54Stance (Ottawa, ON)
Fusing a mixture of styles ranging from hardcore to hip hop, 54Stance play punishing music with a distinctive, heavy sound. Think: Limp Bizkit, Project Wyze. www.54stance.com

Aaron Booth (Toronto, Ontario)
Aaron Booth is a tuneful songwriter with a love of melody. His carefully crafted songs are rich in imagination and lean in presentation. www.aaronboothmusic.com

Acacia (London, Ontario)
Riveting, entrancing and subtly beautiful, the music of ACACIA takes the listener on a journey unparalleled by other heavy bands.www.mazurpr.com

Adam's Rib (Toronto, Ontario)
Adam's Rib began in a basement studio, but didn’t remain there for long. They have proven themselves over time, opening for the likes of Santana and Sting. www.adamsrib.ca

Adversaree (Toronto, ON)
Adversaree is a veteran of the Canadian hip-hop scene and has been working towards releasing his debut full-length, produced by MC Collizhun. If you dig: Biz Markie, ONYX

Aengus Finnan (Cobourg, Ontario)
A troubadour whose story-like songs have earned him international acclaim and numerous awards. His songs paint dramatic pictures of real people and familiar places. www.aengusfinnan.com

The Afterbeat (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
A seven-piece ska ensemble that has been together since late 2000. They mix upbeat contemporary influences with old school ska to create explosively danceable music. www.theafterbeat.com

Aleah D'Kos (Toronto, ON)
She brings edgy storytelling to her pop blend of blues and trip hop, loaded with layers of distinct harmonies, innovative vocal phrasings, and blunt lyrics. www.aleahdkos.com

Alexisonfire (St. Catherines, Ontario)
This 5-piece metal, screamcore band has been building a solid buzz in Canada with a great live show and videos on MuchMusic. Recently signed with Equal Vision. www.theonlybandever.com

Alex Murdoch (Edmonton, Alberta)
This catchy pop rock songwriter recently signed a three-album deal with Indica / Aquarius / EMI Canada. www.alexmurdoch.com

Alfie Zappacosta (Edmonton, AB)
A bonafide superstar, with 2 Junos to his credit, Alfie Zappacosta has been a mainstay of the music industry for 20 years. Alfie's current sound, often described as smooth jazz, is far more subtle and intimate than his previous material. www.iamzappacosta.com

Amer Diab (Toronto, Ontario)
Honest lyrics set to a moody, yet melodic backdrop, "Diab transforms alternately into a country-rock Elvis Costello…and a bruised up Jackson brown"- eye weekly. www.amerdiab.ca

Amped (St. Catharines, ON)
This explosive pop/punk four piece started in1999 and have garnered a lot of attention for their fast-paced sound. Amped released their debut record "Rude and Tattooed" this past year. If you pogo to: SUM41, The Weekend. www.amped.ca

Andrea England (Toronto, Ontario)
Andrea's heartfelt delivery, compelling lyrics, and infectious pop-rock melodies have brought tears to the eyes of more than a few unsuspecting audience members. Compared to: Sarah McLachlan, Sheryl Crow. www.andreaengland.com

Andrea Klas (Vancouver BC)
Andrea Klas has a voice that is both angelic and ethereal and her music has layers of ambient textures amidst driving guitars. Her debut full-length came out last year. Think: Sheryl Crow, Portishead. www.andreaklas.com

Andrew Vincent & the Pirates (Ottawa, Ontario)
Boy-next-door tales of heartbreak and loss lead to righteous raucous rock sounds with catchy chord progressions and an instantly recognizable lyrical style. www.kelprecords.com

Andrew Walker (Toronto, Ontario)
An eclectic mix of classic Americana styles, including elements of rock, pop, folk, and alt-country, have formed the music of this singer-songwriter. www.andrewwalkermusic.com

Anjulie (Toronto, Ontario)
Anjulie's sound blends classic rock with sexy guitar-driven grooves into a unique modern sound is both danceable and rocked out! www.anjuliemusic.com

Anneke's Star (Windsor, Ontario)
With a focus on song content, the lyrics of this trio are thoughtful and reflective. Their sound is identified mainly by their intense three part harmonies and interwoven vocal lines. www.annekesstar.com

Ariel's Worm (Toronto, Ontario)
Their blend of pop melodies with hard rock has created a unique and original sound that captivates the listener. www.arielsworm.com

Arlene Bishop (Toronto, ON)
Arlene Bishop is a singer/songwriter with band who, unlike her often-brooding contemporaries, deftly infuses her powerful and grooving songs with sometimes-silly banter. Think: Robbie Robertson, Joni Mitchell. www.arlenebishop.com

Audiosleep (Toronto, Ontario)
If you are one of those folks who enjoy swirling space noises with lingering guitar lines, Audiosleep is a must for you. Their space-rock music perfectly balances the ambient, groove, experimental and electronic side of things. www.audiosleep.net

august (Toronto, Ontario)
Combing the lyrics and melodies of singer songwriter Andi D with the expressive and driving bass/guitar lines of Jen Benton creates a very edgy and original sound. www.augustsight.com

Autorickshaw (Toronto, Ontario)
Autorickshaw is a new world-music ensemble steeped in the traditions of Indian classical music, while also drawing on jazz and contemporary music influences. www.autorickshaw.ca

Avenue Road (Toronto, Ontario)
Making intoxicating music laced with raw lyrical content, Avenue Road has continued to deliver original songs and an engaging show. www.avenueroadband.com

The Awesome Team (Toronto, Ontario)
The Awesome Team is a four-piece band whose melodic guitar-driven rock sound has a punk-rock edge. www.theawesometeam.com

The Bangers (Toronto, Ontario)
Female-fronted rock and roll band that can ignite a crowd easily with their no-holds-barred barrage of tough, sexy punk rock.

Barbara Croall (Toronto, Ontario)
Many of her works draw on her native heritage from a sincere standpoint that attempts to reconcile with the assimilation process experienced by aboriginal Canadians. She is a graduate of the Hochschule für Musik in Munich, Germany

The Barcelona Pavilion (Toronto, ON)
The Barcelona Pavilion makes intellectually stimulating indie rock that is aggressively in-your-face one moment, then dashes into spasms of pop melody the next. www.barcelonapavilion.cjb.net

The Barmitzvah Brothers (Guelph, Ontario)
Three youth plus a supporting cast called The Lethargians who make eccentric, experimental pop from unusual instruments. Their eclectic style fuses elements of traditional folk, polka, bluegrass, rock, klezmer, punk, and ranges from upbeat to melancholy. www.barmitzvahbrothers.cjb.net www.weewerk.com

Barry Canning (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
A mainstay of the east-coast music industry for twenty years, Canning has released three albums. Winner of 2002 MIANL Male Artist of the Year and Pop/Rock Artist of the Year, he was also nominated for 2003 East Coast Music Award Best Pop/Rock Artist. www.barrycanning.com

Beautiful Senseless (Guelph, Ontario)
Melancholy, atmospheric rock by three vocalists accompanied by mountainous guitars, keyboards and trumpets, as well as pedal steel and banjo makes for a dreamy, rootsy experience. www.beautifulsenseless.com

Bedouin Soundclash (Kingston, Ontario)
Bedouin Soundclash is a young group blurring the lines of reggae and rock, refusing to be classified. www.bedouinsoundclash.com

Belinda Brady (Toronto, ON)
This Jamaican born Canadian singer has been making strides in the music industry for a number of years now with her special blend of pop, reggae and urban sounds. www.canadianreggaeworld.com/belinda.htm

Belladonna (Toronto, Ontario)
A combination of spoken word, poetry and hip-hop, Belladonna has placed second in the Caribana Rap-off in the past. www.justusleaguerecords.com

Ben Thompson Band (Belleville, Ontario)
With their unique mix of emo pop, rock and funky melodic grooves, the BTB's music crosses over many genres. www.thebtb.ca

Bet.e & Stef (Montreal, PQ)
By assimilating and evolving the music of Brazil's bossa nova originators, Canadian duo Bet.e & Stef has soared from performing in clubs and bistros in Montréal to performing in Japan within a three-year span. www.bet-e-and-stef.com

The Bicycles (Toronto, ON)
The Bicycles' traditional vintage pop music bursts effortlessly with great melodies, warm fuzzy guitars and vocal harmonies that are simply enchanting. If you dig: Olivia Tremor Control, The Beatles. www.thebicycles.ca

Big Jeezus Truck (Ottawa, ON)
Big Jeezus Truck play hotrod country-punk, rock-and-roll with lots of energy and enthusiasm. They have been tearing up bars and breaking ladies' hearts since 1996. If you bang to: The Supersuckers,Motorhead. www.bigjeezuztruck.com

Big John Bates (Vancouver, Canada)
PSYCHO-A-GOGO!! is what they call their psychobilly-tainted rock 'n' roll show that also features bad girls of burlesque the Voodoo Dollz. www.bigjohnbates.com

Billy & the Lost Boys (Vancouver, British Columbia)
This female-fronted punkabilly rock trio plays catchy power pop music that will make you move. www.billyandthelostboys.com

Bionic (Montreal, Quebec)
Jonathan Cummins formed Bionic after he left A&M recording artists The Doughboys in search of something a bit more rocking. And Bionic totally rocks hard. www.sound-king.com

Black Rice (Vancouver, BC)
2002's Discorder/CiTR's Shindig! winner, Black Rice fuse together math-rock and post-punk stylings into their own unique rock sound. www.blackrice.net

Blackout 77 (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
Known for their stage antics and ruthless rock and roll, this true metal outfit has been hammering Halifax and other maritime cities since 2001. www.blackout77.ca

Blair Packham (Toronto ON)
While this affable singer-songwriter is perhaps best known as the voice of The Jitters, Blair's solo effortuses harder-edged pop melodies in the pursuit of the perfect hook. If you listen to: Elvis Costello, The Beatles. www.blairpackham.com

Bleep (Toronto, ON)
Bleep is a drum 'n' bass duo that creates beautifully complex rhythms and sonic structures tied together by soft melodic female vocals. Think: Portishead, Massive Attack. www.bleeptunes.com

Blessed (Toronto, Ontario)
Singer/songwriter Ray "Rayon" Robinson, blessed with incredible vocal skills honed in the church, is poised to make his mark alongside other gifted soul and r&b singers such as Bilal and Musiq.

Bloody Mannequins (Toronto, Ontario)
Their red-wine-fuelled muse draws upon Siouxsie and the Banshees, Joy Division, and the Pixies. This rockin' foursome are preparing to draw serious blood.

Blue Skies At War (London, Ontario)
Everyone is equal, ideas shared, bonds made to never break. This band is our hearts, our souls, everything we've ever believed in. Compare to: Small Brown Bike, Pecola. www.blueskiesatwar.com

Blues Underdogg w/ Maestro (Ajax, Ontario)
This seven-piece urban rock band crosses musical barriers with their unique blend of hip-hop, alternative rock, and funk. Related to: The Roots, Arrested Development. www.bluesunderdog.com

Blurred Vision (Toronto, Ontario)
World-pop-rock with subtle and powerful influences of the mid-east. Passionately composed and performed with authenticity by Iran-born brothers Sepehr and Soheil. www.blurredvisionmusic.com

Blush (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
Blush rose to become one of Winnipeg's most buzzed-about rock bands in 2003. Currently being featured on Power 97FM, they are set to release their intense debut album. www.blushtheband.ca

Bob Wiseman & the Damn Ugly Children (Toronto, ON)
Bob Wiseman & the Damn Ugly Children take their cue from unerring astrological divinations, embellishing Bob Wiseman's works of the heart via the indomitable violin styling of Julie Penner, Appalachian vocal funambulist Kristine Schmitt and the sedulous uncombed James Anderson on bowed saw, wine glasses, mandolin, and sweeping bamboo broom! www.bobwiseman.ca

Bobby Dreadfull (Toronto, Ontario)
Bobby Dreadfull's performances are electrifying, his dancing likes a combination of James Brown and Michael Jackson, with a twist of hip-hop. His hypnotic self-produced tribal house rhythms have been received with overwhelming praise.

Bombast (Toronto, ON)
Rising from the ashes of Toronto's The Fangs, Alan McCartney (ex-Hypnotic Bidets) and Mathew Davis (ex-The Mad and Salmonblaster) along with John Ayres (ex-Space City USA) formed Bombast one year ago, honing their street rock style into razor-sharp hooks with youthful abandon. www.badreputationrecords.com/bombast

Bombs Over Providence (St. Catherines, Ontario)
A successful merger of members of Dead Giveaway and Marilyn's Vitamins, BopCorp has been enriching the portfolios of its shareholders since the second quarter of the 2000 fiscal year. www.undergroundoperations.com/bombsoverprovidence

Boomkat (Los Angeles, CA)
While this brother-and-sister soulful trip-hop duo's singles "Wasting My Time" and "The Wreckoning" are currently making noise, the Boomkat full-length debut "Boomkatalog One" hits stores in April. www.boomkat.net

Borg & Vella (Toronto ON)
Borg & Vella play nouveau flamenco, a musical style they describe as being derived from the traditional spirit of flamenco infused with a blend of Latin, jazz and rock musical rhythms. www.borgandvella.com

The Boston Post (Bragg Creek, AB)
The Boston Post is the newest effort by Scott Moffat, singer of The Moffats, who has turned up the guitars with a much harder, faster sound. www.scottmoffattonline.com

Botany Hill (Toronto, Ontario)
Botany Hill's repertoire of succinct and precise music draws inspiration from the places where the genre of hip hop was created and where true MCs live -- the streets.

