Though they've been performing since 2007, Yamantaka // Sonic Titan were largely unknown outside of Montreal until their debut full-length album YT//ST was shortlisted for the 2012 Polaris Prize. But following a high-profile string of gigs - including a remarkable performance at the Polaris gala and arguably one of the best secret shows at NXNE last year - Yamantaka // Sonic Titan have quickly gained a reputation as a must-see act.

When you think about it, it's really quite amazing what The Basement Revue has become. With just one really cool idea and a few (admittedly very accomplished) friends, it's blossomed into one of Toronto's most interesting live residencies. Secret performers, sometimes-bizarre song choices and, of course, poetry readings all make an appearance.

Starting with a simple motto — "Life's too short to listen to shitty music" — owner Shauna de Cartier has built Six Shooter Records into one of Toronto's most high-profile independent labels, organizing festivals, producing albums, and managing the careers of some of the most interesting artists working across Canada and abroad. They may have a name torn straight from the dialogue of a spaghetti western as well as some of the best alt-country artists in Canada, but whatever you do, don't pigeonhole them as a Toronto boutique roots label. They hate that.

Neil Young and Crazy Horse have been collaborating since 1969 and their shows together have always been the stuff of bone-rattling, eardrum-bursting legend. Distinct from Neil Young's legacy as an acoustic troubadour, when he plays with Crazy Horse, Young transforms into a snarling guitar hero, stomping around the stage and playing an endless series of solos while the band vamps on a riff or two-chord change.

DJ's Tom Wrecks and Drastik are longtime collaborators, known both for their solo work and in groups like The Stylusts. But it's their new project, Thugli, that's taking off right now, getting them tons of attention from other performers as well as audiences across the city. I chatted with Tom Wrecks and Drastik about the 2-year anniversary of Itzsoweezee at the Drake, their past work and their future plans. They're playing this Friday night at Revival alongside a big fan of theirs, Skratch Bastid.

This weekend marks a milestone for one of Toronto's most prolific indie record labels. Paper Bag Records has organized a series of shows to commemorate its 10th anniversary in the music business. The shows were put together entirely using Paper Bag's artist roster--that the lineups feature some of the most interesting Canadian musicians really drives home the great work Paper Bag continues to do.