The hip-hop scene in Peterborough has long been something that passed, like an olympic spliff, from one generation to the next. Being such a small demographic of our city, there was always a mixture of locals and university students to carry the torch and ensure that hip-hop culture had some form of representation. That small circle of hip-hop heads is how I became friends with two high school kids, Jackson Parlevliet (a.k.a. Forest Gumption) and Will Campbell (founder of Quiet Confidance Apparel).

It is always a touching experience to be able to speak with the best and brightest upcoming Canadian musicians, and our conversation with BRKN LOVE’s Justin Benlolo was no exception. The Toronto-based singer and guitarist recently put out a number of singles on streaming platforms with his band, and has disclosed the news that they are in the works of releasing a full-feature LP in due time. On the eve of a Canada-wide tour, Justin gave us his take on the band’s formation, ambitions, and the steps he took to get to where he is today.

On the day after Valentine's day, Pop Machine will take centre stage for Dance to Conquer Cancer at the Gordon Best Theatre. We had a chance to sit down with Jean over a piping hot americano at one of our favourite local spots, Karma's Cafe, to chat about her upcoming show, the many iterations of Pop Machine, and the campaign to conquer cancer with her cycling team, the Peterborough Derailleurs. Ride to Conquer Cancer DANCE PARTY was created because of an overlap between fan requests for a larger venue and the annual Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer.