Kates Outlaw is a four-piece country rock band from Dauphin, Manitoba, known for blending gritty country storytelling with hard-hitting rock influences reminiscent of Whiskey Myers and Turnpike Troubadours. Fronted by singer-songwriter Kyle Neault, the band also features Dylan Neault (bass/vocals), Levi Winters (lead guitar/vocals) and Steve Lukey (drums).
Since the release of their debut album, Longrider Religion, in 2024, Kates Outlaw has steadily built a loyal following across the Prairies. Their energetic live performances and authentic songwriting have earned them opportunities to share the stage with acclaimed acts including The Glorious Sons, The Trews, The Arkells, Doc Walker and Jason McCoy.
Now, the band is entering an exciting new chapter with the release of their sophomore album, Echo of the Engines. The project took over a year to complete, with songs being written, refined and recorded throughout the process. As the album gradually came together, the band realized they had created something that felt cohesive and meaningful — a collection of songs they were proud to share with listeners.
At its core, Echo of the Engines is an album about people, places and the experiences that shape us. Growing up in small rural communities, the members of Kates Outlaw drew inspiration from their surroundings and the individuals who have impacted their lives. Several tracks are rooted in real stories and personal connections, while others reflect the highs, lows and lessons learned along the way. Together, the songs create a soundtrack that captures the spirit of small-town life and the lived experiences that connect us all.
To celebrate the release, Kates Outlaw will host an album release party for Echo of the Engines on Saturday, June 6, at Credit Union Place in Dauphin, Manitoba. Fans can secure tickets now at LINK.
The band will also take the stage at Dauphin’s Countryfest on Saturday, June 27, giving audiences another opportunity to experience their powerful live show. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, make sure to catch Kates Outlaw live this summer and give Echo of the Engines a listen.
Some people play music. Others build something much bigger around it. Greg Pester did both.
Greg Pester’s journey in music began early — earlier than most. At just 14 years old, he was already playing in a band called Endless Maze. Even then, it was clear music wasn’t just a hobby; it was something he was meant to pursue. Not long after, he found himself competing in a showcase hosted by Jack Wells, making it all the way to the finals.
By 17, Pester was fully immersed in the music world, joining his mother’s band as a bass player. What started as a family connection became a defining chapter of his life. For five years, he toured and performed alongside her, learning not just how to play, but how to be a musician. Sharing the stage with family was something he remained deeply proud of.
From there, Pester’s career rapidly grew. He was invited to join The Chaparrals where he spent eight years playing lead guitar and helped record four albums. The experience helped establish him as one of Manitoba’s most prolific guitarists. Along the way, he collaborated with a wide range of artists — playing bass on an Evelyn West album, performing with Len Henry and Company at festivals, joining Yogi and Friends, and even sharing the stage with Chris Bigford.
But Greg Pester wasn’t just a musician — he brought people together through moments that meant something.
After stepping away briefly to focus on family, he was asked to start a Wednesday night jam session at the West Kildonan Legion with his band, Sassy Jack. What began as a simple idea quickly turned into something much bigger. Week after week, the room filled. Musicians came not just to play, but to find community. Pester had a way of creating space — not just physically, but emotionally — for people to step into music, often for the very first time.
That ability to create opportunity for musicians would become the foundation of his life’s work.
Pester’s path to owning The Royal George came through friendship and the right timing. After being introduced to the venue by fellow musician Wayne Walker, Pester learned that his friends Rick Penner and Isak Leger were interested in purchasing it. In 2000, Pester joined them — and together, they took on what would become a 26-year journey.
At the time, The Royal George needed serious work. But he saw potential.
The first priority was the stage. If musicians were going to feel at home, the stage had to reflect that. They rebuilt it, upgraded the sound system, improved the space and slowly transformed the venue into a place where artists felt respected the moment they stepped up to play.
One of Pester’s most meaningful ideas was simple but powerful: putting photos of performers on the walls. For many artists, especially those just starting out, seeing their picture displayed at The George was a moment of validation and a sign they belonged.
Country artists began filling the room every week. The venue grew into something rare: a place with live music seven days a week. It became the only venue in the city to offer that consistency, which is a testament to Pester’s commitment and vision.
What truly set Greg Pester apart as the owner of The Royal George wasn’t just the venue — it was how he used it.
He believed deeply in giving new musicians a chance.
