Ottawa music fans hunting for something new to soundtrack their commute down the Queensway or a quiet night in Hintonburg have a few fresh options this week, courtesy of a new album review roundup from Ottawa Life Magazine.
Kelela Leans Into 90s Nostalgia
Washington, D.C. artist Kelela is the standout of the bunch, according to the review. Her latest record, "New Avatar," revives a very specific blend of 90s influences woven into a swirling pop core. The reviewer notes that while the album almost undersells its own writing and sonic power at times, there's a genuinely fascinating world built into the record that rewards listeners willing to dig in.
For Ottawa's community of vinyl collectors and independent radio fans — the kind who keep local shops like Birdman Sound and CKCU-FM's late-night programming in regular rotation — a record like this is exactly the sort of under-the-radar release worth seeking out before it becomes a bigger conversation piece.
Gracie Abrams and Queens of the Stone Age Round Out the List
The roundup also touches on new work from pop singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams, whose confessional style has built a dedicated following among younger listeners, and veteran rock outfit Queens of the Stone Age, whose gritty, riff-driven sound has long been a staple for Ottawa's alt-rock crowd. Between the three releases, there's something for fans across genres — from pop bedroom-pop devotees to longtime rock heads.
Why It Matters Locally
Ottawa's music scene has always leaned on a mix of local live shows and a steady stream of what's happening nationally and internationally to keep things interesting. With Bluesfest season memories still fresh and local venues like House of TARG, Live on Elgin, and the National Arts Centre continuing to book eclectic lineups, having a pulse on what's dropping in the broader music world helps local fans and DJs alike shape their own playlists, sets, and record store crate-digging sessions.
Whether you're the type to queue up a new album on your walk along the Rideau Canal or you prefer to catch bands live when they roll through the capital, this week's crop of releases gives Ottawa listeners plenty to chew on. Kelela's record in particular seems poised to be a grower — the kind of album Ottawa's more adventurous listeners will still be talking about months from now.
Source: Ottawa Life Magazine