Bottleneck (Vancouver, BC)
Bottleneck mix alt-country Americana and bluegrass to form their own stunning brand of classic, laid-back roots music. On a mixed tape with: Lucinda Williams, Radiogram

Boy (Whitehorse, NWT)
Boy's art-rock with a Brit twist, combined with an ultra cool, laid-back attitude, has been turning heads for the last few years.

Brassmunk (Toronto, ON)
Rap crew Brassmunk, comprised of knob-twiddling maestro Agile, and flame-spittin' MCs May One 9, S-Roc (aka Richie Hennessey) and Clip (aka Black Bean Sauce), is a band that matters. www.brassmunk.com

Breach Of Trust (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan)
Breach of Trust's music is a mixture of swirling guitars with modern metal overtones and lyrical content alternating between heady intellectual insights and gut-wrenching emotional self-doubt. www.breachoftrust.com

Breadfan (Toronto, Ontario)
This 3-piece rock band is known for their staggering live performance. Breadfan has the potential to lead hard rock into the next generation with their new EP due out on Gen-Sub Records in March 2004. www.breadfan.ca

Brian Gladstone (Toronto, ON)
Brian Gladstone's second release "Psychedelic Pholk Psongs" is a throwback to the days when all you needed to make a good album was your voice and a guitar. If you listen to: Mississippi John Hurt, John Prine. www.backtothedirt.com

Brighton (Montreal, Quebec)
The contemporary pop-rock sound of Brighton is based on a combination of melodic vocals and songs that display both musical and lyrical freshness. www.brightonhq.com

Brigitte LA (Charlesbourg, PQ)
Canada's answer to Lita Ford, Brigitte LA play 80s-derived flash-metal/heavy rock that will have you flying the devil salute soon enough. If you dig: Lee Aaron, KISS. www.brigittela.com

Broken Social Scene (Toronto, ON)
Canadian indie buzz band of 2002, Broken Social Scene unexpectedly mobilized the Toronto scene around their avant-post-art-punk noise squall tempered with pop-edged daggers.

Broomfiller (Toronto, ON)
Broomfiller is a heavy melodic punk three-piece that mixes influences to create a fresh sound with lots of buzzing guitars and energy. Think: Pennywise, Queens of the Stone Age. www.broomfiller.com

Brother Love Canal (Toronto, Ontario)
Brother Love Canal is the new Blondie: irresistible pop melodies mixed with house grooves and punk rock attitude. www.brotherlovecanal.com

Brothers In Stereo (St. John's, Newfoundland)
Two brothers raised on their father's record collection, having honed their chops with other bands, reunite years later … no need to talk about "keepin' it real". This is as good as it gets. www.funkfactor.com

The Brothers Rise (Toronto, ON)
Described as Michael Jackson meets Aerosmith, The Brothers Rise deliver a revolutionary brand of pop rock.

The Brown Hornets (Newcastle, ON)
The Brown Hornets play youthful, explosive acid-blues rock music with a sense of tradition mixed in. On a mixed tape with: Jerry Lee Lewis, T-Bone Walker. www.thebrownhornets.com

Brundlefly (Vancouver, BC)
Brundlefly make mellow-maudlin pop rock music that touches on Brit pop with jangly hooks and subtle but edgy guitar riffs. Think: Grapes of Wraith, Travis. www.brundlefly.com

Burt Neilson Band (Thunder Bay, Ontario)
The essence of BNB is the live performance. When a band is great live, word usually spreads very quickly. Their consistent, cohesive sound showcases the band's ability to stretch across all genres.

Butterfinger (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan)
Butterfinger recently released its debut self-titled album, capitalizing on the momentum of their award-winning song "Breathe." Nominated for "Outstanding Rock Recording" at the Western Canadian Music Awards in 2003. www.smoothlikebuttah.com

By A Thread (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Emotional hard-core-influenced melodic rock 'n' roll blast formed from the ashes of hardcore heavyweights Strain. Dark and hauntingly beautiful at times, raucous and heavy at others. www.byathread.net

By Divine Right (Toronto, Ontario)
By Divine Right have been making beautiful eccentric rock music since 1989. Songwriter Jose Contreras creates songs that are a glorious voyage of melody and charm, harmony and cacophony. www.bydivineright.com

By Permit Only (Brampton, ON)
By Permit Only is a hard-hitting three-piece punk rock band that plays short, catchy songs full of guitar hooks and melodic energy. If you pogo to: Green Day, Blink 182. www.bypermitonly.com

Byther Smith (Monticello, Mississippi)
Smith settled in Chicago in 1958, learned to play guitar and started singing traditionally rooted blues. His powerful voice when mixed with his blistering guitar is often quite inspiring.

Cadence Grace (Toronto, Ontario)
Cadence Grace has the right combination of feisty attitude and energetic charm to attract lots of attention. She has been working on a debut album with producers and songwriters the Confidence Emperors. www.popguru.com

Caleigh Burke (Toronto, Ontario)
This singer-songwriter weaves spellbinding songs with a powerful voice and lyrics filled with emotion. www.caleighburke.com

The Candidates (Cambridge, Ontario)
The Candidates continue their journey to ultimate rock stardom with the release of their second full-length album, "Fame, Fortune & Free Drinks."

Canteen (Toronto, ON)
Formed in 2000, Canteen is a female-fronted four-piece that play intelligent pop rock music in the purest sense. www.canteenonline.com

Canteen Knockout (Toronto, Ontario)
Innovation is a great way to describe Canteen Knockout's musical mission, which combines new-age electric guitar sounds with sweet acoustic reverberations and straight-up rock and roll. www.inkattack.com

Carl Henry (Montreal, Quebec)
This compelling artist and songwriter whose influences span the musical spectrum continues to impress worldwide, with his smooth vice and authentic R'n'B styling. Nominated for a Best R&B/Soul Recording Juno in 2003. www.cesoul.com

Carlos Morgan (Toronto, Ontario)
Morgan scored mainstream points for Canadian R&B when his independent debut album, "Feelin' Alright," got picked up by Universal Music last year. The record earned him a Juno for Best Soul/R&B recording. www.carlosmorgan.com

Carolyn Mark (Vancouver, BC)
This alt-country songstress crafts "sweet tunes that veer between stripped-down bluegrass, brassy torch songs and anthems to depression that make you want to drink red wine and slit your wrists." www.mintrecs.com

Carrie Horachek (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan)
A singer/songwriter with an edgy folk sound that engages, enrages and invites audiences along for a ride from the lazy beats of a country back road to the driving rhythms of an open highway. www.carriehorachek.com

Castlemusic (Toronto, Ontario)
Scrappy and honest, folk-rock-blues music that is simple and straightforward. Sure to make you feel warm and fuzzy.

Catburglaz (Montreal, PQ)
Catburglaz offer a refreshing, soulful style of hip hop with slamming beats and tight rhymes. Think: The Roots, KRS-One. www.catburglaz.com

Cavern (Toronto, Ontario)
Together less than a year, this three-piece rock band's original music exudes rhythmic lyrics, powerful grooves and infectious harmonies.

Charley Beck (Ottawa, ON)
Charley Beck creates upbeat, straightforward pop rock music powered by her gutsy vocals and punkish enthusiasm. Think: The Cranberries, Sheryl Crow. www.charleybeck.com

The Cheap Suits (Toronto, Ontario)
Mixing elements of ska, pop and punk, their live shows are upbeat and energetic. www.cheapsuits.ca

Cheerleader (Toronto, ON)
Cheerleader blend such influences as Guns 'N' Roses, Alice Cooper and AC/DC into nasty punk rock with edge and appeal. www.cheerleader666.com

Chinatown (Vancouver, BC)
Influenced by AC/DC and Cheap Trick, Chinatown are a punchy, hook filled punk rock band featuring ex-members of New Town Animals and Flash Bastard.

Choclair (Toronto, ON)
Choclair's smooth rhyming skill, lyrical mastery and mild mannered charm have long been finding their way to speakers and ears. He was one of the first Canadian hip hop artists to be signed to a major label. www.choclair.net

Chris Cummings (Saint John, NB)
Cummings' seasoned, mesmerizing, tough-but-tender country baritone echoes with subtle, delightful influences of acknowledged masters like Merle Haggard and George Jones.

Chris Koster (Kingston, Ontario)
A 26-year-old singer-songwriter who started out as the lead singer in his older brothers' bar bands, he is currently working with Byron Wong and Mark Makoway on his debut solo album. www.chriskoster.ca

Chris Page (Ottawa, Ontario)
Formerly of The Stand GT, Page combines punk, rock and folk, with Billy Bragg as a common reference point, coupled with elements of Superchunk and Joe Strummer. www.kelprecords.com

Chris Stacey (Toronto, Ontario)
With his innovative combination of acoustic guitar and hip-hop, Stacey brings a fresh new vibe to the urban music scene.

Chris St. Pierre (Toronto, Ontario)
Singer/songwriter Chris St. Pierre crafts personal songs in an acoustic roots style with pop touches on his latest release "Sandbox 101." www.chrisstpierre.com

Chris Velan (Montreal, Quebec)
His debut solo album, "It's Not What You Think," is an exciting look into the pop rock musical world that Chris has been creating for a long time. www.chrisvelan.com

Clay George (Victoria, British Columbia)
Clay George sings with a smoky baritone voice, creating music that has beautiful melodies, lilting fiddles, harmonica, and rolling finger-picked guitar. www.claygeorge.com

C’MON (Toronto, Ontario)
C’mon is the rock trio featuring Ian Blurton (Change of Heart, Blurtonia), Katie Lynn Campbell (Nashville Pussy) and Randy Curnew. This is the raw sound of heavy rock with emphasis on high-energy shows and short, concise songs.

Cooldown (Vancouver, BC)
Stunning singer/songwriter Miss Benny heads Cooldown who produce music that is a seductive concoction of dreamy melodies, groovy rhythms, and airy vocals. If you like: Lamb, Massive Attack. www.sparkrecords.com

Coral Egan (Toronto, Ontario)
An eclectic performer and an extraordinary singer, her second album, a pop flavoured gem, showcases her gift for melody and her musical influences culled from folk, soul, reggae, pop, and jazz. www.coralegan.com

Corb Lund Band (Edmonton, AB)
Corb Lund combines older, acoustic country sounds with his special, quirky writing style to forge a new western, bluegrass-tinged folk music that has grit and spirit. Think: Johnny Cash, Wilf Carter. www.corblundband.com

The Cormiers (Conception Bay South, Newfoundland)
A family group whose musical roots are entrenched in their Scottish/French background. Received two nominations for the 2002 Newfoundland Music Industry Awards. www.thecormiers.com

Cosima Grunsky (Toronto, Ontario)
This singer-songwriter displays impressive musicianship in both her powerful vocal performance and her finely tuned guitar-playing style.

The Cottars (Baddeck, NS)
Ranging in age from 11 to 15 years, The Cottars' quartet brings a fresh approach to ancient Celtic music with rousing fiddle sets and heart tugging ballads. If you jig to: The Rankins, Ashley Maclsaac. www.miramusic.net/cottars

Counterbalance (Burlington, Ontario)
Though the band's influences include Tool and Incubus, their heavy sound is unique. Last year they were one of three finalists in the "Jam with Pam" contest hosted by beer.com. www.counterbalance.ca

Crash Kelly (Toronto, Ontario)
Signed to TB Records/BMG in the UK, Toronto's Crash Kelly deal in 70s-fueled, 80s-filtered R'n'R on their debut "PENNY PILLS." Their inaugural UK Tour in September 2003 was in support of the London Quireboys. www.crashkelly.ca

The Creaking Tree String Quartet (Toronto, Ontario)
Their intriguing improv chamber-grass concept seems made to appeal to jazz, classical and bluegrass fans looking for a new spin on old forms of music. www.creakingtree.com

Cuff The Duke (Oshawa, Ontario)
Cuff the Duke are four young suburbanites singing wayward-cowboy strip mall anthems. Johnny Horton meets Sonic Youth. www.cufftheduke.com

The Curfew (Toronto, Ontario)
The Curfew is a four-piece rock band with a sound that draws equally from Pavement, CCR, the Pixies and Wilco.

Curtis Santiago (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Named the CBC Galaxie Rising Star in 2003 at New Music West, Curtis's charisma is infectious and his soulful R&B music makes people dance. www.curtissantiago.com

Daisy Ella Mojo Crew (Ottawa, Ontario)
A new-age funk-soul band melding old school Santana, Zeppelin, and funk vibes with a modern unique rock and roll style all their own. www.daisyella.com

Damhnait Doyle (Toronto, ON)
Damhnait's deeply confessional sophomore album of 2000 earned her seven 2001 ECMA nominations and three awards. Compared to: Sarah McLachlan, Tara MacLean.

Daniel & the Holy Joes (Montreal, Quebec)
Daniel & The Holy Joes is a four-piece wrecking crew with a raw alternative edge fronted by veteran singer-songwriter Daniel Lorio. Think: The Beatles, Pink Floyd. www.danieliorio.com

Daniel Lanois (Hull, PQ)
Called "the most important record producer to emerge in the Eighties" by Rolling Stone, Daniel Lanois has drawn praise for his work with U2, Peter Gabriel, and Bob Dylan. His delicate, atmospheric touches emerge in honest, spontaneous performances. www.daniellanois.com

David Leask (Toronto, Ontario)
Leask's music is able to explore the diverse landscapes of human emotion while combining the story-telling tradition of his homeland in his own brand of Celtic pop-country roots music. www.davidleask.com

David Porteous (Toronto, Ontario)
A singer-songwriter whose pleasant voice creates laid-back and lush-sounding pop rock songs about life and love.

