Mas Aya, Kristin Witko, Begonia, and Small Pleasures
Mas Aya - Coming And Going
Nicaraguan-Canadian composer, producer, and musician Brandon Miguel Valdivia returns with his fifth solo release under the name Mas Aya. Historically known more for his collaborative work with US Girls, Sandro Perri, Sook-Yin-Lee, and Lido Pimienta, the past two releases under the Mas Aya moniker are quickly changing that narrative. On Coming A Going, Valdivia explores themes of family, community, and spirituality with gorgeous electronics that make way for jazz flourishes of mesmerizing percussion with a world music flare and attention-grabbing horns.
Kristin Witko - A Course In Miracles
Abbotsford alt-pop powerhouse, Kristin Witko returns with her sophomore album which was written and recorded in tumultuous times when all the world could do was sit in solitary contemplation, wondering if our existence was crumbling. The result is an incredible concept record about a suburban “witch” named Sylvia who has reached her breaking point. Over the course of the album, Sylvia finds solutions in old and new places as we hear her journey over a backdrop of impeccable avant-pop arrangements. Kristin Witko has once again given us a reason to believe that pop music can be exciting and fresh.
Begonia - Open Swim
Winnipeg pop darling Begonia returns with a three song EP entitled Open Swim. Throughout these songs, Begonia explores working through conflict by means of true honesty with oneself and the others involved. She delivers this theme in a way that only she can, with vocal prowess and incredible pop production. Marcus Paquin (The National, The Weather Station) along with her frequent collaborators, the deadmen, help with said production to weave a tapestry of sounds that provide the perfect backdrop for Begonia’s lyrics and voice to shine like we’ve come to expect.
Small Pleasures - Limits
The second EP release in less than a year from Victoria duo Small Pleasures is a statement that they’ve arrived. The power of the first EP was no fluke, they’ve followed it up with three incredible post-punk tracks that are heavily steeped in darkwave aesthetics. It’s an impressive feat to make post-punk sound this good with just vocals, synths, bass, and drums. We patiently await more from this rising duo from the west coast.
- Jeff MacCallum