By Will McGuirk

“There is something alluring to me about checking the power of ego and tribalism, and as an artist, that is what I’m most inspired to do.” - Mike Boguski

“At the antipodes of the exploded, orchestral and luminous album that aubades represents exists its antagonism: sérénades” - Jean-Michel Blais

“I wanted to write about what it's like to be an immigrant…and for me – coming from Ethiopia – that meant excessive TSA checks, accustoming to new cultures, and travelling,” - ZADA

“Watch and See is a song about attempting to connect through moments of dissociation. Trying to use bits of phrases, visual landmarks & physical sensations to bring myself back to the present moment.” - Rachel Bobbitt

At the Drake Hotel. Toronto Aug 9 2022

at the Hayloft, Picton, ON, August 5 2022

By Will McGuirk

“‘Hitchin' a Ride ‘is one of those songs that I loved to head-bang to when I was alone in my room, but I never really gave much thought to what Billie Joe Armstrong was actually singing about. I ended up revisiting it for this project, and when I read the lyrics while listening, I was really blown away to realize that it's a song about a person struggling with addiction.” - Amythyst Kiah

"If you’ve ever found yourself in a completely different place then a friend or partner, CURFEW is for you. Being on different timelines can be the best thing to happen to a relationship. It’s only the worst timing if you don’t do anything about it. “ - Mauvey

“One side striving for positive change and habits in your life, the other pulling you down into things that have short term reward but will leave you worse off. Learning how to care for yourself through actions and habits. Sorting through which impulses are beneficial and which are not." - Chemical Club

“‘Earthquake’ is the transformative tale of a woman scorned. Written by a team that spans the continents and collaborated through Covid, I believe this song has a powerful story to tell and packs a pretty hefty musical punch.” - Andrea Nixon

“I was raised by incredible women and continue to learn from them. They have had a hand in making me who I am and I am always inspired by them. Their strength drives me.” - Mimi O’Bonsawin

Slowcity.ca Open Mic: Mike Boguski, Jean-Michel Blais, Zoon, Zada, She and Him, Rachel Bobbitt, Dawes, Whitehorse, and Sorry,

Slowcity.ca Open Mic: She & Him, Amythyst Kiah, Valerie June, Mauvey, Will Stewart, Chemical Club, Andrea Nixon, and Mimi O’Bonsawin