LiveLondon Magazine Iss1

MUSIC

AYSANABEE: STRAIGHT

FROM THE HEART

Juno winning singer-songwriter returns stripped back & recharged

MY LONDON Forest City's favourite son, Shad comes home

MUSIC Brent Jackson of Sunshine Makers finds a new rhythm in London

FOOD & DRINK Doughnuts, beer & Greek soul food

STAGE

Glamour & glitz with Piaf/Dietrich at the Grand

From the Publisher

Welcome to Live London

Dear Londoners, old friends, new neighbours, and those just discovering the Forest City, welcome to the very frst issue of LiveLondon Magazine

What you’re holding is a prototype, a glimpse of what we are building here in London, Ontario. This inaugural issue marks the beginning of a larger vision: a spring launch followed by summer and fall editions, and eventually a more frequent publishing schedule as the magazine grows. To make that possible, we will rely on the support of this city, its people, businesses, creators, and communities.

The idea for LiveLondon began around our kitchen table and scribbled restaurant napkins, in conversations about a city we both care deeply about. London has always been a place of stories, some rooted in generations of history, others just beginning to unfold. With this magazine, we hope to capture a bit of both and literally unfold the pages before us.

For Sher, this city is home in the truest sense. Born and raised in London, she attended Lester B. Pearson School for the Arts, studied at Western, and worked across the city from Covent Garden Market to London Health Sciences Centre. Like many Londoners, she eventually left

and national politics in Toronto and Ottawa, she ultimately found her way back home.

Jamie arrived by a different path. Originally from Toronto, with years spent in northern Ontario, he came to London with fresh eyes and quickly fell for the city’s creativity and strong sense of community. An editor and publisher by trade, he has taught at Fanshawe and Humber and began his career reporting for rural newspapers before moving on to roles as a copy editor at The Globe and Mail and creating publications for organizations and his own ventures. Together, we now share a perspective shaped by both memory and discovery. We spend our days exploring neighbourhood restaurants, festivals, music venues, markets, and small businesses constantly reminded that there are remarkable stories around every corner of this city.

Whether you’re a lifelong Londoner or discovering the city for the frst time, we hope this magazine feels like an invitation to explore, connect, and take pride in the vibrant community we share.

Thank you for joining us at the very beginning of something special.

With pride and gratitude,

SHER MONASTYRSKI Publisher JAMIE MONASTYRSKI Editor & Publisher

Why Print Matters Now More Than Ever

In a world of infnite scrolling, print invites us to slow down.

Print media offers something digital platforms can’t replicate: focus, trust, and presence.

Studies consistently show that readers retain more information and engage more deeply when reading on paper, especially with longer, more complex stories. Without pop-ups, notifcations, or hyperlinks pulling attention away, print creates space for thoughtful reading and real connection.

Print is trusted.

The editorial standards behind print publishing: fact-checking, editing, and intentional curation build credibility. Readers tend to view print as more authoritative and accountable than fastmoving online content.

Print is tangible and memorable.

Holding a magazine creates a sensory experience that sticks. It lives on coffee tables, in offces, and in shared spaces giving stories and brands a longer life than a feeting digital impression.

Print complements digital, it doesn’t compete with it.

The future of media isn’t one or the other. It’s both.

Print offers depth and permanence; digital offers immediacy and reach. Together, they create a richer, more balanced media ecosystem.

Print didn’t disappear. It evolved.

Today, choosing print is intentional. It’s about quality over quantity, presence over noise, and meaningful storytelling over endless content.

At Live London, we believe print is not a step backwardit’s a powerful step forward.

4

What's On London

Our Top 10 can’t-miss events of the season. From comedy heavyweight Nate Bargatze to Napoli rock bands, local DJs, a jigsaw showdown, and Evil Dead live on stage - we’ve got your calendar covered.

7

My London London’s famous (and infamous) share their favourite eats, neighbourhood gems, private refections, and what’s really shaking in the Forest City. London’s own Shad kicks things off.

9

Food

& Drink

Amal Muselmani shares her sweet obsession with doughnuts, Chef Jorgos Elmas of Meraki Greek Kouzina serves up the soul of Greece, and Gavin Anderson talks craft beer and community at Anderson Craft Ales.

24 Music

London is a music town. Brent Jackson refects on its collaborative spirit, we spotlight rising indie bands and top DJs, and Nick Gillette spins his picks of the season.

Jamieson, Elizabeth Harrison, Amal Muselmani, Brent Jackson, Jacob Neal, Caitlin Jermey, Abby Vincent, Nick Gillette

14

Cover Story

Ahead of Aysanabee’s April 2 London show, he shares what fans can expect from a raw, intimate performance and refects on his unexpected journey through the Canadian music.

24

Neighbourhood Spotlight

From Argyle to Bostwick and White Oaks to Westmount, we explore the neighbourhoods shaping London’s character and pride. Old East Village leads the way with a residentdriven revival — and we’re just getting started.

WHAT’S LONDON TOP 10

THINGS TO DO IN LONDON THIS SPRING

LIGHTS BURNS BRIGHT

Lights released her sixth studio album A6 earlier this year, and is now heading back on the road for an upcoming tour that will bring the Canadian synthpop star back to town.

“My sixth album is a result of the full range of experiences that have made my life what it is this far: past lessons, rock bottoms, grief and loss, personal growth in a world that wants you to stay the same, the bliss of sensuality, and the recklessness of love. It’s everything you’d write down in a little A6-sized journal because saying it out loud is often somehow harder.”

March 17. London Music Hall

2

LET’S GET BLOODY!

Evil Dead The Musical takes all the elements of the cult classic flms, The Evil Dead, Evil Dead 2, and Army of Darkness and combines them for one of the funniest, and bloodiest theatrical experiences you’ll witness in London. Just like the flm, fve college students visit a rundown cabin in the woods for a weekend of good clean fun but they accidentally unleash an evil force that turns them all into demons. And that’s where the fun begins. For those upfront be prepared. Before you go: Watch the acclaimed doc ‘Hail to the Deadites’ about the die-hard fans of the Evil Dead flms. London also has a small part in the flm.

March 19 to March 22, The Wolf Performance Hall

3

GREAT LAKE SWIMMERS CATCHING LIGHT

Great Lake Swimmers are touring their newest album Catching Light released October 2025 which critics are calling their most “immediate and instinctive album to date.” Recorded in just fve days in Ganaraska Forest (Ontario's largest forest) near Peterborough, the new songs according to reviews “foat from country to folk to indie rock and back again, painting a sharp-toothed but achingly beautiful portrait of both the natural world and the human condition.”

March 27, The Aeolian Hall

4

NATE BARGATZE’S LAUGH RIOT HITS THE MUSIC HALL

Hailed as “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up,” by Atlantic Magazine and “One of the Funniest People,” by CBS Morning, Grammy-nominated comedian, author, podcaster, director and producer Nate Bargatze is selling out shows and breaking venue attendance records with more than 1.2 million tickets sold in 2024. He has appeared 14 times on Jimmy Fallon, and hosted Saturday Night Live for the second time last fall to rave reviews.

April 18, London Music Hall

5

ROCK NIGHT NAPALI STYLE

VIBE_NEPAL brings the pulse of Nepali rock to London with a high-energy night of live band performances and DJ sets featuring the Himalayan Devils. This event blends Western rock and metal infuences with traditional Nepali sounds for an electrifying club experience. Part of a growing Nepali rock movement across Canada, the night celebrates a genre rooted in powerful storytelling, cultural pride, and crowdmoving energy. @thehimalayandevils Friday, February 27, Vice Super Club

WHAT’S LONDON

TOP 10

6

WHAT’S ALL THAT STOMPIN?

