Discover the 10 albums up for the 2025 Polaris Music Prize
The nominees for the 2025 Polaris Music Prize have been unveiled, featuring a diverse selection of talented artists and their outstanding albums. This prestigious award recognizes musical excellence without taking into account commercial success or genre, solely based on artistic merit. Among the 10 albums competing for the grand prize of $30,000, standout artists include Bibi Club, Nemahsis, Yves Jarvis, and more.
Each album on the list brings a unique blend of musical styles and storytelling to the table. Some artists, like Mustafa, Marie Davidson, and the OBGMs, have appeared on the shortlist before, while others are experiencing their first time in the spotlight. Notably, Quebec artists dominate the list, with over half of the albums originating from or based in the province, showcasing the vibrant music scene in the region.
Among the intriguing entries is Bibi Club’s “Feu de garde,” a dreamy pop album that delves into introspection and movement. The duo, composed of Adèle Trottier-Rivard and Nicolas Basque, infuse their music with elements of shoegaze, indie rock, and post-punk, creating a nostalgic and immersive sound. Drawing inspiration from nature and community, the tracks on “Feu de garde” transport listeners to reflective scenes and moments of shared humanity.
Lou-Adriane Cassidy’s “Journal d’un Loup-Garou” stands out as a concept album that explores personal experiences with raw honesty and vulnerability. Through melodic storytelling, Cassidy dives into themes of abandonment, friendship, and self-discovery, sharing intimate aspects of her life with listeners. Collaborating with her musical and life partner, Alexandre Martel, as well as other Quebec artists, amplifies the communal spirit behind the creation of this evocative album.
Marie Davidson’s “City of Clowns” marks her return to music after a brief hiatus, reflecting on her journey through self-discovery and creative expression. The album takes a critical look at society, referencing the greed and dehumanization perpetuated by technology and capitalism. Davidson’s music, produced in collaboration with Pierre Guerineau, offers an introspective and thought-provoking perspective that challenges listeners to consider the complexities of modern life.
As the countdown to the award ceremony on September 16 begins, music enthusiasts can delve deeper into the shortlisted albums through CBC Music’s radio series, “The Ten.” Hosted by Odario Williams, the series will provide in-depth insights into each album, offering a comprehensive look at the diverse and captivating musical landscape captured by the nominees. Stay tuned to discover the unparalleled creativity and talent showcased by these remarkable artists as they compete for the prestigious Polaris Music Prize.