DRUMHAND

Toronto-based global jazz roots collective DRUMHAND has just released their third album, “Cheer On The Sun” and while their name might not be familiar to some, their brand of percussion-based jazz will, if it hasn’t already, catch many people’s ear. Larry Graves, the collective's co-founder, took time out of their busy touring schedule to talk to Soulmatters about the message behind their music, and their collaborative music-making process. [Read]

THE JESSICA STUART FEW

The Jessica Stuart Few not only make distinctive sounding music, but they’re also innovators. When it comes to The Jessica Stuart Few, the concept of genre need not apply. This band does not fall neatly into a concrete music genre. Their music draws influence from folk, soul, rock and jazz––just think of them as a “folk-jazz power trio.” The trio consists of Dan Fortin on double bass, Tony Nesbitt-Larking on drums, and Jessica Stuart on lead vocals, guitar, and the infamous koto. Soulmatters sat down with Jessica Stuart to talk about the band and their forthcoming tour.
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THE CITY STREETS DROP NEW SINGLE, "WHITE LIES"

The City Streets are back at it again with their latest single, “White Lies.” This time, they’re tackling Canada’s dark past (yes, even Canada is guilty of a shameful history). “White Lies” lyrical theme focuses on the Catholic church-run residential school system in Canada that oppressed and degraded First Nations people for over 100 years. Not only does the single touch upon the past, but the song also draws attention to today’s perceptions and treatment of First Nations people. The lyrics are both powerful and intelligent. With lines like “well here we are like lepers, for whom most can’t empathize,” “a reminder of imperialism’s design,” and “I’m my ancestors fading battle cries,” “White Lies” resonates with its listener. The song is sung in first person by City Streets vocalist Rick Reid. He has a rawness that can only heighten the seriousness of the topic he’s covering. It’s his vocals and the subtle yet powerful instrumentation that makes this song so effective. “White Lies” is the first single off the City Streets upcoming album, Pretenders, due out this Spring. Pretenders is The City Streets' sixth LP. Produced by Jesse Gander (Japandroids, White Lung) featuring Garrett Craigs of Whiskeyface on guitar.
 

SONGS OF LOVE AND PEACE

Kathleen "Kristy Love" Brooks has been singing for decades, and has released several independent albums, such as For Lovers Only, Kristy's Classics Vol. 1, and a children's album titled With a Child's Heart. While her name might not be as well known as Gladys Knight or Roberta Flack, her voice definitely parallels these legends. On two of the first singles off the album, "All Over the World" and "Certified," you get a good sense of the variations in Love's voice. As a singer-songwriter, Love is a lyricist and while there isn't anything particularly "new" about her sound, what you'll appreciate on this record is her lyrics. They're heartfelt and genuine, like what R&B used to be. "All Over the World" is a dance-infused track with an uptempo beat, while "Certified" is a slow jam a la Quiet Storm radio. Overall, this is one album that's worth checking out.