What started as a street performance conceived by Edinburgh Festival performers has reached more than 26 million audience members worldwide over three decades. This enduring "junk percussion" theatre is defnitely unique and it does to appeal to audiences of all ages, especially the ones who like to tap their fngers on everything from barrels to tires to garbage can lids. April 16th, Canada Life Place

7

9

GET YOUR JIGSAW ON

Ready to race the clock, piece by piece? Puzzle fans are invited to a high-energy jigsaw puzzle speed competition where teams of two face off to complete a surprise 500-piece puzzle, revealed only when the timer starts.

“We look forward to seeing how the London event goes as the CJPA will be holding our frst Ontario Regional competition just outside of London, in Delaware in October 2026,” said Amanda Belanger CoPresident of the Canadian Jigsaw Puzzle Association (CJPA). canadianjpa.ca

*Did you know? A jigsaw puzzle enthusiast is offcially called a ‘dissectologist’ and the world record for a 500-piece puzzle is 34 minutes, that's roughly one piece every four seconds. March 28, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 501

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K-VIII’S LONDON ROOTS GOES GLOBAL BEATS

Caitlin Jermey (K-VIII pronounced K-8 or Cait) is a rising force in electronic music, having performed across Canada, the US, Mexico, and the Netherlands. As a DJ, producer, and founder of Play Productions, she creates opportunities for local artists while championing female talent. As part of the team at non-proft

Change the Beat, a global initiative supporting diversity and equity in electronic music, she brings a unique perspective on the scene. @djkviii See her story on London’s DJ Scene on page 35.

DJ PENNY MOLLOY COMMANDS LONDON’S DANCE SCENE

Originally from Calgary Alberta, Penny Molloy (aka Penny), took a different path from the city’s country music roots and found her passion in electronic music. She’s built a reputation for herself across Canada, playing in venues such as Rum Runners in London, Rebel in Toronto and Sub Rosa in Calgary. Penny is a standout DJ in the London scene, a supporter of the electronic music community, and a talent that pairs both technical skill and a genuine passion.

See more on London’s DJ Scene on page 35.

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THRASH TITANS TAKE OVER

Megadeth with Special Guests Anthrax and Exodus

This is not a sit-down show. This is a full-volume, fsts-in-the-air metal assault. Megadeth storms into Canada Life Place with the blistering force of their latest release and a legacy that spans more than four decades. With metal titans Anthrax and Exodus on the bill, this is a rare triple threat of pure, unapologetic heavy metal. Don’t miss one of the loudest nights of the year.

February 28 - Canada Life Place

London’s favourite son, Shadrach “Shad” Kabango, is coming home. Raised in the Forest City and a proud London Central Secondary School alum, the Canadian hip-hop heavyweight returns in early 2026 to kick off his Start Anew tour, celebrating his new album and 20 years in music.

Q SHAD

“I RECEIVED A LOT OF LOVE AND SUPPORT IN LONDON, STARTING OUT AND THROUGH THE YEARS. THE PROMOTER RUNNING THIS SHOW, FOR EXAMPLE, BOOKED ME 20 YEARS AGO WHEN I RELEASED MY FIRST ALBUM. SO, IT'S A MEANINGFUL FULL CIRCLE KINDA MOMENT FOR ME. ”

AJuno Award winner and multiple-time Polaris Prize shortlister, Shad has long been known for his soulful, socially conscious storytelling and magnetic live performances. He describes Start Anew as a creative reawakening: Re-energized and ready to reconnect, Shad says bringing the anniversary tour to London was essential: “London! I couldn’t do a 20-year anniversary tour without playing where I started. Coming home Feb 5th.” Alongside his storied recording

My London

career, Shad also teaches hip-hop culture at universities, including Wilfrid Laurier and the University of Toronto, continuing to shape the next generation of artists and thinkers.

Q. After 20 years in the business, what does the title of your new album Start Anew mean to you?

A. Start Anew for me was a refection more generally on the theme of endings and new beginnings. I was thinking about the human tendency to cling to what we have and what we know, even when it's clearly time to let go or adopt a new, better understanding. But in terms of my career, Start Anew is more specifcally about embracing the limits of my time and infuence in music, accepting the fact that my contributions are just for a short time in the grand scheme so it's all about just doing my job and passing on inspiration. It's also about trying to consistently step up to the challenge of taking risks and being vulnerable creatively, always putting the audience and the message before my any personal career aspirations.

Q. You’re back where it all began. What can fans expect at the London show, beyond your signature high-energy performance?

A. So, I'm trying to put the word out in my newsletters and on social media that I'm looking for song and banter requests for this particular tour. Normally when I'm touring, I'm playing lots from the latest album but this run of shows is also about celebrating 20 years of music, so I want to play what people want to hear and create a more kinda bespoke, intimate experience each show. Also, this one at Rum Runners is all-ages which

I'm excited about. At this point, I have friends and fans with kids old enough to go to shows! So, I'm glad that opportunity exists for parents and kids to have that experience together.

Q. What does “coming home” mean to you at this point in your life and career?

A. It's very meaningful for me for sure. On a personal level, my best friends that I grew up with are in London so it still feels like home whenever I'm back. And in terms of coming home for this show, my journey in music started in London so it means a lot to come back for this one. I received a lot of love and support here starting out and through the years. The promoter running this show, for example, booked me 20 years ago when I released my frst album. So, it's a meaningful full circle kinda moment for me.

Q. What were your old stomping grounds growing up in London?

A. I grew up in the Southcrest area, right by Westminster High School, and then lived in the Northeast during Jr High and High School.

Q. Where are your favourite places to eat when you’re back in the city?

A. Tahinis and Black Walnut.

Q. As the host of Netfix’s Hip-Hop Evolution, can you share any fun or memorable off-camera stories from the artists you interviewed?

A. Snoop was one of my favourite interviews. Really funny and smart. He gave our show a great tagline which we never used but I still think about it. Just off the cuff as he was sitting down for the interview he said, "Hip-Hop Evolution: The evolution WILL be

televised!". I don't think the camera was rolling yet, unfortunately. Busta Rhymes was also great. Super generous talking about not just his own legacy but any artist we brought up. He talked to us for way longer than we had booked and even sent someone to get us all water/drinks at one point.

LONDON’S 5 BEST

Food&Drink NUTS DOUGHNUTS FOR

Happiness Is a Really Good Doughnut! These London doughnut shops turn simple ingredients into comforting, can’t-miss treats

By AMAL MUSELMANI

There’s something about a really good doughnut that feels like a small celebration and in London that celebration comes in many delicious forms. From artisanal creations with rotating favours to cozy café classics and standout vegan options, the city’s doughnut scene is quietly impressive and deeply local. Whether you’re lining up early for a box that sells out by noon or grabbing a comforting treat on the go, these favourite London doughnut shops prove that happiness can, in fact, be fried, flled, glazed, and shared one perfect bite at a time.

Food&Drink

HAPPINESS↑

Myhappiness.ca@gmail.com

430 Wellington St.

This café brings some seriously good doughnuts to London. They offer different and unique favours and each bite feels cozy and comforting, like a freshly baked brioche. Most of the doughnuts are flled, giving them an elevated feel without being heavy. You will defnitely feel the happiness here!

←DONUT CAFÉ

301 Oxford St. W

Located inside Cherryhill Village Mall, Donut Café serves up traditional doughnuts and coffee in a casual space. I got the coconut doughnut, which had a lightly sweet glaze, and it made for a quick and comforting option on the go. It’s a simple stop for those looking to grab a doughnut and coffee without anything overly elaborate.

BOXCAR↑

hello@boxcardonuts.ca

1673 Richmond St.

Hands down one of London’s most popular local artisanal doughnut shops, with rotating weekly favours and creative toppings. You never know what

DOUGH EV

doughevlondon@gmail.com

621 Dundas St

Another local doughnut shop in East London and personally, one of my favorites. Their doughnuts are handmade with timeless favours as well as rotating seasonal options. They also serve a good variety of well-made vegan doughnuts that taste delicious! The dough is as soft as a pillow! Pro tip: Go early, because they sell out fast.

