Montreal four-piece Young Galaxy first got my attention a couple years ago when I heard their song "Outside The City". Singer/keyboardist Catherine McCandless' haunting vocals and lyrics really got to me, as did the unique groove. The band seemed destined for the kind of indie stardom Arts&Crafts specializes in when the Toronto label released their self-titled debut.

I was surprised to hear recently that their second album Invisible Republic was self-released (with help from distributor Fontana North). Even without A&C backing, Young Galaxy will surely turn heads once again with a wider variety of sounds and moods on the new set of songs.

Their cross-Canada tour ends Friday with a show at the Horseshoe. I spoke with singer/guitarist Stephen Ramsay about their new album, the break from A&C, and I get his opinion on the Montreal vs Toronto thing. There's also a contest!

In this edition: Daniel, Fred & Julie line up new collaborative LP, Blue Rodeo announce free rooftop show, Fucked Up get into the Christmas spirit, the sudden dissolution of Hostage Life, info on the Six Shooter Records move, HMV Canada launch their digital store, and details on how to help save Rolly's Garage from permanent deadpool.

Plus: new music videos from Grand Analog and The Most Serene Republic, a video of Elliott Brood performing live from Texas and free downloads from Shad K, Slim Twig, The Wooden Sky, & more...

Dan Auerbach headlined an early show at the Phoenix on Saturday evening, flawlessly translating his eclectic solo songs into bluesy, full band numbers. To be honest, I had expected a much more stripped down performance from Auerbach as he toured in support of Keep It Hid, but rather than toning it down, he brought along his newly formed band The Fast Five to keep the crowd moving throughout their short but sweet set.

Auerbach can usually be found on stage with Patrick Carney performing as The Black Keys. Taking some time apart after 2008's Danger Mouse produced Attack & Release, Carney and Auerbach have been keeping busy both together and independently of one another.

Elias, Vancouver's up-an-coming act, is coming to Toronto to play two shows on tour with Pilot Speed (formerly Pilate). The indie-rock band released its second full-length, Lasting Distraction, in mid-October and are currently working the tour van hard to promote it.

Although the vocal stylings of the two bands are very different, their music is easily comparable to Pilot Speed, so the two bands should complement each other quite nicely and it'll definitely be beneficial for Elias to be on the bill.

I got on the horn with Rob Tornroos (lead guitar), who was just taking his lunch break to get serious about what's doin' in his life.

Representing East York, VLSONN is an electro DJ/producer who's on the path to success. Although he's still flying under most people's radars, this guy has some great-sounding analog grooves rockin' on his Myspace page.

He's caught the attention of Craig Hill, head honcho of local label YYZ Records (home to great Toronto acts like TMDP and Madrid). VLSONN headline's Craig's Rollin' & Scratchin' party tonight at Supermarket.

I spoke with VLSONN about his productions, his dream remix project and the simple things in life.

After a two year split, the boys from Sailboats Are White decided to play nice and get back together. Known on the Southern Ontario circuit as a fairly messy party band, they split up in 2007 after recording the follow up album to 2006's Turbo, Turbo II. Also to their credit, they recorded a split 7" with Louisville metal band Lords. Despite the earlier break-up, the guys decided to get back together after settling grievances and putting the past behind them like the open sea.

The band played Tuesday night at the El Mocambo.