On The Rise

December 28 - 30 in The Drake General Store

Curated by the Drake Underground, this three night series highlights local musicians. On our radar for quite some time, you’re summoned to discover what is that classifies them as “On The Rise.

DECEMBER 28:  KIANA + Aiona

Arriving in Toronto's North York area at the age of 5 from the Netherlands, Persian born KIANA carried her love for music with her everywhere. Growing up in constant change has taught her the beauty in letting go and adaptability, and as a result her lyricism is a form of observation of her ever-changing environment. Toronto has played a significant role in shaping her as a person and even more so as a musician. The cold air and city drive has found its way in her outlook, not just of people but life itself. KIANA has spent years honing and crafting her own unique Dark R&B sound and in 2018, at the age of 19, released her debut single "With or Without You." A song that truly conveys her message of never getting too attached. After its release, the song was later featured on Toronto's Flow 93.5 FM and Vibe 105.5 FM, and received positive reception from her hometown. Now nearly one year later, after doing several showcases, a major one held at The Mod Club Theatre and performing at Toronto's NXNE festival, KIANA has returned in 2019 with new inspired energy and is ready to make her mark.

Singer songwriter Aiona was born In Brampton Ontario. Her journey with music began at the age of 6 when she picked up the piano. Time to herself in the suburbs introduced her to composing & writing.

DECEMBER 29: WESTMORLAND + TABOO PATTERSON

Taboo Patterson is an interdisciplinary artist satirizing himself by overtly representing the stereotypes of the black male body. And thus, becoming confused on who's phony, who's fake or the type of people he hates. Boo Pat lives rap's absurd tenets in making it, dressing it and posturing; as it is one of the few avatars available to him to be seen and heard.

Westmorland

West to no where
More than the less you are aware
Land where the same does not exist
Create your own bouquet of opposites
Anything else is just....

DECEMBER 30: EJJI SMITH, JOZEM + MIRACLES JP

Self produced guitar player Ejji Smith writes and records his work. His sound is a style of Rock that lies between the core genres of today and the past fusing nostalgia with futurism.

Songwriter-Producer Jahmal Padmore (aka Miracles JP) helms the Phil Collins and Donny Hataway inspired band miracles. Described by the poet Ewusi: Listening to miracles sounds like: coloured lights yelling at you through stained glass; pews chanting rays of glory as songs ascend high.

With eclectic tastes and influences stemming from his colourful upbringing, Jozem experiments with different sounds to create a sound that is melded with allusive and personal lyrics.

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RSVP for free entry*

*Subject to capacity. First come, first served