Daniel Monkman, who performs under the moniker Zoon, has been steadily releasing different facets of their ‘moccasin gaze’ sound since their debut, Bleached Wavves, in 2020. But this highly-anticipated full-length follow-up somehow feels more orchestral, vulnerable, and open. These songs are powerful, dealing with the fear of loss—of the self, language, and Zoon’s Indigenous identity—but they sound like emotional celebration. And with guest artists such as Sonic Youth’s Lee Ranaldo providing atmospheric backing guitars, what’s not to love?
Featuring Cindy Lee, Nemahsis, Wyatt C. Louis, and more — These Canadian artists all commandeered our headphones this year in a compelling way.