Songs you need to hear is CBC Music’s weekly roundup of the latest and hottest Canadian tracks.
Continue reading to find out which songs our producers are currently excited about.
For additional new music, explore our SYNTH playlist on YouTube.
2 2 Baboon.., Saya Gray
With the release of her latest mixtape, Qwerty III, Polaris-shortlisted artist Saya Gray showcases her fearless experimental spirit, crafting sounds that twist, contort, and burst forth. The final track, 2 2 Baboon.., is a dazzling and mind-bending piece that aligns with Gray’s intention for these works to serve as containers for her “throwaways” and “cathartic moments that don’t fit between eras of change,” as she explained to Pitchfork. This song features a blend of quirky sounds (twangy guitar, echoing ooohs) and surreal vocals, emphasizing Gray’s instinctive, primal longings as she reflects on a past relationship: “Here I go, cocooning in another man’s comfort/ I’m a raccoon, baboon, in a fight for you,” she sings, portraying an untamed romance. The mechanical drums resonate while Gray’s voice elevates, rapidly delivering the third verse in a stream of consciousness. Co-written and produced by Gray alongside her brother and frequent collaborator, Lucian, the track captures the wonderfully peculiar aspects of Gray’s artistry. Her approach to singing about heartbreak strikes deep, allowing her to explore her feelings with a freedom that helps her navigate through emotional pain. “Can’t pretend I don’t want you back again,” she confesses, giving herself permission to embrace the chaotic elements of love while also granting herself compassion. — Natalie Harmsen
Why Die When You Can Dance?, DijahSB
“Why die when you can dance it out? Hit the dance floor and hash it out?” DijahSB poses in the chorus of their new release, Why Die When You Can Dance?, which is also the title track of their latest album. This song offers a glimmer of hope as the days grow shorter and the world often feels increasingly dark. However, the energetic hi-hat clap and lively beat produced by Keys N Krates uplift the mood, allowing DijahSB to glide effortlessly through vibrant verses. “Why Die When You Can Dance? embodies the mindset I had to adopt during a prolonged, challenging depressive phase I’ve been working to overcome,” DijahSB expressed in an Instagram post. “With everything happening socially and economically, my aim with this album is to diminish fear and despair while embracing hope and joy. I don’t mean to advocate ignorance or unawareness; I’m inviting the world, and anyone who engages with this album, to participate in this celebration of resilience, which is a dance party, not a funeral.” If you’ve checked out the album’s set of singles (June’s The Signs featuring Kwncy, August’s Don’t Sleep and now Why Die When You Can Dance?) you’ll understand DijahSB’s commitment to the message — and the remainder of the album continues to impress. — Holly Gordon
Tranquille, Naomi
Naomi sings about heartbreak in her new single, Tranquille; she’s well-versed in the pain caused by men. However, rather than dwelling on sorrow, the Montreal pop artist proposes a different approach: dress to impress, apply some false lashes, and enjoy a night out. Naomi embodies the role of a supportive friend and wise older sister, leading listeners through catchy basslines and sparkling synths: “J’ai vu la prophécie, tout ira bien” (I’ve seen the prophecy, everything is going to work out). In the accompanying music video, Naomi and her dancers delightfully dance around lavish dressing rooms, adorned with sparkles, sequins, feathers, and an abundance of hot pink, as the heartbreak transforms into a celebration of being too “young and fresh” to let a man bring them down. — Kelsey Adams