Awake & Dreaming Album Cover 2
Awake & Dreaming Something To Believe In Thumbnail
Awake & Dreaming I U Me Thumbnail
Awake & Dreaming Old Ghosts Thumbnail
Awake & Dreaming Album Cover 1
Awake & Dreaming Album Cover 3
Awake & Dreaming Album Cover 7
Awake & Dreaming Album Cover 8
186K+ Spotify Streams · Jay Dufour (9× Juno) · João Carvalho (Rush) · El Mocambo · 2× CNE · 50+ Shows

Awake & Dreaming — Alt-Rock from Waterloo, ON | Music, Videos & Shows

“Awake & Dreaming paints a new world with their music, and that is a really rare ability among musicians these days.”

— H1 Massive Spotify Playlister

Latest Release

About

Piano-driven verses build into walls of guitar. Quiet moments feel vulnerable. Screams feel earned. Awake & Dreaming is an alt-rock four-piece from Waterloo, ON — Sasha Kristoff on vocals and keys, Stefan Schneider on guitar, Phil Lee on bass, Ryan Dugal on drums.

186,000+ Spotify streams. Three self-directed music videos. 50+ shows — twice at the CNE, El Mocambo with Carole Pope, and a Fall 2025 tour reaching New York City. Their latest single features a new mix by Jay Dufour (9x Juno winner) and mastering by João Carvalho (Rush, Tragically Hip). Debut album Inevitable arrives summer 2026.

Awake & Dreaming — Sasha Kristoff with guitar
Awake & Dreaming - Sasha Kristoff

Press

"Awake & Dreaming paints a new world with their music, and that is a really rare ability among musicians these days."

H1 Massive, Spotify Playlister

"Making moments people will want to go back to. Earned rather than forced."

Foxfire Magazine

"Flawlessly future-proof. Hold its own against Keane, Muse, or Cranberries at their best."

AnalogueTrash (UK)

"Fine line between melody, soft sadness, and indie rock… refined control of emotions."

Skylight (Greece)

"Ethereal alt-rock about drowning in the noise and still finding each other."

Voxwave

Videos

Something To Believe In - Official Music Video

I U Me - Official Music Video

Old Ghosts - Official Music Video

Faceless - Live Off the Floor

Can't Sleep - Live Off the Floor

Shows

Next Show

Upcoming

Date Event Location
Mar 7 @ 8:00PM Ivytide — with Awake & Dreaming Richmond Tavern, London, ON
Mar 25 @ 8:00PM Carole Pope — with Awake & Dreaming Aeolian Hall, London, ON
Mar 27 @ 8:00PM Carole Pope — with Awake & Dreaming Meaford Hall, Meaford, ON
Mar 28 @ 8:00PM Carole Pope — with Awake & Dreaming El Mocambo, Toronto, ON
May 1 Road to Revelree Refined Fool, Sarnia, ON

Previous

Date Event Location
Jan 11 @ 9:30pm Eyes Like Opals - Album Release Show Corktown Pub, Hamilton, ON
Date Event Location
Dec 9 @ 7:00pm The Delancey NYC The Delancey, New York City, NY
Nov 14 @ 8:00pm Awake & Dreaming - Fall 2025 Tour Mills Hardware, Hamilton, ON
Nov 13 @ 8:00pm Awake & Dreaming - Fall 2025 Tour Sonic Hall, Guelph, ON
Nov 12 @ 8:00pm Awake & Dreaming - Fall 2025 Tour Rum Runners, London, ON
Nov 9 @ 5:30pm Awake & Dreaming - Fall 2025 Tour The Jazz Room, Waterloo, ON
Nov 1 @ 7:00pm Halloween Concert @ Clifford Brewing Clifford Brewing Co, Hamilton, ON
Sep 28 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Oct 2 @ 8:00PM Kyle Haze - Out of the Shadows Tour Sneaky Dee's, Toronto, ON
Sep 18 @ 8:00PM Blanket Shore Sonic Hall, Guelph, ON
Aug 25 @ 11:00AM CKMS 102.7 - Live Radio Performance 283 Duke St, Kitchener, ON
Aug 15 @ 1:00PM Railway City Music & Arts Festival Pinafore Park, St.Thomas, ON
Aug 9 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Aug 3 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Aug 2 @ 8:00PM Horseshoe Tavern Horseshoe Tavern, Toronto, ON
Aug 2 @ 12:20PM Brantford Beats & Eats Harmony Sqaure, Brantford, ON
Jul 12 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Jul 11 @ 1:00PM Waterloo Town Square Pop-Up 75 King St, Waterloo, ON
Jun 22 @ 4:00PM KW Multicultural Festival Victoria Park, Kitchener, ON
Jun 20 @ 7:00PM Ipperwash Beach Club Ipperwash Beach Club, Ipperwash, ON
Jun 19 @ 7:00PM Ipperwash Beach Club Ipperwash Beach Club, Ipperwash, ON
Jun 14 @ 10:00PM Arthur Murray - Spring Classic Toronto Airport Marriott, Toronto, ON
Jun 13 @ 8:00PM Guelph District Multicultural Festival Riverside Park, Guelph, ON
Jun 7 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
May 10 @ 7:00PM Royal Ontario Ball - Red & White Gala Oakville Conference Centre, Oakville, ON
Apr 12 @ 7:00PM Harmony Hill Music Showcase Portside Art Institute, Port Stanley, ON
Mar 29 @ 5:30PM Arthur Murray Showcase - Bridgerton Tapestry Hall, Cambridge, ON
Feb 2 @ 7:30PM Standard Dance - Arcano Ball Germania Club, Hamilton, ON
Feb 1 @ 7:30PM The Waterloo Grad House The Graduate House, Waterloo, ON
Date Event Location
Nov 27 @ 7:30PM Frontier Music Presents The Registry Theatre, Kitchener, ON
Nov 15 @ 7:45PM VENUExVENUE @ Rosewood Room The Rosewood, London, ON
Sep 22 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Aug 24 @ 8:00PM Maxwell's Indie Music Night Maxwell's Concerts & Events, Waterloo, ON
Aug 22 @ 1:30PM Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) Casino Patio - 210 Princes' Blvd, Toronto, ON
Aug 21 @ 1:30PM Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) Casino Patio - 210 Princes' Blvd, Toronto, ON
Aug 17 @ 8:00PM Railway City Music & Arts Festival Pinafore Park, St.Thomas, ON
Aug 11 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Aug 10 @ 6:00PM Block 3 Brewery Concert Block 3 Brewery, St.Jacobs, ON
Aug 2 @ 7:00PM Private Party Waterloo, ON
Jul 21 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Jun 7 @ 7:30PM Guelph District Multicultural Festival Riverside Park, Guelph, ON
Jun 2 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Apr 20 @ 1:00PM Private Wedding Sparta, ON
Apr 13 @ 6:00PM Arthur Murray Showcase - World Arthur Murray Waterloo, Waterloo, ON
Mar 23 @ 7:00PM Frontier Music Live Frontier Music, Waterloo, ON
Jan 26 @ 7:45PM Arthur Murray Open House Arthur Murray Waterloo, Waterloo, ON
Date Event Location
Sep 24 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Sep 3 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Aug 20 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Jul 23 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Jun 25 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
May 28 @ 1:00PM Summer Now in Session Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St.Thomas, ON
Apr 29 @ 7:45PM Arthur Murray Showcase - Top Gun Arthur Murray Waterloo, Waterloo, ON