V FOOD SPOT

DONUT SHOP

Vfoodspot@gmail.com

413 Hamilton Road

you are going to get, but it is always top-notch! The doughnuts are hand-cut and hand-decorated with a rich glaze. Pro tip: Go early, because they sell out fast. Also found in Commonwealth Café downtown.

Located on Hamilton Road, this spot is a locally owned, take-out spot known for vegan doughnuts. The doughnuts are plant-based, yeast-risen, and offered in a variety of favours. They offer a different take on classic doughnuts and are a good option for those looking to try something different from the usual pastry options.

Amal Muselmani is a London, Ontario–based content creator and Rehab therapist who shares her love for food, travel, and local discoveries. Amal enjoys spotlighting neighbourhood spots and experiences while balancing her work in health and wellness. Her content focuses on honest reviews, community connection, and celebrating the small moments that make a city feel like home.

Instagram: amaloffduty • Tiktok: amalmuselmaniii

GREEK SOUL FOOD

At Meraki Greek Kouzina, food is more than a meal – it’s a story, a memory, and an invitation. Rooted in the traditions of Kefalonia, Greece, and shaped by more than four decades in London’s restaurant scene, Meraki is the realization of brothers Iasonas and Thodoris’ lifelong passion for hospitality and authentic Greek cooking. The name says it all: meraki means doing something with soul, creativity, and love and that philosophy guides every dish that leaves the kitchen.

Led by Executive Chef Jorgos Elmas, Meraki Greek Kouzina brings the warmth of a family home to the table, blending time-honoured techniques with a deep respect for quality, balance, and authenticity. From comforting classics to unforgettable signature plates, the experience is designed to make every guest feel less like a customer and more like they’ve been welcomed into the family.

Q&A JORGOS ELMAS

Executive Chef, Meraki Greek Kouzina

How would you describe your food in three words?

Authentic, Comfortable, Memorable

Q: Is there a dish that defnes Meraki Greek Kouzina restaurant?

A: Lamb Shank / Kotci

Q: What makes your menu different from what London already has?

A: Authenticity, Quality, Balance

Q: Where did you learn your craft/trained?

A: Kavala Greece

Q: What do you want guests to feel when they walk through the door?

I want them to feel like a guest in our home

London’s food scene is growing fast. What excites you most about cooking here right now?

A: I want share the Authentic Greek Kouzina with the community of London

What’s one thing frsttime guests should order?

A: Calamari fried or grilled

MORE NEW RESTOS

The Off Licence Pub 474 Pall Mall

New pub aims to bring a little slice of Ireland to downtown London. From the co-owner of Bag Lady.

Keshar Mahal 1682 Dundas St

A warm escape where Tandoor charcoal aromas meet modern cuisine.

The Egg Cloud 691 Richmond St Unit 2

Authentic Koreanstyle egg drop sandwiches, soft milk bread, and sweet & savory house sauces.

Holy Diver 353 Talbot St

The food menu features plenty of classic diner essentials like the double-stacked smashed burgers, gooey grilled cheeses, chicken sandwiches, the best wings in town, and upscale versions of tex-mex favourites.

GOOD FOR WHAT ALES YOU

Hard work and dogged determination to brew great local beer has been the bedrock for success for brewmaster/owner Gavin Anderson at Anderson Craft Ales

By JAMIE MONASTYRSKI

For one local brewer, Anderson Craft Ales, the journey back to London was both personal and perfectly timed.

Raised in Southwestern Ontario, Gavin Anderson spent years away, frst at school, then working as a head brewer in New Brunswick, where awardwinning recipes helped shape both confdence and craft. After several successful years and multiple accolades, the decision to open a brewery of their own came naturally. The question was where?

“My wife and I wanted to be close to both of our families,” he said. “London was an obvious choice. At the time, the craft beer scene here was just starting to develop, and it felt like the right moment.”

The very frst beer he brewed was a simple extract blonde ale, malt extract powder, water,

yeast, and curiosity. “It was defnitely entry-level,” he said, “but it’s a great way for anyone to dip their toes into brewing.”

Today, the process couldn’t be more different. Brewing exclusively with whole barley, the work is longer, more complex, and infnitely more creative.

“The quality and complexity of what we make now is lightyears ahead of those frst batches,” he said. “But the core idea, turning raw ingredients into something people enjoy never changes.”

That same simplicity guides the brewery’s philosophy.

“Our approach is simple: make beer that we would want to drink,” he explained. “That’s the benchmark. And our customers seem to trust that they know if we release something new, it’s because we genuinely like it.”

That trust shows up

“Our approach is simple: make beer that we would want to drink. That’s the benchmark.”

in unexpected ways, especially when it comes to beers that don’t shout the loudest on the menu. While many frst-time visitors gravitate toward bold IPAs or darker, highimpact styles, he’s quick to recommend something quieter but exceptional: the brewery’s Cream Ale. Often overlooked, it has earned fve national awards and two international honours, including World’s Best Cream Ale.

Despite the romantic image many people have of brewery life, the day-to-day reality is far from sitting around sipping on beers.

“The biggest misconception is that we just hang around drinking all day,” he said. “In reality, it’s physically and mentally demanding work. Heavy lifting, high temperatures, chemicals and a lot of cleaning. Brewing is at least 70 percent cleaning.”

London’s brewery scene, he believes, is unique because of its cooperative spirit. “There’s a real sense that we’re all in this together,” he said. “And there’s a shared philosophy around giving back.”

That commitment shows through extensive community involvement from sponsoring major cultural events and supporting local charities, to donating thousands of dollars annually to fundraisers. Inside the brewery walls, the taproom is intentionally designed as a welcoming, inclusive space, hosting run clubs, trivia nights, bingo, karaoke, and live music every Saturday.

“Breweries have become important social spaces because they’re casual and welcoming,” he said. “They’re places where people feel comfortable showing up with friends, family, or even on their own.”

Directory of London's Craft Beer Producers

“There’s a real sense that we’re all in this together and there’s a shared philosophy around giving back.”

Looking ahead, the focus stays on what has always worked: new beers, familiar favourites, and community connection. With a milestone anniversary approaching, the brewery plans to bring back beloved releases from the past decade, a nod to how far both the business and London’s craft beer culture have come.

Anderson Craft Ales

1030 Elias Street Phone: 548-888-ALES (2537) www.andersoncraftales.ca

Anderson Craft Ales

Family-owned independent brewery in Old East Village small-batch handcrafted ales.

London Brewing

Worker-owned cooperative; certifed-organic craft beers using Ontario-grown ingredients.

Forked River Brewing Company

Historic local craft brewery; known for fagship beers (e.g., Blonde Ale, Pale Ale, IPA) and rotating seasonal brews.

Beerlab! London

Downtown micro-brewery doing smallbatch, frequently changing beers; a go-to for experimental and rotating craft beers.

Storm Stayed Brewing Company

Community-oriented craft brewery with taproom/ patio; offers a variety of beer styles (clean, hopforward, sour, dark, etc.) to suit diverse tastes.

Powerhouse Brewing Company

Part of the 100 Kellogg Lane complex; brews core brands plus collaborations and seasonal beers; social vibe + pub fare.

Toboggan Brewing Company

Downtown brewery + brewpub; offers multiple core and seasonal beers, with a full-service restaurant and event-friendly space.

Union Ten Distilling Co

London’s frst distillery producing small-batch spirits (whiskey, vodka, applejack, etc.), available for tours, tastings, events.

Paradigm Spirits Co.

Newer local distillery (in 100 Kellogg Lane area); makes craft spirits often featured in local cocktails and available for retail/tastings.

Beer Kitchen

Ontario’s large “tank-to-glass” concept added in 2024 at 100 Kellogg Lane a beer garden / brew-pub hybrid especially good for group outings.

