‘The Junos do their homework’: Award nominations pay special attention to B.C.’s metal scene

British Columbia is making waves in the music industry as the Juno Awards head to the western province this year, hosted by a B.C. artist. Local musicians from British Columbia make up about 13.5 per cent of the nominees, a significant increase from previous years. This is especially impressive considering that Ontario and Quebec typically dominate the Canadian music scene.

One surprising highlight is the strong showing of B.C. artists in the metal music category. Out of the five nominees for Metal/Hard Music Album of the Year, three are from British Columbia, with a fourth nominee hailing from Edmonton. This is remarkable, as Montreal has long been considered a hub for metal music and declared itself a “city of excellence for heavy metal music” in 2019.

Joey Hawkin, who organizes metal music festivals in B.C., expressed his lack of surprise at the recognition Western Canada metal acts are receiving from the Juno Awards. He emphasized the thriving metal scene in B.C., with local shows and bands consistently working hard to elevate their craft.

Hawkin commended the Juno Awards for their credibility and expertise in selecting nominees and winners. He highlighted that the metal award is determined primarily by metalheads, showcasing the Juno’s dedication to recognizing talent within the genre.

Among the nominees, Vancouver’s Anciients, previous winners of Metal Album of the Year in 2018, are nominated again for their album “Beyond the Reach of the Sun.” Vocalist and guitarist Kenny Cook expressed gratitude for the national recognition, emphasizing the honor of being acknowledged at such a prestigious level.

Another B.C.-based nominee is Spiritbox from Victoria, also nominated for Group of the Year. Their album “The Fear of Fear” earned them a nomination for metal album and breakthrough group in 2022. Guitarist Mike Stringer reminisced about the significance of the Juno Awards in his youth and expressed excitement at the possibility of winning this year.

Devin Townsend, a musician from New Westminster, is the third B.C.-based nominee in the metal category for his album “PowerNerd.” With a diverse musical background spanning decades, Townsend won the award in 2015, showcasing his enduring talent and creativity.

Outside of B.C., nominees for Metal/Hard Music Album of the Year include Kittie from Edmonton and Striker from London, Ontario. The diversity of nominees reflects the thriving metal music scene across Canada.

It is inspiring to see non-mainstream music genres like metal receive recognition at major awards shows like the Junos. The acknowledgment of these talented artists serves as a reminder of the diversity and depth of the Canadian music industry. Congratulations to all the nominees, and may the best metal act win at the Juno Awards this year.