As we bid farewell to April and usher in the month of May, we can feel the excitement building for summer. The days are getting warmer, the sun is shining brighter, and the promise of outdoor adventures is calling.
May 2023 is shaping up to be a month of musical bliss, with an array of talented artists taking the stage in our city. Whether you’re a fan of indie rock, country, rap or jazz, there’s something for everyone. From rising stars to established favourites, the lineup is stacked with top-notch talent.
So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the beat of the city. As we celebrate the season of renewal and rejuvenation, let’s do it with the perfect soundtrack to our summer adventures.
May 4 — GARBAGEFACE / PLURAL / NEWAGEHIP at LIVE! on Elgin
GARBAGEFACE from Peterborough will take the stage with his doom-rap beats that bring apocalyptic visions to life. Catch him performing tracks from his latest LP, Penumbra // Antumbra.
He’ll be followed by PLURAL, a math-rock duo from Halifax who use loops and polymeters to create a dizzying, danceable chaos. As advocates of new sounds and experiences, their music will keep you on your toes with their unique sound and mesmerizing style.
Finally, Ottawa’s own NEWAGEHIP will take the stage along with some special guests. Rap continues to amaze as an art form with its wide array of sub-genres. You won’t be disappointed with their doom rap/weirdo rap energy. Tap in!
May 4-6 — Cranium Conference & Showcase 2023 at National Arts Centre
The Cranium Conference and Showcase 2023 is a three-day music event connecting active industry professionals with musicians, artists, and people making moves in the arts and entertainment business.
The weekend will feature an intersection of music, technology, and culture, including a digital media panel, a music master lab with expert feedback, and facilitated networking sessions. Learn from industry professionals about grant writing, the role of DJs in live events, and how to make and license music for various forms of media. Plus, enjoy live performances by Mischa, Izzy Rose, J Morris, Miss Mcleod and more!
[Cranium Conference & Showcase poster via Eventbrite]
May 5 — Riley Burns with Mia Kelly at Overflow Brewing Co. concerts
Riley Burns‘s highly anticipated debut album Killing Time dropped May 1, so mark your calendars because on May 5, Riley will perform at Overflow Brewing Co. to celebrate the release! The show will kick off with a special performance from talented Gatineau singer-songwriter Mia Kelly. Mia blends folk, rock, and blues to create a unique sound that’s taking the Canadian folk music scene by storm.
May 7 — N’ESSENCE at LIVE! On Elgin
Check out this fundraising show featuring some of the best up-and-coming R&B/soul artists in the area including Kezi, Gonzo VanGogh, Rèn Darah, and Taapz, with food catering by Nonto’s Kitchen and Babera’s Crêpes. All proceeds will be donated to support cancer treatment for a community member.
May 10 — Girls+ To The Front at Irene’s Pub
Get ready to join the Girls+ To The Front movement and celebrate women’s empowerment in music and the arts! Hosted by Ok Naledi, head over to Irene’s Pub for an unforgettable evening with two amazing special guests: Hannah Vig and Dominique Gorley.
May 14 — Kellylee Evans at NAC Babs Asper Theatre
A night of pop jazz music awaits you as award-winning musician Kellylee Evans brings to life her Juno-winning 2010 album Nina in an exclusive one-night-only event. Paying homage to the legendary Nina Simone, Kellylee’s reinterpretation of her music has been hailed as definitive by Jazz Times.
Joining Kellylee on stage will be an all-star band featuring Marvin Sewell and Francois Moutin. The chemistry between these musicians promises an electric performance.
May 17 — Quit It! East End Radicals, The Draughtsmen, Lazy Bratz at Avant Garde Bar
Get ready to rock out at Avant Garde Bar on May 17 with a quadruple bill organized by Side by Side Weekend. The night will feature four amazing bands: Quit It! from Calgary, East End Radicals from Montreal, and local bands The Draughtsmen and Lazy Bratz. Their high-energy and punk rock sounds will make you want to jump, mosh, and dance all night long! Tickets are only $12 or pay-what-you-can so no one is turned away.
May 24 — Adria Kain at NAC Fourth Stage
Be moved by the soulful and honest music of Adria Kain! Inspired by nature and her own life experiences, this queer, masc-presenting Black woman will take you on a journey of love, resilience, and authenticity. With a voice that commands attention and a storytelling ability that rivals Frank Ocean and SZA, Adria Kain is an artist you don’t want to miss..
May 28 — Mind Altering Festival 2023 at Club SAW
Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of all things unique at Mind Altering Festival! Browse local vendors, catch a stunning runway show, and enjoy performances by an amazing lineup including BANEZEAN, Yung Heat, Hug Mosh, and more. Hosted by Hippie, Hug Mosh, and Flex Panther, the day promises great vibes and great music, so bring your friends and celebrate our local creatives!
[Mind Altering Festival via Eventbrite]