Fresh off international tours and a new release, Aysanabee brings his most intimate show yet to London

By JAMIE MONASTYRSKI

With a voice that carries both intimacy and quiet power, Aysanabee has quickly become one of Canada’s most compelling artists. But when we catch up, he’s not racing to an airport or loading guitars into a van. Instead, he’s been at the gym, skating, and trying to slow down.

“I booked February off,” he said. “The rst week, I just slept. It’s been such a busy few years.”

For an artist who has spent the past four years in near-constant motion touring across Canada, the U.S., Europe, and Australia, stillness felt unfamiliar. “You get used to always having somewhere to be. A stage. A plane. A mission. When that stops, it’s strange.”

That momentum has carried him far from his early days hauling guitars through Northern Ontario bars. Back then, he was the young songwriter playing intimate rooms in Thunder Bay. Now, he’s headlining theatres, earning major award nominations, and preparing to release Timelines, an acoustic EP arriving this spring. This next chapter is about returning to the beginning.

“This EP is stripped back,” he explained. “Just the songs at their core. A lot of storytelling. It’s kind of full circle.”

For his April 2 show in London, audiences can expect a raw, intimate performance: Aysanabee alone with his guitar, layered pedals, ambient soundscapes, and the stories behind the songs. “When my career started, that’s how people rst met me,” he said. “So, this is offering something to go back to.”

Though his records have featured expansive production and alternative textures, his writing process remains grounded in feeling. “It’s usually

emotion rst,” he said. “I plug in, grab a notepad, and start searching.”

Searching is the word he returns to often.

For him, songwriting isn’t a lightning bolt moment of inspiration. It’s practice. Discipline. Like working a muscle. “It’s like going to the gym. You show up. You write the song whether it’s good or not.”

Recently, he’s been exploring piano, discovering new textures that shift how he hears his own melodies. And in a surprising twist, he’s even been considering experimenting with electronic music. After temporarily losing his voice during a tour stop in Australia, the thought crossed his mind. “For two days, nothing but rasp came out,” he recalled with a laugh. “I thought, maybe this is it. Maybe I’ll become a DJ. That’ll be the comeback story.”

While his sound blends indie, folk, and alternative influences, his lived experience as an Oji-Cree artist from Sandy Lake First Nation shapes the lens through which he writes. “Being Indigenous informs how I see the world,” he said. “Empathy. Understanding struggles. That rst-person perspective.”

At the same time, he’s careful not to con ne his identity to a category.

“Sometimes I’m just an artist who happens to be Indigenous,” he said. Rather than relying on traditional instrumentation or language, his identity lives in the emotional undercurrent of his work.

Community remains central to his journey. Having opened for artists like Dan Mangan and Allison Russell, he now pays that support forward, inviting emerging Indigenous artists to open his shows and offering guidance on navigating contracts and the realities of the industry.

“When I was younger, I didn’t know many Indigenous artists I could reach out to,” he said. “So, I try to be that person now.”

The Canadian music scene, he’s learned,

“FOR TWO DAYS, NOTHING BUT RASP CAME OUT. I THOUGHT, MAYBE THIS IS IT. MAYBE I’LL BECOME A DJ. THAT’LL BE THE COMEBACK STORY.”

QUICK HITS WITH AYSANABEE

One word to describe your sound? Cathartic. A song that changed your life?

Lover, You Should’ve Come Over – Jeff Buckley.

What inspires you outside of music?

Landscapes and travel — meeting people in new places.

What can London expect April 2? A stripped-back, acoustic “songs and stories” night.

What do you hope audiences feel when they leave?

Better than when they came. aysanabee.com

is smaller than it seems and more supportive than expected. “You bump into the same people. And at the base level, we’re all kind of friends.”

Fresh off international performances from Australia and Taiwan to Norway’s Riddu Riđđu festival and Germany, Aysanabee is also earning major recognition at home. His album Edge of the Earth is nominated at the Canadian Folk Music Awards, and he continues to build on the momentum of his two JUNO Awards wins. The record landed on multiple year-end lists, including CBC Music’s Top Albums of 2025, and has seen tracks charting across Canadian radio.

The upcoming Timelines EP reimagines songs from across his catalogue, including Watin (2022), Here and Now (2023), and Edge of the Earth (2025). The newly released single, “Dream Catcher (Timelines Acoustic),” revisits one of his most personal songs, a reflection on doubt, endurance, and the act of dreaming despite uncertainty.

“It’s wild to have written this song from a place of imposter syndrome,” he has said.

“But playing it night after night to rooms full of people connecting to it helped me unravel some of that mystery. I hope this stripped-back version gives fans a more intimate look at my process after they’ve given me so much.”

As he prepares to return to London, his focus is simple: connection.

Asked what he hopes audiences feel when they leave his show, he paused.

“I hope they feel full,” he said. “Inspired. Better than when they came.”

In a career that continues to rise, Aysanabee remains grounded in that same quiet pursuit: searching for the song, sharing the story, and letting the feeling lead.

2022 — Watin Debut Album

A deeply personal and cinematic frst release, Watin introduced Aysanabee’s signature blend of indie folk, ambient textures, and emotional storytelling. The album explores family history, generational connection, and identity, establishing him as a powerful new voice in Canadian music.

2023 — Here and Now Follow-Up EP

Building on the momentum of Watin, this release expanded his sonic palette while keeping vulnerability front and centre. The project showcased his evolving production style and growing confdence as both a songwriter and performer.

“WHEN I WAS YOUNGER, I DIDN’T KNOW MANY INDIGENOUS ARTISTS I COULD REACH OUT TO. SO, I TRY TO BE THAT PERSON NOW.”

2025 — Timelines

Acoustic EP (April 10 Release)

A full-circle moment. Timelines strips the songs back to their emotional core — voice, guitar, piano, and storytelling. Designed to mirror the intimacy of his early live performances, this EP offers listeners a return to the foundation of his songwriting.

Live London’s Picks For the Essential Events of the Season

Agenda

EVENTS

London Collectables Expo brings the action

Centennial Hall Friday, April 3, Free Admission

The London Collectibles Expo will feature over 90 vendors selling a diverse selection of Collectibles including Comics, Vinyl Records, Music Memorabilia, Retro Video Games, Pokémon Cards, Yu-Gi-Oh, Magic The Gathering, both new and old Sports and Non-Sports Cards, Movie and Television Memorabilia, Action Figures, Funko Pop Vinyls, Lego, Transformers, Star Wars, Wrestling Figures, Model Kits, Board Games, McFarlane Figures, old and new Die Cast Toys, Hot Wheels, Barbies, Movie and Television Memorabilia, and too many other Pop Culture Collectibles to come close to listing them all.

EVENTS

Heart, Grit, and the Razor Bomb: Kyle Boone brings Icon Wrestling back to London

Admission: $25-$30

Growing up as the youngest of fve boys, Kyle Boone learned early how to stand his ground, often mid-air on a family trampoline, where backyard wrestling matches doubled as training camps. What began as childhood roughhousing evolved into a lifelong obsession. And Boone never missed a televised bout, soaking in every storyline, every move, every roar of the crowd.

That obsession eventually became a career forged on long road trips, physical punishment and the undeniable rush of live performance. Today, Boone is known not just for his intensity in the ring, but for a signature fnishing move, the Razor

Bomb and a reputation for wrestling with heart.

“Every time two people step in the ring,” Boone says, “they’re putting a piece of their heart on display and showing the lengths they’re willing to go for something important to them.”

Fans can see that heart up close when Icon Wrestling hits London on February 5 at the Marconi Club.

Like many fans-turned-wrestlers, Boone’s inspiration came from wrestling’s biggest personalities. Growing up, he admired the dominance of John Cena, the intensity of Triple H, the rebellion of Stone Cold Steve Austin, the charisma of The Rock, and the risktaking style of Jeff Hardy.

But one stood above the rest: Randy Orton.

