Saskatchewan-based, Métis singer/songwriter Berk Jodoin’s new album, Fly Away gives us a glimpse into the challenges he has overcome over the course of his life, and further unflinching observations of others in similar circumstances.

The album’s 10 songs are inspired by the sounds of classic country and blues, including the already released singles “Aces & 8s,” “One Child” and “Weather The Storm”. Jodoin turned Fly Away into a family affair with his children making significant musical contributions, along with members of his local Indigenous community.

From the tragic portrait of Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside in “Hastings & Main,” to the scathing, self-explanatory indictment, “White Man’s World (ft. Joey Stylez)” it’s no surprise that Jodoin has experienced much of what he sings about. After a promising hockey career was derailed by life-threatening alcoholism, Jodoin turned his life around in his early thirties with the help of a BC treatment centre. He then took up boxing, but after realizing that injuries were tempting him to return to his bad habits, Jodoin turned to music as his therapy, following in the footsteps of many of his heroes such as Steve Earle and Waylon Jennings.

Berk released his self-titled debut album in 2020 and followed that up in 2022 with Half-Breed, which earned him a Saskatchewan Music Award as Indigenous Artist of the Year, along with a 2023 Canadian Folk Music Award nomination for Indigenous Songwriter of the Year.

JC Campbell is of Indigenous and European ancestry. Growing up with a father who sang the blues and a mother who loved classic soul and country, it seemed as if JC was predestined for a life of making music. With three albums now under his belt, the multi-award nominated, Winnipeg, Manitoba-born Campbell has hit his stride with his new release, Lately, a seven-song collection that brings together all of his influences, while offering powerful messages of hope in dark times.

The year 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of NADJIWAN, the musical project and alter ego of Marc Meriläinen. During that time, the Toronto-based singer/songwriter, guitarist and producer has amassed an impressive body of work that reflects his heritage as a member of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation Cape Croker, along with his love of alternative rock in its various forms.

The milestone will be marked with a new album, The Mission, with the first taste being offered in the form of “Not Undone,” a slow-burning single that once again showcases the trademark NADJIWAN sound rooted in traditional Indigenous vocals and Meriläinen’s dynamic guitar playing. The combination of ancient and modern approaches is what has always set NADJIWAN apart, and for the new record, Meriläinen and his crew went further than ever before in bridging those two worlds.

Din (formerly of The Soles), with his raw, expressive vocals, is the talent behind F-105.  Din released 5 albums with The Soles, performing hundreds of shows and festivals across North America, and garnishing multi-national radio play, including on Sirius XM.  As F-105, he released his first album in 2018.  The lead track “Rebel Girl” made its debut on national CBC radio on July 21, 2018. It also received critical acclaim with Din’s global Star Wars fandom fan base - with wide coverage on popular Star Wars podcasts, which resulted in a headlining performance at Star Wars Celebration Chicago 2019. 

F-105’s latest EP F-105 III incorporates pop-punk and ethereal sounds and explores what is being left behind for younger generations.  This is most evident in the groovy yet cerebral lead single “Toys”. 

Meriläinen Müsic is known for releasing singles and albums people love listening to. This is one of their latest releases with the very talented Kelly Fraser.  Kelly is a Canadian Inuk pop singer and songwriter, whose second album Sedna received a Juno Award nomination for Indigenous Music Album of the Year at the Juno Awards of 2018

Herbie Barnes, an Anishnabe from Aundeck Omni Kaning on Manitoulin Island, is well known for his 30 year acting career with roles both on stage and in film. He has successfully filled the roles of director, actor, writer and teacher many times over, working throughout North America.

Although this is Herbie Barnes’ debut musical release, it has not come suddenly.

Faded Pages is a collection of songs that have been floating around for a while, in his head and around campfires and stages for over thirty years. They are about certain people who came into his life and left, but who still haunt him in wonderful ways. Music for Herbie has the power to heal and entertain.  It takes him back to better times and inspires him to create new memories.  If these songs can inspire others in the same way, he will be grateful.