Blog

Sasha Kristoff of Awake and Dreaming performing live in sequined gown
February 8, 2026

International Press, Jay Dufour, João Carvalho, and Three Nights with Carole Pope

Four international publications reviewed I U Me in a single week. Jay Dufour mixed it. João Carvalho mastered it. And in March, we open for Carole Pope three nights in a row — including Toronto's El Mocambo.

Read More

This is one of those updates where we have to stop and take it in.

On January 31, 2026, we released a re-mixed and re-mastered version of "I U Me" — our radio version, clocking in at 4:44. The new mix was done by Jay Dufour, a 9x Juno Award winner whose credits include July Talk, Finger Eleven, Billy Talent, Protest The Hero, and Arkells. Mastering was handled by João Carvalho, who has mastered records for Rush, the Tragically Hip, Alexisonfire, Death from Above 1979, Broken Social Scene, and Crystal Castles. We sought out this level of production because we want to be in the same conversation as the artists that shaped us — and now we are.

Within a week of release, four international publications ran reviews. AnalogueTrash in the UK called the track "flawlessly future-proof" and said it could "hold its own against Keane, Muse, or Cranberries at their best." Foxfire Magazine wrote that Awake & Dreaming is "making moments people will want to go back to" and that the emotion felt "earned rather than forced." Skylight in Greece praised our "refined control of emotions" and the "fine line between melody, soft sadness, and indie rock." Voxwave described it as "ethereal alt-rock about drowning in the noise and still finding each other."

Meanwhile, Sasha sang the Canadian national anthem at the City of London municipal council meeting in February 2026 — a proud moment for the band and for her roots in London, Ontario.

Now the big one. In March 2026, Awake & Dreaming opens for Carole Pope — 3x Juno Award winner, lead singer of Rough Trade, and a genuine Canadian music legend — on three consecutive nights. March 25 at Aeolian Hall in London, Ontario. March 27 at Meaford Hall in Meaford, Ontario. And March 28 at El Mocambo in Toronto — one of the most storied rooms in Canadian rock history. Three co-bills with Carole Pope. We still can't believe it.

Before that, we play the Richmond Tavern in London with Ivytide on March 7. And in May, we've been selected for Road to Revelree — a showcase competition in Sarnia, Ontario on May 1 at Refined Fool Brewing, with a spot at the Revelree Festival on the line.

Behind all of this, our debut album Inevitable is taking shape. Summer 2026. More details soon.

We are Awake & Dreaming. Waterloo, Ontario. Alt-rock four-piece. 186,000+ Spotify streams. 50+ shows. International press. And we're just getting started.

Stay awake.

Awake & Dreaming

Awake and Dreaming performing at The Delancey in New York City
November 20, 2025

Our First Tour: Guelph to Toronto to New York City

We packed a full band, gear, and a synchronized light show into a van and drove to New York City. This fall took us from Sonic Hall in Guelph to Sneaky Dee's in Toronto to The Delancey on the Lower East Side.

