New Music Monday: Five Tracks Bringing New Energy to The Countdown

Monday, 28 September 2026 16:56

Fresh singles from William Prince, Alice Merton, and Dear Frankie join rising Canadian rock acts Thunder Queens and local artist Sully Burrows to lead this week’s musical lineup

As September comes to a close, this week’s Countdown takes a trip through several distinct corners of modern alternative, rock, punk, and roots music. There is the anthemic, self-aware garage rock of Dear Frankie, the sleek, reflective pop production of Alice Merton, the raw punk energy of London, Ontario trio Thunder Queens, the earnest country-rock storytelling of Parry Sound’s Sully Burrows, and the expansive, comforting warmth of Juno Award winner William Prince. Together, the five tracks highlight both emerging talent and established songwriters, maintaining a strong focus on authentic voice, compelling arrangements, and memorable melodies.

Dear Frankie – "is it that hard to be a star"

Los Angeles alternative rock trio Dear Frankie open this week’s Countdown additions at number 20 with "is it that hard to be a star," continuing a prolific streak of 2026 single releases. Driven by punchy guitar riffs, a tight rhythm section, and confident vocal delivery, the track balances lighthearted humor with a thoughtful look at ambition, identity, and the price of fame in the digital age. By pairing infectious power-pop hooks with sharp social commentary, the group delivers an effortlessly fun yet surprisingly relatable anthem that demonstrates why they have quickly become one of the most compelling new voices in modern indie rock.

Alice Merton – "Colours"

Entering the chart at number 19, German-British artist Alice Merton returns with "Colours," a polished and emotionally resonant single released through Paper Plane Records. Co-produced alongside Paul Whalley, the track opens with introspective lyrics reflecting on September, self-protection, and personal resilience before blooming into an uplifting chorus about finding clarity and value in human connection. Merton’s distinct vocal performance guides the song from quiet vulnerability into dynamic synth-pop instrumentation, offering a refreshing sound that bridges intimate storytelling with radio-ready production.

Thunder Queens – "Bluebells"

London, Ontario-based punk outfit Thunder Queens make their impact at number 18 with "Bluebells," the title track from their latest 2026 project. Recorded with an uninhibited, direct energy, the track showcases the trio’s knack for fast-paced drum arrangements, gritty overdrive, and rebellious vocal hooks. "Bluebells" highlights the band’s ongoing growth within the Canadian punk and alternative scene, presenting a sharp, no-nonsense performance that brings a heavy dose of edge and urgency to this week's lineup.

Sully Burrows – "Leave You Lonely"

Landing at number 17, rising Canadian artist Sully Burrows hailing from Parry Sound, delivers "Leave You Lonely," released via North Star Records and Virgin Music Group. Built around crisp acoustic strumming, pedal steel accents, and a grounded vocal performance, the track explores themes of commitment, devotion, and lingering heartache. Burrows blends traditional country sensibilities with contemporary roots-rock songwriting, producing a steady, melodic track that resonates with fans of authentic Canadian roots music.

William Prince – "Wide Open"

Closing out this week’s featured entries at number 16 is "Wide Open," the stunning single from acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter William Prince. Released via Six Shooter Records and produced by Liam Duncan, the five-minute track pairs Prince’s deep, baritone vocals with rich, atmospheric instrumentation and poignant lyrical imagery. "Wide Open" carries a sense of spaciousness, comfort, and quiet strength, cementing Prince's standing as one of the country's premier storytellers and serving as a standout centerpiece on The Countdown.

That’s all we wrote for this week's New Music Monday. From the vibrant garage-rock questioning of Dear Frankie and the emotive pop of Alice Merton to the driving punk of Thunder Queens, the heartfelt country-rock of Sully Burrows, and the soulful roots of William Prince, these five new additions bring an extraordinary depth of flavor to the chart. Keep it tuned to The Bay to hear where these tracks move on next week's tally.

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