The Day After (Toronto, ON)
Featuring Michie Mee and Darren Quinn of Raggadeath, The Day After picks up where that band left off with a heavy hard-rock groove, but a more refined R&B flavour. www.thedayafter.ca

The Days (Toronto, Ontario)
An Eastern European take on all the best elements of American and British rock and roll with a genuine passion for jaw-dropping guitar licks and crowd-pleasing leg kicks.

The Dears (Montreal, PQ)
The Dears' sonic, atmospheric music is one of Canada's greatest exports. They are about to release their long awaited second full-length. Think: Radiohead, Television

Death From Above (Toronto, Ontario)
Death From Above delivers their straightforward libido rock with just a drum kit and a bass guitar and drive with a super-tight seamless ness.

Dee (Montreal, PQ)
Dee make slick sounding pop rock music which is catchy and danceable, with energized beats and high-ranging vocals.

Derek Miller (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
Derek’s stunning musicianship and outstanding pop/rock crossover sensibility has earned the respect of musicians such as Daniel Lanois, Robbie Robertson and Buffy Sainte Marie. www.risingsunproductions.ca

Deric Ruttan (Nashville, Tennesse)
Deric proves himself to be a strong storyteller with an expressive vocal approach and an acoustic guitar style perfectly suited to his tales. His songs target the heart with believable, tastefully understated lyrics. www.dericruttan.com

Despistado (Regina, Sakatchewan)
This young, excitable act accomplishes more from their lo-fi, high-energy sound than most bands with budgets. Bassist Joel Passmore describes their music as "indie, quirky, danceable, post-hardcore." www.despistadomusic.com

Detective Kalita (Ottawa, Ontario)
Detective Kalita mix rock, country and folk influences with powerful pop melodies and endearing lyrics. Their new record was recorded by Andy Magoffin at The House of Miracles. Think: Neutral Milk Hotel, The Shins www.kelprecords.com

DIE (Toronto, Ontario)
Former childhood friends who neglected homework for old 70s punk and 80s metal records, grew up into what has been pegged as "an orgy between RAMONES, GUNS N'ROSES, and AC/DC" (chartattack.com).

DJ Fat Sak (Montreal, Quebec)
One of the most versatile members of the ICM records camp. Not only a respected scratch DJ, he is also one of the most sought-after producers in Eastern Canada. www.islandcitymonsters.com

DJ Mana (Montreal, Quebec)
DJ Mana has been around since 1993 and has appeared onstage with the likes of Under Pressure, Mr. Lif, and Swollen Members. The turntables have become Mana's tool for unraveling the truth about the human psyche. www.djmana.com

DJ's Tim Patrick and Paranoid Jack (Toronto, Ontario)
These guys started Fifth Sun Recordings specializing in tech house and are hoping that this new company will provide a solid addition to the growing number of labels that are causing the worldwide dance music industry to focus on Canada. www.fifthsunrecordings.com

DJ Twitch (Montreal, Quebec)
Quickly making a name for himself as one of the most creative producers in Montreal. His backgrounds in piano, guitar, and turntablism allow him to bring a whole new dynamicto his beats. He has built a remarkable reputation for making clean, original music with that unmistakable quality that only live instruments can provide. www.islandcitymonsters.com

The Dirtmitts (Vancouver, British Columbia)
With sex-kitten vocals, bittersweet pop songs and infectious guitar grooves, The Dirtmitts have been building a solid buzz. www.dirtmitts.com

The DiVinE (Barrie, Ontario)
Drawing influences from KMFDM, Ministry and Nine Inch Nails, The DiVinE are inspired by noise, loud guitars, effect-laden vocals and various digital instruments. www.virtualdivinity.net

D.O.A. (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Canada's legendary punk kings have helped spread punk rock counterculture around the world. For 25 years D.O.A. has been happily slashing away at all manner of philosophical enemies with their classic punk rock music. www.suddendeath.com

Doc Walker (Winnipeg, MB)
Doc Walker's varied and refreshing mix of rock and pop-country sounds was nominated for a 2003 Canadian Radio Music Award for Best New Group or Solo Artist (Country). www.docwalker.ca

Dodger (Toronto, ON)
Dodger creates danceable music that has rhythmic rock/Caribbean beats, soulful melodies and thought provoking lyrics. www.dodger.ca

Downbelows (Toronto, Ontario)
A punk rock band who write honest songs and have a killer live show. Their record is out on October 32 Records. www.downbelows.onedown.ca

Dr Fly & The Foundation (London, Ontario)
An exciting blend of old school funk, hip hop and R&B sensibilities with a twist of high-energy rock and roll.

Dr. Noh (Montreal, PQ)
With two drum sets, two basses, guitar, keyboards, sampler, and trumpet, Dr. Noh come together to create music that is a haunting and mesmerizing blend of drum ëní bass, post-jazz rock. If you rave to: Amon Tobin, Miles Davis. www.flatwax.com/drnoh

Driver (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
A cocktail of thick juicy guitars, lyrics and a voice that connects. They have songs filled with beautifully dissonant melodies and a live show high on energy. www.drivermusic.net

Duane Andrews (St John's, Newfoundland)
Inspired by legendary guitarist Django Reinhardt, Duane Andrews performs a mélange of jazz and folk music. www.duaneandrews.ca

Easily Amused (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
This folk pop duo was named "Canada’s Best Online Indie Artist" by Warner Music Canada and canadianmusic.com and Voted Best Campus Duo by campusawards.com this year. www.easilyamused.ca

Eileen Joyce (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
Eileen Joyce is one of Halifax's beloved and durable voices, the iron velvet warmth of this songstress is well illustrated on her new CD "No More Blue Tears." www.eileenjoyceband.com

The Electric Shoes (Toronto, ON)
The Electric Shoes are pure pop, with loud jangling guitars, crashing drums, pretty melodies and lots of feedback. www.theelectricshoes.cjb.net

Elliott Brood (Toronto, Ontario)
Dark, gritty folk music built around whiskey-drenched vocals and lyrics evoking images of love, loss and murder. In their soul-thumping bluegrass songs, banjo keeps time to a strange and chunky angular stomp, with vicious Kentucky-hardcore acoustic guitar and somber, achingly confessional vocal harmonies. www.elliottbrood.ca, www.weewerk.com

Embassy (Kitchener, Ontario)
This true-school MC collective's lyrics range from fiery discussions on international politics to theories and observations on the current state of society, paying homage to early rap influences like Public Enemy, Wu-tang and Gangstarr.

Emily Jordan (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Emily Jordan's exquisite jazzy beat sound and her soulful, tender voice is outstandingly mature. www.emilyjordan.com

The End (Toronto, ON)
The End plays a crushing combination of metal and hardcore which will rip your head from your shoulders if you get too close. www.allchaos.net

End This Week With Knives (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Blistering scream core at its finest. Has to be seen live to be believed. Not for the faint of heart. Dangerously explosive and downright nasty in the best of ways. Check them out if you like At The Drive In and Alexisonfire. www.endthisweekwithknives.com

Erik Simins (Toronto, Ontario)
A fine new R&B artist. Erik's musical diversity, soothing voice and good looks definitely make him someone to watch.

Esoteric (Brantford, ON)
Over the last four years, Esoteric has become one of the mainstays of the Ontario Christian music scene. Esoteric's songs are characterized by their sing able pop melodies and solid guitar work. www.esoteric.mu

The Evaporators (Vancouver, British Columbia)
The long-time project of Nardwuar the Human Serviette, The Evaporators create high-energy rock and roll that is a throwback to sock hops and malt sodas. www.nardwuar.com

Explode The Airwaves (Toronto, ON)
Formed in 2002, Explode The Airwaves plays aggressive post-punk rock-and-roll. Think: Refused, The Stooges.

Eye 2 Eye (Montreal, Quebec)
Not only is this group gifted lyrically and musically, but they add to this an element of comedy and drama to produce what they call Theatrical Rap. www.eye2eyeproductions.com

The Failure (Calgary, Alberta)
Led by tight beats, nimble melodic bass lines, an assault of dynamic guitars, and chameleonic vocals, The Failure's sound is one part aggro-pop, one part punk, and one part grade-six science experiment. www.thefailure.com

The Falls River Fiends (Toronto, Ontario)
Their debut album reveals that Troy Sinister isn't just a bass player or graveyard blues singer, but can also kick out the jams, fronting a real punk outfit while laying down some of the meanest bass lines this side of Texas. www.october32.com

Fidgital (Vancouver, British Columbia)
A fusion of jazz, electronica and pop into a new vocal dance music. Their debut album "Spyglass" reached #1 on Chart magazine's national electronica Top 10 in 2001. www.fidgital.com

Filmmaker (Estevan, SK)
Filmmaker is a four-piece band that combines punk rock dynamics and college/indie rock tempos with emotional lyrics. Think: Jimmy Eat World, Texas Is The Reason. www.farawayrecords.com

Final Four (Jarvis, ON)
Final Four play catchy, old school punk that blisters with passion and conviction. If you pogo to: The Dropkick Murphys, The Black Halos. www.finalfourpunk.com

Flicker (Sarnia, ON)
Flicker is a modern rock band whose style is nothing less than refreshing, energetic and honest. www.flickerband.com

flipswitch (Vancouver, British Columbia)
flipswitch is a new rock band with a modern sound and an energetic live show. They've been swarming the airwaves and have secured many musical spots on various video games, compilations, and promotional events. www.flipswitchmusic.com

The Footnotes (Toronto, ON)
The Footnotes play a mix of modern and classic rock with a strong dose of blues and soul.

Foster & the Paper Bag Band (Edmonton, Alberta)
Soul-drenched jazz offerings with a unique blend of styles, including swing, blues, Latin, and funk. www.paperbagz.com

F.R.I.D.A.Y. aka Ricky Dread (Montreal, PQ)
F.R.I.D.A.Y. is all about teaching people the meaning of the what he calls the "Hustle Hop", which is the kind of music that has a powerful message directed at people concerned with their incomes and living situation.

The Front (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Fresh from winning SHINDIG! 2003, the annual CiTR battle of the bands event, The Front's hip-hop explodes in an incendiary combination of slamming rhythms, melodies and hyper kinetic lyrics. www.ltos.net

The Fullblast (Burlington, Ontario)
They blend fast, explosive punk rock with unparalleled rhythmic experimentation and melody, drawing inspiration from a breath of musical styles and artists. www.thefullblast.com

Full Count (Montreal, Quebec)
With their infectious blend of raw emotion, punk energy and timeless pop song craft, Full Count have rapidly emerged as one of the hottest new bands on the Montreal scene. www.fullcount.net

The Full Nine (Toronto, ON)
The Full Nine play alternative, hard-edged rock that is both melodic and hook-ridden with grandiose vocals. Sounds like: Hater, Stone Temple Pilots. www.thefullnine.ca

Garler (LaSalle, ON)
Garler is a female-fronted, hard-rocking four piece that play raunchy rock-and-roll like it used to be played. Think: Jimi Hendrix, Toronto

The Gears (Toronto, Ontario)
"Imagine if Jane's Addiction and The Clash showed up at The Who's house with a case of Whisky and said 'press record, let's jam'. They might have called it 'THE GEARS'." www.thegearsmusic.com

George Leach (Lillooet, BC)
A multi-disciplinary artist who has achieved success as a musician, actor and visual artist, George won the Best Rock Album and Best Male Artist awards at the 2000 Canadian Aboriginal Music Awards. www.georgeleachmusic.com

Gil Grand (Sudbury, Ontario)
Gil Grand weaves real-life lyrics into his songwriting and his traditional country music reminds the listener of country masters like Jones, Haggard, Twitty and Strait. www.gilgrand.com

Girl Nobody (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Led by Marta's heart-wrenchingly intimate vocals and beautiful lyrics, Girl Nobody create spaciously lush compositions that are provokingly original. www.girlnobody.com

Glenn Lewis (Toronto, Ontario)
Velvety smooth, r&b urban performer who keeps wowing audiences with his amazing soulful songs and his electrifying live show. www.glennlewismusic.com

Goat Horn (Toronto, Ontario)
What began as a jam of Cathedral and Priest covers quickly became serious matter as Goat Horn built upon their slow-as-molasses start to create classic, old-school metal tunes of their own. www.goathorn.com

The Golden Dogs (Thunder Bay, Ontario)
Eliciting comparisons to artists as diverse as Wings, The Pixies and Wilco, The Golden Dogs released a debut album full of catchy songs augmented by cool riffs and perfect harmonies. www.thegoldendogs.com

Graph Nobel (Toronto, Ontario)
This half-Trinidadian, half-Spanish artist has developed a musical style that defies common category. Inspired by: No Doubt, Blondie, Mos Def, and Bob Marley.

Grasshopper Sound Clash (Toronto, Ontario)
Influenced by hip hop, dub reggae, punk, and classic rock, their performances combine live instrumentation on guitar with pre-recorded beats and samples. www.grasshoppersoundclash.com

The Greatest Thief (Vancouver, British Columbia)
A brand new project by former members of Flannel Jimmy, The Greatest Thief are working in the studio with producers Dave Genn (Matthew Good Band) and John Dexter (Bif Naked) on their debut record.

The Great Forgetting (Toronto, ON)
Thriving on a foundation of beautifully interwoven vocals, searing post-punk dynamics and sinuous rhythmic dexterity, The Great Forgetting sounds both intriguingly alien and comfortingly familiar. Think: Pavement, Archers of Loaf. www.thegreatforgetting.com

Great Lake Swimmers (Toronto, Ontario)
Their haunting sound finds its roots in vintage folk and alt-country colourings, shaped by accordion and piano, lap steel and guitar, with a voice that seems to come from the walls. www.greatlakeswimmers.com www.weewerk.com

Greenfield Main (Ottawa, Ontario)
Greenfield Main combine classic country sounds with bluegrass stylings, creating songs about hunting that are drenched in vocal harmonies. www.kelpmusic.com

Greg MacPherson (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
Greg is a unique and talented singer songwriter who blends beautiful inner-city-inspired melodies with pulsating rhythms in his eclectic folk-rock music. His new record is out on G7 Welcoming Committee. www.gregmacpherson.com

Groundwerk (Toronto, Ontario)
This alternative rock and roll band has been creating a buzz with their sharp song writing and passion fueled live shows.