Read More

Fall 2025 was the first time Awake & Dreaming went on tour — a proper run of shows through Ontario and into New York City. We learned more about this band in those weeks than in any recording session.

It started September 18 at Sonic Hall in Guelph, Ontario, as part of Kyle Haze's Out of the Shadows tour. Sonic Hall is an incredible room — the acoustics, the lighting, the crowd. Playing original alt-rock to a Guelph audience that came specifically for live music felt like exactly where we should be.

October 2 brought us to Sneaky Dee's on College Street in Toronto — a room where countless great Canadian bands have cut their teeth. The energy was raw. The crowd was rowdy. Exactly what rock music is supposed to feel like.

And then the big one. We packed a full four-piece setup — drums, bass, guitar, keys, plus our entire music-reactive synchronized light show — into a van and drove across the border to The Delancey on the Lower East Side of New York City. Full band. Full gear. Full production. The set held the room. We played our originals — I U Me, Something To Believe In, Old Ghosts, Faceless, Can't Sleep — to a New York audience that had never heard us before. They stayed. They listened. They felt it.

The tour also took us through Kitchener-Waterloo, London, and Hamilton. Every show taught us something. Every room felt different. Every crowd pushed us to be better.

Our final show of the year was at Quai du Vin Estate Winery in St. Thomas on September 28 — our last performance of the season at a venue that has been part of this band's story from the very beginning.

Now we head into the studio. New music is coming. More details soon.

Awake & Dreaming

Awake and Dreaming performing live at Maxwells in Waterloo Ontario
September 8, 2025

Horseshoe Tavern, Brantford Beats & Eats, and CKMS Live Radio

August took us from the first-ever Brantford Beats & Eats festival to the legendary Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto — in a single day. Then CKMS 102.7 invited us to play live on Radio Waterloo.

Read More

August was a milestone month for Awake & Dreaming. Three Quai du Vin shows. A brand-new festival. A legendary Toronto venue. And our first live radio performance.

August 2 was a double-header. We started the day at Brantford Beats & Eats — the first-ever edition of this summer festival in Harmony Square, downtown Brantford, Ontario. Live music, food vendors, art, and a full day of entertainment. Playing an afternoon festival slot to a crowd discovering us for the first time is one of the best feelings in music.

That same evening, we drove to Toronto for the Horseshoe Tavern on Queen Street West. The Horseshoe has hosted the Tragically Hip, Blue Rodeo, The Strokes, and just about every band that matters in Canadian rock. Sharing a bill with BYRDY, Proof Of Dog, and Burning Bridges, we brought our full setup — the light show, the costumes, the volume — to a room that has seen it all. It was one of our best shows to date.

We squeezed in three more shows at Quai du Vin Estate Winery in St. Thomas through August — August 3 and August 9, following our July 12 show there. This venue has been part of our story since 2023 and continues to be one of our favorite places to play.

Then on August 25, CKMS 102.7 Radio Waterloo invited us to perform live on air — our first live radio appearance. Broadcasting from their studio in Kitchener, Ontario, we played stripped-back versions of our originals and talked about the band, our sound, and what's ahead. Hearing yourself come through the radio for the first time is surreal.

What's next: our first-ever tour. This fall, Awake & Dreaming hits the road — Guelph, Toronto, Kitchener-Waterloo, London, Hamilton, and beyond. We'll share dates soon.

Stay dreamy,

Awake & Dreaming

Stefan Schneider of Awake and Dreaming performing guitar at KW Multicultural Festival
July 15, 2025

Festival Season: GDMF, KW Multicultural, Ipperwash, and Waterloo Public Square

From the Guelph and District Multicultural Festival to two nights at Ipperwash Beach Club on Lake Huron to the KW Multicultural Festival in Victoria Park — this summer has been non-stop.

Read More

Summer 2025 is in full swing and we have been everywhere.

We kicked off the season June 7 at Quai du Vin Estate Winery in St. Thomas, Ontario — a venue that feels like home at this point. From there, the festival circuit exploded.

June 13-15 brought us back to the Guelph and District Multicultural Festival (GDMF) at Riverside Park in Guelph, Ontario — our second year at this incredible community festival. Playing to the Guelph crowd is always special. Stefan grew up in Guelph, taught at the University of Guelph for eight years, and still owns a home there. These are our people.

June 19-20 we played two nights at the Ipperwash Beach Club in Lambton Shores, Ontario — right on Lake Huron. Two back-to-back evenings of live music on the beach. The sunsets alone were worth the drive.

June 22 was the KW Multicultural Festival in Victoria Park, Kitchener, Ontario. Food, music, art, community, dance — and Awake & Dreaming on stage in the heart of Kitchener-Waterloo. This is our home region, and being part of a festival that celebrates the diversity of this community means everything to us.

Then on July 11, we played Waterloo Public Square — right in the center of uptown Waterloo, our hometown. A free outdoor show under the summer sky. Friends, family, and new fans all in one place. It doesn't get much better than that.

July 12 we returned to Quai du Vin for another afternoon of music and wine. The rest of August is stacked — including the Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto and Brantford Beats & Eats. More soon.