The Wednesday night jams he brought from the Legion became a staple at The George. Musicians of all levels were invited up. Many who nervously stepped onto that stage for the first time would later go on to form bands of their own — and eventually return to play regular gigs there.
Then there was the creation of Tuesday songwriter nights. These evenings created a strong community. Songwriters gathered not just to perform, but to share, grow and to find their voice. For many, it was their first time ever performing original music in front of an audience, which Pester was incredibly proud of.
He understood something fundamental about music: talent grows where opportunity exists. And he made sure opportunity was always there.
The impact Greg Pester had didn’t go unnoticed.
For three consecutive years, The Royal George was awarded the Manitoba Country Music Association (MCMA) Venue of the Year — an honour voted on by industry peers. It wasn’t just about popularity; it was about respect. It meant the people who understood the industry best recognized what Greg Pester had built at The Royal George.
For Pester and his family, those awards meant everything. They were proof that the long hours, the risks and dedication had paid off.
From left: Miles Trach, MCMA President, Jared Pester, Greg Pester, Julianna Chubenko, author of the article
Even while running the venue, Pester never stopped being a musician.
He performed with Wayne Walker for nearly nine years and spent an incredible 28 years playing with the Walsh Twins — an Elvis tribute duo known for their unique performances, where each twin represented a different era of Elvis Presley. It was a show unlike any other, and Pester was a steady presence behind it.
Greg Pester’s advice to young musicians was simple, but carried a lot of weight:
“Keep going and don’t give up. Nobody is the best at first.”
He often compared the journey to a stairwell — you keep climbing with every experience, every connection, every performance. Growth wasn’t instant, but it was inevitable if you stayed committed.
It’s a philosophy he didn’t just preach — he lived.
For 26 years, Greg poured himself into The Royal George. It wasn’t just a business. It was his life’s work.
He created a space where musicians could start, stumble, improve, and succeed. A space where community mattered as much as talent and where people felt seen.
Today, his legacy lives on in every artist who ever stepped onto that stage for the first time. In every songwriter who found their voice on a Tuesday night. In every packed Wednesday jam session and in every photo on the wall.
Desiree Dorion is entering a defining new chapter with the upcoming release of her eighth studio album, Pieces of Me, on May 15.
A seven-time Manitoba Country Music Award winner and JUNO nominee, Dorion has become a familiar face across national platforms including CTV, CBC and SiriusXM. Most recently, she performed at the Winnipeg Jets WASAC Night, continuing to build momentum both within Manitoba and across the country.
Her brand-new, fully self-produced project marks a bold evolution in her career. Featuring more than 70% Indigenous collaborators, Pieces of Me is Dorion’s most intentional and self-directed work to date, reinforcing her role not only as a powerful artist, but also as a leader and advocate within the Canadian music community.
Dorion has always looked for ways to challenge herself creatively, grow as an artist and take risks. Self-producing an entire album was something she knew she wanted to do, but only if she could do it properly. For the first time in her career, she was involved in every aspect of production from start to finish, making this project especially personal and rewarding.
While selecting songs for the album, Dorion revisited her catalogue and uncovered tracks that had been waiting for the right moment. One example is “Daddy’s Tattoo,” a song written nearly ten years ago that finally found its home on this record.
Every song on Pieces of Me represents a different chapter of her life. Written by Dorion over various periods of time, each track reflects a piece of who she is, making the album deeply personal and real.
Representation was also an important part of the project’s vision. More than 70% of the collaborators involved are Indigenous, something Dorion intentionally prioritized. Indigenous representation within country music remains limited, particularly for Indigenous women, who account for barely one per cent of country radio airplay. Across major spaces where country music is consumed — from radio to festivals and live events — Indigenous artists are still significantly underrepresented. Through this album, Dorion wanted to use the platform she has built not only to share her own music, but also to spotlight the incredible talent within the Indigenous music community and help create greater awareness.
To celebrate the release, Dorion will host an album release party at Sidestage on Monday, May 11 alongside Desiree Orvis and The Sean Taylor Band. No one should have too much going on on a Monday night — making it the perfect excuse to come out and enjoy an evening of great country music. Tickets are available HERE and there are only a handful left so secure yours now!
Brettyn Rose is an emerging country artist from Alberta who’s quickly gaining attention as one to watch in 2026, a title recognized by Front Porch Music. With a style rooted in relatable storytelling and strong, radio-ready vocals, she’s building real momentum across the Canadian country scene.
