Author: Sophie Mitchell

Legal case argues government action infringed freedom of expression and association rights A landmark legal challenge has been launched against the UK government over its use of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism in relation to advocacy for Palestinian rights. The case, brought by the European Legal Support Centre (ELSC) on behalf of community worker and charity trustee Bea Foster, seeks to test whether the government’s application of the non-legally binding definition is compatible with the Human Rights Act 1998. Support for the case has also come from the Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC). At the centre of…

Pacific Northwest songwriter releases first track from upcoming album Widowmaker Express, arriving August 5 Tacoma-based singer-songwriter Kye Alfred Hillig is offering listeners an early look at his forthcoming album Widowmaker Express with the release of “On Small Wings,” a new single that explores themes of love, patience and resilience. Released July 8, the track serves as the first preview of Widowmaker Express, scheduled to arrive on August 5. The album marks the latest chapter in a career that has quietly established Hillig as a respected voice within the Pacific Northwest’s folk-rock and alt-country scene. Over the past decade, the former…

Calgary-raised hip-hop artist explores mental health, faith and redemption ahead of debut album release Edmonton-based hip-hop artist Zaire Ink is drawing from some of the most difficult moments of his life on his new single, Audio/Biography, a deeply personal release that serves as a cornerstone of his forthcoming debut album, When You Meet Yourself. Released on June 5, the track marks a significant milestone for the award-winning artist, whose work blends intricate lyricism, spoken-word influences and themes of faith. The song offers listeners an intimate account of personal crisis, mental health struggles and spiritual transformation, setting the tone for an…

French Young Adult Original Film Adapted from Emma Green’s Bestselling Trilogy Prime Video has released the official teaser trailer for You+Me – Against the World, its first French Young Adult Prime Original film, with the romance drama set to premiere globally on September 18. The film is based on the bestselling Toi+Moi trilogy by French author Emma Green, a series that has sold nearly one million copies in France. The adaptation stars Vittoria Di Savoia and Lucas Barski in the lead roles of Alma Lancaster and Vadim Arcadi. Produced by Prime Video and Originals by Trésor, a Trésor Films company,…

London singer-songwriter explores identity, self-acceptance and life after an ADHD diagnosis on new record London, Ont.-based singer-songwriter Stephen Ingram has released “Sour Candy,” the first single from his forthcoming sophomore album, Silly Things, scheduled for release on Sept. 25. The new track introduces a deeply personal collection of songs that examines personal growth, self-discovery and the realities of adulthood through the lens of Ingram’s experiences in Southwestern Ontario. The release marks the next chapter for the Hamilton-born artist, whose debut album, Fridge Magnet Symphony, established him as a thoughtful storyteller with a strong connection to Canadian folk traditions. With Silly…

Award-winning Montréal singer-songwriter explores passion, intimacy and commitment across three-track collection Montréal-based singer-songwriter Silka Weil has released her sophomore EP, Midnight Blue, marking a new chapter in the artist’s evolving career and showcasing a deeper exploration of love, vulnerability and personal growth. The new EP, now available on streaming platforms, follows Weil’s acclaimed 2023 debut and arrives after a period of growing recognition for the Musi-Flo Artist of the Year. Built around the themes of passion, intimacy and commitment, Midnight Blue presents a collection of songs that blend rock-driven energy with reflective storytelling. Weil, known for balancing emotional honesty with…

Prince Edward Island-based Latin ensemble aims to connect audiences worldwide through rhythm, dance and cultural exchange Prince Edward Island Latin music group Montuno Cubano has released its latest single, “Baila Mi Guaracha,” a vibrant new track that blends traditional Cuban musical influences with a message of global unity, as the band prepares for a busy summer schedule of performances across Canada. Led by Santiago de Cuba-born songwriter, singer and requinto player Jorge Luis Peña Acosta, the new release draws inspiration from the energetic Cuban guaracha tradition, a genre known for its lively rhythms, spirited vocals and strong connection to dance…

Alt-rock singer-songwriter launches first full-length project, blending personal growth, resilience and Indigenous heritage RED DEER, Alta. — Alberta singer-songwriter Mercedes Brown has released her debut album, Light the Fire, marking a significant milestone for the Wet’suwet’en Tsimshian artist as she continues to build momentum within Canada’s independent music scene. The album is now available on all major streaming platforms and arrives following early attention generated by Brown’s lead single, “Playing With Fire,” and the recently released “So What?” Both tracks have helped introduce the Red Deer-based musician to a broader audience and attracted support from several music publications. Brown’s growing…

New standardised station design aims to cut costs, accelerate delivery and support future GO Transit expansion GRIMSBY, Ontario — Construction has officially begun on the new Grimsby GO Station, marking a significant milestone in Ontario’s efforts to expand regional transit infrastructure, reduce congestion and improve connectivity between the Niagara Region and the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. The station, which forms part of the province’s wider strategy to improve transportation networks and support economic growth, will become the first GO Transit facility built using a new standardised station design. Provincial officials say the approach is intended to reduce construction costs,…

ByWard Market Festival Set for Largest Edition Yet with Expanded Venue Network and Community Collaboration Ottawa’s Capital Punishment Festival is set to return in 2026 with its most ambitious edition to date, as organisers unveil expanded plans for the three-day heavy-music event and launch a call for local business partners and collaborators. Presented by Chord Productions, the third edition of the festival will take place from 27 to 29 November 2026 across multiple venues in Ottawa’s ByWard Market district. Supported by Ottawa Tourism, the event aims to further strengthen its position as one of Canada’s growing showcases for underground heavy…