Haddonfield (Toronto, Ontario)
Haddonfield's uplifting, melodic and heavy sound has earned them a fair amount of respect and a position on the 2003 Vans Warped tour. www.camphaddonfield.com

Harmony Trowbridge (Toronto, Ontario)
Blessed with a keen sense of observation, an endless hunger for musical discovery and a disarming degree of honesty, Harmony Trowbridge is a superb songwriter. Think: Sarah Harmer, Emmylou Harris. www.harmonytrowbridge.com

Heart Mur Mur (Toronto, ON)
This delectable female three-piece's synth-powered sounds have new wave and punk-rock influences. If you listen to: Pony Da Look, Blondie.

The Heathens (Saskatoon, SK)
The Heathens are a four-piece melody-based pop-punk-ska rock band with a range of influences from grunge to death metal. If you like: Big Audio Dynamite, The Ramones.

Heather Morgan & The Company of Men (Toronto, Ontario)
A singer-songwriter whose soaring voice and writing style straddles country, jazz, bluegrass and blues influences, Heather skillfully handles any idiom she chooses. www.heathermorgan.ca

The Heavy Blinkers (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
"The Heavy Blinkers is a splendidly ambitious and brilliantly realized headfirst dive into ultra-sunny chamber pop waters, the same pool where you can find the Beach Boys and the Left Banke wading in the shallow end." ­ Rolling Stone.com www.heavyblinkers.com

Heidi Vincent Band (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Heidi has a remarkable and honeyed vocal versatility that is powerful and demands attention, yet can be candid, uncomplicated and sometimes naïve. Lyrically she depicts life experiences and will take the audience to the heart of hope itself. www.heidivincentband.com

Hidden Echo (Clarington, Ontario)
Heavily influenced by Creed and Nickelback, this modern rock quartet is starting to make their mark and is currently putting the finishing touches on their first demo. www.hiddenecho.com

The High Dials (Montreal, Quebec)
A perfect blend of influence and innovation, updating the R&B sounds of the British Invasion with a modern luster. They stay true to the sonic aesthetic of crafted harmonies, danceable beats and open-minded exploration. www.thehighdials.com

High Holy Days (North Bay, ON)
High Holy Days play hard-edged guitar rock that is both melodic and challenging. www.highholydays.ca

The Hollow (Toronto, Ontario)
Melodic hard rock band that has strong material and an impressive live show. www.thehollow.ca

Honeysuckle Serontina (Vancouver, BC)
The buzz as been brewing around this melodic, heart-core band for a few years now. Think: Samiam, Jimmy Eat World. www.honeysuckleserontina.com

Hope (Riverview, NB)
Hope is a four-piece band that plays melodic punk rock with a heavy guitar tone, powerful vocals and catchy choruses. Think: Weezer, The Weekend. www.hopepunk.com

Hot Little Rocket (Calgary, AB)
Hot Little Rocket are too fast to stare at their feet and too catchy for rock and roll fashion. They embrace both melody and abrasion, encompassing English guitar noise and American post-punk. www.geocities.com/hotlilrocket

Hotel (Toronto, Ontario)
With memorable hooks, solid musicianship, soaring vocals and deceptively clever lyrics, Hotel's music is a force to be reckoned with. Their sound is contemporary yet heavily influenced by the best of the 80s: early U2, The Cure and Kirk Cameron. www.freetinysoap.com

Hostile Takeover (Toronto, Ontario)
Their sound is a rich mix of chaos, intensity, melody and dissonance; all captured in uniquely and passionately crafted songs that pulsate with energy. If you like: Mission of Burma, Pixies.

Human (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
Human was named 2003 ECMA Rock Group of the Year and has been busy supporting such acts as Big Sugar, Three Days Grace, and The Salads. www.experiencehuman.com

Hush Hush (Toronto, Ontario)
Singer/songwriter Keri Steele explores contemporary forms of music, creating mesmerizing, highly melodic and loop-based trip-hop songs. www.popguru.com

Hybrid Cartel (Vancouver, BC)
Hybrid Cartel is a four-piece, alternative hard rock band that won 99.3 The Fox's Xtreme Band Slam contest.

Hyena (Montreal, Quebec)
A sex-kitten-led four-piece hardcore rock band that is a cross between Black Sabbath and AC/DC, with a smooth side and lots of ambition.

Ian Thornley (Toronto, Ontario)
Big Wreck front man creates warm melodies with great guitar work, comforting vocals and inspired song writing.

The Illuminati (Toronto, Ontario)
Formed in the fall of 2002, in only one short year this trio has honed its unique brand of psychedelic hard rock and supported such A-list international artists as Alice Cooper, Andrew W.K., and The Darkness. www.theilluminati.ca

Imperial Pubic Library (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
Imperial Public Library blend indie power-pop with rich vocal harmonies to create energetic and powerful rock and roll. www.imperialpubliclibrary.com

In Essence (Toronto, Ontario)
In Essence has been exciting listeners with their beautiful soft harmonies and heart felt lyrics.

In This Life (Montreal, Quebec)
The band formerly known as The Riddlers evolved into In This Life during the summer of 2003. Still purveyors of alternative rock tinted with folk, their ties to Amnesty International and consciousness-raising are legendary. www.inthislife.ca

In-Flight Safety (Sackville, New Brunswick)
Beautiful ambient songs composed of layered melodies building an electric aura. Voted "Best Unsigned Band" by Universal Music at NXNE 2003. Comparable to: Radiohead, Coldplay. www.inflightsafety.ca

Inner City Surfers (Toronto, Ontario)
The Inner City Surfers offer pop-punk songs that are filled with anger, sadness, and often enlightenment. They use a variety of music styles to deliver these various emotions. www.innercitysurfers.com

The Intended (Toronto, Ontario)
Their music is a mixture of country and light rock with some soul and hard rock thrown in for good measure. www.theintendedband.com

The Inward Eye (Toronto, ON)
The Inward Eye consists of three teenage brothers who infuse the energy and passion of real rock and roll with a sound as fresh as it is classic.

IRS (Toronto, ON)
IRS's hip hop is an amalgam of influences from jazz, funk, r&b and soul. They have been at the forefront of the Canadian hip hop underground for many years. www.universalurban.com/irs/index.php

Isherwood (Toronto, Ontario)
Isherwood has a knack for adding catchy melodies to songs with a twist. Some tunes are radio-friendly while others have a hypnotic clubby, dirge feel with arrangements making a decided leap away from the norm. www.timisherwood.com

I, Shithead (Vancouver, British Columbia)
A special acoustic / spoken word performance featuring Joe "Shithead" Keithley's recollections of a life in punk - stories of riots, drinking, traveling, playing, and conquering all manner of obstacles through sheer determination. www.suddendeath.com

Jack Lavoie (Toronto, Ontario)
Jack Lavoie's songs, tell tales, share secrets and spread the message of hope and compassion with warm melodies and strong voice. www.jacklavoie.net

Jackie Richards (Markdale, Ontario)
Gifted with tremendous vocal and emotional range, Jackie can bring down the house with her rockin’ country, then bring a tear to your eye with a heart-wrenching ballad. www.jackierichards.com

Jacob Two-Two (Ottawa, Ontario)
Purveyors of sweet and engaging roots-based pop music, their debut album was named one of the best releases from Ottawa in 2001 by Chartattack.com. www.jacobtwotwo.net

Jake (Three Hills, AB)
Jake is a Christian rock band made up of three brothers. Their first release "Jake" was nominated for a Juno as Best Gospel album, as well as nominated for best new Top 40 and New Pop/Adult Group at the Canadian Radio Music Awards in 2001. www.jakemusic.com

Jake Mathews (Calgary, AB)
Jake Mathews has always been surrounded by country music. Growing up in Sudbury, Ontario, singer-songwriter Jake Mathews was influenced at an early age by the traditional sounds of country's legends. Today, Jake continues to write songs and perform at local clubs and festivals across Canada and has built a loyal fan base that is anxiously awaiting his debut self-titled album.

Jalayne Tradler (Toronto, Ontario)
At the age of 17 Jalayne won an Alberta Country Music award and now under the wing of Daniel Leblanc (thrice nominated CCMA record producer of the year), she has co-written a new album. www.jalaynetradler.com

Janet Panic (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Her unique musical style blends the rhythmic and sensual with guitar-driven melodies to form a tasty cocktail of one part poetry, one part power, and two parts pop. www.janetpanic.com

Jay Fletch (Ottawa, Ontario)
Citing influences such as Busta Rhymes, Joe Budden and Fabolous, this young urban performer has shown he has the songs to step up to the majors. Ottawa's Urban Star Quest winner this year. www.mvthis.com

Jeen O'Brien (Toronto, Ontario)
Jeen continues to increase her fan base as she mesmerizes audiences with her heart felt lyrics, her dynamic live show and her hook laden musical arrangements. Her new single "American Dream" is sure to hit you over the head. www.sostarstruck.com

Jeff Healey (Toronto, ON)
Jeff Healey is one of Canada's most celebrated and accomplished musicians. www.jefhealeyband.com

Jeff Hendrick (Calgary, Alberta)
Deeply rooted in the r&b and pop influences of artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and Prince, with smooth vocal offerings, soulful keyboards and sexy saxophone. www.jeffhendrick.com

Jenna (Vancouver, BC)
This soulful and inspiring 21 year old singer songwriter, co-produces her own music and has worked with Kuya, Perry Alexander, Solitair and Haydain. Her debut single is set for release to radio May 15th.

Jerkbank (Toronto, ON)
Fired up with the energy of punk, Jerkbank fuels their audience with fast, punchy and melodic music that is tight and aggressive. Think: Rancid, Bunchoffuckinggoofs. www.jerkbank.com

Jersey (Burlington, Ontario)
Jersey is proper punk in the tradition of the Clash, Rancid and Bad Religion, infused with elements of Springsteen, U2, and even a little Tie Domi. www.jerseyrock.com

Jessie Farrell (Vancouver, BC)
Jessie Farrell is a singer-songwriter propelled by smart lyrics and an established pop sound. www.jessiefarrell.com

Jets Overhead (Victoria, British Columbia)
The Jets Overhead sound situates rock-and-roll immediacy in the context of a more hypnotic and trance-oriented backdrop, with influences ranging from Pink Floyd to The Velvet Underground to The Who. www.jetsoverhead.com

JFK and the Conspirators (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
Traditional seven-piece ska outfit that has been dazzling fans and critics alike for almost ten years. They have consistently laid down the traditional styling of ska music, taking influences from its early days along with rock steady and reggae.

Jocelyn (Toronto, Ontario)
Her powerful sultry vocals and fresh alternative R&B are influenced by the likes of Sade, Michael Jackson and Paul Simon.

Jody Quine (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Her presence is captivating and electric, with a voice that beds down with the shivers under your skin. www.jodyquine.com

Joel Kroeker (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Joel’s second record "Melodrama" is a thoughtful, big-production pop album that displays his eclectic song styles. He has co-written songs with Stephan Moccio and The Weekend's Andrea Wasse, among others. www.joelkroeker.com

Joel Parkes (Toronto, ON)
Joel Parkes is a Canadian songwriter who spends a lot of his time writing with various Grammy winning writers/producers in Nashville, New York and Los Angeles. He co-wrote the Top-40 hit "8th World Wonder" that is covered by American Idol Kimberley Locke.

John Acosta (Toronto, Ontario)
John is mainly recognized today as a songwriter involved in albums by such notable artists as Sugar Jones, Velvet Empire and Sky. Recently one of his songs was chosen for Canadian Idol winner Ryan Malcolm's debut CD.

John Cossar (Toronto, Ontario)
John Cossar plays danceable rock and shows lots of potential as a versatile songwriter and supple vocalist. www.johncossar.com

John Landry (Montreal, PQ)
John Landry is an acclaimed country singer whose unmistakable voice and intelligent songwriting abilities create one hit after another. www.jlandry.com

Jonas (Montreal, Quebec)
Jonas' first solo album on the DKDD label is currently in progress and will be out everywhere in Spring 2004. The record is produced by Dale Panner, famous for his work with Nickelback and Holly McNarland. www.jonas.com

Jonathan Seet (Toronto, Ontario)
First and foremost a poet's songwriter, Seet's masterful wordplay, subtle irony, and command of metaphor and paradox, pits his delicate melodies and harmonies against the seedier aspects of love. www.seet.ca

Johnny Aho (North Bay, Ontario)
This singer/songwriter creates simple and honest rock-pop music that feels immediately intimate and familiar. He is an Xtreme Band Slam finalist this year. www.johnnyaho.com

Jon-Rae Fletcher & The River (Toronto, Ontario)
Their music has been described as country gospel rock blues, and compared to the likes of Palace, Bonnie Prince Billy, and the Flying Burrito Brothers. www.deerandbird.com

Josh Martinez (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Josh Martinez is for the children. Without a doubt one of the best live hip hop performers out there, Josh brings the heat with humour and intensity. www.joshmartinez.ca

J-Seven (Montreal, Quebec)
J-Seven shows versatility in his lyrical style, flow and subject matter. Working on tracks with producer Sonny Black (Corneille, Dubmatique), he is now readying the release of his debut EP. www.j-seven.com

Julie Crochetiere (Montreal, Quebec)
Formerly a member of Sugar Jones, this Montreal native emerged strengthened, with her own vision. Her growth as a songwriter has given her a fresh new voice and a brand new sound described as soul infused with jazz and folk. www.juliec.com

Jully Black (Toronto, ON)
This soulful dance vocalist has major-league style and grace that has established her place in the Canadian music industry and beyond.