Fresh off two 2026 Country Music Alberta Award nominations for Horizon Female Artist of the Year and Songwriter(s) of the Year, Brettyn Rose is stepping into a major moment in her career. She’s set to release her debut EP, Wild West, on May 8, 2026, and is kicking things off with her new single, “Leavin’ On My Lips.”
As a SiriusXM/CCMA Top of the Country semi-finalist, Brettyn Rose has already performed on major stages like CCMA House and Country Thunder. With this new release, she continues to blend traditional country roots with a modern edge, showcasing exactly why she’s being recognized on a national level.
Her new single, “Leavin’ On My Lips,” is a fun, upbeat, and lighthearted love song about wanting to be around someone all the time — soaking in every moment together and missing them the second they’re gone. It’s a track that captures both the excitement and sweetness of connection, and one she’s especially proud to share.
Set for release on May 8, The Wild West EP reflects her journey through early adulthood, growth, and self-discovery. Each song offers a glimpse into who she is as an artist today, shaped by the experiences and lessons of the past few years. As a debut project, it’s an honest and personal introduction — one she hopes listeners will see themselves in.
“It is the truest representation of myself so far as an artist,” she shared.
Following the EP’s release, Brettyn Rose plans to keep the momentum going — getting back into writing, working toward her next project, and continuing to connect with audiences through live performances.
Be sure to check out Wild West when it drops on May 8.
Don Amero is an acclaimed Canadian artist whose soulful voice and honest storytelling have earned him national recognition, including multiple awards and JUNO and CCMA nominations. Known for his powerful live performances and authentic connection with fans, he continues to make an impact,
Amero has released his powerful new single, “Survivor,” a song inspired by themes that emerged while working on his upcoming album, Broken Record, Pt 2 – Fighter. The track was created with a purpose to serve as an anthem for Residential School survivors, honouring their strength and resilience.
At its core, “Survivor” carries a message of perseverance — of making it through the fire and emerging stronger on the other side. Some of Amero’s favourite lines, “you slayed the dragon, you stood up to giants,” perfectly capture the heart of the song. It’s ultimately an anthem for anyone who has had to fight for their life and come out the other side.
The Broken Record project is a three-part series. The first instalment, Broken Record, Pt. 1 – Heart, has already been released, showcasing a more stripped-down, sentimental sound with minimal production. In contrast, Pt. 2 – Fighter goes all out sonically, something listeners can already hear in “Survivor.” As for the third instalment, Amero hopes to focus on collaborations, though it’s still in the early planning stages.
While Broken Record, Pt. 2 – Fighter is complete and ready for release, Amero is holding back — for now. Instead, he’s offering fans a special opportunity: those who attend his upcoming live show will get exclusive pre-release access to the album. It’s his way of giving back to the people who have supported him and invested in his music, by sharing something he’s poured so much time and energy into.
Fans eager to hear Broken Record Pt. 2 – Fighter early can grab tickets to Amero’s upcoming show at the West End Cultural Centre on Friday, April 17.
The evening will feature an incredible lineup of talent, including local artists Sheena Rattai and Larry Abrams. Together, their harmonies with Amero create a rich, seamless blend that truly shines in a live, intimate theatre setting. Also joining the lineup is Vancouver-based artist Antonio Larosa, whose modern take on a ‘90s country sound is a unique addition to the show.
At a Don Amero performance, audiences can expect a little bit of everything — old favourites, new releases, and even some unreleased songs. One thing’s for sure: he never leaves the stage without playing “Church,” a crowd favourite that fans have come to love. It all adds up to a memorable night of music.
Tickets for the West End Cultural Centre show on Friday, April 17 can be purchased at his website.
While Amero’s music has recently leaned more toward an adult contemporary sound, he remains deeply rooted in country. Fans shouldn’t worry — he hasn’t left the genre behind. Instead, he’s expanding his sound while staying true to his roots, hoping longtime listeners will continue to support him on this journey.
For Amero, music is about exploration. It’s about being playful, taking risks and trying new things — and “Survivor” is a perfect example of that. He believes it may be one of the best songs he’s ever released.
If “Survivor” is any indication of what’s to come, fans are in for something special. The April 17 show at the West End Cultural Centre won’t just be a concert — it’s a chance to experience the heart behind the music and hear Broken Record, Pt. 2 – Fighter before anyone else.