A&D

Something To Believe In single artwork by Awake and Dreaming
May 15, 2025

Something To Believe In — New Single and Music Video by Awake & Dreaming

Our new single "Something To Believe In" is out now with a brand new music video on YouTube. We also performed at the Bridgerton Ball in Cambridge and the Royal Ontario Ball in Oakville.

Read More

"Something To Believe In" is out now on all streaming platforms, with a brand-new music video on YouTube. This is our third self-directed music video — after Old Ghosts and I U Me — and we're incredibly proud of it.

The song is about holding onto something real when everything around you feels like noise. It builds the way all our music builds — quiet piano and vocals that pull you in close, then the guitars come crashing in and the whole thing opens up. That's the sound of Awake & Dreaming. Piano-driven verses into walls of distorted guitar. Quiet moments that feel vulnerable. Screams that feel earned.

In other news, spring brought two incredible events. On March 31, we performed at the Bridgerton Ball at Tapestry Hall in Cambridge, Ontario — organized by Arthur Murray Waterloo Dance Studios. Elaborate costumes, candlelight, ballroom dancing, and a room full of people dressed like they'd stepped out of a Regency novel. We played everything from waltzes to our own originals. It was wild and wonderful.

Then on May 11, we were the live band for the Royal Ontario Ball at the Oakville Conference Centre in Oakville, Ontario. Champagne reception, four-course gourmet dinner, professional dance performances by world-class Latin finalists, and Awake & Dreaming providing the music all evening. Playing for an audience like that — dressed to the nines, celebrating dance and music — is a reminder of how many different contexts this band can thrive in.

Summer 2025 is going to be massive. GDMF in Guelph, Ipperwash Beach Club, KW Multicultural Festival, Waterloo Public Square, and more to be announced. See you out there.

Awake & Dreaming

Phil Lee playing bass with Awake and Dreaming live
March 10, 2025

Phil Lee Joins the Band: Awake & Dreaming Is Now a Four-Piece

Awake & Dreaming is officially a four-piece. Phil Lee on bass has completed the sound we've been building toward since the beginning. We kicked off 2025 at The Grad House in Waterloo and the Arcano Ball in Hamilton.

Read More

Big news. Phil Lee is officially a member of Awake & Dreaming.

Phil joined on bass in 2024, and the difference was immediate. The low end locked in. The dynamics got wider. The live show got louder and more powerful. Sasha Kristoff on vocals and keys, Stefan Schneider on guitar, Ryan Dugal on drums, and now Phil Lee on bass — the four-piece we were always meant to be.

This band started as a duo during COVID — Sasha and Stefan writing songs together in a living room. Then Ryan heard what we were building and joined because he believed in it. After a year as a trio, Phil came aboard and the full sound locked in. Every step has felt like the right one at the right time.

We kicked off 2025 with a bang. On February 1, we played The Grad House at the University of Waterloo — a packed pub night with Phoo Phighters. The Grad House is right in the heart of campus, and the university crowd brought incredible energy. Playing in Waterloo — our hometown — always hits different.

That same day, we performed at the Arcano Ball at the Germania Club of Hamilton, Ontario. A full masquerade evening — dinner, dance, performances, and warm friendship in the dark of winter. Sasha in gown, Stefan in suit, Phil and Ryan in all black. The Arcano Ball is organized by Standard Dance, and performing for a room of dancers is always a unique and beautiful experience.

With I U Me out on Spotify and YouTube, and a full four-piece lineup locked in, 2025 is shaping up to be the biggest year yet for Awake & Dreaming. New music is coming. New shows are being booked. The full sound is here.

Stay dreamy,

Awake & Dreaming

I U Me music video still showing Awake and Dreaming
January 20, 2025

I U Me — New Alt-Rock Single and Music Video Out Now

Our new single "I U Me" is officially out on all platforms with a music video on YouTube. This one is about connection — when the noise is unbearable, you're not alone in it. "I am you and you are me."

Read More

"I U Me" is out now. Spotify. Apple Music. Every streaming platform. And the music video is live on YouTube.

This song has been a long time coming. "I U Me" is about connection — real, messy, human connection. When the noise of modern life is unbearable, you're not alone in it. The key lyric hits at 1:22: "I am you and you are me." It's a reminder. A declaration. A lifeline.

The song builds the way Awake & Dreaming songs build — intimate piano and vocals that start close, tension that grows, and then the guitars crash in and blow the doors open. It's the sound we've been developing since the band started: piano-driven alt-rock that earns the volume. Influenced by Radiohead, Muse, Nine Inch Nails, and AURORA, but shaped by our own story.

2024 was a year of firsts. Old Ghosts crossed 100,000 streams on Spotify — entirely organic, no label, no playlist deals, just the song finding its audience. We played the main stage at the Railway City Music and Arts Festival in St. Thomas. We performed twice at the Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto. We rocked Maxwell's in Waterloo alongside The Boys & I and Always On Friday. We played VENUExVENUE at The Rosewood Room in London and Frontier Music at The Registry Theatre in Kitchener.

Now we step into 2025 as a four-piece alt-rock band from Waterloo, Ontario with momentum, new music, and a hunger for bigger stages. More shows. More songs. More everything.

Thank you to every single person who has listened, shared, showed up to a show, or believed in what we're building. This is just the beginning.

