Toronto folk singer/songwriter Merival has released a new track “No Brakes”. It’s a pretty little folk tune with some obscure moments that give the track a very theatrical feel. In her words “It feels messed up to walk that line of mental anguish vs. stability, ‘bad’ art vs. ‘good’ art, but I think we all do it at some point. With this song, I was basically wishing that I was depressed again so I could write ‘better’ music.” Merival’s debut full length album is set for release on June 21^st. – Kris Gies

Retro singer/songwriter Lily Frost has released the lead single from her upcoming album “Retro Moderne”. Produced by Gus Van Go (The Stills, Terra Lightfoot, among others) this first track “I Dodged A Bullet” aligns well with the “Retro Moderne” idea. It has a great 60’s doo wop feel to it but also could be a from an old action movie soundtrack. The new album will be available June 1^st at The Rivoli for the record release party. – Kris Gies

This 4 piece Toronto rock n roll band was born after a few popular local bands dissolved a few years ago. Pink Leather Jackets have been making a name for themselves workin’ the local bar scene playing weekly shows of cover tunes along with some originals. They have now released their debut original track “Shed”. I’m pretty sure the band members get along better than they do in this super hero themed music video. The tune has a nice 90’s alt rock feel to it with a surfy drumbeat carrying the chorus. The vocals sound great and there’s a killer little solo to finish it off. Big tune from their upcoming EP “Good Love” (release date TBA). You have two opportunities to see these fellas perform live on Friday May 17^th. At 6:30 they’ll be playing a set at Yonge/Dundas Square before heading over to Cherry Cola’s for a big night of rock n’roll.  – Kris Gies

Toronto psych band Pink Acid Wash has released a new single “Grinning”. This noise rock track has a lot going on including a deep drawling vocal over top of a thumping drum beat and dirty bassline. The droning guitar will make your head spin which makes the vocals speak directly to your brain. Pink Acid Wash play a CMW Set on Friday May 10^th @ The Monarch Tavern with Brenda, World News and Red Mass. – Kris Gies

Little Magic Sam was born and raised in the town of St.Thomas, Ontario. He grew up on the blues and brings his blues/soul music to the Big Smoke where he now calls home.  His single “Loaded Gun” has an immediately catchy blues riff kickin’ the song off reminiscent of other local Toronto band Flash Lightnin’. This track was recorded at EMAC Studios in London with Moe Berg producing. Catch Little Magic Sam at the Dakota Tavern on May 9^th.  Hopefully he'll be rockin his Bo Diddley Gretsch! –Kris Gies