Keven Daken is a Nova Scotia – born country singer, songwriter, producer, and performer whose career spans more than two decades. From his early days playing in Halifax bands to becoming an internationally recognized artist, Daken has built a reputation for heartfelt storytelling, memorable melodies, and a genuine connection with his audience.
Daken began writing songs at a young age, and in the early 2000s, he had the opportunity to collaborate with fellow Canadian artist John Landry. Together, they wrote a song that became the title track of Landry’s second album — an experience that opened the door for Daken to continue writing with other artists and further develop his craft.
Kicking off 2026, Daken released his latest single, “Brand New Truck.” The song had been years in the making. He originally wrote the first verse and chorus but struggled to finish it, revisiting the idea multiple times before eventually setting it aside. That changed during a writing session with Brandon Davis and Chris Pottie. Daken brought the unfinished concept to the table, and within an hour, the song was complete. From the moment they finished recording, they knew they had something special.
The track tells a clever story with a play on words. In the first verse, a man meets a woman, and their relationship quickly grows serious — so much so that he begins to think she’s expecting a proposal. But when the chorus hits, the narrative takes an unexpected turn: she doesn’t want a ring — she wants a brand new truck, summed up perfectly in the catchy line, “My girl don’t want a ring, she wants a brand new truck.”
The second verse adds another layer, shifting perspective to the couple’s 16-year-old daughter, who now has her eye on the truck as well — preferring it over getting one of her own.
What makes the song especially fun is that twist. Just when listeners think they know where the story is going, the chorus flips the script in a way that feels both surprising and classic country.
With “Brand New Truck,” Daken hopes to remind listeners that ’90s and traditional country still have a place in today’s music scene. The track blends strong songwriting with polished production, delivering a feel-good, catchy sound that sticks with you long after the first listen.
Daken is currently hard at work finishing a six-song EP set for release this spring/summer, with more singles to follow.
Be sure to check out “Brand New Truck” and stay tuned for what’s next.
Catie St. Germain is a Métis country artist from Niverville, Manitoba, and the granddaughter of Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame icon Ray St. Germain. Known for her strong, versatile voice and genuine songwriting, she puts on live shows that blend energetic performance with sincere emotion, leaving audiences wanting more.
2025 has been a milestone year for Catie St. Germain, marked by standout performances, major opportunities and exciting new releases. One of her most memorable moments was performing the national anthem at the Grey Cup — an unforgettable, full-circle achievement that had been on her bucket list and is a moment she is incredibly proud of.
Her latest single, “Burn That Bridge,” came her way from a Nashville songwriter inspired by the spirit of Johnny Cash. The track immediately caught St. Germain’s attention with its clever lyrics and playful, flirty energy. Wanting to add something fun and lively to her live shows, she knew right away it was the perfect fit — bringing a fresh, crowd-pleasing dynamic to her performances.
Another major highlight this year has been earning a spot as a semi-finalist in SiriusXM’s Top of the Country competition, which is another dream milestone for St. Germain. As part of the experience, she was flown to Vancouver to record an original song titled “Salt in the Womb.” The song and its accompanying music video are set for release in early April, followed by a one-week voting period where fans can help vote her into the top three. Reaching the semi-finals alone marks a significant step forward, further establishing her presence in the Canadian country music scene.
With festival season just around the corner, St. Germain is eager to get back on stage and connect with even more audiences across the country. She already has confirmed festival dates including Niverville Fair on June 13 with The Washboard Union and Club Wagon Creek and the Hangover Ag Fair on August 15.
Be sure to keep an eye out for the upcoming SiriusXM’s Top of the Country voting period and show Catie St. Germain your support. In the meantime, give her latest single “Burn That Bridge” a listen!
Karly Kryski, originally from the mountains of Vancouver, Canada, is an emerging artist making her mark in modern country music. Her songs mix honest, emotional storytelling with energetic, catchy rhythms that really stand out. She’s also a talented multi-instrumentalist, playing guitar, drums, and saxophone, which adds a unique edge to both her recordings and live shows.
After releasing her debut single “Highways & Heartaches,” Kryski continued to build momentum, and her fifth song, “Rolling Dice,” highlights her distinct country sound and bold take on love. It’s helped her gain attention for her engaging performances and memorable melodies.
