Franklin is the melodic, doomy, tension-building riff-machine your nightmares have been waiting for. Hailing from the isolated north in Whitehorse YT, this two-piece metal-menace born in the bleak heart of a world pandemic features Kirsty Wells (Whitehorse YT) and Evan Joel (Vancouver BC). While Kirsty screams melodically harsh vocals and slams the fuzz and distortion-fuelled bass, Evan’s raspy support vocals and drums hit hard enough to make knuckles and ears bleed. Since 2022, Franklin has gained a strong following in their local metal scene, booked gigs in other cities and played festivals. In the summer of 2024, they recorded a full-length album alongside Jesse Gander of Rain City Recorders in Vancouver, and Gregory McLaughlin in Whitehorse. Franklin has released their first single and accompanying music video; a live-off-the-floor videos series and their first full-length album on vinyl are soon to follow.

A psychedelic pentad, Holy Void emerges from the creative nidus of Winnipeg, pushing the boundaries of contemporary psychedelia by charting sonic dimensions with a fervour that captures the depth and complexity of the human psyche. Formed in 2014 as a four-piece, the band expanded to five in 2019 with the addition of electric violin, permanently transforming their sonic palette. Winnipeg’s gritty, cold environment and vibrant creative community fuel Holy Void’s experimental spirit, fully realized in their latest album, All Will Be Revealed in Time.

Space Queen is the heavy rock evolution of power trio Jenna Earle (guitar/vocals), Seah Maister (bass/vocals) and Karli MacIntosh (drums/vocals).  Space Queen takes the signature haunting vocal harmonies of the trio’s former folk project (Sound of the Sun) and sends them soaring over a cosmic canvas of neopsychedelic rock. Driving beats from MacIntosh provide an anchor for Earle’s heavy distortion and 70s-style riffs, while Maister keeps everything grounded on fuzzed-out, gnarly bass.

Hydracat is a stoner rock band from Edmonton, Alberta, that blends heavy riffs with psychedelic and bluesy vibes. The band was formed in 2020 by lead vocalist Chris, drummer Brent, bassist Kevin, and guitarist/keyboardist James. With their unique sound and energy, Hydracat quickly gained a strong following in their local scene.   Chris’s powerful vocals and raw energy are the centerpiece of the band’s sound, delivering lyrics that delve into themes of self-discovery and introspection. The pounding drums of Brent, coupled with Kevin’s groovy bass lines, create a heavy and driving rhythm section that drives the band’s sound. James’s intricate guitar solos and keyboard accompaniments complete the band’s musical journey, taking listeners on a musical trip that is both engaging and captivating.   Hydracat’s musical influences range from classic rock legends like Black Sabbath and Led Zeppelin, to contemporary stoner rock bands like Kyuss and Sleep. This wide range of influences has helped the band to create a sound that is both classic and fresh, capturing the essence of stoner rock while also pushing the genre in new and exciting directions.   The band’s live shows are an experience not to be missed, as Hydracat’s energy and passion on stage is contagious. From their high-energy jams to their soulful ballads, Hydracat’s live performances are a testament to the power of rock and roll.   Hydracat has already made a big impact in their local scene, and are poised to take their music to the next level. With their unique sound and powerful live performances, the band is set to become one of the most exciting and dynamic stoner rock bands in the country.