I can’t believe this was my third year covering NXNE! Being at these shows always gives me such a deep appreciation for live music. NXNE brings together artists from all over the world, with a diverse range of genres including pop, R&B, folk and rock. NXNE did not disappoint. Here are my highlights from this year!
GHOSTFORM at Handlebar:
If I were to describe rock band GHOSTFORM’s set in three words they would be loud, explosive and cathartic! As a refresher, GHOSTFORM is based out of Saskatchewan and Toronto, combining members from Surf Dads and Blue Youth with singer/songwriter Merv XX Gotti. This show is a huge milestone for them, marking their Toronto debut as well as the group’s overall fourth show. Though listening to their set, it feels like they have been playing together for years! This is because of their strong onstage chemistry. They opened the night with “Sleeves.” This song is one of my favourites off their debut EP, Songs To Cry To. The melody of this track is both dense yet hopeful. These emotions were conveyed through the dynamic melody and rich harmonies. I also loved the gradual drum build played by Chris Dimas and electrifying guitar riffs by Gage McGuire. Another highlight was the live version of “Irresistible.” There was a stunning extended intro enhancing the nostalgic mood of this song. The live performance was captivating and evoked an element of suspense as the first few notes hooked me in.
Mikey Bloom at Poetry Jazz Cafe:
Mississauga’s Mikey Bloom is one to watch. I am drawn to his relatable lyrics and soulful sound. I loved the chill yet energetic beat during his performance of “Bloom” and how the crowd responded by clapping along. He also performed “Mississauga Anthem.” I caught up with Bloom after the set, who explained that in 2024 his hometown of Mississauga was turning 50. The city ran a contest during which a bunch of artists submitted original songs. Bloom’s track won and is now Mississauga’s official anthem. “I love to be the person to represent it and bring it up through music because music brings people together,” said Bloom.
Rooky Kamiz at Poetry Jazz Cafe:
I had a blast watching Rooky Kamiz’s NXNE debut. My favourite part of the set was when he performed songs from his 2025 album, Of Chaos & Cotton Candy. This is a dual theme album about heart break and sorrow but also enjoying the sweetness of life. Kamiz performed with a band including guitar, piano, and drums. I love how rich his songs sounded live, enabling me to further connect with this beautiful album. The tracks Kamiz performed showcased both sides of the record in a seamless way. The setlist included the Afro-beats/Synthwave track “Crazy Crazy.” This was a full circle moment as Jordan Perry, who produced it, also played drums during the performance. Other notable performances included “6 Days,” and from the “cotton candy” side of the record, “Tornado.” To hear more about Kamiz’s experience playing NXNE and the inspiration behind his music check out our conversation on the Met Radio SoundCloud page.