“Rolling Dice” marks Kryski’s first release of 2026 and captures the intensity of a relationship that feels impossible to walk away from. The song tells the story of two people caught in a magnetic, fiery connection—one that keeps pulling them back together no matter the chaos or challenges they face. At its core, it’s about choosing vulnerability over certainty: taking emotional risks, embracing the unknown, and continuing to bet on love, even when the odds aren’t in your favour.
With this release, Kryski steps into a fresh chapter sonically, introducing a new direction in her sound that reflects both her growth as an artist and her willingness to evolve. It’s a shift she’s especially excited about, offering listeners something new while staying true to the emotional honesty that defines her music.
Looking ahead, Karly Kryski has two more singles set to drop through the spring, with plans to bring them together as part of a larger project as she works toward releasing an EP. Alongside her upcoming music, she has several live performances scheduled—details of which can be found on her website—continuing to build her presence on stage.
This year, she is focused on expanding her reach, playing as many live shows as possible, stepping into new venues, and connecting with wider audiences. With new music on the horizon and a clear vision for what’s next, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year in her journey.
Megan Dawson is a Calgary-based, award-winning country-pop artist who has spent more than a decade building her career on stages across Canada, performing over 200 shows nationwide.
With more than 3 million Spotify streams and multiple SiriusXM Top of the Country hits — including a #1 with “To Fall in Love” and a #3 with “Second Wind” — Dawson has established herself as both a talented performer and songwriter. Her upcoming EP, My Idea of a Good Time, marks her most personal and polished project yet, capturing the heart, growth, and experience she has gained from years in Alberta’s country music scene.
Dawson’s new single, “As Good As It Gets,” represents a sound and message she feels has always been missing from her repertoire — one she now realizes she needed. The song explores the idea of falling in love with someone who may feel comfortable, but doesn’t challenge you to grow. Rather than settling for a relationship that simply feels “good enough,” the track highlights the importance of embracing imperfections and pushing each other to become stronger partners.
“As Good As It Gets” serves as the first single from Dawson’s upcoming debut EP, set for release in 2027. She chose the track to introduce this new chapter of her music because it felt the most authentic to who she is as both a person and an artist.
The concept behind My Idea of a Good Time has been years in the making. Dawson has spent much of that time writing and collecting songs that reflect different moments of her personal journey. The project’s overall theme stems from the title track, “My Idea of a Good Time,” which she describes as an introvert’s anthem — celebrating the joy of being comfortable spending time alone while also embracing the energy and excitement of performing on stage.
Together, the songs on the EP showcase Dawson’s personality with each track highlighting a different part of who she is while telling a story listeners can relate to.
Alongside the single, Dawson will also release a visualizer for “As Good As It Gets,” featuring clips she captured on her phone throughout the EP’s recording process. The visual project offers fans an intimate look into the making of the music, acting as a visual journal of the creative journey behind the record.
Dawson is also planning a tour for next spring as she prepares to bring this new era of music to audiences across the country.
Kyle McKearney is reshaping Americana with a powerful blend of heartfelt storytelling and rugged, roots-driven sound, establishing himself as one of Canada’s most compelling artists. His second album, A Traveler’s Lament, earned 11 awards — including the 2023 CCMA for Alternative Country Album of the Year.
The idea for his latest single, “Rearview,” lived in McKearney’s mind for over a year. The central hook — “you’ve been taking up space in my rearview” — lingered long before it found its final form. After an intense stretch of touring, he returned to the studio ready to begin a new chapter, and “Rearview” became the first song he revisited.
At its core, the track captures the raw aftermath of a breakup — the quiet reckoning that follows something that ended in anger and finality. Vivid lines like “hair tie on my ashtray and lipstick on my dash” underline just how fresh the separation is, showing the emotion in detail.
“Rearview” is the lead single from McKearney’s forthcoming album, Wildflower, currently being recorded in a home studio he built himself. In a creative twist, each letter in the word “Wildflower” represents the first letter of a song title on the record — a concept that has both challenged and inspired him.
He chose to introduce this era with “Rearview” because it felt like a natural bridge from A Traveler’s Lament into what comes next. While much of his earlier work was deeply personal, written as a means of processing lived experiences, this new album shifts outward. McKearney is crafting songs with his audience in mind — creating music that feels lighter, joyful, and easy to sing along to.
Wildflower is slated for release in early 2027, with additional singles rolling out throughout the year. In the meantime, McKearney plans to continue releasing new music, performing live, and bringing these songs to audiences on the road.
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