Rocktographers are back at it, slinging camera straps and hot takes as they storm the Phillips Backyard Reverb Music Festival with lenses blazing and ears buzzing. Between snapping shots of shredding guitars and stage antics we’re dropping cheeky recommendations faster than a bass drop—“Don’t miss this set, trust us,” we whisper like backstage prophets. Whether you’re chasing the next big indie darlings or just in it for the dancey chaos, these shutter-happy sages know exactly which bands will melt your face and look good doing it.
As we vigorously apply more SPF 50 sunscreen in preparation of some August heat It’s hard to believe that we are already at the second and final Phillips Backyard Music Festival of the season, Reverb.
Friday, August 8th
Mac Sabbath
Rocktographers have seen a ton of costume-based bands over the years. Bands like Cybertronic Spree and PPL MVR add another element by fully embracing the costumes they wear. Soon to be joining that list of costume rockstars we’ve seen is Mac Sabbath. You can probably guess from the name, but the band performs Black Sabbath covers with fast food lyrics, while wearing costumes inspired by some golden arch characters.
In an alternate timeline, that sentence would probably be strange, but we’d like to think we are in the right timeline because this group has been on our minds since the festival announced them for this year’s lineup.
Since 2014, Mac Sabbath have established themselves as a premium tribute band with a twist with their music was even given a smile of approval from the late Black Sabbath singer himself, Ozzy Osbourne when the band performed for him on his show, Ozzy & Jack’s World Detour. Not many tribute bands can say that they’ve played in front of their inspiration. Now, we get to experience a super-sized performance right in front of our eyes when Mac Sabbath performs on the main stage at REVERB. This delicious set is not to be missed.
Ruby Waters
We won’t lie—when we heard SOMBR had to cancel his Phillips Backyard set, there was a dramatic group sigh, maybe even a tear or two (it’s allergy season, okay?). But just as we were mourning the moody bangers we’d miss, the universe pulled a fast one—in struts Ruby Waters, guitar in hand, ready to turn our sadness into a singalong. Talk about a silver lining with swagger. Her raw vocals, gritty charm, and undeniable stage presence aren’t just filling SOMBR’s spot—they’re lighting it on fire. Total plot twist, and we’re so here for it.
With her new single WET T-SHIRT already blowing up the airwaves it’s just another banger to singalong to with the crowd. Who is bringing the Sour Patch Kids?
Saturday, August 9th
Diamond Cafe
If you’re not planning to catch Diamond Cafe at Phillips Backyard Reverb, rethink your life choices (gently, with love). This smooth operator serves up silky synths, dreamy falsetto, and grooves so slick you might just slide into a better version of yourself. Think slow dancing under a disco ball made of feelings. Trust us—this set will be equal parts swoon and sway, and missing it would be like skipping dessert.
This homegrown talent has often felt like he is on the cusp of exploding and after touring with both TALK and Teddy Swims in the past year we are certain this might be one of the last chances we get to see him on our home turf in any meaningful and intimate way.
Phantogram
There may be other choices of Rockstar out there, Phantogram headlining the Saturday night of Reverb is not to be missed. Someday after you’ve Figured It Out, you’ll look back on a Photograph from your local Rocktographers and realize it’s Too Bad that you missed this band Burn It To The Ground. (OK, enough of the Nickelback puns…)
It’s been almost a decade since Phantogram last played Victoria, and anyone who was lucky enough to be at that sold out concert in 2016 will remember their amazing live show. The duo blend together elements of indie rock, electronic music, dream pop, and trip-hop into their own unique genre-bending sound. Friends since grade school, Sarah Barthel and Josh Carter have the type of life-long friendship that is rare to see in music, or anywhere really. (#bestfriendshit) When they’re not on stage, Phantogram creates some of our favourite online content (Team Rocktogs are big fans of Leroy and Carl) and are a solid internet follow.
Sunday, August 10th
Prado Monroe
If you were unaware of the talent that is Prado Monroe, I suggest you get familiar. The Vancouver based rapper and singer has been making moves over the last few years and Victoria’s been blessed to witness that up trend throughout her career. Her first performance in the city was at Intrepid Theatre back in 2017, and her latest performance was during The Function Festival in 2022. In other words, we have been experiencing a Prado Monroe drought in the city and replaying her hits like ELASTIC just won’t do anymore. Thankfully, she’ll be arriving to the Main Stage for the final day of REVERB. Get ready for a truly iconic performance.
The Roots
The Roots have been an institution of American hip hop for over 30 years now. Throughout the years the collective has had a number of members, with drummer Amir “Questlove” Thompson and vocalist Tariq “Black Thought” Trotter being founding members, and the two remaining from the original lineup. With a current roster of about twelve musicians, each member adds a unique piece to the group’s eclectic soundscape.
