Mikhaila plays guitar and is the lead vocalist for Saskatoon’s alt-rock band The Radiant. She also owns and runs a private hair salon called Casa Studio. In mid-September, The Radiant released their latest single “9am”. Here are six songs Mikhaila considers favourites. /Gregory Beatty

“Plans”
Royal Thunder, Wick (2017)

A friend showed me this track, mentioning beforehand that it reminded him of my vocal performance. Once the vocals hit, my heart sunk and tears rolled down my face — I was so flattered. I still cannot listen to it without getting a lump in my throat. YouTube

“Birmingham”
Shovels and Rope, O’ Be Joyful (2012)

This track speaks to a time in my own life — one where we’re all figuring it out, and making the best of what we have and chasing what we love. Also a staple in any of my road-trip playlists! YouTube

“Shampoo Bottles”
Peach Pit, You and Your Friends (2020)

This track caught me by surprise when I was listening to Spotify one night, and I instantly put it on repeat. I soon learned it as an acoustic cover, and in doing so, I fell into a style I personally enjoyed for my own writing. Since then, Peach Pit’s been one of my top-five most-listened-tos. YouTube

“11AM”
Incubus, Morning View (2001)

“The garbage truck beeps as it backs up, and I start my day thinking about what I’ve thrown away”. It was this lyric that got me thinking “Wow, you can really just write about whatever you want.” And does Brandon Boyd make it sound so tasty! It was a style I stole a TON of inspiration from. I can’t get enough of the literalness of the lyrics. YouTube

“Crazy”
Patsy Cline, Showcase (1961)

My mom used to sing this song to me as a kid and back then it drove me absolutely crazy. Now I get it. This is a song that, if I am alone, you will catch me belting out. Honestly, any of Patsy’s songs. She just gets it. YouTube

“3 Libras”
A Perfect Circle, Mer de Noms (2000)

I’d begun listening and was really influenced by Tool, and a friend said if I liked them chances were good I’d really enjoy APC and showed me this track. My fate as a Maynard James Keenan fan was sealed. It was such a softer side of what he did and began to grow my love for another project he’s part of called Puscifer. YouTube