“When he was on top, I was glued

“You only survive if you have an unshakeable love for it.”

to my screen,” Boone says. “I couldn’t wait to see what happened next.” Orton’s RKO and Punt Kick remain Boone’s favorite moves of all time, equal parts precision and brutality.

Wrestling, Boone says, was always part of his life. His two oldest brothers were fans, and soon enough the entire backyard became a ring. As a teenager, Boone and his friends even flmed their own trampoline wrestling show, footage he wishes he still had.

“It would be cool to see the evolution,” he says. “Wrestling has always been there for me. Even though it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done, mentally and physically. I owe so much happiness to it.”

At the London show, fans can expect Boone’s patented fnisher: the Razor Bomb, a devastating hybrid inspired by Razor Ramon’s Razor’s Edge and Batista’s Batista Bomb.

“Nobody has ever kicked out of it,” Boone says.

While wrestling’s spectacle is obvious, Boone says the sacrifces behind the scenes are often overlooked.

“It’s the most diehard community in the world,” he explains. “People think they understand the blood, sweat, and tears but there are sacrifces you can’t comprehend unless you’ve lived it. It’s a thankless business with a ton of travel and a lot of pain. You only survive if you have an unshakeable love for it.”

That love is what makes wrestling special and what keeps Boone climbing back into the ring.

When he’s not wrestling, Boone enjoys exploring London with his fancée, Shilo. For drinks, he heads to Holy Diver. For celebrations, Papi’s Steakhouse is his go-to. And when he wants comfort food close to home, nothing beats Katie’s Kitchen. “Katie is the absolute best,” he says.

By JAMES PERRAULT

GALLERIES

Lido Pimienta: Love and Resistance

At Museum London, a new body of work by London-basd artist Lido Pimienta invites viewers to slow down, look closely, and feel deeply. Lido Pimienta: Love and Resistance marks a powerful shift and expansion in the practice of the London-based, internationally acclaimed musician and multidisciplinary artist. Best known for her genre-defying sound and fearless self-expression, Pimienta turns here to clay, using ceramics to explore identity, solidarity, discipline, and refusal.

Rooted in centuries of preColombian tradition, the exhibition features a vibrant series of

handcrafted plates, bowls, and discs, each bearing faces that honour the women and communities who shaped her: mothers, grandmothers, and elders from the Caribbean North Coast of Colombia. These portraits are unapologetically Black and Indigenous, rendered in saturated colour and expressive line. Some adorned with borlas Wayuu, bright fringes that reference Indigenous adornment and cultural continuity. Together, the works confront the colonial gaze while celebrating diasporic identity as layered, living, and deeply personal.

“You need to know who you are, and explore that within your lane,” Pimienta says. “That’s the best choice that you can make.” That clarity of purpose runs throughout the exhibition. Rooted in pre-Colombian ceramic traditions, the works resist easy categorization, neither purely functional nor purely sculptural. Instead, they exist as vessels of memory and care, collapsing the false divide between art and craft, and elevating community-based

knowledge long dismissed or undervalued.

Process matters deeply to Pimienta. She speaks of repetition, patience, and discipline as essential forces in making meaningful work. “When you see a work of art… you have to feel something,” she says. The ceramics refect that belief. They don’t demand intellectual justifcation; they ask for presence, emotional engagement, and respect for the labour embedded in their making.

That sensibility traces back to Pimienta’s childhood. A self-described eccentric kid, she gravitated toward painting, drawing, and weaving, often sitting beside her grandmother while others played nearby. Those early moments of quiet attention echo throughout Love and Resistance, where each piece feels considered, intimate, and resolute.

By JAMIE MONASTYRSKI

Piaf/Dietrich Dazzles at the Grand Theatre

Tickets and details are available at grandtheatre.com.

Glitz, glamour, and raw emotional power collide this winter as Grand Theatre brings Piaf/Dietrich to London audiences. Playing February 17 to March 7 on the Spriet Stage, the production explores the surprising friendship and ferce artistry of two of the 20th century’s most iconic women: Édith Piaf and Marlene Dietrich.

Audiences can expect a rich blend of music, drama, and Old Hollywood allure, woven together through beloved songs such as La

vie en rose, Milord, and Lili Marlene. Directed by Grand Theatre Artistic Director Rachel Peake, this all-new staging is adapted by Erin Shields from the acclaimed European work Spatz und Engel (The Angel and The Sparrow)—a show that has captivated audiences internationally and earned major accolades, including a Dora Mavor Moore Award in Toronto.

“What I love about this story is that it uses music, confict, and language to transport us,” says Peake. “Before reading the play, I had no idea these two icons even

knew one another. Piaf wore her heart on her sleeve, her pain in public, while Dietrich hid everything behind a mask of glamour. But friendship is funny that way. Attraction is funny that way.”

The cast features celebrated Canadian performers, with London’s own Deborah Hay returning to the Grand as Piaf, opposite Terra C. MacLeod making her Grand Theatre

debut as Dietrich. Supporting them are Broadway veterans Karen Burthwright and Eric Craig, who fuidly inhabit the many lovers, rivals, and muses that orbit

With a creative team that brings Old Hollywood sparkle to life—from lush costumes to evocative lighting—Piaf/ promises an immersive experience. At its heart, it’s a story of ambition, vulnerability, and the complicated bonds between extraordinary reshaped music, flm, and fame.

Producer Ceris Thomas guides Urinetown to the stage

Ceris Thomas, the producer of Urinetown is an educator, director, choreographer, performer, and passionate advocate for the arts with nearly two decades of teaching experience. Raised in Red Deer, Alberta, by two teacherparents deeply involved in community theatre, Ceris grew up immersed in both education and performance, two worlds that would naturally shape her life’s work.

Boots, Rocky Horror and now Urinetown represent our action to select shows that reach a wider audience with more differing tastes than a British Farce or a classic Whodunnit. In order for any theatre company to have longevity, it is imperative that they bring in new audiences, new performers and new artistic and technical teams. LCP is striving to select shows that have broad appeal.

Why is community theatre important to a city like London?

ALSO OPENING

Sweeney Todd - The Demon Barber of Fleet Street: A Musical Thriller

This darkly comedic tale of love, revenge, and intrigue will captivate you with its haunting melodies and gripping storyline. Set in the gritty streets of Victorian London, follow the vengeful barber Sweeney Todd and his partner-incrime, Mrs. Lovett, as they embark on a chilling quest for justice.

Paul Davenport Theatre March 5-8, 2026

Prescription: Murder

London Community Players has a long history in the city. How does this production refect the group’s evolution or current creative direction?

LCP has been in operation for over 50 years in London and the group has come a long way from small shows on the Gallery Theatre stage at 36 York St to much larger musicals at The Palace. Recent efforts by the play reading and selection teams have been to bring our choices towards more current shows that speak to our city today, our theatrical community and the citizens of SW Ontario.

It’s actually not about being important to London. Community Theatre is vital for any group, school, town, city, region. Telling stories is part of humanity and coming together to share stories in a communal way, live and in person is one of our most basic forms of communication. For our particular community, we are truly blessed with the sheer amount of theatre companies, talent and creativity that we can access at any given moment. Sharing our skills and assets with each other is important to keep the arts going and help new ideas and stories to fourish. At PTAC, not only does London Community Players take to the stage, but also LYTE (our youth theatre program), Banished by the King (a grassroots company focused on playwriting) rentals of the space and many other opportunities.

So, London is particularly blessed. There are plenty of communities who would be thrilled to have access to one third of what we have here.

A murder has taken place. An unkempt, fumbling, cigar smoking detective appears on the scene and must unravel the mystery while matching wits with a brilliant killer. Sound like a familiar story? That’s because Prescription: Murder marks the introduction of a certain Lt. Columbo. The play was adapted into the hit Columbo TV pilot starring Peter Falk. See where this beloved and iconic detective made his frst appearance.