Awake & Dreaming

Blog Image
December 3, 2024

Reflecting on November and Exciting News for December!

Hello Dreamers! November was filled with incredible performances, and we have some exciting news for the end of the year!

Read More

Hello Dreamers!

November was an unforgettable month for Awake & Dreaming, and we’re thrilled to share all the highlights and some exciting news for December!

We started November with an amazing show at VENUExVENUE at The Rosewood Room in London, ON, on Friday, November 15, 2024. The intimate setting allowed us to connect with our fans on a deeper level, and the history in the room was absolutely magical. Thank you to everyone who came out to share this special evening with us!

On Wednesday, November 27, 2024, we took the stage at The Registry Theatre in Kitchener, ON, as part of Frontier Music Presents. Performing in such a historic and atmospheric venue was a dream come true. The audience’s enthusiasm made the night truly memorable, and we were honored to share our music with you all!

Now, as we enter December, we’re beyond excited to announce the release of our new single, "I U Me", coming your way December, 2024! This song is incredibly special to us, and we can’t wait for you to hear it. It explores themes of self-discovery, connection, and introspection, and we hope it resonates deeply with all of you.

As we look back on the incredible journey we’ve had this year, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to every fan, new and returning, who has supported us along the way. Your energy and love inspire us to keep creating and sharing our music.

Stay tuned for more updates about what’s in store for Awake & Dreaming in 2025. We have so much planned, and we’re so excited to share it with all of you!

Stay dreamy,

Awake & Dreaming

Blog Image
September 16, 2024

Reflecting on August and Looking Forward to September!

Hello Dreamers! August was nothing short of incredible, and we owe it all to you!

Read More

Hello Dreamers!

August was nothing short of incredible, and we owe it all to you! Each show brought us amazing turnouts, new fans, and unforgettable moments that we will cherish for a long time. We are beyond grateful for the support and energy you brought to every performance. It was truly a dream to share these experiences with all of you!

We kicked off our August performances at Block 3 Brewery in St. Jacobs on August 10th. The evening was filled with great vibes, music, and laughter. The very next day, on August 11th, we returned to Quai du Vin Estate Winery in St. Thomas, and once again, the turnout was phenomenal. There's something magical about playing there, and we loved sharing that beautiful Sunday afternoon with so many of you.

On August 17th, we had the honor of performing on the main stage the Railway City Music and Arts Festival in Pinafore Park, St. Thomas. This one was particularly special to us, not only because of the amazing audience, but also because of the incredible volunteers who made it all possible. We couldn't have asked for a better community-driven event, and it was a privilege to be part of it. Thank you to everyone who made this festival so memorable!

We then hit Toronto for two back-to-back shows at the iconic Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) on August 21st and 22nd. The CNE crowd was truly electric, and we were so happy to meet new fans who connected with our music. The team and volunteers at the CNE were fantastic as well, and we can’t thank you all enough for making those performances such a success. We also managed to take some photos!...

Blog Image

We closed out the month on a high note at Maxwell's Indie Music Night in Waterloo on August 24th, where we played alongside The Boys & I and Always On Friday. The turnout from our hometown crowd was unbelievable! It was so special to share the stage with other great indie acts and see so many familiar faces. Thank you, Waterloo!

Looking forward, we’re excited to announce our next show at Quai du Vin Estate Winery on Sunday, September 22, 2024. It'll be our last show of the year, and we can't wait to return for another afternoon of music, wine, and great company. If you missed the last one, be sure to join us for this perfect way to wind down the summer!

Once again, thank you to every fan, new and returning, who came out to see us in August. And a huge shoutout to all the volunteers and teams who made these events possible. We couldn’t do this without you!

Stay dreamy,

Awake & Dreaming

Blog Image
August 3, 2024

Sizzling Summer Continues with Awesome August!

Hey Dreamers! The good summer vibes are rolling, and so are we with a jam-packed August. Our journey continues with a string of exciting events we can't wait to see you at!

Read More

Hello Dreamers!

The good summer vibes are rolling, and so are we with a jam-packed August. Our journey continues with a string of exciting events we can't wait to see you at!

But before then, we released our first ever music video for Old Ghosts! It's been amazing to share it with the world and thrive on all the positive feedback. We're so excited now to embark on an August jampacked with shows and festivals sharing our music with the crowd

Our journey kicks off at the Block 3 Brewery in St. Jacobs, where we'll set the evening alight with our latest tunes on August 10th. Right after we're delighted to be back at the beautiful Quai du Vin Estate Winery on August 11th, perfect for a Sunday afternoon of music and wine.

Mid-August takes us to the Railway City Music and Arts Festival in St. Thomas, where we'll rock Pinafore Park on the 17th. Then, we're off to the iconic Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto, with back-to-back shows on the 21st and 22nd. And finally, we cap off the month with a night of indie music at Maxwell's in Waterloo on the 24th where we'll be joined with The Boys & I and Always On Friday. Definitely come out to this one if you can.

Each venue holds its unique charm and we can't wait to bring our music to such fantastic crowds.

Stay tuned and see you soon!

Awake & Dreaming

Blog Image
June 26, 2024

Amazing Start to the Summer!

