Welcome to False Starts, the podcast that dives deep into the untold stories of songs that almost were. Join us as we explore the creative process of musicians, uncovering the hidden gems, abandoned tracks, and transformative journeys behind the music we love. Whether it's a song that didn't quite fit the album or a tune that took an unexpected turn, False Starts brings you closer to the heart of the creative process.
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Today on False Starts we're joined by Lee Rose of Ace of Wands. Forged and led by the vision of singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Lee Rose, Toronto band Ace of Wands is known for their explosive and charismatic live performances, astonishing musicianship, and gothic-rock aesthetics. Evoking the art-rock of PJ Harvey, the orchestral-pop of Kate Bush, and alt-rock fuzz of Nirvana, Ace of Wands creates a fantastical and immersive world of yearning, dread, euphoria, and insight. With lead vocalist Lee Rose alternating between violin and guitar, while simultaneously playing synth-bass foot pedals, joined by Anna Mernieks on guitar and Jody Brumell on drums — together, Ace of Wands defines the essence of Dream Rock.
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23 Aug 2026
The Best Part with Amelia Maxwell
Amelia Maxwell is a Toronto-based musician. First and foremost a songwriter, she gravitates to indie-rock music, pairing melodic resolution with idiosyncratic lyricism that deals with queerness, grief, nostalgia, and disaffection. She performs her original music with drummer Robyn Bond and bassist Steven Noronha. Last year, Amelia released her debut EP, Lap Dog, and the band has toured it across Ontario and other parts of Canada. Recently Amelia put out a song and video for her single Tough Love, and performed at this year’s Juno Fest.
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19 Jul 2026
Swayin' Sayin' with With Violet
With Violet is an East Coast alt-pop band hailing from St. John’s, Newfoundland, blending infectious pop hooks with rock sensibilities and funk-inflected flair. Since reforming in 2021, they’ve captivated audiences with dynamic live shows and a fresh, genre-defying sound that’s earned comparisons to Glass Tiger, Arkells, and Lake Street Dive. The band—Sarah Newell (Vocals & Saxophone), Pete (Vocals & Keyboards), Matthew Cadigan (Guitar), Spencer Fitz (Bass), and Hunter Madden (Drums)—has quickly become a mainstay in Newfoundland’s music scene. Winners of the 2025 Music NL Pop Group of the Year award, the band continues to build on the success of their debut full length album, Saturday Nights In Your Sunday Best, which passed 30,000 streams and charted at #2 on college radio. They’ve played major festivals like Iceberg Alley and George Street Festival, opening for acts like The Beaches, Tokyo Police Club, Walk Off The Earth, Down With Webster and Barenaked Ladies.
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