The release show for Sunwaves is almost here, and it's worth introducing the artists we will be performing beside and the concept behind the show.

"Sunwaves" is a boundary-pushing new record from a band already known for being extremely eclectic. In 2020, Alternative Press listed Kozen among 10 noteworthy but undiscovered genre-bending bands. Since then, the band has continued to reinforce that trademark unpredictability while still retaining a recognizable heart and soul.

Inspired by visionary artists like Linkin Park - who notably toured with metal, rock, pop, and hip-hop acts - KOZEN sought to create a truly unique concert experience by bringing onboard some longtime friends and peers in prog metal as well as two artists from genres well outside of the rock scene.

AfterWake, who have performed alongside Kozen a handful of times in the past, gained notice from the broader prog scene after collaborating with noted guitar virtuoso Nick Johnston on their song "This Is Living." One of the band's early members - Stephen James Kerr - also co-produced and mixed KOZEN's first full-length album "A Fearful Wonder," which has cemented a strong tie between both bands.

In a coincidental turn, KOZEN's release of "Sunwaves" coincided with the release of the "Pieces of Paradise" EP by Toronto-based, Kenyan-born Afropop artist Shy Musiq. While her EP focuses on a fusion of conventional Afrobeats styles with electronic and house elements, her guest appearance on the closing track of "Sunwaves" ("Gazelles") accomplishes an uncommon fusion of Afropop with progressive rock and modern metal.

Her dedicated work ethic behind the scenes has allowed her to open for popular acts like Tanzanian artist Diamond Platnumz and Jamaican Dancehall artist Vanessa Bling (aka Gaza Slim). Her ethos matches KOZEN in its sense of experimental and boundlessness.

Show opener Cerae is a rising star in Toronto's R&B scene. Her accomplishments include opening for Swedish R&B star Cherrie in London, England and backing Alicia Keys on stage in Toronto during the song “Fallin’” as part of the Music 4 Life choir. She is currently working on her debut EP which aims to push the boundaries of pop and R&B in creative ways.

Together, this lineup will be delivering an unforgettable night of unique, creative music in a showcase unlike anything else slated for the Toronto scene this summer.