The Junction (Brampton, Ontario)
What started as an acid jazz band of high-school friends has evolved into a solid four-piece band with many fans across Toronto.

Junetile (Toronto, ON)
The dreamy, bittersweet, anti-pop of Junetile combines deep cello lines, ethereal guitars and memorable vocal hooks. If you listen to: Radiohead, Sigur Ros. www.junetile.com

Just Like The Movies (Toronto, ON)
Chris Mills, former lead vocalist of Mudfish and sketch comedy troupe Loogie, creates with Just Like The Movies a surreal Casio-rock-rap assault that is truly hilarious, highly entertaining and erotic. Think: Andy Kaufman, Devo. www.justlikethemovies.com

Kate Maki (Sudbury, Ontario)
The music of singer songwriter Kate Maki is stark and sadly beautiful. A nod to troubadours of old, she blends traditional country with infectious pop-hooks and amped-up rock. www.katemaki.com

Kathryn Rose (Toronto, ON)
Kathryn Rose's sophomore album is a collection of deeply personal songs infused with her wry sense of humour and her sultry vocals. www.kathrynrose.com

Kayte Burgess (Toronto, ON)
The product of exposure from Toronto's cultural stew of urban sounds, Kayte Burgess has developed her own sultry edge and growling emotion that pushes the boundaries of R&B soul music. If you dance to: Nikka Costa, Al Green.

Kazzer (Hamilton, ON)
Kazzer's aptitude for fluid rhymes and irresistible hooks bristles on his debut record "Go For Broke," which shows great diversity, with songs such as the metallic stomp of "Elements" and the uplifting, nostalgia-soaked pop number "8-Zero." www.kazzermusic.com

KEKELI (Toronto, Ontario)
With master drummer Kwasi Dunyo from Ghana, West Africa. Discover the excitement and joy of traditional Ghanaian styles of music and dance. www.dunyo.com

Kelli Trottier (Kingston, ON)
Kelli Trottier plays traditional Celtic fiddle music that will instantly warm your heart and set your foot to tapping. If you jig to: Rankin Family, Ashley MacIssac. www.kellitrottier.com

Kelly & The Kelly Girls (Toronto, Ontario)
Hot blues-inspired rock and roll with soul. Kelly's baritone voice belts out songs with reckless abandon and swaggering charm. The group features the former lead singer of Merkury Burn. www.kellyclipperton.com

Kevin Kane (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Previously of The Grapes of Wrath, Kevin most recently settled down to record an album of cover tunes along the lines of David Bowie's "Pinups," paying tribute to and reinterpreting songs that have inspired him.

Keyop (Toronto, ON)
Keyop describe themselves as a "freeform electro wave syndicate", while others have described them as "miles away from electro-clash combining post-punk aggression, ambient textures, and harsh techno synth jabs."

Kids On TV (Toronto, Ontario)
A brash new band hitting the Toronto indie scene. With their aggressive, dance-fused stripper songs these guys are getting everyone hot and bothered.

The Kinetics (Toronto, Ontario)
Elements of classical, jazz, reggae and soul intertwine with rock, creating a raw and energetic music that is distinctly unique.

King Cobb Steelie (Guelph, ON)
This dub-wise punk, electro funk band has made some of the most interesting Canadian pseudo-pop music for the past decade. www.kingcobbsteelie.com

King Nancy (Toronto, ON)
King Nancy's debut album "To Quitta" is a soothing blend of acoustic ballads and heart-wrenching rock songs featuring the powerful vocals of Jerry Stamp. Sounds like: Creed, Great Big Sea. www.kingnancy.com

King Sunshine (Toronto, Ontario)
A collective that provides new colours to the spectrum of sound, creating soulful, original material as well as remixes of past gems. They perform live house music with up to twelve band members. If you are into: Roy Ayers, Larry Heard.

Knacker (Toronto, Ontario)
By combining a love for British guitar pop song craft with a fetish for crunching power chords, Knacker provides the necessary link between hook filled 70s arena rock and cutting-edge indie rock of the 21st century. www.knacker.net

Kobayashi (Montreal, Quebec)
Fusing hip hop beats with jazz and electro influences, Kobayashi's sound is unique with its cool scratches, jazzy horn lines, funky beats, and smooth vocals. www.kobayashi-jazz.com

The Kramdens (Guelph, ON)
The Kramdens have a knack for catchy guitar hooks and beautifully crafted pop rock songs.  If you spin: Barenaked Ladies, The Lowest of the Low. www.thekramdens.com

Kristina Trites (Halifax, NS)
Nineteen-year-old Kristina Trites has a voice that soars effortlessly over acoustic guitar on beautiful pop songs that reflect a maturity that surpasses her age. Sounds like: Sheryl Crow, Shania Twain.

Kristine Martin (Hamilton, ON)
Kristine Martin writes songs full of witty lyrics and intriguing melodies making music that shares elements of ambient groove and pop jazz. Think: Edie Brickell, Morcheeba. www.kristinemartin.com

Krome (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Krome is a four-piece rock act with brooding melodies and overpowering harmonies. Their sound has been described as "sonically modern" in the vein of Nickleback and Puddle of Mudd. www.kromerockband.com

Kybosh (Calgary, AB)
Kybosh infuses old-school metal with modern hardcore twists to create their own thrash style of music. If you thrash to: Raging Slab, Soundgarden. www.kybosh.ca

The Lackloves (Milwaukie, OR)
Infectious hooky power-pop tunes that carry on the tradition of The Beatles, The Who and The Beach Boys. www.lackloves.com

LAL (Toronto, Ontario)
This trip-hop, drum & bass group layer warm textures over heavy beats that are reminiscent at times of Lamb, Nightmares on Wax, or Massive Attack.

Laura Blaise (Toronto, Ontario)
Her sensual music is laced with deep, impulsive beats and poetry. Laura has showcased at the last two Honey Jam events in Toronto. www.brumbymusic.com

Lederhosen Lucil (Montreal, PQ)
Lederhosen Lucil's genre-defying music is ridiculously catchy, played on two vintage Yamaha keyboards. She totally rocks. If you dig: Canned Hamm, Pee Wee Herman. www.lederhosenlucil.com

LEI (Toronto, Ontario)
Female fronted pop rock band that plays with passion and creates multi-layered songs with clever hooks and driving guitars.www.indiestructable.com

Les Chiens Sales (Montebello, PQ)
Les Chiens Sales (The Dirty Dogs) play over-the-top raunchy rock-and-roll with a sincerity that you can hear in the guitar riffs and the gruff vocals. If you listen to: Rob Zombie, Spinal Tap. www.leschienssales.com

Les Marmottes Aplaties (Montreal, QC)
This is as close to vintage punk rock as you can get without the desire to be nostalgic, and it's debauchedly QuÈbecois. Think: The Deadly Snakes, The Hives. www.lesmarms.com

Les Six (Toronto, Ontario)
Les Six has a rich, sexy, darkly romantic sound, while their live performances are sweeping and intense. Hive magazine described them as "pretentious highbrow pop," and NOW magazine called them "The Fall with Interpol with killer keyboards."

littleSUNDAY (Toronto, Ontario)
littleSUNDAY is an explosive charge of pumping guitar sounds and thundering drums that has been igniting the Toronto music scene since 2002. A fusion of crisp chords, velvet vocals, bone-shaking bass, and a tour-de-force of toms. www.littlesunday.com

The Livid (Mississauga, Ontario)
A hardcore band cranking up the gain and pounding out the sounds, they were formerly known as Insertwhat. Check them out if you are into: Rage Against The Machine, Limp Bizkit. www.thelivid.com

Loco (Winnipeg, MB)
Decked out in black light war paint, Loco creates an accessible sonic assault with their heavy, melodic metal rock. On a mixed tape with: Coal Chamber, Powerman 5000. www.locox.com

Loco Zydeco (Toronto, Ontario)
Blending traditional and contemporary, they have created their own unique interpretation of Louisiana's most exciting musical export. Live shows often become a free-for-all of audience participation. www.locozydeco.com

LoDown (Windsor, Ontario)
Hailing from the Windsor/Detroit area, Lodown have made their mark by combining aggressive hooks and unique rock songwriting. www.officiallodown.com

Lori Nuic (Toronto, ON)
Lori Nuic makes music that combines elements of pop rock and soulful R&B, calling on her strong dance and theatre background in her live performance.

Lotus Position (Toronto, Ontario)
Led by former songwriter and lead vocalist of Blaxam, Lotus Position perform their unique genre of Organic Mantra Soul using acoustic instrumentation and rhythmic chant-like lyrics with a myriad of vocal tones.

The Lowdown (Toronto, ON)
The Lowdown makes melodic music with driving guitar grooves and intense lyrical content. Sounds like: Smashing Pumpkins, Travis.

Lucie Blue Tremblay (Ste Marthe sur le Lac, Quebec)
She is one of Canada's beautiful voices and songwriters. Her fans enjoy her honest, straight-to-the-heart love songs. www.luciebluetremblay.com

LUKAS (Toronto, Ontario)
This upstart Toronto band has been stunning audiences with a fresh sound that effortlessly flows between art rock and British pop. Their indie-credible line-up sweetens the deal.

Luther Wright & The Wrongs (Kingston, Ontario)
A good deal of excitement was created in 2001 when fab, alt-country punkgrass ensemble, Luther Wright and the Wrongs made a splash with their Pink Floyd tribute REBUILD THE WALL. www.lutherwrightandthewrongs.com

Mab Lab (Indianapolis, Indiana)
This five-piece group combines influences of R&B, jazz, hip hop, and funk, to get across their messages of harmony, unity, and real-life concerns. www.mablab.com

The MacGregors (Kelowna, British Columbia)
They've been capturing the attention of audiences for years with their original songs and dynamic stage presence. Now they're capturing music-industry attention. www.themacgregorsband.com

Madcaps (Montreal, Quebec)
A jazz-infused rock groove outfit that has an igniting live show. They released their debut full-length this past year. www.themadcaps.com

Madrid (Toronto, Ontario)
Often compared to Air and Royksopp, Madrid's warm psychedelic sound is smothered in darker, harder beats and more complex arrangements that is both comforting and addictive. www.madridtheband.com

Madviolet (Toronto, ON)
Singer/songwriter Brenley MacEachern and Cape Breton "fiddle chick" Lisa MacIsaac draw you into their universe of provocative music, where sweet sultry, vocals are caught up in a swirl of folky, hypnotic music. www.madviolet.com

Mara (New York City, York)
Passionate acoustic rock, this award winning singer/songwriter is fearless, independent, and on a mission to bring together solid songwriting and pure soul. www.marasong.com

The Marble Index (Hamilton, Ontario)
They have a sound and presence combining the raw energy of MC5, the pop sensibility of Big Star, and the driving volume of The Who. www.themarbleindex.com

Marianne Girard (Keswick, ON)
Marianne Girard has a gift for writing folk-tinged ballads featuring guitar, mandolin and her haunting vocals. If you like: Oh Susanna, The Brothers Cosmoline. www.mariannegirard.com

Mark Bragg & The Black Wedding Band (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
Their debut recording "The Reckless Kind" (Maple Nationwide) is a genre-crossing cabaret, deftly driven by Bragg's knack for illuminating dark and tragic characters through song. www.markbragg.com

The Mark Inside (Whitby, Ontario)
A melodic four-piece rock band whose style includes spacey jams, bouncy R&B grooves, and thundering distortion levels. Think: Weezer, Sonic Youth. www.markinside.com

Mark Masri (Toronto, ON)
Mark Masri is a solo pop, R&B and soul artist who won Best Gospel Album at the Vibe Awards in 2002. www.markmasri.com

Marlowe (Pointe-Claire, PQ)
Formed in 1996, Marlowe makes beautifully inflect mood-pop that is part soundscape, part guitar pop. They describe their sound as experimellow post-pop/nouveau psychedelic.

Married to Music (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Energizing, uplifting and intensely refreshing, Married to Music cleans the dry crusted palette of rock and roll with strong songs and a notable live show. The young trio recently released their debut album, "The Worlds Gotta Go Round".

Marsala (Douro, ON)
Marsala's love for blues and rock ranging from Sarah McLaughlin to Led Zeppelin, as well as her strong jazz influences, prevails in her guitar and piano based soulful music.

Martina Sorbara (Toronto, Ontario)
Martina Sorbara's lyrics are wise and poetic and her style is expressive and original. She combines folk, jazz and rock, while showcasing her fine piano- and guitar work. www.martinasorbara.com

Martine (Moncton, NB)
Martine is an Acadian pop rock artist who writes spiritual songs that reach the hearts of today's generation. www.eaglesoundsrecords.com

Marvel (Toronto, Ontario)
This MC/producer's membership in Toronto hip hop cliques must have its benefits; with the likes of Saukrates and Kardinal around, beats should be no problem. Marvel's beats and rhymes attack on his new EP "No Streets."

The Matadors (London, Ontario)
In early 1995 Joel "Hooch" Parkins started a rockabilly band with his two friends "Creepin'" Jeff Sheppard and some other guy. www3.sympatico.ca/hellblazin/

Matt Mays and El Torpedo (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
A former member of The Guthries, Matt Mays released his debut album of alt-country rock music on Atlantis Music this past year. He received 6 nominations to the 2004 ECMA awards. www.mattmays.com

Matthew Barber (Toronto, Ontario)
Having gotten his start opening for such notable acts as Joel Plaskett and Sarah Slean, Barber's music is filled with soaring melodies, pulsing rhythms and bitter-sweet sentiments. www.matthewbarber.com

Mayor McCA (Toronto, ON)
Mayor MaCA is a one-man singing sensation who makes curiously, catchy pop music. If you like: Bob Log III, Rheostatics.