Dreamers! It's been so exciting to see you again. Summer keeps moving on and we had an amazing June! First we got the chance to play our original stuff in front of a packed tent at the Guelph District Multicultural Festival and the place rocked! We got to meet with super sweet fans and some other very talented musicians. After that, we were back at the lovely Quai du Vin winery where we got the chance to…

Read More

Dreamers!

It's been so exciting to see you again. Summer keeps moving on and we had an amazing June! First we got the chance to play our original stuff in front of a packed tent at the Guelph District Multicultural Festival and the place rocked! We got to meet with super sweet fans and some other very talented musicians. After that, we were back at the lovely Quai du Vin winery where we got the chance to try out a bunch of our new material for the year! The response was incredible.

Now stay tuned. In July we'll be playing again at the Quai du Vin winery on Sunday July 21st. Then just around the corner comes August where we will have so much to share!

Till then... we have our first song release just around the corner. Here's a sneak peak of what the music video will look like!

Blog Image

So excited to share it with you

Awake & Dreaming

Blog Image
May 14, 2024

Exciting June Concerts with Awake & Dreaming!

Hello, Dreamers! We are thrilled to kick off the summer with a series of special performances this June. Each concert promises a unique experience, blending our ethereal soundscapes with the charm of beautiful venues and vibrant festivals. Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable musical journey…

Read More

Hello, Dreamers!

We are thrilled to kick off the summer with a series of special performances this June. Each concert promises a unique experience, blending our ethereal soundscapes with the charm of beautiful venues and vibrant festivals. Mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable musical journey!

June 2, 2024 - Summer Now in Session at Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St. Thomas, ON Time: 1:00 PM Location: Quai du Vin Estate Winery

Celebrate the start of summer with us at the stunning Quai du Vin Estate Winery. Picture this: lush vineyards, a sunny afternoon, and the soothing melodies of Awake & Dreaming filling the air. Bring your family and friends for a day of relaxation, music, and wine. This event is perfect for a laid-back summer outing, and we can’t wait to share our new songs and fan favorites with you in this idyllic setting.

June 7, 2024 - Guelph Multicultural Festival, Riverside Park, Guelph, ON Time: 7:30 PM Location: Riverside Park

Join us at the vibrant Guelph Multicultural Festival for an evening of music, culture, and celebration. This festival is a melting pot of diverse cultural performances, and we are honored to be part of it. Our set will feature a mix of our original songs and some eclectic covers, promising an evening of rich musical experiences. Come and be part of this incredible event that celebrates unity and diversity through the universal language of music.

June 21, 2024 - Summer Now in Session at Quai du Vin Estate Winery, St. Thomas, ON Time: 1:00 PM Location: Quai du Vin Estate Winery

Back by popular demand, we’re returning to Quai du Vin for another Summer Session. If you missed us earlier in the month, this is your chance to catch us again. Expect an intimate and enchanting performance as we share our latest creations and beloved hits. The beautiful winery setting, combined with our music, creates a magical atmosphere that you won’t want to miss.

We are incredibly excited to share these June concerts with you. Each event offers something special, and we hope you can join us for all of them. Your support means the world to us, and we can’t wait to create unforgettable memories together.

Stay tuned for more updates, and make sure to follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes looks and exclusive content.

Until then, keep dreaming with us!

Awake & Dreaming

Blog Image
March 24, 2024

Awake & Dreaming’s First Concert

First and foremost, we want to introduce our new drummer and friend, Ryan Dugal! Ryan has over 15 years of experience as a drummer and singer-songwriter, and has fit seamlessly into our vibe. With a background in jazz, he has brought some very cool insights to our sound and a new energy that we’re very excited about…

Read More

First and foremost, we want to introduce our new drummer and friend, Ryan Dugal! Ryan has over 15 years of experience as a drummer and singer-songwriter, and has fit seamlessly into our vibe. With a background in jazz, he has brought some very cool insights to our sound and a new energy that we’re very excited about. Initially, Awake & Dreaming had come to his studio for some voice lessons from his partner, Claryssa Webb (also a talented strings player and singer in her own right), and to work in his home studio. We are so fortunate to have found them both, and can’t wait to see what we can create together.

Blog Image

The Performance: Unveiling the New

Last night, under the candlelight and light show, Awake & Dreaming took to the stage at Frontier Music, managed by Ryan. The intimate setting was the perfect place for us to share our most personal creations yet.

The evening was special for many reasons, but perhaps most significantly, it was our first concert as the primary act and it marked the first time our setlist was dominated by original music. We debuted several new songs, giving our fans a taste of what’s to come in our upcoming record. The response was electrifying, and the energy of our audience fueled us to deliver one of our most passionate performances yet. We had a lot of fun, too!

In the candlelit ambiance, each song unfolded like a story, with its own colors and emotions. The new tracks, with the release date still under wraps, were received with warmth and enthusiasm that exceeded all our expectations.

The Livestream: Sharing Our Music with the World

Recognizing the importance of connecting with our global fanbase, we also livestreamed the event on YouTube to reach those who couldn't join us in person and to create a lasting memory that fans can return to. The recording is available on the Frontier Music YouTube channel, inviting everyone to experience or re-experience the magic of the night.

