If it weren’t for the beautiful landscape, friends and music projects I’d happily be packing my suitcase to get to a destination where taco stands are still out on the streets and bike riding in a sun dress is still permissible. Ahh the heat. Ok, realistically my ginger ass wouldn’t be able to handle it for more than 15 minutes as my sensitive skin would burn me into a landmark of red, however I can daydream and repeat the sentiment every rainy season. For now, I’ll regress to bike riding in my water proof outfit (it’s really not that bad) and continuously forgetting to buy an umbrella despite being a permanent Vancouver resident. My music radar has been slow these past weeks as Summer and Fall’s music circuit is slowing down as well as being preoccupied with stuff (cats, love, photo taking, etc). Finding music videos for local artists isn’t always an easy task, however this month I was able to discover a few new artists in the process as well as get a sense of what’s out there for easy autumn listening.

These five artists are perfect when looking out the window at the rain-soaked city, walking over bridges in the drizzle as well as rolling around in leaves with your lover. They will tickle your heart and perhaps leave you thinking about the Canadian landscape and how it really isn’t that bad.

The Country Where I Came From – Mike Edel

Mike Edel has been a great discovery. The video and song correspond with feeling introspective about space and time, and how we fit into this large world of contemplation and loneliness. Atmospheric and slow, the video really captures the essence of the song. I’m also a big fan of dogs so having a black and white canine guest star sealed the deal. Mike is currently on tour across country with Jordan Klassen, a great match of men who pull at your musical heart strings.

Album Teaser – Ma Petite

This isn’t a music video but definitely worth watching! It will leave you wanting more and having a crush on a lovely Australian singer songwriter (and her story).

Local Swan – The Zolas

This is a band I didn’t necessarily want to like as I felt they were too happy, thankfully I gave it a listen and fell for their sweet songs and lyrical pairing. The Zolas are a very Vancouver band to me and have been able to succeed in a land of pop music as well as capture the crowds of the indie world. The band is hard working and definitely have a live presence within the music community.

Call and Answer – Jordan Klassen

One of my favourite local artists to come out of the radio machine, Jordan Klassen really uses his soft voice to narrate stories and orchestrate the instrument rich backings. His style definitely has a pinch of Sufjan Stevens although he is currently outgrowing the comparison with the release of his 2012 Kindness EP.

We Will Host a Party – Hannah Epperson

Oh Hannah. What a gem, talent and lovely being. She beams with positivity and humbleness and definitely a force to be reckoned with. Her sparse lyrics and brilliant violin are definitely an emotional ride when seen live. I’ve seen her play three times and it keeps getting better as she is becoming more comfortable with sharing her inner workings. Hannah is also busy with Four on the Floor and collaborating/playing with other local music acts in the city.