Maza Mezé (Toronto, Ontario)
Maza Mezé is an 11-piece Arabic and Greek music ensemble whose music includes layered, winding vocals, instrumental excursions, and driving hand percussion. www.mazameze.com

The McCarrel Sisters (Bruce County, Ontario)
The McCarrel Sisters perform the music of the ceilidh, honouring the traditions of their Gaelic ancestors who settled their area. www.mccarrelsisters.com

MC Flipside (Toronto, Ontario)
The esteemed MC Flipside needs no introduction. Flippy is Ontario's eye in the sky, voice on the street, and bug in the rug all in one. Who's better than Flippy?! www.mcflipside.com

Mean Red Spiders (Toronto, ON)
Mean Red Spiders' music is imbued with a melancholic, baroque-pop sensibility. Accordions, glockenspiels and moogs wash and soar over signature guitars, melodic bass and expressive percussion. If you listen to: Bardo Pond, Lush. www.meanredspider.com

Meesh (Montreal, Quebec)
This energetic, female-fronted, four piece pop rock band got the opportunity to play on the 2003 Warped Tour.

Melanie Durrant (Toronto, Ontario)
The fantastic, r&b blessed singles "Where I'm Goin'" and "Let Me" featuring Kardinal Offishall have thrust sultry Melanie Durrant into the spotlight. www.melaniedurrantmusic.com

Melanie Laine (Regina, SK)
Melanie Laine creates up-tempo country pop music that displays strong emotion. If you listen to: Crystal Gayle, Patsy Cline. www.melanielaine.com

The Meligrove Band (Toronto, Ontario)
This band has built their reputation on a live show so energetic it often borders on chaos. Visceral, sweat-soaked and very loud, the usual set sees drum kits knocked over, mic stands on floors, and pop fans walking to the subway with smiles on their faces. www.meligroveband.com

Melissa McClelland (Toronto, Ontario)
Her music has as been described as everything from simple and beautiful to dark and moving. People are instantly drawn to her melodic vocals and rich songwriting, finding truth and meaning within her lyrics. www.melissamcclelland.com

Memo (Montreal, Quebec)
One of the most articulate rappers in the business, co-member of Rezen and co-founder of the Montreal collective Island City Monsters, Memo provides an original and insightful look at life through his music and his art. www.tookova.com

Meraudio (Toronto, Ontario)
Citing influences ranging from Run-DMC to Pearl Jam to Steve Earle, Meraudio create an enigmatic and intelligent pop sound. www.meraudio.com

Merkury Burn (Toronto, ON)
Merkury Burn makes music that is a twisted blend of sexual energy, new wave and glam punk. If you dance to: New York Dolls, Temptress. www.merkuryburn.com

Meta4ce (Montreal, Quebec)
Discovering that he had an affinity for rap's gift-of-gab and song, Meta4ce began to formulate a rhyme scheme mixed with hard hitting street lyrics in a tradition of raw, underground hip hop. www.meta4ce.com

Metazon (Montreal, PQ)
Combining techno and soul melodies, Metazon drop high-voltage lyrics that come straight from the heart and reveal the struggle of underground reality. Their mix of hip-hop, drum & bass and South American folk music is very refreshing. www.metazon.com

Metric (Toronto, Ontario)
This Brooklyn-via-London-via-Toronto-via-LA art-pop quartet has a disco-based post-punk new wave sound. But instead of teasing you with a seductive wink, Metric come on with the brash confidence of a drive-by make out. www.ilovemetric.com

Michael Mitchell (Victoria, BC)
When a small school in Africa wanted to learn something about Canada, Victoria-based children's singer Michael Mitchell was eager to oblige 200 of his Canada Is For Kids coloring books and some of his Canadian recordings to his favorite cause—promoting Canadian heritage. He has performed more than 2,300 of his popular Canada Is For Kids shows across the country and has just released Canada Is For Kids—Vol. 2, a new collection of original and traditional songs.

Micro Maureen (Toronto, ON)
Micro Maureen created a huge buzz throughout the industry when they recently signed with Core DKD. Lead singer and key songwriter Rubin Huezenga has developed the perfect vehicle for his abundant talents. www.dkd.com

The Midway State (Toronto, Ontario)
Youthful energy mixed with experienced song writing puts this piano-fronted group a step above most rock/pop punk bands. Think Bens Fold Five with modern guitars and a love for heart-wrenching choruses that send the emotive tingles up your spine. www.midwaystate.com

Mike Clark (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Mike has managed to unfold himself into an expressive performing songwriter with honest lyrics and a knack for hooky melodies. He just finished recording his debut album and has successfully managed to craft an honest mixture of Wilco, Nirvana and Elliot Smith. www.themikeclark.com

Mike Evin (Montreal, Quebec)
His piano-based music is a unique extension of the tradition inhabited by Harry Nilsson and Paul Simon, creating thoughtful, heartfelt pop songs with immaculate melodies. www.mikeevin.com

Mike Trebilcock (Hamiton, Ontario)
Previous leader of The Killjoys, Trebilcock is one of the best songwriters in the region. His intimate and assured debut features keen basement pop-smithery shot through with roots music. www.miketrebilcock.com

Million Dollar Marxists (Ottawa, ON)
Million Dollar Marxists play catchy, high energy, balls-out punk rock music with a skill and swagger that delivers the goods. Think: The New Bomb Turks, Bionic. www.milliondollarmarxists.com

Millions of Cats That Turn Their Masters (Toronto, Ontario)
Described as "candied glass, hard and sweet" and as "the Stooges meet the Velvet Underground," this band combines electronic explorations with roots rock to create a new sonic experience.

Mind Of A Squid (Toronto, Ontario)
An epic drone rock jam band that has a bombastic take on atmospheric music. Mind of a Squid's compositions stand out, casually stringing together riff after cyclic riff. www.mindofasquid.com

The Miniatures (Kitchener, ON)
This six-piece band writes crunchy, alterative, power pop rock in the vein of Pixies and Dinosaur Jr. www.theminiatures.com

Mista Cronks (Toronto, ON)
Mystic, the former Bass Is Bass emcee, has re-invented himself with his Mista Cronks project, which is a hybrid of hip hop, R&B, acid jazz and soul. www.coalitonent.com

Moneen (Brampton, Ontario)
Moneen create aggressive, melodic pop music. Their live show is amazing. They released their first full-length on Vagrant Records last year. www.moneen.com

Moneyshot (Victoria, British Columbia)
Brutally catchy melodies, in-your-face guitars, and a rock-solid rhythm section combine to kick your ass with honest, punk rock music. Think: AC/DC, Bad Religion. www.moneyshot.ca

Monica Schroeder (Winnipeg, MB)
Singer-songwriter Monica Schroeder plays acoustic guitar with an electronic edge that showcases her poetic and musical versatility. Sounds like: Cowboy Junkies, Jann Arden. www.monicaschroeder.com

Moonlight Graham (Toronto, Ontario)
Graham has been best known for his lead singer/lyricist/guitarist roles in Ottawa rock band Barstool Prophets. After an attempt at life beyond rock 'n' roll, he has returned to his true love -- writing and performing music. www.moonlightgraham.ca

Moonraker (Montreal, Quebec)
Moonraker’s innovative sound is inspired by the British music wave of recent years. www.moonrakerband.com

Morgan Davis (Toronto, ON)
Davis' passion for the blues has never wavered. On his first solo recording "Blues Medicine" his original tunes display skillful songwriting, accompanied by electric guitar and a good dose of humour. www.morgandavis.com

Mossman vs. Mr. Tsunami (Montreal, PQ)
From their Montreal stronghold, comes mix master Mossman and musician Mr. Tsunami to challenge the norms of sound – with one foot in the tradition of King Tubby and The Upsetter, and the other foot striding into the future and stomping firmly on the necks of cultural opressors and economic parasites. Using sound as their revolutionary weapon of choice, Mossman and Mr. Tsunami embrace life rather than death and seek to open the minds and change the sensibilities of the wicked.

Mr. Underhill (Delta, BC)
Mr. Underhill consists of three brothers who create glam-soaked goth rock that is catchy and high energy. Think: KISS, Danzig. www.mr-underhill.com

Mudmen (Toronto, Ontario)
Music loaded with crushing guitar tones, catchy vocals and of course contagious bagpipes. Their sophomore album is now out on S&K/Sextant (EMI Canada). www.mudmen.ca

Mudvayne (Not Of This Earth)
The quartet's second album combines a new attention to melody and disciplined musicianship with Mudvayne's trademark dark lyrical vision, rhythmic complexity and jagged, sonic brutality. www.mudvayne.com

Najuah (Toronto, Ontario)
This three-female urban R&B dance group has been making a name for themselves with sharp singles and sultry videos. www.najuah.com

Nasri (Toronto, ON)
Nasri has an infectious R&B pop soul sound that meshes old and new influences into something exciting and original. If you turn the lights down to: Marvin Gaye, Glenn Lewis.

Natasha Thirsk (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Achieving a flow between innovation and power-pop is a feat that requires a surprising amount of intelligence. Yet the musical prowess of Natasha Thirsk makes music like this seem deceptively simple. www.boompa.ca

Natasha Waterman (Toronto, ON)
Singer-songwriter Natasha Waterman mixes blues, jazz and R&B in her soulful hip hop. She has performed at every Honey Jam since 1997 and her alter egos include Mother Nature and Nature.

Nathalie Clarke (Edmonton, AB)
Nathalie Clarke's love of and devotion to singing is reflected in the sheer joy of the sound of her voice, which expels a range of influences including jazz, R&B and pop. www.nathalieclarke.com

Nathan (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
This quartet craft delicate pop and alt-country songs wrapped in acoustic instrumentation and bewitching melodies. Their upcoming record is scheduled for release this March by Nettwerk.

National Anthem (Toronto, ON)
Formed in 2001 by members of The Carnations and the Grace Babies, National Anthem's debut CD "Sing Along If You Know The Words" is a rock platter so delectable that you will scarf it down and be back for seconds.

Neil Osborne (Vancouver, BC)
As lead singer of 54:40 Neil Osborne is a known force. Neil has recently begun to focus on his solo-crooning career. www.5440.com

The Neutron Stars (Guelph, Ontario)
This power-pop-rock band plays straight-up tunes that will inspire you. They recently independently released their Andy-Magoffin-produced debut record.

Nick Cuda (Toronto, Ontario)
Nick Cuda is a musician who has been moving his audience for over twenty years. He knows his classics. His unique imprint is on every song he plays, everything from romance or ballad to cool blues and disco.

Nine Mile (Toronto, ON)
With a new album, and a sold-out North American/Australian tour in the books, Nine Mile's unique brand of pop blends roots, rock, folk & reggae vibrations with mature songwriting & addictive melody. www.nine-mile.com

No Luck Club (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Heavily influenced by hip hop and all its mutated forms, they create beat-driven sound collages. No Luck Club = rhythmic grooves + elements of various music genres + found sounds + vinyl culture + turntablism. www.noluckclub.com

No Warning (Toronto, Ontario)
A bunch of thugs who make brutal, old-school hardcore. www.nowarninghc.com

Noisecat (Toronto, ON)
The pure rock 'n' roll energy of Nosiecat's gyrating music is apparent from the get-go! Think: Blondie, PJ Harvey. www.noisecat.net

Novillero (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
Novillero blend infectious pop with aggressive rock structures, mod themes with spacier elements, art-rock with a touch of retro pop.

NQ Arbuckle (Toronto, ON)
NQ Arbuckle is a beautiful balladeer with a husky voice singing world-weary songs accompanied by banjo, accordion and honky-tonk piano. If you listen to: Tom Waits, John Hiatt. www.nqarbuckle.com

Oddities (Toronto, ON)
Oddities is a collective of artists who combine performance, production, emceeing, DJing, break-dancing and graffiti with the intention of presenting a comprehensive entertainment experience. Think: Swollen Members, Sweatshop Union. www.oddlyenough.com

Off The International Radar (Toronto, ON)
Off The International Radar create electronica-based sound collages that are inspired and artistic. If you rave to: Kraftwork, Aphex Twin. www.offtheinternationalradar.com

Off The Mark (London, ON)
Off The Mark perform high-energy pop-punk music that has driving guitar riffs, pounding drums and melodic vocal harmonies. If you listen to: NOFX, Rancid. www.offthemark.net

Offsides (Montreal, Quebec)
Started in 1996, Offsides has become one of Montreal's most sought after hip hop acts and were winners of the CBC "Big Break" contest in 2003. www.odoublef.com

Oh Susanna (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Oh Susanna's performance is a mixture of folk, country and rock and roll. Mojo Magazine in the UK named her latest offering the magazine's Essential Americana album. www.ohsusannamusic.com

Oliver Black (Welland, Ontario)
This quartet fuses vintage rock and roll with contemporary rhythms, influenced by bands from Led Zeppelin to AFI. They are sure to deliver a little bit of what was, some of what is, and a fist load of what is gonna be. www.oliverblackmusic.com

onlyforward (Montreal, Quebec)
Brainchild of outside-the-lines songwriter Dave Martel, this alt-acrobatic-pop outfit deploys all that's good in early new wave and post-punk pop. www.onlyforward.net

Opinion (Toronto, ON)
Opinion is a new hip hop R&B group consisting of Jason Simmons, PHATT al and Peter Natale, whose music is filled with insight, politics, life issues and a whole lot of OPINION.

