By Will McGuirk

Evening sounds like a war zone, a thunderstorm, an overhead jet and an air conditioner on full all at once. It also sounds like peace, safety, security, celebration. At least here. Elsewhere perhaps not so much. The day has moved from quiet to noise but has not strayed from contentment. At least here. Elsewhere maybe not so much.

“I am a first-generation Canadian, born and raised. My father was born in Jamaica, and my mother is Bajan, born in England. I have locks, dark, beautiful skin, and a full nose and lips. As a Canadian, I’ve been told countless times that I don’t know what racism is, that I’ve never experienced racism, and that racism doesn’t exist in Canada. Because of our reputation as a safe haven, Canadians can be quick to separate themselves from Americans when issues of bigotry arise. Racism is alive and well in Canada, it is simply more covert. The 13th Amendment may be specific to the US Constitution, but it is not specific to US ideologies. Racism is worldwide. The perception of Black people has been destroyed globally.” - Haviah Mighty

“Everybody has a story to share, and I think it’s important for First Nations people to shed positive light on our culture and values. That’s what I hope to do with my music.” - Adrian Sutherland

“If you choose to take for yourself and leave nothing for others, sit down. If you intentionally hurt others or the planet for your own gains, sit down.” - Carmanah

“The question we’re asking in the music is, ‘how do we navigate so much bullshit in this world? We're still playing this dumb rock music. But there's always gonna be a little twist of the knife, cutting into something deep to make you feel like you're alive. To say, ‘I know what you’re going through. And I’m hearing you, and I’m with you.’ That’s what the music is supposed to do.” - Murray Lightburn, The Dears