April 1 2025 edition: A very Junos edition

Hey there. Welcome to a very musically inclined edition of the Straight newsletter.

With the Juno awards taking place at Rogers Arena this weekend, as well as a wealth of killer live shows, it feels like music is all the team has been talking about this week. So it’s what we’re talking to you about today. After all, if Madonna has taught us anything, it’s that music makes the people come together.

— V.
Associate Editor

— FEATURE — 

Junos 2025 was a win for Canada

What did we learn from the 2025 Juno Awards? We learned that Tate McRae has pop music in a chokehold; that Mustafa and Nemahsis are getting their flowers; and the Beaches continue to stomp along a path to rightful indie rock royalty. But B.C. artists like Snotty Nose Rez Kids managed to take home a hometown victory—and, with Vancouver’s own Michael Bublé overseeing proceedings, the whole night felt like a celebration of everything good about Canada.

— JUNOS —

Inside bbno$’s musical funhouse

Vancouver rapper bbno$ made a splash at the Junos this year, from dressing as a toilet to bringing drag performers on-stage—oh yeah, and actually winning the TikTok Fan Choice Award. We caught up with the madcap musician last year when he graced our April 2024 cover.

• Red Future netted rap album of the year. We chatted with Snotty Nose Rez Kids when it dropped

• We got the scoop on how Sum 41 felt ahead of being inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame

• Local metalheads Anciients got their second Juno. They were on our radar before their first win

• Underground Comedy Club: A New York City style Comedy Club nestled in the heart of Downtown Vancouver with “Showcase Style” lineups - meaning lots of great comedians and styles every show.*

  *sponsored listing

SPONSORED BY ARTS CLUB THEATRE COMPANY

A different kind of road trip

Don't miss Burning Mom—now playing until April 24 at the Arts Club’s Granville Island Stage. After losing her husband, Dorothy decides to take their RV on the adventure of his retirement dreams: she’s going to Burning Man! Written and directed by Canadian playwright Mieko Ouchi, based on the life of her own mother, Burning Mom is a stirring odyssey of self-discovery and tale of how art, everlasting roads, and human connection propel Dorothy along the way. You'll laugh and cry as her story invites you to take risks and enjoy the small moments in life—secure your tickets and come along for the ride!

— LIVE MUSIC REVIEWS —

Hinds doesn’t look back at the Wise Hall

It’s been a bonza week for live music. Managing editor Nathan Caddell got his groove on when he caught Spanish rockers Hinds at the WISE Hall.

• One intrepid writer ran around town to try and catch nine acts in eight venues for JunoFest Night 1

• Aussie trash rock stars Amyl and the Sniffers tore up the PNE

• The Trivium/Bullet for My Valentine double-header delivered a night of nostalgic metal

SPONSORED BY TINHORN CREEK

Tinhorn Creek Sunset Concert Series

Get ready for an unforgettable season at Tinhorn Creek Vineyards in Oliver. Their concert series is back, and it's bigger than ever with three amazing dates you won't want to miss! This is your chance to secure your spot for an amazing night of wine and music set against the beautiful backdrop of the South Okanagan.

Krystle Dos Santos - May 31 | 7pm

Krystle Dos Santos is a two-time Western Canadian Award-winning singer/songwriter, known for her powerful vocals and eclectic style.

Antonio LaRosa - July 19 | 7pm

Antonio Larosa is a country-rock artist from Vancouver, BC, known for blending classic rock grit with country soul and modern elements.

Said The Whale - Sept 13 | 7:30pm

Said The Whale has been a staple of the Canadian music scene since 2007. Backed by a loyal fanbase and with a Juno Award under their belt, the Vancouver band has built a reputation for heartfelt songs, massive hooks, and dynamic live shows.

VIP and General Admission tickets available for purchase!

— MUSIC —

What’s In Your Fridge: Rich Hope

Long-time local musician Rich Hope—who’s recording a live album at the ANZA Club later this week—gives us the lowdown on his favourite music video, life-changing concert, and made-in-Vancouver hot sauce.

• Whether you're an established enterprise or a scaling startup, find a coworking space that's right for you. Connect with a WeWork expert today.*

*Sponsored listing

— ICYMI —

• Meet the people fighting for supportive housing in Whistler

• Broadway Across Canada’s Tina captured an icon

• What’s In Your Fridge: Pickle Juice

• Here’s what Straight staff have been listening to this month

• Superbaba is opening a new location downtown 

• Mèreon brings a fresh twist to French fare

— THINGS TO DO THIS WEEK —

FILM: Filmmakers are in attendance for a screening of whale documentary Resident Orca. (April 1 @ VIFF Centre) 

BOOKS: Adbusters co-founder Kalle Lasn hosts an open house to celebrate the launch of new book, Manifesto for World Revolution. (April 1 @ Adbusters Media Foundation) 

COMEDY: Comedian Tin Lorica holds a comedy night to raise money for top surgery. (April 1 @ Little Mountain Gallery)

VISUAL ART: The Ferry Building Gallery and the West Vancouver Memorial Library host a two-venue retrospective of Carol Shumas’ work. (April 2 to May 4 @ various locations, West Vancouver)

TALKS: Researcher Jess Cramp tells The Untold Story of Sharks. (April 2 @ Vancouver Playhouse)

MUSIC: Welsh rock band Stereophonics will make you feel like the one. (April 2 @ Vogue Theatre)

PERFORMING ARTS: Krystle Dos Santos journeys through soul with A History of Motown. (April 2 to 13 @ Firehall Arts Centre)

THEATRE: Ins Choi premieres a new musical show, Son of a Preacherman. (April 2 to 13 @ Pacific Theatre)

Want to know what else is happening in Vancouver? Check out our events listings.

That’s it!

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