Grand Theatre: March 19-21, 2026

Come From Away

Amid unthinkable tragedy, a small Atlantic Canadian town comes together to make a difference. This award-winning Canadian musical has captured the hearts of theatregoers since its 2015 world premiere, going on to become a Tony and Olivier Award-winning modern classic. Featuring a toe-tapping and heartthumping score including the songs “Welcome to the Rock”, “Me and the Sky”, and “Heave Away”, Come From Away is a celebrated story about the power of community.

May 1 to May 24, 2026

MUSIC

“Moving to London enhanced everything. creatively, socially, musically. I found more opportunities to play, more people to collaborate with, and honestly, less ego.”

Sunshine Makers Shine Bright

The Sunshine Makers frontman Brent Jackson refects on community, independence, and why success looks different now

By JAMIE MONASTYRSKI

Sunshine Makers takeover Juice Jam series at Poacher’s Arms, Every Wednesday in March. Admission: $15

When Brent Jackson moved from Toronto to London, Ontario, in late 2018, he didn’t arrive with a master plan. What he carried instead was decades of experience along with a quiet openness to whatever might come next.

“I think it was November of 2018,” he said. “So, I’ve been here about six years now.”

At the time, Jackson was coming off the end of a long chapter. His former band, The Junction, had wrapped after a 17year run that included major-label moments, MuchMusic rotation, and sold-out shows at venues like Toronto’s Horseshoe Tavern.

The band toured Canada and the U.S countless times on their own and as supporting openers for Moneen, Bedouin Soundclash,

Sloan, Hollerado and The Reason. The breakup left him creatively untethered. Sunshine Makers, then a studio-focused project was rooted in collaboration with creative stalwarts in the Toronto scene such as Julien Barbagallo (Tame Impala), Odario Williams (Grand Analog), Aquakultre, Chester Hansen (BADBADNOTGOOD).

But Jackson was still fnding the project’s footing. London changed that.

“Moving here enhanced everything,” Jackson said. “Creatively, socially, musically. I found more opportunities to play, more people to collaborate with, and honestly, less ego.”

London’s reputation as a collaborative music town isn’t marketing fuff, it’s something Jackson felt almost immediately. In Toronto, his mindset had been shaped by scarcity and strategy. Don’t oversaturate. Make shows intentional. Protect momentum.

But London offered a different rhythm.

“There are a lot of creatives here in a condensed space,” he explained. “And people are genuinely more collaboration-focused. Less competitive. More community-driven.”

That spirit aligned perfectly with Sunshine Makers, a project that was collaborative by design. Originally conceived as an R&B and hip-hop-infected experiment, Jackson reached out to MCs, musicians, and vocalists across scenes - artists like Shad among theminviting shared authorship rather than hierarchy.

“In my old band, collaboration wasn’t really possible,” he said. “Everyone had equal say, which sounds good in theory, but in practice it can limit expansion. Sunshine Makers was built differently.”

Places like Shush on Hamilton Road became creative hubs, spaces where musicians crossed paths not to compete, but to connect.

Sunshine Makers thrives in warmer months. It’s right there in the name and the music.

“We’re a festival band,” Jackson said plainly. “The sound, the energy, the feeling. It just works seasonally.”

That doesn’t mean the project hibernates. Fall and winter are for writing, demoing, and planning. By spring, the band is ready to move.

“October hits, things slow down, and I shift into writing mode,” he said. “By the time spring comes around, we’re ready to be busy again.”

Alongside Sunshine Makers, Jackson also fronts Gold Tongue, a heavier rock project he describes as something he brings out when time allows. But Sunshine Makers remains the centre of gravity.

“In between, I’ll do solo shows, acoustic sets, bars, events,” he said. “I’m always down to play.”

Building Lovetown Records

Jackson’s independence doesn’t stop at

songwriting. He’s also the co-founder of Lovetown Records, an artistdriven label launched alongside longtime friend and Sunshine Makers percussionist Shayne Barnes.

The motivation was both personal and practical.

“There aren’t many intentional Canadian labels focused on soul and R&B,” Jackson explained. “So, we built one.”

Lovetown began as a home for Sunshine Makers releases, eventually securing digital and physical distribution through The Orchard, a Sony Music subsidiary. From there, it grew, signing local London artists and acts from outside the city.

Today, the label represents fve to six artists. including J3M, Sunshine Makers, SHEBAD, Bitter&Broke, Disaster Pony, and Amanda Movio.“It’s not the old model,” Jackson said. “There’s no big advance. It’s more grassroots. Artists fund their work through grants or personal investment and we help

facilitate distribution, strategy, and guidance.”

What Lovetown offers, above all, is care.

“They get someone who’s been through it,” he said. “Someone who actually gives a shit.”

Redefning Success

Jackson is candid about the realities of a life in music. Despite radio play, touring, and industry recognition, fnancial stability has never been guaranteed.

“I’ve never really focused on money,” he said. “I’ve always had two or three jobs. That’s just been the reality.”

When he was younger, success meant something closer to myth: the Beatles, Britpop, Radiohead, the idea of living fully inside the music. Today, it’s quieter and deeper.

“Success now is just that I still believe in music enough to fght for it,” he said. “To keep it in my life. And to support other artists who might struggle with the ups and downs.”

That support has taken tangible form

through mentorship and production, including work with artist Tean Dream, the musical moniker of Tina Powell, whose recent album Jackson produced and released through Lovetown.

“She’s got great songs,” he said. “Being part of projects like that, that’s success to me.”

Writing From Instinct

After 25 years as a songwriter, Jackson has learned not to force the process.

“I don’t battle it anymore,” he said. “I wait until it shows up.”

Most often, it starts with guitar chords guiding melody, melody pulling meaning.

“I’ll sing gibberish over it until a melody sticks,” he explained. “Sometimes one word comes out, and that word directs the whole song.”

Lyrics come last, shaped carefully to ft phrasing and fow.

“I prioritize melody,” he said. “Hooks matter. Fluidity matters. I don’t bend the words too hard just to make a point.”

What Comes Next

This spring marks a major chapter for Sunshine Makers. The band is preparing to record its third full-length album and they’re doing it analog.

In April, they head to Hollywood to work with producer Sergio Rios (of Say She She), recording to tape for a warm, retro sound.

“It’s going to be crispy,” Jackson said, smiling. “Real records.”

Before that, they’re road-testing the album live every Wednesday in March during a Sunshine Makers takeover of the Juice Jam series at Poacher’s Arms.

“We’ll play the new album front to back, four times,”

“Success now is just that I still believe in music enough to fght for it. To keep it in my life. And to support other artists who might struggle with the ups and downs.”

he said. “Then we head south and make the record.”

When asked what he hopes people feel when they leave a Sunshine Makers show, Jackson doesn’t hesitate.

“Supported,” he said. “Seen. Loved. Hopeful.”

It’s a simple goal but one that echoes through everything he’s built in London: the music, the label, the collaborations, the long game.

After all these years, Brent Jackson isn’t chasing a moment.

He’s helping build a community.

QUICK HITS WITH BRENT JACKSON

Song That Brings Him Back to Centre?

“Strawberry Fields Forever” –The Beatles

“The song that made me fall in love with music. Forever infuential.”

Studio or Stage? Both.

“The studio lets it live forever. The stage lets you connect face to face with the message.”

Writing Fuel? Coffee. Guitar. Trusting the moment.

“If it comes quickly and feels right, I keep it.” What Matters Most?

Melody frst. Lyrics second. “I believe in hooks and fuid phrasing.”

Sunshine Makers Is Best Described As?

A seasonal, festival-forward band rooted in peace, love, and connection.

Beats Beneath the Forest City

As Canada’s frst UNESCO City of Music, London’s electronic scene runs deep. These four DJs are shaping its sound, its community, and what comes next

By CAITLIN JERMEY (AKA K-VIII)

London was recognized as Canada’s frst UNESCO city of music in 2021, so it’s no surprise that our city has one of the most wellestablished electronic music scenes in Ontario. While countless DJs, producers, and promoters have shaped the city’s scene, these four DJs — The Incredible Melting Man, Mat Lunnen, Rye, and Penny — stand out for their impact on the community and poise to shape the future.

