These artists are ready to showcase Kelowna's experimental music scene

Kelowna’s music scene can seem like a barrage of tribute bands or folk artists, with not many spaces available for those who aren’t able to categorize themselves into genres as easily.

And for artists like Travis Andrews, known by his performing name ‘Frantic’, it can be difficult to find spaces to showcase his work, when the music falls between genres.

“We came up with the idea like, ‘yeah, why don't we put together this show and celebrate that,’” Andrews told Kelowna10. “Rather than feeling like it's tricky trying to fit in, let's just make our own place and bring people to us who also feel that way.”

The event, dubbed ‘Island of Misfit Toys’ by co-organizer Aileé Zaga, aims to challenge genre notions, and provide a showcase of experimental music.

“I would say that genre is becoming less and less important for artists,” Zaga explained. “So many people are experimenting in different styles. It’s more of conveying a feeling, and conveying like words and vibes than about, like, does it fit into this box?”

A selection of seven acts from Kelowna’s underground music scene will be featured, including Celeste Noir, Ben Shipley, Voice of Joopiter, Sunbo World, Frantic, Aileé Zaga, Kinfolk Nation, as well as an ensemble performance.

The event will take place on June 9 at DunnEnzies downtown location. Tickets are available for purchase on Eventbrite.