Even as Toronto has exploded with music festivals this year, it's a tough game for independent artists to benefit from the many new, big ticket events taking place here. NXNE isn't particularly kind to up and coming musicians, and massive newcomers like WayHome are all about offering as much star power as possible.

That's why it's very good news for the Toronto music community that TWiMFeST is returning for a second year. Presented by promoters Two Way Monologues and The Indie Machine, this is a festival that prides itself on treating independent artists with the respect that they deserve. It is, after all, the only festival to advertise with hashtags #nofees #noradiusclause #paidgig.

Last year's TWiMFeST showcased 68 artists across a handful of music venues. It was a breath of fresh air in a year that was marked by controversy surrounding NXNE's radius clause, which was ultimately pulled after outcry from local music community. Toronto doesn't really need more music festivals, but it does need ones that prioritize independent musicians.

The second year of the festival is to be expanded, with extra time to promote and to put into practice lessons learned from its first iteration. The list of participating venues has grown, now including Rancho Relaxo, the Gladstone Hotel, the Horseshoe Tavern, Tennessee, Junction City Music Hall, Dundas Video, the Painted Lady, Bier Mrkt, and more still to be added.

20 artists from across Canada have been announced in the initial lineup, though that just scratches the surface of what the final roster will look like. On board so far are Toronto's Pick a Piper, The Auras, Paint, and Montreal's Dear Criminals, Lakes of Canada, and Saskatoon's Autopilot. The second wave of acts will be announced August 1st.

TWiMFeST also takes place in St. John's, Newfoundland, home of promoter Dan Wolovick (Two Way Monologues). In both cities, the festival promises to bring "bands they love, venues they think are awesome, and forward thinking for all." This is all very auspicious.

Photo of Pick a Piper via TWiMFeST