From sunlit stages to twilight tones, the Grounders all-day experience was one to remember.
By Nalyn Tindall
Emma Beckett Takes the stage at Grounders Music Festival (Nalyn Tindall/Canculture)
Grounders Music Festival brought life to OBJX Studio, showcasing the talent of nine artists from across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Conceived by two Toronto Metropolitan University students, the festival seamlessly blended various genres, ranging from indie to synth-pop, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere that resonated with both attendees and artists.
As the festival kicked off, the venue was bathed in sunlight streaming through the floor-to-ceiling windows, casting a warm and inviting glow upon the bustling crowd of students, community members, and artists. The festival's commitment to community building and inclusivity was evident throughout the event, reflecting the passion and dedication of its student creators.
Shoshana Glory set the tone for the festival with her ethereal voice, accompanied by strong guitar skills, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that reverberated with indie charm. The seamless cohesion of her bedroom pop sound conveyed both finesse and power, with each note flowing effortlessly into the next. Glory’s performance not only showcased her technical proficiency but also created a tranquil ambiance, leaving attendees immersed in the soothing embrace of her music.
Sofia Aedon emerged onto the Grounders Music Festival stage with a magnetic presence, infusing the atmosphere with a bold and assertive energy that demanded attention. Her performance was characterized by deep, resonant vocals that seemed to echo through the venue, leaving an indelible impression on the audience. What set Aedon apart was not just her vocal prowess but also her remarkable versatility as a musician. In a display of skill, she effortlessly swapped instruments, showcasing a level of artistry that added an intriguing layer to her set.
Sofia Aedon shines at Grounders (Nalyn Tindall/CanCulture)
Emma Beckett's performance was nothing short of mesmerizing and stood out as my personal favourite. With her skillful use of a looping pedal, she crafted intricate layers of sound that enveloped the audience in a dreamy and soulful atmosphere. Her authentic sound, a refreshing departure from the mainstream, resonated with a genuine and heartfelt quality that elevated the entire festival experience. The dynamic highs and lows of her music created a sonic journey, guiding the audience through peaks of emotion and valleys of introspection. What truly set Beckett apart was not just her technical prowess but also her lyrical authenticity. Each word she sang felt like a personal revelation, weaving a narrative that resonated with the collective experiences of the audience. Including the lyrics in the song “Little Ways,” which tell the story of sacrificial love with impactful lines like “I hate to lose but you can beat me if you want.”
Curt James, featuring an eclectic three-piece setup, delivered a mellow and smooth performance, complemented by the venue bathed in a purple sunset. The combination of soothing harmonies and driving rhythms not only showcased musical richness but also seamlessly transitioned the atmosphere into a nighttime mood, adding an extra layer of beauty to an already impressive performance.
Curt James ushers in the sunset during his set (Nalyn Tindall/CanCulture)
Nia Nadurata fearlessly embraced intensity and authenticity throughout her performance. With unbridled passion, she navigated the realms of raw and authentic rock. The powerful instrumentation served as a driving force, complementing Nadurata's emotive vocals. In a particularly noteworthy rendition, their cover of Amy Winehouse’s "Valerie" not only paid homage to the original but also showcased their ability to infuse a classic with their own unique flair. Nadurata's vocal prowess, coupled with the band's adept instrumentation, created an emotionally charged rock performance.
City Builders brought an EDM flair to the festival, featuring airy vocals and a drum pad. The duo's stage presence was palpable, creating an electric atmosphere that resonated with the crowd and, much like a couple deeply in love, their synergy elevated the performance, making it a standout moment in the vibrant lineup.
Jules Auckland commanded the stage with undeniable charisma, boasting a great stage presence that captivated the audience from the first note. Her beautiful voice resonated throughout the venue, adding a melodic and enchanting quality to her performance. The fusion of fun indie pop and rock elements in her sound created an energy that was both invigorating and infectious, making it impossible for the crowd to resist moving to the rhythm.
The Beans took the stage with an infectious blend of funky grooves and rock rhythms, channelling the spirit of the 70s with a brashy, retro vibe. Their performance resonated with a distinct energy that reverberated through the venue, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the golden era of rock. As a collective, The Beans showcased remarkable strength, seamlessly intertwining their individual talents into a cohesive and dynamic sound. The audience was treated to a musical journey that not only paid homage to the past but also injected a fresh and invigorating new spirit into their music.
Heavenly Blue closed the festival on a high note, leaving attendees with a memorable musical experience. The band's indie rock charm infused the closing moments with an irresistible energy, uniting the audience in dance and high-energy music that added the perfect final touch to the vibrant atmosphere of Grounders Music Festival.
Nia Nadurata ushers in the nighttime set (Nalyn Tindall/CanCulture)
The festival not only delighted the senses with its eclectic musical lineup but also provided a shopping haven for attendees. There were multiple vendors offering an array of handcrafted goods, vintage clothing, and even a booth equipped to apply tooth gems. As festival-goers explored the diverse offerings, they were treated not only to the sounds of the live performances but also to the visual and tactile delights of unique, locally crafted items. There were also free refreshments as well as a bar offering a variety of locally crafted drinks, further enhancing the communal and celebratory atmosphere of the festival.
The meticulous recording throughout the festival ensures that the artists' performances can be enjoyed beyond the live event. This thoughtful approach aligns with the festival's goal of creating a lasting impact on the community and providing a platform for underrepresented voices in the music industry. Overall, Grounders Music Festival succeeded in bringing together a rich tapestry of impressive musical talent, creating a memorable and inclusive event for all. The nine artists showcased during the festival were able to bring their own charm and sound to what was overall a very cohesive line-up of spectacular local talent.