Dan’s Boogie – Destroyer

One of the most mythical things about living in Vancouver that is rarely talked about is the concept that at any given time Dan Bejar is somewhere nearby coming up with some of the most romantic music out there; there’s nothing quite like putting on a new Destroyer album and walking around the city. Dan’s Boogie feels as fresh as the cherry blossoms currently springing to life in the April rain. Just put on ‘Cataract Time’ and try not to feel like you’re going to meet the love of your life around the corner of the next block.

If I had a dollar for every time someone I knew from art school said they served Dan Bejar at their barista job in Chinatown I’d have almost enough money to get an oat milk latte at one of those cafes.

– Jocelyne

Arcy Drive –  The Pit

I’ve been absolutely loving the newly released tracks from The Pit, Arcy Drive’s upcoming album dropping April 18th. Specifically, Louie and The Itch have completely grabbed my attention. These songs showcase the band’s unique blend of raw emotion and have a bit of that “underground” feel that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special. Arcy Drive pioneered the term “attic rock,” and it perfectly encapsulates their vibe—there’s this grittiness and introspective energy that feels really personal, like you’re listening to a secret diary entry. I think the way they balance indie rock elements with a sense of nostalgia makes them a band to watch and I’m so excited to see them this September in Vancouver! (Hollywood Theatre, September 18th!) If you’re into indie music, Arcy Drive is definitely one to add to your playlist.

-Emilia

SABLE, fABLE – Bon Iver

What I WILL be listening to is Bon Iver’s upcoming album “SABLE, fABLE” tonight… in my neighbourhood park.

Justin Vernon’s first album in 6 years drops this Friday, but on Wednesday April 9th, fans can experience an advance first listen by visiting a local park with their smartphone. With the “fABLE sPACEs” activation, the band crowd-sourced locations of outdoor listening parties from fans around the world. Tonight, listeners can head to those locations, or their nearest park, and hear the new album in it’s entirety by visiting www.fablespaces.boniver.org

The upcoming LP is set to be Bon Iver’s most positive, joyful and personal yet. Justin calls it “the most truthful, clear picture of who I am as a person”.

-Ryan

“Too Pretty for Buffalo” – Baby Nova

A song that I have had on repeat lately is “Too Pretty for Buffalo” by Baby Nova. Reminiscent of early Lana Del Rey and Ethel Cain, Baby Nova’s vocals drift through hazy, melancholic production. It is a cinematic and nostalgic song that captures the small-town longing, and big-city yearning that so many of us have experienced as we try to find our place in the world.

-Kea

“Death Wish (Live from the O2 Arena)” – Gracie Abrams

If there’s one artist who always tops my sad girl playlists, it’s Gracie Abrams. And with the release of her technically unreleased track “Death Wish,” she’s only cemented that spot. She debuted the song at her O2 Arena show in London last month, and since watching the performance on a grainy TikTok livestream, I’ve been waiting for her to release it. She’s done exactly that, choosing to give fans a live recording of that performance, instead of an official version. A vulnerable account of a past relationship, the lyrics are every bit as heartbreaking as you imagine. Stripped back to just Gracie and her piano, the performance feels especially intimate and takes her back to her roots as a songwriter. It’s hauntingly a beautiful track, perfect for anyone reminiscing on a past heartbreak, or currently going through one. And while I can’t wait to see what she does for the studio version, I think the live performance will remain my go-to. It’s exactly how the song is meant to be heard.

-Leila

“blue jean” – Hazlett

If there’s one song that’s been quietly wrecking me lately, it’s Hazlett’s “blue jean.”  It’s nostalgic without being dramatic, raw without trying too hard. “blue jean” floats on soft, melancholic guitar and Hazlett’s hushed vocals, like a secret you’re almost afraid to say out loud. It feels like a memory you didn’t realize you still carried with you, unfolding slowly in the back of your mind. The lyrics are delicate but devastating. It’s the kind of track you play on a quiet drive, windows down, letting the wind carry your thoughts somewhere safer. Hazlett doesn’t just sing heartbreak—he traces it with tenderness, and “blue jean” is proof of that.

-Sophie

“The Last Time” – Destin Conrad ft. Teezo Touchdown

As an R&B enthusiast, I’m incredibly grateful for artists like Destin Conrad. I’ve been following his journey since his debut release just a few years ago, and it’s been a thrilling showcase of artistic growth. His deep love for R&B and the skillful way he executes it is evident in every track. His latest single, a collaboration with genre-defying artist Teezo Touchdown, is no exception. Teezo’s unique tone blends seamlessly with Destin’s smooth vocals, creating a dynamic and captivating sound. The track is uplifting, beautifully written, and brings much-needed summer vibes as we bid farewell to winter. The vocal layers evoke the richness of church choirs, adding an effortless depth to the song.

-Kristian