With 14 studio albums, a handful of EPs, as well as live and compilation albums, not to mention a day job as the house band of The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, it’s hard to imagine that the group has time for any other creative pursuits. Their work as The Roots only scratches the surface of their talents though, with music production, book authorship, acting, and (Oscar winning) movie direction well within their wheelhouse as well. With their gig at The Tonight Show keeping the group busy and anchored to New York, the group now only perform a handful of shows each year. We are incredibly fortunate to have one of their few 2025 performance dates to be here in Victoria to headline the final night of Reverb. Do not miss this opportunity to see such an iconic group!
Music BC Stage
The Music BC Stage has hands down been our favorite new addition to the Phillips Backyard bash! Tilt and Reverb have always been all about the music — but now? We’ve got a new word in the mix: discovery. Yup, it’s not just about hearing your faves anymore — it’s about finding your next ones.
The Music BC Stage is a powerhouse – metres away from The Powerhouse.
Antonio Larosa is a standout in the Canadian country-rock scene: a storyteller with grit and soul, building his career through premium songwriting, high-energy live performances, and a keen reverence for the genre’s greats—while crafting a truly personal path forward.
Pony Gold is a dynamic duo deeply rooted in heart, grit, and authenticity. Their music blends soulful melodies with alt-country vibes, crafting songs that feel both timeless and deeply personal. Every track pulses with emotional depth, telling stories of resilience, love, and the human experience with raw honesty and warmth. Beyond their captivating sound, what truly sets Pony Gold apart is their genuine spirit and connection—not only to their music but to the people around them.
Kate Yahn is a captivating storyteller in song—soft-hearted but fierce, nostalgic yet modern, and one of the freshest talents rising from Vancouver’s vibrant music scene. Since seeing Kate Yahn play on a festival stage in 2023 we’ve been telling everyone we know to get her back on the island.
Cam Blake is that effortlessly cool artist who makes you want to grab a coffee and just vibe. With a knack for catchy hooks and smooth vocals, Cam’s music is like a fresh breeze on a sunny day — easygoing, heartfelt, and totally relatable. Whether he’s strumming an acoustic guitar or dropping a soulful tune, Cam’s got that laid-back charm that makes you feel like you’ve known him forever. Plus, he’s always up for a good laugh and some good tunes, making every show feel like hanging out with your best bud.
Clare Twiddy is the kind of artist who sprinkles a little sunshine wherever she goes. Her music is warm, uplifting, and full of those feel-good vibes that make you want to dance around your living room. With a voice that’s both sweet and powerful, Clare’s songs tell stories that are easy to connect with—whether she’s singing about love, life, or just the everyday magic in between.
Emmett Jerome is the kind of artist who brings a cool breeze and good vibes wherever he goes. With a voice that’s smooth as a summer evening and songs that blend soul, roots, and a little bit of twang, Emmett’s music feels like a long drive with the windows down. He’s got an easy charm and a timeless sound that draws you in without trying too hard—just real, honest music that hits in all the right places. Whether he’s solo or jamming with friends, Emmett always keeps it warm, easygoing, and effortlessly cool.
Ivan Hartle is a Vancouver-based singer-songwriter known for his soulful blend of blues, jazz, and folk, infused with a vintage yet modern sound. His music features smooth vocals, groovy rhythms, and introspective lyrics, drawing comparisons to artists like Leon Bridges and John Mayer. A former college baseball player, Hartle has gained recognition through national airplay, streaming success, and performances at major Canadian festivals.
ZADA is a Ethiopia-born singer-songwriter based in Whistler, British Columbia, who blends neo-soul, R&B, Afrobeat, folk, and pop into a nature-infused, multi-genre sound. At age 20, her debut album Water in the Desert and standout singles like “Nomad” and “Atlantic Times” have earned praise for their soulful vocals and cinematic storytelling rooted in her Ethiopian heritage and Canadian upbringing.
KAPOK is a Vancouver-based rapper and songwriter whose smooth blend of jazz-infused hip-hop and soul reflects both his deep musical roots and thoughtful lyricism. With Mayan and Welsh heritage, he crafts reflective, groove-heavy tracks that balance introspection with laid-back swagger. His collaborations with legends like De La Soul and Redman highlight his grounded yet quietly ambitious presence in the underground scene.
Still haven’t gotten your tickets to Phillips Backyard Reverb Music Festival? Don’t miss out on the best weekends of the summer happening right here in Victoria, BC. Get them here – Phillips Backyard Tickets.
