2026 CONTEMPORARY ROOTS ALBUM OF THE YEAR I The Young Novelists | | The JUNO Awards

The Young Novelists create contemporary folk songs that marry their effortless harmonies with darkly poetic lyrics and exquisitely crafted hooks. Their fourth album, “These Dark Canyons”, features blistering takes on systemic misogyny (“Break The Whole Thing Down”), the quiet devastation of assault (“One Of Mine”), an anthem for those finding the strength to speak up (“Raise Our Voices”), and a song about crafting creativity from personal pain (“Into Glory”) to form an album that explores the dark canyons we all experience.

Their previous album, described as “a lush-sounding feast” (Penguin Eggs) and “emotional, melodic music that variously reminds me of the Jayhawks and Richard and Linda Thompson” (No Depression), landed them a Canadian Folk Music Award for New/Emerging Artist, a nomination for Vocal Group of the Year, and multiple songwriting awards. They have toured across Canada, the United States, and in Europe, often with their young son in tow. Their signature show features confessional storytelling about their songs and travels, singalongs, and the unique sound of bowed glockenspiel.