming KONVOJ as it exists today.

Upon creation, KONVOJ was based on the following dogmas:

• The band should ONLY consist of the three.

• It should be alive and dangerous.

• No focus on the commercial for the sake of the commercial!

• Everything had to be recorded in one-takes – mistakes / the rawness has a clear justification as an expression.

• Don't go down the same path as everyone else.

• The music needs to be liberating.

Six months after their first show, KONVOJ recorded their album "Basher" in two days, with one take for each song.

Listen to "Basher" below.

KONVOJ

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Also Cool's FME Top Picks: Round One

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Pierre Kwenders by Uproot Andy

If you haven’t already heard of Quebec’s FME (Festival de musique émergente), we’re thrilled to acquaint you. Founded in 2003, FME is an annual music festival held in the beautiful town of Rouyn-Noranda and exclusively highlights independent artists. Our team is grateful to be attending this year’s edition of FME, and leading up to the festival we will be rounding up our list of must-see (and hear!) acts from the 2021 lineup (which is top-tier all around, for the record). Take a peak at our first collection of FME Top Picks below, featuring Pierre Kwenders, Lido Pimienta, Pantayo and Crabe.

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Pierre Kwenders by Fanny Viguier

Pierre Kwenders 

Pierre Kwenders is the stage-name of Congolese-Canadian singer-songwriter José Louis Modabi, who is somewhat of a living legend as a Juno-nominated and Polaris-longlisted after-hours king. After immigrating to Canada as a teenager, Kwenders attracted widespread attention for his guest appearance on Radio Radio’s 2012 album Havre de Grace and began releasing his own music shortly thereafter. The Montreal-based musician is celebrated for his music that “is a response to a world that so often asks people who fit comfortably in multiple boxes to pick only one.” Known for rapping and singing in multiple languages (English, French, Lingala and Tshiluba), Kwenders is also recognized for his percussive rhythms that command undeniable danceability. If you find yourself in Montreal, check out Kwenders’ after-hours Moonshine soirées, held every Saturday after the full moon in a location only disclosed via text message the day of the event. 

Pierre Kwenders will be performing at FME on September 2nd, 2021 at 7:00PM EST

Website | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

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Lido Pimienta by Daniela Murillo

Lido Pimienta 

Another trailblazer on our Top Picks list is Lido Pimienta, the Afro-Indigenous, Colombian-Canadian superstar who dazzles audiences with her artistry, while simultaneously confronting systemic toxicity that permeates society at large. With the 2016 Polaris-Prize win under her belt, Pimienta is known for her mesmerizing poetry, electronic soundscapes that embrace her Afro-Indigenous traditions, and a wholeheartedly punk stage-presence and outlook.  Now based in Toronto, Pimienta also works as a visual artist and curator who explores “the politics of gender, race, motherhood, identity and the construct of the Canadian landscape in the Latin American diaspora and vernacular.” To top it off, she has of the most eye-catching performance attire and visuals we have ever seen. 

Lido Pimienta will be performing at FME on September 2nd, 2021 at 7:00PM EST

Website | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

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Pantayo by Sarah Bodri

Pantayo 

Pantayo’s 2020 self-titled debut is constantly spinning for us. This Canadian queer quintet based in Toronto is made up of members of the Filipino diaspora. Formed in 2012, Pantayo combines of kulintang —an ancient form of Southeast-Asian instrumental percussion using gongs, drums and chimes— with elements of synth-pop, punk and R&B to create infectious rhythms as a basis for their ethereal soundscapes. Named as one of NOW Magazine’s Toronto Indie Musicians to Watch in 2018, their debut LP was shortlisted for the 2020 Polaris Music Prize. The group is perhaps the first ever act to fuse the rippling effect of a gong with pop sensibilities; a feat made clear by their name, which is Tagalog for “for us.” 

Pantayo will be performing at FME on September 2nd, 2021 at 7:00PM EST

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Photo credit: Crabe

Crabe

Self-described “présent-punk” duo Crabe are constantly pushing the envelope with their aggressive, experimental sound and work ethic. Known for their energetic, chaotic live performances and a career that spans over the last 15 years, the band has played over 250 shows and are a staple in Quebec’s experimental music roster. Their most recent release Sentients is described by Mothland as “a tribute to out-of-date sounds [due to] the band offloading their traditional rock n’ roll instruments to pursue new avenues of ‘crabisme.’” Possibly making the most noise between two people, Crabe are sure to wake us up from the quarantine haze with their industrial, thrashing expansion on punk’s skeleton.

Crabe will be performing at FME on September 3rd, 2021 at 10:00PM EST

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For more information on FME, to review the festival schedule and purchase tickets, please visit their website.

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Evan Wright Shares Mellow Indie Psychedelic Album Sound From Out the Window (Solitaire Recordings)

I don't know about you, but I tend to have a soundtrack for each season, something to guide each mini-era of my life. The latest era has been defined by the way the sunlight filters through my windows in the afternoon, the cicadas chirping outside, and constant questioning of how the summer slipped away so fast. 

Evan Wright's latest album Sound From Out the Window (Solitaire Recordings) has been the perfect soundtrack for my end-of-summer-existentialism, with his twangy psychedelic melodies guiding the season's change. The New York-based musician's smooth vocals take us on a melancholic stroll through nostalgia, a pained longing for past times that can never come back, but one that doesn't wallow in self-pity. 

The album evokes warm and calming tones, bearing a likeness to the work of Andy Shauf, Kurt Vile, and early HOMESHAKE. Mellow guitars and gentle lyrics explore themes of friendships ending and relationships falling apart, yet leave the listener feeling comforted and almost uplifted by the coziness of Evan's sound.

Listen to Sound From Out the Window below

Evan Wright

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Malaika Astorga is the co-founder of Also Cool. She is a Mexican-Canadian visual artist, writer, and social media strategist currently based in Montreal.

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