Orchard Hill (Hamilton, Ontario)
This alt-folk singer-songwriter creates stark and beautiful music that lays bare the soul and reaches deep inside your heart.

The Organ (Vancouver, BC)
Centered on the warm and melancholic tones of a Hammond organ, The Organ's music is hauntingly 80s-new-wave-enriched. If you rave to: The Smiths, Joy Division. www.theorgan.ca

Osgoode (Toronto, ON)
Osgoode make alternative rock-based, electronica-laced trip hop which has an atmospheric and cinematic feel

Ox (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Alt-country-flavoured songs of loss and love, encased in guitar distortions and raspy vocals. Ox's debut album was a mainstay on the Canadian college charts this past year.

Pamela Brott (Montreal, Quebec)
On the verge of her debut album, Pamela delivers her vocals with a sultry-smooth R&B flavour mixed with a fun pop vibe. Add to it an innovative mix of hip hop, funk, and retro 80s tracks, and you end up with a sound that shatters any attempts at categorization. www.dyna-micrecords.com

Pangea (Aurora, Ontario)
Original good-time rock and roll performed by band members obsessed with creating memorable rock songs. www.pangeaplace.com

Paper Moon (Winnipeg, MB)
Paper Moon is a new-wave-influenced pop band willing to rock with sugar melodies, fine guitar textures and smart lyrics. Think: The Sundays, Sarge. www.papermoon.ca

The Parkas (London, Ontario)
The Parkas were raised on British Invasion records, schooled on Northern Ontario dirt roads, and baptized in an undercurrent of Stax Voltage. As full grown men, they play a combination of country, blues, and popular rock 'n' roll. www.theparkas.com

The Patients (Toronto, Ontario)
Madcap guitar-based R&B played with a rock 'n' roll sensibility. Andy Magoffin produced the band’s five-song EP at the House of Miracles in London. In 2003 the band signed to Permafrost Records. www.thepatients.net

Paul Godfrey (Toronto, Ontario)
This singer-songwriter has a gift for combining thought-provoking lyrics with honest, simple, but catchy melodies and pleasant vocals.

Peter Katz (Toronto, Ontario)
Over the past several years, Peter Katz has delighted crowds across Canada with his blend of jazz, rock and folk music. His passionate style has landed him comparisons to Jeff Buckley and Martin Sexton. www.peterkatz.org

The Pettit Project (Oakville, Ontario)
The Pettit Project create catchy, hyper-melodic music that is a mixture of power pop, rock riffs, keys, and vocal harmonies.www.thepettitproject.com

Phauna (Toronto, Ontario)
Phauna's soulful house-, disco-, and nu-jazz-influenced sound evokes a classic jazz sensibility couched in lush 4/4 shuffled rhythms and drenched in rich textures that draw the listener into a swirling pool of layered melodies. www.playrecords.net

The Planet Smashers (Montreal, PQ)
They have been providing the ideal party atmosphere since 1994. Formed in Montreal, Canada, the Smashers' infectious poppy melodies, rippin' horn licks, and energetic stage shows quickly established themselves as the city's 'kings of ska'.

Plastic Bag (Toronto, ON)
Plastic Bag plays unabashedly, high-energy rock-and-roll that has garnered them a growing and loyal following. If you are into: Bionic, Blurtonia. www.plastic-bag.net

POINT BLANK (Toronto, Ontario)
For over nine years POINT BLANK have been developing and mastering their skill, while keeping a solid presence in the Canadian underground urban hip hop scene. www.tiltrockrecords.com

Politic Live (Edmonton, Alberta)
Working to redefine the standards of urban music with a sound that is distinctively hip hop and lyrics that can be appreciated by philosophers, poets, hustlers and comedians alike. www.politiclive.com

Polyjesters (Didsbury, Alberta)
Created on the streets of the south of France, the Valleau brothers started this group to learn old swing tunes inspired first from gypsy friends playing in the style of Django Reinhart. www.polyjesters.com

The Postage Stamps (Toronto, Ontario)
Their sound can be best described as rhythmic, dynamic and textural indie rock that transcends the boundaries of any single genre. They bring to mind such bands as Pink Floyd, Fugazi, and Sunny Day Real Estate. www.thepostagestamps.com

Precious Little (Toronto, Ontario)
Debuting in 2001, Precious Little opened for Jon Langford, The Rheostatics and Richard Buckner, showcased at NXNE and CMW, and released a full-length album - all in their first year. www.preciouslittle.ca

ProCon (Toronto, Ontario)
Mesmerizing electronica-inspired nu-wave disco-rock band that make aggressive yet danceable music.

Protest The Hero (St. Catherines, Ontario)
This band is relentless. Incredible drums, insane screams and non-stop politics. Musically explosive and influenced by some very powerful metal bands. If you're looking to see how to play old-school metal in a new-school setting, this is the way to go. www.protestthehero.com

PSQ Funk (Toronto, ON)
PSQ Funk has as its distinguishing voices a tenor saxophone and a Hammond B3, creating high-energy instrumental grooves inspired by old-school funk and soul jazz. www.potesmote.ca/psq

Quadra (Vancouver, BC)
Quadra's sound is a well-built mix of deep electronic shapes with the driving rhythms of drum and bass, nu electro, down-tempo and tech break beat. www.nordictrax.com

Quadraceptor (Montreal, PQ)
Quadraceptor is a professional beat boxer creating his music and rhythms with his mouth. He has collaborated with Amon Tobin and Freeworm.

The Quiet Revolution (Toronto, ON)
The Quiet Revolution have sung for Elton John and the Queen, played guitar for By Divine Right, bass for Hayden, flute for Domakesaythink, drums for the Matrophiles and written songs for the Arrogant Worms. Elements of all of the above can be found in the music of the Quiet Revolution. www.quietrevolution.ca

Radiogram (Vancouver, BC)
Radiogram make music that is a rootsy mixture of country, pop and Americana distilled with a healthy dose of ambience, art-rock and chamber music. If you listen to: Giant Sand, Gram Parsons. www.radiogram.org

Ralph Boyd Johnson & The Ruckus (Calgary, AB)
Ralph Boyd Johnson is a wordsmith, a poet and a balladeer whose music is a throwback to the rockabilly raunch of Elvis Presley and the dusty roads of the American south. Think: Steve Earle, Fred Eaglesmith. www.ralphboydjohnson.com

Rascalz (Toronto, ON)
In the sharply observant rhymes of their newest release "Reloaded," Rascalz appear smarter, edgier, and on target for having opened their eyes to everything around them. www.vikrecordings.com/rascalz

The Raveonettes (Copenhagen, Denmark)
Direct, decadent and unpretentious, the Raveonettes have exploded onto the Danish rock scene. Their music switches from raucous to delicate and back as lead singer and songwriter Sune Rose Wagner delves into the darker side of city nightlife, strip joints, dive bars, and the beat. www.theraveonettes.com

Reason Disappears (Toronto, Ontario)
The six members of Reason Disappears came together with a common goal of creating music that is melodic, driving, eclectic, and emotionally driven. The combination of six very diverse musicians who share a wide variety of influences results in a very unique sound, while still keeping one foot firmly planted in the hard-rock arena. www.reasondisappears.com

The Reason (Dundas, Ontario)
Self described melodic venge-core, The Reason blend powerful pop harmonies with edgy vocals and straight up honest lyrics. www.thereason.ca

Rebecca Dileo (Toronto, Ontario)
Her music is slightly distorted and highly stylized, exaggerating specific features like the paintings of Modligliani, with the frenzy and furry of Van Gogh's color and brushstrokes.

Rebeka Reed (Bedford, NS)
Rebeka Reed's comforting vocals and storytelling lyrics with pop overtones form songs that stick in your head. www.rebekareed.com

The Recoilers (Ottawa, Ontario)
The Recoilers are avid students in the school of rock, having thrown into their sonic melting pot of influences ingredients ranging anywhere from the Beach Boys to Sonic Youth. www.kelprecords.com

Reid Jamieson (Toronto, Ontario)
Recently named "One of the most underrated talents in town" (NOW, 2002) Reid Jamieson's voice and engaging performances have been turning heads for several years. www.reidjamieson.com

Reign (Toronto, ON)
Reign displays many original elements of hip hop in his music and has managed to capture people's attention not only through his live performance but also through his thoughtful lyrics and high production.

Reverie Sound Revue (Calgary, Alberta)
Described as "a mixture of familiar sound, yet indescribable, a wonderful confusion," RSR's music is danceable, inspired by pop guitars, seductive harmonies, strong rhythms, and the occasional synth line and drum machine. www.reveriesoundrevue.com

Rheostatics (Toronto, ON)
Charming, talented and highly surreal, Rheostatics are truly one of Canada's finest treasures, both critically and commercially. www.perimeterrecords.com

The Riddle (Toronto, Ontario)
With a modern rock edge and a groove reminiscent of the mid-70s FM radio giants, The Riddle fit perfectly into all pop/rock and alternative formats. www.theriddle.ca

Riot Act (Boston, ME)
Riot Act has been called one of the best unsigned bands in the state of Maine. Their diversity and rock swagger will take them far. www.riotact.com

Ritual (Cornwall, Ontario)
Super Groovin' Back-Crushing Stoner Rock! Strong guitar riffs, pounding drums, and just the right blend of melody and rage. Listening to Ritual may cause strain on your neck! www.RitualNet.com

Robbie Roth (Toronto, ON)
Singer-songwriter Robbie Roth has a dynamic and compelling roots rock sound. If you listen to: Blue Rodeo, Bob Dylan. www.robbieroth.com

Robert Farrell (Ottawa, ON)
Robert Farrell is an accomplished blues guitarist who plays Southern -influenced rock. Think: Stevie Ray Vaughan, ZZ Top. www.robertfarrell.com

Robin Black & The Intergalactic Rock Stars (Toronto, Ontario)
Robin Black & the Intergalactic Rock Stars are on a mission to save earth's inhabitants from bland rock shows. Repulsive to some, embraced by others, they are the flashiest, most decadent band to ever sashay across Canada. www.robinblackrocks.com

rocKetface (Toronto, Ontario)
rocKetface is a modern rock trio with a huge, melodic sound. They just finished recording their debut CD with producer Matt Dematteo. www.rocKetface.com

Ron Sexsmith (Toronto, ON)
Thanks to a stellar catalogue now comprising six albums, Ron Sexsmith has earned an enviably high level of critical and peer respect. His songs are much in demand from artists in genres ranging from Celtic to classical, rock to country. This prolific Toronto-based singer/songwriter has quietly put together a body of quality work with few equals in contemporary music.

Rose Ranger (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Rose delivers her own unique roots-pop music style, with evocative, sultry-raspy voice and lyrics written from the heart. She can be compared to Sheryl Crow, Shawn Colvin and Sarah McLachlan.

Round2 (Toronto, Ontario)
Their warm melodies are delivered by two mesmerizing lead vocalists backed up by a brilliant wall of sound. www.round2music.com

Royal Wood (Toronto, Ontario)
A talented multi-instrumentalist and singer/songwriter, Royal Wood has a cast of all-star Canadian musicians to help back him up. Notable influences include Tom Waits and Randy Newman.

The Rude Mechanicals (Toronto, Ontario)
This band's unique blurring of lounge and pop reveals an intelligence and personality that make them essential listening. www.rudeweb.com

The Rumours (Vancouver, British Columbia)
With a span of influences from 60s-era doo-wop to hair metal and hard rock, The Rumours blend intense and powerful vocals, spiraling guitars and melodic, pounding rhythms. They were recipients of the Future Shop / Universal "Future Stars" Award for Best Unsigned Band at CMW in 2003. www.therumoursonline.com

Russell Leon Band (Toronto, Ontario)
Russell Leon is a unique songwriter and captivating performer who has been building a reputation on the Toronto scene. www.rleonband.com

Ryan Luchuk (Toronto, Ontario)
Ryan Luchuck (loo-chuck) has been creating a buzz in Toronto with his pounding piano and exceptional songwriting. His debut EP has received glowing reviews in Exclaim, Chart, and Eye magazines. www.ryanluchuck.com

RYE (Toronto, ON)
RYE... born when rock ruled, raised when punk broke, ready when you are. www.ryerye.com

The Sadies (Toronto, Ontario)
Alt-country-rock. Their distinctive gritty twang takes influence from surf music, garage rock, and country tradition, but is much darker and more adventurous than just four guys plowing away at traditional roots music. www.thesadies.net

The Salads (Toronto, ON)
The Salads blend styles such as pop, ska, and punk rock to create an original and infectious sound. www.thesalads.com

Samantha King (Edmonton, AB)
Samantha King's voice is powerful, brimming with personality. Her songs are shaded with country, rock and blues influences. www.samantha-king.com

Samba Squad (Toronto, Ontario)
The thirty-plus-member Samba Squad has grown from a community-based drumming school into one of the most dynamic and sought-after acts on the Canadian World and Latin music scenes. www.sambasquad.com

Sarah Cheevers (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Sarah is a talented and evocative singer, songwriter and guitarist. Her influences are Joni Mitchell, the Indigo Girls and Sting. www3.telus.net/sarahcheevers/

Sarah Slean (Toronto, ON)
Sarah's music and mesmerizing voice are pure enchantment, a sweet mix of amethyst-hued vocals and delicately textured siren songs. www.sarahslean.com

The Salteens (Vancouver, British Columbia)
The album "Short-Term Memories," full of smart, hook-laden guitar pop, quickly rose to the top of Canada's national college radio chart, and was nominated in the category of Best Alternative Album at Canadian Music Week's 2001 Independent Music Awards. www.salteens.com

Saw Dogs (Ottawa, ON)
With tinges of alt-country, Sawdogs blend layered guitars, violin and drums to create melody-driven songs about living, loving and dying. Think: The Sadies, The Handsome Family.