Blog Image

Celebrations Beyond Music

The show also coincided with a very special occasion - Sasha’s birthday! The concert naturally transitioned into a celebration, not just of the music we’ve created but of life, friendship, and the bonds we’ve formed with each other and our friends. It was a night of reflection, joy, and looking forward to the future.

Looking Ahead

As we move forward, the night at Frontier Music will stand out as a milestone in our journey. It was a declaration of our commitment to original music and a prelude to the new chapter we embark on with our upcoming record.

We extend our deepest thanks to everyone who joined us, in person or through the livestream, for supporting us, believing in our music, and being a part of this unforgettable evening. This is just the beginning, and we can’t wait to share more of our music with you.

Stay tuned for updates on our record release and more performances. If you haven’t yet, make sure to watch the recording of the show and subscribe to the Awake & Dreaming YouTube channel for more music, behind-the-scenes looks, and updates from us.

Until next time, keep dreaming with us.

Awake & Dreaming

Blog Image
September 30, 2023

Looking Forward

As the leaves turn, we wrapped up our incredible summer season of our first 7 ever shows. From playing Great Balls of Fire with dancers in a ballroom to multiple shows in a beautiful outdoor venue, we have already come…

Read More

As the leaves turn, we wrapped up our incredible summer season of our first 7 ever shows. From playing Great Balls of Fire with dancers in a ballroom to multiple shows in a beautiful outdoor venue, we have already come further this year than I think either of us had anticipated. Our last show at Quai du Vin Winery marked the perfect ending. For the first time the wind was blowing adding to the excitement allowing us to let loose and be more improvisational. Autumn was in the air as some folks even cozied up under blankets in the tent with some fine wine while we sang about vampires and werewolves. The kids even sang along to some of our cover songs, and a bunch of our friends and family joined in too.

It has been an amazing summer sharing our music with all of you, and it has been so encouraging to see your responses- in particular to our original music. We are so thankful to have had this chance to make new fans, catch up with old friends, and showcase our new sounds as a duo.

Going into the Fall, we'll be hard at work using the feedback we received to help inspire new music. We also are hoping to grow the Awake & Dreaming band so stay tuned for that!

It’s been an amazing ride, and it’s just getting started. We’re hoping to play more shows, venues, and even festivals in the coming year. Thanks for being on this journey with us. Let’s keep the music playing and the good times rolling!

Until the next note, keep dreaming.

Awake & Dreaming

Blog Image
August 27, 2023

From Quai du Vin to Cheering for Thunder in the Valley

We had one of those weeks that reminds you why a life surrounded by music is worth pursuing. We're so grateful for each opportunity to share our music and vibes, and this weekend was no exception. We got to both…

Read More

We had one of those weeks that reminds you why a life surrounded by music is worth pursuing. We're so grateful for each opportunity to share our music and vibes, and this weekend was no exception. We got to both play and listen, meeting old friends and making new ones.

A Night to Remember at Quai du Vin

First up, let's talk about our gig at Quai du Vin. Man, what a day! The energy was infectious, and you could feel the excitement in the air as we kicked things off. We debuted some new original songs, and we couldn't have asked for a better crowd to share them with. Your positive reactions made all the rehearsals and late nights worth it. And can we talk about the dancing? When we launched into our cover of "What's Up" by 4 Non Blondes, couples from the crowd got up and started dancing. It captured the spirit of the day perfectly. It's moments like these are extra special to us.

Thunder in the Valley Festival

Inspired by the energy of our local community, we knew we had to go out and catch some live music ourselves. So, the next stop was the Thunder in the Valley festival in Sparta, Ontario. If you've never been, let us tell you, it's the epitome of music for the area. While on stage with the night above, one of the artists on stage described it as an unforgettable place immune to the world spinning around it. We could feel it too.

Over 800 people came out to revel in a day and evening filled with incredible live music. The roster was a mix of various genres, each band bringing their own unique sound and energy to the stage. Among those who performed were John Milles & Smokin' Dave, Randy Dawdy & Wrif Wraf, Jersey Seasons (a Four Seasons tribute), Beach Party Boys (a Beach Boys tribute), and Chico Sanchez with Hog Wild. Shout out to Gavan Rousseau vocalist for both the Jersey Seasons and Beach Party Boys for taking the time to speak with us after!

The Power of Community

There's something magical about seeing a community come together to celebrate something they love. For us, Thunder in the Valley was the perfect example of that. We met up with family members and fellow musicians, making new friends along the way. Did we mention the dance floor was packed!? We managed to squeeze onto the dance floor ourselves.

What's Next?

This weekend has left us inspired and focused to keep bringing the energy looking for additional venues to play over the autumn and winter. We hope to record soon and are excited to bring you more original music in our upcoming shows.

Until then, keep the music playing!

Blog Image
August 11, 2023

A Night Out at Kitchener Blues Fest

Last weekend, we had a blast attending the Kitchener Blues Fest, and seeing 'I Mother Earth' play live was a treat. The energy they brought on stage was contagious, and you could feel the excitement ripple through the crowd.There's...

Read More

Last weekend, we had a blast attending the Kitchener Blues Fest, and seeing 'I Mother Earth' play live was a treat. The energy they brought on stage was contagious, and you could feel the excitement ripple through the crowd.

