Vancouver-born Tara Beier is an impressive tour-de-force - actor, director, and one hell of a singer-songwriter. Last year, Beier independently released her debut EP, Purple Trees, which was met with great reception and put her on the map as one of Canada’s unique folk acts. Beier’s combination of styles and sounds, ranging from simple acoustic ballads to catchy pop-like melodies prove that she can take any vibe and truly make it her own. The song Mayan Sun in particular has a sound that just sticks in your head. Earlier this year she recorded her upcoming album,  Hero & the Sage (release yet to be dated), and released the title track. It’s got a smooth and memorable acoustic melody that helps show off Beier’s impressive vocal range and talent. If I were you, I’d make sure to check out Tara Beier along with The Silverthorns at Hugh’s Room on November 30th.

Mike B

 Jennifer Budd brings the flow and mean old school R&B vibes with her debut album “Lip Service”. Hints of gospel, blues, and funk blend together to make a raucous entrance, lit up with slick production and some classic horn stings to drive the point home. From the slippery groove of album opening “Church”, to the rock-n-soul of “The Colonel”, this album brings a full and honest effort of an artist showing her raw physical talent and emotion. Lead single “Don’t Even” starts in the small dark corner of an after hours lounge, and ends centre stage in a flurry of flashing lights. “Lip Service” drops November 13th, with a release party at the Park St Gasworks, Hamilton, November 14th.

- Cody Wright

Melding the innocence of "Imagine" and the force of Radiohead's "Karma Police," Boston singer/songwriter Emily Grogan's "Join Together" (streaming below) off her forthcoming new album 'Strings of Light' is an electric call to arms. Fronting a battalion of hard drums and zinging guitars, the strong-voiced Grogan deflects the ploys of authorities while surging towards freedom with her fellow strivers. Spiked with the warmth that can be heard in pop, though, this rock song doesn't shove but rather nestles the listener to attention. While Emily Grogan doesn't currently have any upcoming shows listed, keep watch on her Facebook for future announcements. - Zach Weg 

It is finally here! Tricycle Records has released the 5th installment of their local music compilation entitled, Friends of Tricycle Records 5! We really like how TR extended their submission invitation to local artists who are not on their official roster, featuring great artists like Lemme Adams, Brasil, The New Up and Analog Dream.

Enjoy this free compilation. It is a celebration of local music and such a great contribution during a time where record labels are all about profit.

Track Listing

The Union Trade, In The Empire of Giants
NRVS LVRS, City Lights
n. Lannon, Another Love
Bobbi Rohs, That’s Bae
Halou, Lean Into The Gravity
The New Up, Future Is Now
Rich Girls, Total Control (Motels cover)
Lemme Adams, Hella
Everyone Is Dirty, Out Of The Blue (Roxy Music cover)
Kitten Grenade, Eighteen
El Terrible, We Know Your Name
Annie Girl and The Flight, Swans
Unconditional Arms, Fever Basin
Analog Dream, Lion’s Share
Garlands, Hallucination Healer
Brasil, Molly
Jordannah Elizabeth, A Prayer for Black America

Compiled by Julie Schuchard
Compilation Mastered by Christopher Reese Daddio at Donut Time Audio
Artwork by Adrian Landon Brooks
See more at: http://www.tricyclerecords.com/friends5/

Get tipsy off pumpkin beer? Check.
Watch Hocus Pocus and re-realize how awesome it is? Check.
Stress over the whole couples-costume thing? Check.
 

Create a totally badass Halloween playlist featuring some of my favorite local bands? CHECK.

Get in the spirit and give it a listen! -Caroline Bowman