Fresh Sounds Canada: New Music from Saya Gray, Patrick Watson & Charlotte Cardin and More

In Fresh Sounds Canada, Billboard Canada puts you on to the must-hear songs of the week by artists on the rise and those about to break. Here's what we're listening to this week.

Saya Gray, “LIE DOWN..”

Saya Gray is making a name for herself. The California-based, Toronto alt-pop artist has played bass with Daniel Caesar and acted as musical director for artists like Willow Smith. Now, her new debut album SAYA (released on MARION MURATA in Canada) is turning heads, combining eclectic production and arrangements with cool songwriting. On single “LIE DOWN..” — which she performed with Toronto's Charlotte Day Wilson, a sonic compatriot, at her Roy Thomson Hall symphonic concert last week — Gray thinks about how a lover will perceive her once she’s not around. “Would you mention me to your family? / Or let my name fade to grey,” she asks over chugging percussion and a looped chord progression. The song develops before you even realize, with Gray shifting into an effortlessly catchy counter-melody and then letting a bubbling synth rise to swallow the whole thing. It’s light on the surface but percolating with heartbreak underneath. – Rosie Long Decter

Patrick Watson feat. Charlotte Cardin, “Gordon in the Willows”

Every time Patrick Watson touches the piano, magic happens. His new song “Gordon in the Willows” is a captivating and melancholic ballad that highlights the ethereal and soulful vocals of Montreal singer Charlotte Cardin – part of a new series of collaborations. The track is anchored by Watson's delicate piano playing, creating a cinematic atmosphere that beautifully complements the introspective and emotional lyrics. Cardin’s voice effortlessly conveys the song's deep sense of longing and vulnerability, while Watson’s minimalist arrangement allows her to shine. The team-up comes at a moment when Watson is riding high, with his 2010 song “Je te laisserai des mots” becoming the first French-language song to surpass a billion streams on Spotify, thanks in part to TikTok's viral power. “Gordon in the Willows” further cements that power to create deeply evocative music that resonates with listeners on a profound level. Bonus clip: watch Cardin and Watson's wintery performance on the top of Mont-Royal in Montreal here. – Yasmine Seck

Aqyila, “Wolf”

Since going viral with a short song clip on TikTok in 2021, R&B artist Aqyila has signed to a major label (Sony Music Canada), built up an impressive series of singles, and is almost ready to release her debut album, Falling Into Place, on March 28. Her new song, "Wolf," is written by Soaky Siren (J.Balvin, Maroon 5, Tinashe) and co-written and produced by Mike Sonier (Maggie Rogers, The Weeknd, Julia Michaels). The song may start with the words "you piss me off" – a kiss off to a former love crying wolf and lying a few too many times – but it carries an upbeat and shiny pop sound you might expect from an artist ready to make a big major label push. It's not hard to imagine Aqyila hitting the charts in the near future. – Richard Trapunski

Change of Heart, “In The Wreckage”

News of the reunion of Toronto indie rock veterans Change of Heart has sparked serious anticipation. On March 7, the band release In The Wreckage, their first album of new material since 1997's Steelteeth. Co-founder and guitar hero Ian Blurton reassembled the classic core roster (Blurton, Ian Taylor, Bernard Maiezza and John Richardson) that featured on the 1992 meisterwerk Smile, while also eliciting contributions from every other former member. The title track is both adventurous and compelling. The wide-screen orchestral sounds launching the track suggest Electric Light Orchestra until loud rock guitar kicks in. In typical Change of Heart fashion, there are time changes and musical twists and turns that keep you engaged, and the result is another winner. The band play release shows at Toronto's Sound Garage, April 25 and 26. – Kerry Doole

EDITOR’S PICK: Syana feat. EVY, “Long Distance Call”

Syana is a key figure in Montreal’s nightlife scene, known for creating inclusive spaces. As the founder of DJTAL Studios, she offers a platform for young, aspiring DJs to hone their craft, while also co-hosting the legendary Party Hauterageous event with Mossy Mugler. Known for her club anthems, Syana steps into a more vulnerable space on "Long Distance Call," blending smooth melodies with her signature rap skills. Produced by her long-time collaborator EVY, the heartfelt yet edgy pop-rock ballad delves into the complexities of long-distance love. It's a powerful example of her impressive emotional range. – Y.S.