Anthony Hudson

The Incredible Melting Man (aka DJ Melty), is a longstanding fxture in London’s electronic music scene. He’s the cocreator of RAYGUN (Retro), London’s longest-running club night rooted in Gothic

rave culture, and one of the original contributors to NEC, London’s most established electronic music collectives. Highly decorated locally, including FCLMA Best DJ (2010, 2018) and London Music Award - Electronic Artist of the Year (2014), he’s also had international chart success, reaching No. 1 on Beatport and Traxsource across multiple genres. Founder of Mastermelt Studio and Celebration Sound Services, he has spent his career shaping the city’s underground electronic music culture— and shows no signs of slowing down.

@meltingman1

Currently residing in London, electronic music producer and DJ Mat

Lunnen (aka MMaserati) is known as a communityfocused artist, contributing to the scene as both a headliner and behindthe-scenes event work that supports the city’s DJ community. Hailing from Toronto, he has held residencies at key venues like System Soundbar, Footwork, and Boa Redux, with his music receiving global support from

artists including Carl Cox, Lowsteppa, and Luciano. In 2025, Mat launched his Drum & Bass project MMaserati, signed a full-length album to LA’s ONE7AUDIO, and saw the lead single ‘Get Down’ hit No. 1 on Traxsource’s global Drum & Bass chart, showcasing his versatile presence across electronic music genres. @matmaserati74

Born and raised in London, Ryan Carpenter (aka Rye), is a rising force in the electronic scene in London. At just 23 years old she’s taken the city by storm, playing a variety of local festivals and opening for legends like Habstrakt, Knock2, and Malaa. Her sets balance dark, underground energy with playful grooves. She creates a sound that pulls you to the dancefoor - it’s immersive and addictive. She’s the resident DJ at Molly Blooms, so be sure to stop by on a Wednesday night to check out her high-energy Top 40 house sets that will keep you moving all night.

@mrs.rye_mp3

NICK’S PICKS

Essential listening from the racks at Grooves Records

Every great record store has someone behind the counter who really listens. At Grooves Records, that’s Nick. From boundary-pushing contemporary jazz to post-punk touchstones and standout local releases, Nick’s Picks is a dive into records worth your time, whether you’re digging for something new, rediscovering a classic, or keeping tabs on what’s happening in London right now. These are albums with staying power, pulled straight from the shelves at 236 Dundas Street.

go largely unmentioned. Artists like Alice Coltrane, Jutta Hipp, and Carla Bley created incredible art that continues to resonate. Nala is part of a current wave of Women in Jazz who carry the torch that the aforementioned artists kept burning. The music on “Endlessness” is spacious and ethereal, it rides a line between Jazz and Ambient in a manner similar to the works of Jon Hassell. It’s the sort of album you can feel all around you, like foating through an eternal body of water. Highly recommended. @ nalasinephro

OLDER/OBSCURE ALBUM

Solid

Gold Gang of Four (1981, EMI Records)

Endlessness

Nala Sinephro (2024, Warp Records)

Nala Sinephro is a relatively new artist, though her music feels vast and timless. For as long as there’s been Jazz music, there's been women making Jazz music. Unfortunately, when discussing the canon of Jazz music it feels as though women seem to

“Entertainment!” was no easy feat. Tracks like “Outside the Trains Don’t Run on Time” and “He’d Send in the Army” showed Gang of Four more than succeeded. The bass is funky and the lyrics as engaging as ever, it’s all here. You can dance and think.” @gangoffouroffcial

LOCAL PICK

Falling In Love With Pro Wrestling

Post-Punk has had many forms since its beginnings, some better than others, but none have been able to reach to heights of its initial wave. Bands like Gang of Four, The Pop Group, and The Slits grew tired of the limitations and self-imposed rules of traditional punk music. They began to explore styles of music like jazz, dub, musique concrete, and funk. The best of them were also well-read and took interest in everything from Situationism and Dadaism to Marxism and Feminism in ways “regular” punk bands rarely did. Gang of Four is a prime example of this and “Solid Gold” encompasses it all. Following up a debut as extraordinary as

The Band (2024, Grooves Records Records) London has long had a vibrant music scene, in particular a thriving rock scene. Pro Wrestling The Band is made up of musicians who have spent years as integral parts of said world. It’s easy, and even a little hacky, to simply list a bunch of comparisons when describing a band. So, I won’t do that. Sure, I could say Pro Wrestling The Band has the ability to write fantastic pop songs with an edge like The Replacements. I could also say they have the ability to write absolute ear-worms that you want to hear over and over, like Tom Petty. That’s lazy writing though. A band this good deserves something better, so I’ll keep it nice and straightforward. Pro Wrestling The Band makes great Rock & Roll. It’s as simple as that, high energy and pure Rock & Roll. It’s music that’ll get your blood pumping and your body moving. Oh, and make sure you catch them live, you are guaranteed a great night. @ProWrestlingTheBand

MUSIC

On the Radar: London’s Next Wave

Four homegrown acts bringing fresh energy to the city’s stages

London’s music scene is alive, loud, and constantly evolving and some of its most exciting moments are happening on stages right now. From genre-blurring hip-hop collectives to hook-heavy guitar bands and dreamy pop newcomers, these four local acts are shaping what London sounds like in 2026. Each has upcoming shows in the city and fresh music worth queuing up. Consider this your guide to who to watch and where to catch them live.

Pro Wrestling The Band

Hailing from a storage locker in the forest city, Pro Wrestling the Band was formed in 2020. Infuenced by power pop, informed by punk rock and unabashed adorers of classic rock, the four members continue on a tradition of hook-laden songs that do not fear a guitar solo. Craig Gignac covers keys, guitars and vocals with a twangy fair. Danny Kidd keeps the feet moving with the rhythm guitar and screamed raspy

vocals. Nathan Stock has been called a gorilla behind the kit, bashing the drums with muscular intensity and precision. Bobby Calwell plays the bass with power chords and keeps the low-end grooving. The history of its members is storied and studded; however, it’s only forward they move as a group, creating the tightest live show and skillfully crafted songs this side of anywhere. And they’re on the Internet!

EP release at Supply and Demand April 17 & 18

4DaTribe

4DaTribe is a dynamic London Ontario hip-hop/R&B collective, known for their independent spirit, releasing music like their debut project Found Us and tracks such as “Prettygirls,” promoting an authentic, communitydriven sound.

4DaTribe open for Shad at Rum Runners, Feb 5

Jade Green

(Formerly known as Bob Calwell Vanity Project) is a four-piece band of hardcore-infuenced, emo-leaning pop punk. The group is led by Bobby Calwell featuring members of Pro Wrestling The Band, Mvll Crimes and Mile End. Poised to drop their sophomore full length (and frst under the banner Jade Green) in spring/summer 2026, the self-titled LP will see the bands growth as it becomes one of Canada’s foremost acts to catch in the years to come.

Jade Green play Poachers Arms on March 12

Tean Dream

Tean Dream creates 70s-inspired dream pop music. With jazz-inspired chording, piano-forward pop song structures, and modern lo-f vocals, the sound is Clairo meets Carol King. The music envelops like a warm hug, featuring lyrical themes of freedom, nostalgia, and fnding a renewed faith in the good in the world and in the self.

Tean Dream plays The Honey Dip on March 6

READING

Eric Olcsvary: Making Comics, One Page at a Time

At just 24, Eric Olcsvary has already learned one of the hardest lessons in the creative world: the only way in is to start. A sequential artist, cartoonist, publisher, and CEO of AllsCherry Comics, Olcsvary is part of a growing wave of Canadian independent creators proving that comics are not only alive, but thriving, panel by panel, brushstroke by brushstroke.

