By: Sadie Christine
From having a YouTube channel at a young age to performing at one of Canada’s biggest music festivals and signing with Dine Alone Records, Toronto-based singer-songwriter Gavin McLeod has proven at just 25 years old that he has always been wildhearted.
Gavin isn’t the typical country artist we feature here on WH, but his drive and complex storytelling in his songwriting demonstrate all the qualities of a fantastic artist that we need to tell you about!
2025 has already been a big year for him: he released his debut album, The Constant Astonishment, in February and dropped his most recent single, Believe Me, in August.
This past summer, he played the same stage as City and Colour, Wheatus, Silversun Pickups, and many more at the Riverfest Elora Music Festival.
Gavin’s sound blends 70s-inspired songwriting, UK indie rock, alt-country, and folk, making each track distinctive. On his debut album, you can hear this genre-bending clearly, from “Hurt Sometimes,” which carries a Sam Fender–esque sound, to songs like “Marigold” and “Falling,” which lean more folk. Gavin has cited Neil Young, Sam Fender, Bob Dylan, and Wunderhorse.
as some of his influences and favourite artists, and you can definitely hear their impact on this album and in his earlier work.
The first half of the album grabs your attention with heavy hitters like “Things We Used to Do,” “Hurt Sometimes,” and “Out of Touch.” Each track offers a different side of rock, keeping the listening experience fresh. Gavin shifts seamlessly between delivering bold, powerful rock anthems to reflective, heartfelt, acoustic tracks.
Gavin’s music brings something new and refreshing to the Canadian music scene, weaving the influence of UK rock with folk and country elements.
Be sure to check out his debut album, The Constant Astonishment, available now on all streaming platforms, and follow his socials to stay updated on upcoming shows.
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Stay Wild, Stay Listening, Stay Bold
