The Way Ahead Trio (Calgary, AB) — jazz, ambient, fusion

The Way Ahead Trio was created to explore the sounds of electronic valve instrument (EVI) with acoustic instruments in the jazz tradition. The trio features Jon May on drums, Adam Pettigrew on upright bass and David Lavoie on EVI and effects. Their debut album “Strays” features compositions by members of the group and delves into disparate sonic landscapes from funky and groovy to pensive and ambient.

Midnight Channel (Lethbridge, AB) — post-bop jazz, improvisation, world rhythm, jazz fusion

Midnight Channel made a powerful debut with their album “Gemini Sunrise”, hitting #10 on the National Earshot! Jazz Charts, establishing themselves as a rising force in Canada’s jazz scene. Their sound blends the boundary-pushing spirit of 1960s cosmic free jazz with the vibrant energy of modern jazz. Infused with elements of contemporary post-bop, Japanese fusion, and neo-soul grooves, Midnight Channel brings a sound that’s both rooted in tradition yet refreshingly modern—perfect for longtime jazz fans and first-time listeners alike. Their live performances are an explosion of energy, soaring improvisations, and contagious joy, transforming the stage into a sacred space where audiences are held spellbound.