The excitement is palpable as the Polaris Music Prize Short List was unveiled on Thursday, July 13. This prestigious award recognizes the best Canadian album of the year based solely on artistic merit. As music enthusiasts, we can’t help but immerse ourselves in the captivating sounds of the nominated albums. In this blog post, we present two special playlists: one featuring tracks from the official Short List, and the other showcasing my personal Polaris Music Prize Short List Wish List. While my wish list didn’t entirely align with the official selection, we believe that each album on the short list deserves recognition for its exceptional artistry.

The Polaris Music Prize Short List features a diverse array of captivating albums, representing the finest musical offerings from Canada. From the raw energy of The Sadies to the introspective melodies of Dan Mangan, each artist on the official list has crafted a unique sonic experience. While some of my personal favourites may not have made it, I encourage you to embrace the albums chosen and discover the remarkable talent behind each one. Visit the Polaris Music Prize website to explore these albums further and immerse yourself in their captivating tracks.

DarBar’s Polaris Short List Wish List reflects my personal musical preferences and the artists I hoped to see among the official nominees. While only two artists, The Sadies and Dan Mangan, made it to both my wish list and the official list, I remain appreciative of the incredible talent showcased across the board. I invite you to check out DarBar’s wish list playlist, which includes tracks from Yoo Doo Right, ALL HANDS_MAKE LIGHT, U.S. Girls, and other artists who captured my heart. These songs represent the music that resonated deeply with me, even if they didn’t make it to the final short list.

To enhance your Polaris Music Prize experience, tune in to the 10 separate Polaris radio specials, providing an in-depth look at each of this year’s Short List nominees. Hosted by Damhnait Doyle, CBC Music’s THE TEN is a series of one-hour weekly radio specials that will take you on a journey through the nominated albums. Delve into interviews, insights, and immersive album listening sessions that shed light on the creative processes behind these exceptional works. THE TEN will air each Sunday on CBC Music and CBC Listen at 6 p.m. (6:30 NT), starting from Sunday, July 16, until Sunday, September 17.

I invite you to explore both the official Polaris Music Prize Short List and DarBar’s Polaris Short List Wish List. Which album resonates with you the most? Share your thoughts and favourite tracks in the comments section. Let’s celebrate the incredible artistry and musical talent that Canada has to offer. Don’t forget to mark your calendar for the 2023 Polaris Prize winner announcement, which will take place on Tuesday, September 19 at the Polaris Gala, held at the historic Massey Hall in Toronto, Ontario. Tickets to the Polaris Gala are available now, ensuring you don’t miss out on this momentous occasion.

Immerse yourself in the tracks, discover new musical gems, and join the conversation about the Polaris Music Prize. Let’s celebrate the incredible talent and artistry that Canadian musicians bring to our lives. Enjoy the playlists, share your favorites, and stay tuned for the announcement of the 2023 Polaris Prize winner.