Growing up in Tillsonburg, Ontario, Olcsvary spent his childhood drawing obsessively. Comics were his frst love, but like many young artists, he quietly shelved that dream after being told that art should be “practical.” Graphic design felt like the safer route. It wasn’t until attending H.B. Beal Secondary School in London that he fnally said the words out loud: I want to make comics.

Instead of discouragement, he found

especially progressive rock, jazz, and metal is a constant infuence, shaping both mood and narrative. “I always fnd a story in music,” he explained. “That’s what drives my storytelling.”

While many readers see a fnished comic as a solitary achievement, Olcsvary is quick to point out how collaborative the medium truly is. Writers, pencillers, inkers, colourists, letterers, editors, and printers all play vital roles. Even when he handles multiple stages himself, understanding the full process is essential. “Comics are teamwork,” he said. “Even if you’re doing it alone, you’re still building something meant to be shared.”

QUICK HITS WITH ERIC OLCSVARY

Favourite character you didn’t create: Batman. “He’s done a lot for me.”

Dream collaboration (dead or alive): Daniel Warren Johnson or Skottie Young

Creative fuel: Black coffee and loud music

permission. One instructor scrapped a traditional painting assignment and told him to make a comic instead. “I realized my whole childhood dream had been there all along. I’d just buried it,” Olcsvary said.

His work today refects that long-held storytelling instinct. Titles like Wendy, Overfow and Monster of the Abyss blend fantasy, environmental themes, and deeply personal undertones. Music,

Olcsvary’s creative process begins with instinct, hours of free writing set to carefully chosen music before moving into detailed scripting and storyboarding. He then works traditionally, favouring brushes, ink, and 11x17 Bristol paper. Inking is his favourite stage, the moment when the story fully locks into place. From there, collaborators including comic artist and colourist Payton Atkinson, letterer Andrew Thomas (Monster of the Abyss), and writer Scott Wojcik (Monster of the Abyss) help bring the work to its fnal form.

That approach is already paying off. Olcsvary was recently published through Antarctic Press, ahead of schedule for his own long-term goals. With multiple new issues of Wendy planned, continued expansion of Overfow and a genre-bending romantic ghost story in development, his momentum is undeniable.

But for Eric Olcsvary, success still comes back to the basics: putting ink on paper and telling the next story. By JAMIE MONASTYRSKI

Soundtrack while working: Prog rock, jazz, death metal (King Crimson, Genesis, Frank Zappa, Coltrane)

Preferred tools: Ink, brushes, Bristol paper

Best advice for young artists: “Make comics. Break out of your comfort zone. Stand at your booth and talk to people.”

For more info on

To view Eric Olcsvary’s portfolio

LABATT MEMORIAL PARK:

WHERE BASEBALL HISTORY STILL PLAYS

DURING LONDON’S BICENTENNIAL YEAR, LABATT MEMORIAL PARK SHINES AS A RARE PLACE WHERE THE CITY’S PAST AND PRESENT MEET ON THE SAME HISTORIC DIAMOND

BY JACOB NEAL

1826-2026

The Bicentennial celebrations this year have left many Londoners wondering about their city and its history. With centuries separating us from the origins of this city, what has stood the test of time?

A site that proudly stands out in the city’s heritage is Labatt Memorial Park. Recognized internationally as the oldest baseball feld in the world, the park has helped inspire the athleticism of generations of Londoners and make the sport of baseball what it is today. Originally, the park was founded as Tecumseh

Park, and just 21 days after the frst match was ever held on the grounds, the London Tecumsehs faced off against the Boston Red Stockings to the cheers of eight thousand fans. The park itself, originally built to sit 600 people, received the attendance of thousands of Londoners, time after time.

When, in 1937, the park was purchased by John Labatt and donated to the city after its renaming, the park was already an athletic hub in the community. Lacross and Football were played in the feld, and bicycle track racing had become so

Recognized internationally as the oldest baseball feld in the world, the park has helped inspire the athleticism of generations of Londoners and make the sport of baseball what it is today.

popular at the time that a 1/3 mile long track of clay and brick was built on the grounds. In 1944, the London Army Team became the London Majors, and just 4 years later, they won the Intercounty League Championship, the Canadian Baseball Congress Championship and the Can-Am North American Championship, all in the same year.

The storied legacy of Labatt Memorial Park history lives on today. The Majors still play on the historic grounds, with crowds of Londoners showing up to watch. Guided tours of the park and its history continue, winding their way throughout the historic feld and ending in the Roy Mckay Clubhouse, where artifacts of the past 148 years can be seen.

Often, we think of the past as a distant and alien thing, but for the Labatt Memorial Park, this is not the case. In that timeless feld at the fork of the Thames, you can sit, chat, and watch a baseball game, just like Londoners have done for almost two centuries.

Jacob Neal (He/Him) is an Intern-Program Coordinator for London Heritage Council @HeritageCouncil / londonheritage.ca

A Historic Gem With Urban Flair

Old East Village is one of London’s most distinctive neighbourhoods where history isn’t preserved behind glass, but lived in every day. Located just east of downtown, OEV blends late-19th- and early-20th-century architecture with a creative, community-driven spirit that continues to shape its evolution. Tree-lined streets, welcoming front porches, and a growing mix of independent shops, cafés, and cultural spaces give the neighbourhood its unmistakable character. Once overlooked, Old East Village has undergone a steady revival powered by residents, artists, entrepreneurs, and local businesses. Its designation as an Ontario Heritage Conservation District in 2006 helped protect its architectural legacy, while grassroots revitalization efforts have transformed the area into one of London’s most walkable and vibrant communities.

Neighbourhood Spotlight Old East Village

Real Estate Snapshot

Homes price range

Homes in Old East Village cover a mix of classic detached homes and updated heritage properties.

Recent listings range from around $450,000 to over $900,000 for single-family homes and larger investment properties, refecting a demand for character-rich and centrally located housing.

The average list price for houses in the greater East London area (including OEV) hovers around $600,000+, though smaller or heritage fxer-uppers can be lower.

Rent prices

Rentals in Old East Village span from smaller basement apartments to multi-bedroom houses and townhomes.

Typical rents for units in the neighbourhood currently range from roughly $1,300 –$2,500+ per month, depending on size and type of unit.

Older listings suggest studio units in heritage buildings have been advertised in the $950 – $1,600/month range, though exact prices vary with amenities and utilities included.

Shops and Services

Old East Village’s commercial heart stretches primarily along Dundas Street, where you’ll fnd independent boutiques, vintage shops, and quirky local services:

Back to the Fuchsia Vintage & Mystic Bookshop

Perfect for browsing unique local shops and gifts.

Illbury + Goose

Stylish clothing & accessories.

Old East Exchange Thrift

Store and Unique Great thrift and vintage fnds.

Back to the Fuchsia Vintage & The Sentimentalist

Vintage clothing & antiques.

Stache Fabric and Notions Craft and textile supplies.

LIFE*SPIN Free Store

Community free store with clothing and goods.

Where to Eat & Drink

Here are some beloved spots within or near Old East Village for food, coffee and social vibes, perfect for locals and visitors alike:

Asmara Coffee House

Community-favourite coffee shop with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Dough EV

Great baked goods and quick bites.

Artisan Bakery

Highly-rated bakery for breads, pastries, and café-style fare. So Inviting – renowned for delicious Chinese dumplings and more.

Byrne Eats

Asian fusion comfort food.

Renee's Sandwich Shop

Local favourite for fresh sandwiches.

Vietnam Restaurant

Highly reviewed Vietnamese spot.

Unique Food Attitudes

Affordable, creative eats.

Highstreet Bar & Grill

Great for casual drinks and meals.

Tony's Famous Italian Restaurant

Long-standing, family-owned staple serving traditional pizza, pasta, and panzerotti since 1961

Momos at the Market

Excellent eats at The Western Fair District market.