Sydney based Alt Metal outfit Dirt City have just released their blistering new single ‘Scratched’, which premiered exclusively via AAA Backstage.

The emotive single which touches on the harms of self-medication was produced by Nathan Sheehy (DZ Deathrays, Birds of Tokyo) and mastered by Klaus Hill (PNAU, LDRU).

“This is a song about struggling with alcohol consumption and the split personality it created. At face value, you could read it as a werewolf tale, but underneath it’s about drinking and feeling like you need to drink to feel a sense of normalcy.”

Dirt City employ a synth-heavy, industrial-like futurism to their music rarely found in heavy rock. There are moments of ambience found beneath the drum-heavy breakdowns, thunderous riffage, and melodic vocals that give the listener moments to appreciate the true soul that makes Dirt City’s exposition of alternative metal especially captivating.   

The band debuted in 2023 with the release of their self-titled EP that was produced by Nathan Sheehy (DZ Deathrays, Birds of Tokyo) and mastered by Grant Berry (Redhook, Fangz). The quickly secured airplay on Triple J and Andrew Haug Radio, whilst securing rave reviews from HEAVY Mag, The Rock Pit and Hysteria Mag. 

Dirt City are now ready to unleash their brand new sonic upon the world.

New single ‘Scratched’ is available on all major online stores and streaming services.

With M@GIC W*RDS, Toronto-based rock outfit Jordan Venn and the Slizneys pay tribute to the golden era of 90s alternative rock, crafting an album that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. At the heart of the record is the dynamic and lyrically profound focus track “♡WWI>SPQR♡,” a high-energy, grunge-infused exploration of mortality and the weight of history.

Inspired by the viral discussion of how often men think about the Roman Empire, “♡WWI>SPQR♡” flips the script—Jordan Venn realized he thinks about World War I even more. The song captures the inescapable human tendency to reflect on the past, drawing connections between historical moments and personal mortality.

Driven by shifting dynamics—from clean, melodic passages to gritty, full-throttle rock—“♡WWI>SPQR♡” balances weighty themes with the sheer fun of rock ‘n’ roll.

East Coast storyteller Robert Thomas and his talented duo, the sessionmen, release their heartfelt new single, “Beside You.” A poignant reflection on the challenges of life on the road and the deep longing for home, the track melds folk, Americana, and roots influences into an intimate and deeply relatable narrative.

“Beside You” captures the ache of separation and the profound gratitude for the one you love, offering listeners a tender yet powerful reminder of what truly matters. Co-written with renowned musician Ray Legere, the song’s lyrical depth and haunting melody have made it a live favourite, evoking memories and emotions in audiences far and wide.

With their debut single, “Tell Me All Your Secrets, Pt. 2,” Halifax band Strange Plants push the boundaries of the psychedelic rock genre. Seamlessly fusing a Gap Band-inspired rhythm section with biting rock vocals, the song delivers an energetic yet introspective exploration of fractured relationships and hidden truths.

Produced by Robbie Crowell (Sturgill Simpson, Deer Tick), “Tell Me All Your Secrets, Pt. 2” embodies Strange Plants’ commitment to blending retro tones with modern sensibilities. Recorded at the iconic Creative Workshop Studio in Nashville, the track’s lush analog production showcases the band’s dedication to creating music that feels both timeless and forward-thinking.

Kitchener-Waterloo-based singer-songwriter Henry Taylor is back with a hard-hitting new single, “I DON’T HAVE A NAME.” Taking inspiration from Neil Young’s legendary protest anthem “Rockin’ in the Free World,” this unapologetic track shines a spotlight on the stark disparities between the ultra-wealthy and the growing numbers of the disenfranchised.

“I DON’T HAVE A NAME” is both a call to arms and a gut-punch to those who have chosen to ignore the plight of the nameless and faceless. With searing rock ‘n’ roll guitars and a raw vocal delivery, the track pushes back against the failure of elected leaders to address systemic inequality and widespread poverty.

Vancouver-based modern-rock artist Charlie PS is back with her fiery new single, “Mouthpiece.” The track combines gritty guitars, confident vocals, and Charlie’s signature ‘play on words’ lyricism to deliver a satirical yet empowering anthem for the digital age.

“Mouthpiece” oozes fierce, alternative-rock energy while offering a nod of defiant satire to today’s increasingly opinionated and vocally indulgent crowd.

“Mouthpiece” is an homage to everyone who has ever given unsolicited advice or yelled out their opinion in a room full of people who just don’t want to hear it. The world feels like a noisy place these days, and in 2025, I’m setting boundaries with those who just can’t keep their thoughts to themselves. – Charlie PS

The sound of Charlie PS is a sonic melting pot of rock and blues, inspired by legends like Stevie Nicks and Ann Wilson and modern acts such as Grace Potter and ZZ Ward. Her signature blend of strong vocals and energetic riffs shines on “Mouthpiece.”

Ian North, the acclaimed Canadian folk-rock artist, returns with a spellbinding new single, “Antarctica.” Inspired by the harrowing tales of polar explorers who risked everything to venture into Earth’s most unforgiving terrain, the track explores themes of courage, isolation, and the human drive to endure.

Produced by Chris Gartner, “Antarctica” weaves Americana roots with ambient soundscapes, resulting in a modern and immersive take on North’s signature “Fallen-Angel Folk” style. The single also features stunning three-part harmonies by North’s wife, Jennifer Claveau, marking her return to music after more than a decade away.

Nick Faye is a songwriter from Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada, living on Treaty 4 Territory. His new song, “Undone,” dives into the frustrations and fatigue of navigating the modern dating world. Written during a particularly challenging two-month stretch, the song reflects Faye‘s feelings after being canceled on or ghosted for six out of seven consecutive dates.

“Undone” is for anyone who has felt worn out from online dating while still trying to hold onto optimism. It blends lighthearted and silly lyrics with the emotional struggles of putting yourself out there in an unpredictable dating landscape.

Kingston, ON group Rogue Rising’s debut single, “CRUSH,” is an electrifying anthem of defiance and self-empowerment, driven by fiery guitar leads, a hook-laden chorus, and an unmistakable edge. Helmed by Rowan “Rogue” Picard, the band’s fearless singer, songwriter, and lead guitarist, “CRUSH” is both a raw reaction to betrayal and a celebration of resilience.

The track was produced by five-time JUNO Award–winner and Glass Tiger founding member Michael Hanson, who helped elevate Rogue’s uncompromising vision. With its sharp blend of rock, pop punk, and melodic solos, “CRUSH” captures a sound that is as relatable as it is rebellious.

Written during a deeply personal time, “CRUSH” channels the frustration of being underestimated and turns it into fuel for overcoming negativity. The result is a cathartic, guitar-driven track with a message that resonates universally: rise above, embrace your power, and never let anyone dull your fire.