Canadian Music Week is nearly here, beginning April 18th-23rd. Talents from around the world will come to fill up every venue in Toronto for a week. But sometimes you don’t have to look to far to see some of the best talent. Canada’s got some amazing bands you might not have heard off (but definitely need too). Here is a list of bands you NEED to see at this years festival.

Casper Skulls

You’ve most certainly seen this band on a playbill. Casper Skulls are the reason people come early to shows. They capture crowds with their grunge rock and turn the audience into obsessed fans.

Hollerado

The Canadian darlings are a band to know. If you haven’t heard of Hollerado you’re missing out. They’re a band with an eccentric energy that thrives in each one of their albums. Playing The Indies at The Phoenix, the show will not be one to miss.

Weaves

The Buzz Record stars are an indie dream. Live they pour their souls onto the stage. Their sold out shows are always different and never cease to amaze. Their music is something to be experienced live.

Hoan

Celebrating their album launch at CMW, the band is an odd treat. Mellow and dark, their sound if soft and gripping. It gives you chill by offsetting a comfort to lose yourself in.

Yi

Making their CMW debut, Yi, is a rare experimental project the emulates a sound somewhere between undistinguishable and emotionally driven.