“How come you guys don’t play more songs with women singing?”

I get asked that question a lot. There’s no reason. It’s not like we don’t like songs sung by women or have never played them. It’s always got down to the song itself and how it “hits” us. A lot of intangibles come into play but there’s no conscience bias.

These days we've got a whole new bunch of ladies to check out. Here are some of the best that we’ve come across.

First up is one of the big buzz-bands of the year – ALABAMA SHAKES,  featuring the incredible BRITTANY HOWARD. She sings and plays guitar and is the real deal. No rock star makeover and posing here,  just a gutsy performer. Check it out:

Next up is LIZZY HALE OF HALESTORM. They’ve been around for few years and been touring non stop. After listening to them for years, they really got my attention when I saw the video below while ordering a pita for lunch. I came back to the station and cranked the tune. It's huge in the States. Unlike Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes, there’s nothing subtle about Lizzy's go-for-the-throat approach.

Next up is an all-girl band called CHERRI BOMB. I know you’re thinking that this has got to be some sort of a Runaways tribute - inspired thing but they’re not. They’re too slick. They’re young but they’re good enough to have played with a lot of major acts and are one of Dave Grohol’s fave bands. One look and you can see why. Currently on the Warped Tour, they’re trying hard to earn some cred. 

Next up is my favourite Canadian wild-child CARE FAILURE of DIE MANNEQUIN. After starring in Hard Core Logo 2, Care & DM are finally back with a new album. The records are great but you MUST see them play live - nobody tears it up on stage like Care Failure. Here’s their new single.

Last and certainly not least is SERENA PRYNE & THE MANDEVILLES. You might recognize some of this crew as Welland rockers, Oliver Black. A couple of years ago, Serena & company switched gears and infused some R&B and country into their new music -  but they're still rockers. Serena & The Mandevilles just won Album of Year honours at this year's Niagara Music Awards.