Sean Macdonald & The Gentlemen (Toronto, ON)
Formerly with the short-lived but wonderfully cool indie band The Ids, Sean MacDonald's new band creates deceptively simple guitar pop with amazing vocals.

Shaker (Toronto, Ontario)
With influences ranging from Led Zeppelin to The Beatles, Shaker is a rock 'n' roll band driven by pure passion, and solidifed with intense vocal harmonies. The live show can't be missed! www.shakerworld.ca

Shamus (Montreal, PQ)
Shamus has a unique style of alternative, rock pop music that they energetically display during live shows. www.shamusonline.com

ShankHini + Ndidi Cascade (Vancouver, British Columbia)
Shankhini has opened for Medusa in LA, been a featured MC on Nelly Furtado's "powerless" and its remix by Sokrates, and is the 2003 freestyle champ of Much Music's "BATTLE" series. Ndidi Cascade has been featured with Femi Kuti, Michael Franti, K-os, and Prevail. www.shankhini.com, www.ndidicascade.com

Shari Ulrich (Bowen Island, BC)
Shari Ulrich is a Juno award winner, a singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, television host, theme composer and scriptwriter, and most recently a theatre performer. www.shariulrich.com

Sharon Riley & The Faith Chorale (Toronto, ON)
This 25-piece urban gospel vocal ensemble features Caribbean, Canadian and British voices with a deep Christian spirit. www.sharonrileyfc.com

Shawn Hewitt (Toronto, Ontario)
Hewitt blurs influences of Afro-Beat, the 1970s avant-garde musical movement known as Kraut-Rock, and the Free Jazz of Sun Ra. All bound together with a soulful delivery, these sounds are the foundation of Shawn's signature songwriting style.

Shikasta (Toronto, ON)
Shikasta's hard soul rock-and-roll is full-blown electrified tunage, delivering a live show fueled by relentless intensity. If you listen to: Bionic, Tricky Woo. www.shikasta.com

The Shoes (Montreal, PQ)
The Shoes mix influences such as Donovan, Beck and Nick Drake in creating their laid-back sound.

Silent Seymour (Toronto, Ontario)
Silent Seymour was born in early 2002 as the love child of four talented and ambitious individuals. As Silent Seymour matures, so does their blend of thought-provoking melodic alt rock. www.silentseymour.com

Silver Atlas (Chicago, Illinois)
Combining singer-songwriter sensibilities with moody electronic undertones, Silver Atlas is the perfect soundtrack to your chilled out moments. Devotees summing up their sound have used terms like "neo-mod" or "trip-rock." www.silveratlas.com

Silverseed (St. John's, NF)
This four-piece rock band combines the drive of punk with the melody and structure of classic rock. Influences: AC/DC, The Flaming Lips. www.silverseedmusic.com

Simeon Ross (Toronto, Ontario)
Singer-songwriter previously of Red Autumn Fall, his first solo album was recorded in April of 2002 with Michael McKenzie (ex- of Universal Honey). He is currently lead singer for the Toronto band Charmer. www.simeonross.com

Simon Wilcox (Toronto, Ontario)
Hip-hop rhythms and syncopations hearken the spirits of jazz and blues; lyrics of rare truth-telling set up an intimate conversation between artist and listener; and singing of sheer, strong beauty inspires and resonates.

Singing Saw Shadow Show (Toronto, Ontario)
This most interesting collective of musicians bring to the fore the enchanting melody of the saw in their beautifully swooning compositions. Quietly alarming!

Six Foot Daisy (Toronto, ON)
Six Foot Daisy mix rock, reggae, punk and ska elements to derive their own vital, fresh-sounding music. Think: Bif Naked, No Doubt.

Sixadrift (Guelph, Ontario)
CMW is Sixadrift's debut gig. However they were formerly known as The Crush, with one independently released full-length album to their credit. www.the-crush.com

Sixty Six Kicks (Toronto, ON)
This five-piece glam punk band blend their vast influences into sparkling pop rock with loads of sex appeal. Think: The Slits, Joan Jett.

Skarlet O'Hara (Toronto, Ontario)
Blending rock, folk, pop, and funk, this band hits you with raw lyrics and a sound all their own. www.skarletohara.com

Skitsoy (Belgium)
Skitsoy play hard and heavy music that they refer to as "energy rock," which brims with melodic guitar lines and powerful vocals. www.skitsoy.com

Skitz (Toronto, Ontario)
This talented singer and producer of slick and danceable hip hop has a hit on his hands with his "Don't It Burn" single. www3.sympatico.ca/skitz/

Slaps and Hammers (Toronto, Ontario)
Slaps and Hammers work their spinning looms of music using vinyl threads, creating carpets of weaved chromatics. The two DJs, Whitney and Charlie, bring only the funkiest music to the turntables, leaving dance floors break-dancing over themselves, screaming for one more record -- house music that kicks ass!

Slaves Of Spanky (Toronto, Ontario)
It goes like this... raps, velcro shoes, moustaches and tracksuits. Hot like the sun is. If you like us, great. If not, eat one. www.geocities.com/spank_crew

Sleeper Set Sail (St. Catherines, Ontario)
Behind the roaring cloud of heartfelt conflict live four individuals who fear not the juxtaposition of flowing ambience and devastating explosions. www.sleepersetsail.com

Slick (Burlington, ON)
Slick is a throwback to the grunge of Nirvana, but with a refreshing, honest approach and delivery that gives them an updated sound.

SMAC (Edmonton, Alberta)
Founded on the roots of The Stone Merchants and The Ancestors, SMAC is a musical experience steeped in diverse traditions of world fusion, and features the didgeridoo. www.brassmonkeyproductions.com

Smalls (Toronto, ON)
Smalls uses the medium of hip hop to convey his philosophy of life. His single and video for "Black Monday," released in 2002, featured Maestro.

Smeer (Bolton, ON)
Smeer are a power rock quartet who creates hard-edged, intense guitar-driven music. Think: Soundgarden, Queens of the Stoneage. www.smeer.com

The Smugglers (Vancouver, British Columbia)
The Smugglers show is a legendary tour de force of energy and charisma, involving wild antics and audience participation.

The Snitches (Montreal, PQ)
The Snitches have catchy hooks, muscular guitars and a bright pop sensibility which they turn up during their styling and delirious live shows. If you shake it to: Supergrass, The Cars. www.thesnitches.com

Snowblind (Toronto, ON)
Snowblind offer aggressive yet expansive hard rock songs that stimulate the ear and captivate the mind. www.snowblindmusic.com

Soft Canyon (Montreal, PQ)
Formed almost year ago Soft Canyon is the newer, more mature-sounding version of blistering, psychedelic rockers Tricky Woo.

Somehow Hollow (Burlington, Ontario)
They play driving, slightly metallic, melodic punk rock. Their self-titled debut was released in May 2001 on the Toronto-based label East End Industries, and was picked up by Victory Records. www.somehowhollow.com

Sour Grapes (Moncton, NB)
Sour Grapes create high energy, old-school punk rock with a sincerity that makes you believe they can save the world. Think: Reverend Horton Heat, The Tjiuana Bibles. www.sourgrapes227.com

Space Elevator (Toronto, ON)
Space Elevator display the swagger of Elvis, the simplicity of the Ramones and the energy and vitality of James Brown. Think: Spoon, Southern Culture on the Skids. www.spaceelevator.ca

Specifics (Montreal, Quebec)
Specifics is a three-man crew under the LP Music banner, composed of local DJ Goser and west coast transplants Think Twice and Golden Boy. Their music is laced with Gold's virtuoso rhyme schemes and wordsmithing experiments. Goser lays down the cuts and is known to get busy at the shows when he grabs the mic. www.lpmusic.org

Spek (Montreal, PQ)
Spek's own unique hybrid of acoustic guitars and folk and pop sensibilities supported by a hip hop backbone, are infuriatingly catchy and rather special. Compare to: De La Soul, Simon & Garfunkel. www.speks-place.com

The Spicoli's (Burlington, ON)
The Spicoli's have stormed onto their local scene with their powerful, melodic, alternative punk rock. www.thespicolis.com

The Spitfires (Vancouver, BC)
With a solid discography, some great press and new member Jay Millette (formerly of The Black Halos), this rock/punk band is better than ever. If you rock out to: Gaza Strippers, Murder City Devils. www.longshotmusic.com

Spokane Jupiter (Toronto, Ontario)
This four-piece outfit melds powerful melodic rock and spacey psychedelia on their self-titled debut release to create a unique but accessible brand of alternative music. www.spokanejupiter.com

Spring (Toronto, ON)
Spring is an eclectic group of talented musicians that come from all walks of life, from music theatre to classic rock, Broadway musicals to Jimi Hendrix to REM. If you are into: Dave Matthews, Jane's Addiction. www.spring.batcave.net

Stampede Queen (Calgary, AB)
Stampede Queen embrace their rock roots, blending AC/DC, KISS and Cheap Trick influences into their own brand of squealing rock 'n' roll. www.stampedequeen.com

Staggered Crossing (Toronto, ON)
Staggered Crossing's sophomore album "Last Summer When We Were Famous" is more than a change of direction, it is the sound of a band pouring gasoline over assumptions and expectations and gleefully setting it all alight. www.staggeredcrossing.com

Stars (Montreal, PQ)
Stars are an orchestral dream-pop band that makes expansive and atmospheric tailored rock to die for. Think: The Smiths, Black Box Recorder. www.starsdeluxe.net

The Stills (Montreal, PQ)
The Stills play moody, aggressive rock and roll that feels vibrant and now. Think: Interpol, Straightjacket Fits. www.thestills.net

Stink Mitt (Surrey, BC)
This femme fatale rap duo is comprised of two cougar MCs with big tits and big mouths that would put Eminem and The Mentors to shame. This over-the-top act recently added the power of DJ/Producer Bigstuff (ex-Organized Rhyme). www.stinkmitt.com

Stirling (Toronto, Ontario)
Fuzzed-out rocker bliss combined with intelligently structured songs and beautiful vocals has made this band one to watch. www.popguru.com

Sugar Sammy (Brossard, PQ)
An amalgamation of commercial hip-hop and urban stand-up comedy, when Sugar hits the stage, it's like Puff Daddy meets Eddie Murphy. www.soundbeatrecords.com

Sully (Toronto, ON)
Sully plays alternative pop rock with expansive, ambient textures. Think: The Sundays, Cocteau Twins. www.sullyweb.com

The Summerlad (Calgary, Alberta)
Angular guitar work intersects with propulsive rhythms and catchy yet intriguing vocal harmonies. Think: Fugazi meets Talk Talk www.thesummerlad.com

The Supers (Toronto, ON)
The Supers play gloriously catchy, hummable pop that is full of harmonies and quirky guitar lines. www.thesupers.com

Sweatshop Union (Vancouver, BC)
Sweatshop Union is a hip hop group with diverse styles and crisp soulful beats. They are the fresh air fans have been waiting for. Think: Jurassic 5, Swollen Members. www.dertmerchant.com

Syreeta Neal (Toronto, Ontario)
Syreeta fuses organic soul, blues and rock and roll into her own unique sound. Her writing has been described by the media as powerful, deep and honest.

Tallman (Toronto, ON)
Tallman's sound is defined by chunky guitars, socially conscious lyrics, intense and often polyrhythmic drumming, and groove-oriented yet sonically experimental bass playing. Think: Tool, Deftones. www.tallman.org

Tamara Williamson (Stouffville, ON)
Tamara Williamson creates tranquilizing, effects-drenched, groove-laden songs that come across in a haunting and intelligent manner. Think: Beth Orton, Do Make Say Think. www.tamarawilliamson.com

Tangiers (Toronto, Ontario)
Tangiers' music is nothing but simple, choppy, high-energy rock 'n' roll music -- sweat-soaked tunes that ooze sex. That's right -- Canadians are fully capable of making white-hot, sexy rock.

Taylored (Toronto, Ontario)
Perhaps best described by Teen People Magazine as "the best elements of pop and punk, with solid guitars, slick melodies and catchy lyrics." www.taylored.ca

Tef & Don (Toronto, Ontario)
Stunningly smooth yet hard urban hip hop songs have gained Tef & Don a lot of attention over the years.

Tegan & Sara (Vancouver, BC)
Their third release, the hard-edged and hook laden "If It Was You," on Neil Young's Vapour Records, brings the duo back to their punkier, poppier rock roots. www.teganandsara.com

Teknostep (Toronto, Ontario)
The alias of the prolific session player, producer, DJ & remixer Stéphane Vera, versatile musician and former Royal Conservatory of Music teacher, Teknostep plays keyboard, drums, percussion, bass, and alto saxophone. www.techno.ca

Tenth Planet (Toronto, ON)
Tenth Planet delivers melodic, high-energy rock with programmed electronic flourishes and distinctive vocals tied together by strong songwriting. www.tenthplanet.ca

Terry Vain & The Itch (Winnipeg, MB)
Centered on Terry's raw signature vocals, The Itch belt out high-octane poppy punk tempered with classic rock-and-roll influences. Think: Robin Black, Poison. www.terryvainandtheitch.com

Test Tone Channel (Moncton, New Brunswick)
A solid pop trio with sweet melodies and charming live performance filled with songs you'll remember. www.testtonechannel.com

Thine Eyes Bleed (London, Ontario)
Each member of Thine Eyes Bleed brings a radically different perspective on music, but for all the differences there is a common ground -- Metal. www.thineeyesbleed.com

Three Days Grace (Toronto, Ontario)
Three Days Grace are a power rock pop band with catchy lyrics and pummeling guitars. Nominated for a Juno award as "New Group of the Year" in 2004. www.threedaysgrace.com