Category: Uncategorized

by Isabella Soares

Music can have different meanings to different people. It can be the soundtrack to a memorable moment, a form of displaying feelings that are kept within, and the opportunity to share thoughts that must be heard and advocated for in this world. To local artist, Osani Balkaran (sometimes known as The O.B.) creating music was a systematic process that resulted in healing, transformation, and an unimaginable freedom. Stylus Magazine had the chance to speak with him about his evolving career, the meaning behind his authentic sound, and catch a glimpse of his creative progression.

Continue reading “Artist Feature :: Osani Balkaran”

by Chris Bryson

Over the course of their career Tough Age has been refining and evolving a style of jangly indie pop with a fuzzy, lighthearted punk edge. Originally planned for release earlier in the year but postponed due to the state of the world, Tough Age’s newest album, Which Way Am I?, finds the band in tried and tested form, with some added twists.

Continue reading “Tough Age :: A Feelgood Fight for Acceptance”

by Ryan Haughey

A few months ago, we interviewed Winnipeg artist Rayannah about her experience in isolation. We got to catch up with Rayannah again after she returned to the stage at the West End Cultural Centre for their ‘Bring Your Own Mic’ concert series. The series is ticketed partially for in-person experiences and for online experiences, a method that supports artists in a great new way.

Continue reading “Isolation and Live Music Update”

by Nigel Webber

“There could never be justice on stolen land” – KRS One

I immediately thought of that scene from “Network.” “I’m mad as hell and I’m not gonna take this anymore!” It feels like the whole world is there right now. As it should be. But there was another, less quoted, line from that same monologue which stood out, “I’m a human being, goddammit, my life has value!” 

Continue reading “Winnipeg State of Mind :: Black Lives Matter”

 

by Zoë LeBrun

Woman / Everything, the latest release from local musician Paige Drobot, is everything that your summer playlist needs. Drobot takes rock and roll and turns it on its head, offering a completely unique perspective on the genre with tidbits of jazz peppered throughout her work. Much like its album artwork, Woman / Everything feels and sounds ethereal, taking you to a distant place and working its way into your mind where it stays for hours after listening to it. 

Continue reading “Album Review :: Paige Drobot :: Woman / Everything”

by Keeley Braunstein-Black

Written and released during quarantine, this digital album available on Bandcamp is an outstanding example of how humans process feelings and experiences through creativity. birdsacrosswater’s music here is decidedly lo-fi and sun baked. This EP is the direct result of the covid-19 pandemic and is perfect for staying indoors for long periods of time, becoming anxious and/or infuriated by the news, finding solace in watching dust float around a room, and that subtle feeling of impending doom. These sentiments are all barely addressed but can be felt in the songs of Dirty Omen.

Continue reading “EP Review :: birdacrosswater :: Dirty Omen”

by Osani Balkaran

From rocking the party as a DJ and creating diverse beats, Zuki has played and created unique styles and dispensed groove for several years now. From adolescence to young adult  Zuki travelled the globe finally settling in Winnipeg at the age of 20. Through these travels he was able to experience the world for what it is, and never fought it, just embraced it.

Continue reading “Artist Profile :: Zuki”

by Daniel Kussy

Casimir Gruwel’s self-titled debut has come a long way. With tracks being written and released as far as 5 years ago, the relinquishing of such a body of work is a cathartic accomplishment for the Winnipeg singer-songwriter.

Continue reading “Album Review :: Casimir Gruwel”

by Olivier LaRoche

Tape 2 is the second release of Winnipeg-based artist Megumi Kimata, who goes by French Class. Upon first listen, this project is difficult to pin down. Does it make you want to dance? To dream? To laugh? After each listen, it becomes increasingly clear that the answer is D: all of the above. 

Continue reading “Album Review :: French Class :: Tape 2”

by John Iverson

I first became acquainted with the music of Canadian composer Michael Conway Baker many years ago after reading an interesting magazine article about him.  In this article, they described his music as tonal, melodic and romantic.  The article so piqued my interest that I had to hear this music for myself, and upon first listen, I became a devoted fan.  His music was beautiful, melodious, evocative and passionate — elements of a true master of classical music.

Continue reading “Canadian Classical Master :: Composer Michael Conway Baker”