There's always something special about outdoor concerts – the freedom, the atmosphere, the community vibe. And with downtown Kitchener as the backdrop on a perfect summer evening, the setting couldn't have been better.

One of the best parts of the night was meeting up with our musician buddy, Duncan. Meeting up with him is always enlightening. We chatted about everything from the nitty-gritty of mic-ing a drum kit to broader discussions about the local music scene. Duncan’s experience is vast, and he shared a ton of insights. The topic of how to book a festival was particularly intriguing. It's one thing to attend a festival, but playing at one? Now that's a whole different ball game.

Our chats with Duncan got us thinking: Why not set a new goal for Awake & Dreaming? By this time next year, we want to be up there, performing at a festival. With the taste of live music still fresh and the vibrant energy of the Kitchener Blues Fest as our inspiration, we're more motivated than ever.

We've been writing a bunch of new music and have plans to get into the studio to record over the next few months. Currently, we play six original songs in our set and aim to have a full hour of original music as soon as we can. We can't wait to share it with all of you!

The festival was a fantastic reminder of the beauty of live music, especially after such a long hiatus for many of us. It’s reignited our passion and given us a clear target to aim for. So here's to next summer, and hopefully, our very own festival gig!

Blog Image
July 25, 2023

An Exciting Summer Day at Quai Du Vin Winery Estate

Hello, everyone! We, Awake & Dreaming, your beloved indie/alternative duo from Waterloo, Ontario, are back with another update. We're thrilled to announce that we will be performing again at the beautiful Quai Du Vin Winery Estate on August 20th. With…

Read More

Hello, everyone! We, Awake & Dreaming, your beloved indie/alternative duo from Waterloo, Ontario, are back with another update.

We're thrilled to announce that we will be performing again at the beautiful Quai Du Vin Winery Estate on August 20th. With the lush vineyards serving as our backdrop under a (hopefully) sunny sky, we couldn't have asked for a more magical setting to share our music with you all.

What makes this event even more special is the outpouring of love and support we've been receiving. Family and friends from near and far will be joining us, turning this show into a grand reunion under the spell of music. It's more than just a gig; it's a celebration of our musical journey and the incredible community that's stood by us every step of the way.

Now, let's talk about the music. For this show, we've been working hard on preparing a unique setlist that includes several new songs. From the soulful melodies of John Mayer to the enchanting rhythms of Aurora, we'll be pushing musical boundaries, exploring various genres, and delivering a performance like never before. We're also excited to share our renditions of some classics by Radiohead, TV on the Radio, and Massive Attack. Each song has been carefully selected and rehearsed to ensure we bring a fresh and exciting performance to the stage. Whether you're a long-time fan of Awake & Dreaming or just discovering our music, this event is a perfect opportunity to witness our artistry and join our musical family. It's going to be a day of soul-stirring music, heartfelt performances, and memorable connections. We can't wait to share this special event with you all.

So, mark your calendars, bring your family and friends, and join us for an unforgettable summer day at the Quai Du Vin Winery Estate on August 20th.

Stay awake, keep dreaming, and let's create some magical musical memories together!

A&D

Blog Image
June 3, 2023

A Harmonious Journey Through Indie/Alternative Music

Hello and welcome to the world of Awake & Dreaming, an enchanting indie/alternative duo from Waterloo, Ontario. We're excited to kick off our blog and take you behind the scenes of our ethereal musical journey. Consisting of the captivating Sasha…

Read More

Hello and welcome to the world of Awake & Dreaming, an enchanting indie/alternative duo from Waterloo, Ontario. We're excited to kick off our blog and take you behind the scenes of our ethereal musical journey.

Consisting of the captivating Sasha Kristoff on vocals and piano, and the multi-instrumentalist Stefan Schneider handling guitar, bass, and drums, Awake & Dreaming emerged from a serendipitous encounter on a dating app three years ago. Since then, our love for music (and each other) has grown, leading to an amalgamation of intimate vocals, dreamy soundscapes, and honest lyricism.

Our music, influenced by renowned bands such as Radiohead, Muse, and Nine Inch Nails, is an introspective journey into the depths of emotions and what it means to be human. Each note, each rhythm, each word is meticulously crafted, aiming to resonate with listeners and evoke a sense of empathy and connection.

Alongside creating original songs, we love pushing the boundaries of conventional music. This involves experimenting with unique arrangements of our favourite songs, spanning various genres. Furthermore, we cherish the opportunity to infuse some of our performances with our passion for ballroom dancing, making our shows a unique blend of auditory and visual artistry.

In this blog, we aim to share our inspirations, the songwriting process, stories from our shows, and exciting updates. Whether you're an avid indie/alternative music listener, an emerging artist, or someone exploring this genre for the first time, our blog will serve as a gateway into our world.

As we embark on this new adventure, we invite you to join us and be part of the Awake & Dreaming community. Connect with us on social media, join us at our upcoming shows, and stay tuned for more posts and new music.

Remember, music isn't just about listening—it's about feeling, relating, and connecting. Through Awake & Dreaming, we hope to establish this connection with you, one song at a time.

Thank you for your support and for being part of our musical journey. Until our next post, stay awake, keep dreaming.

A&D

Contact

For booking, press, or collaboration inquiries — reach out directly.