FLASHCards: the gvllows

“FLASHcards” is a series of quick, introductory artist profiles. Email me for information on being featured.

This is a sponsored blog post.

Mississauga-based artist Daniel “the gvllows” Bartholomew is killing it in multiple spheres as a singer, songwriter, and producer. Despite his macabre pseudonym, his music conveys a sense of vital awareness across a variety of genres and topics. He shares his music on Spotify and SoundCloud, including his latest EP GOST (for which the album art pays homage to Toronto’s most iconic landmark) and his 2017 record 2weaks. The 28-year-old has progressed from playing in an indie rock band called Modern Sands to creating moody hip hop tracks of his own, often in collaboration with fellow Greater Toronto Area artists.

“Please Don’t Do This To Me” featuring Noita showcases production that reflects the confusion of questioning a partner’s loyalty; the gvllows gripes “I wish you wasn’t fuckin’ with the scene” while Noita implores “we’ve been goin’ ‘round and around like a carousel … don’t leave me lonely”. He’s also worked on tracks with Uptown Boyband members Joe Rascal and roclee, and with ACV members killVill and MosPants. These collaborations often lead to in-person performances together at tight-knit Toronto shows.

the gvllows’ artist name, personal photos, and musical sound combine to create a dark, cohesive aesthetic that still leaves room for experimentation. “End of the Day” with killVill is a gloomy, lo-fi track that sandwiches the featured artist’s crescendoing verse between the gvllows’ pained refrain. In contrast, his latest track “Burgundy” featuring frequent collaborator Dalia Dargazli is a slow-burning, hypnotic song that centers on pair’s melancholy vocals. the gvllows’ reggaeton offering “Llamarte” brings in producer DJ Stivenz to mold yet another distinct sound, and it disguises heartbroken thoughts about an estranged lover beneath a dance-able beat. Finally, GOST track “Best Disguise” featuring Tigerwing displays soul influences as a groovy ending to the EP.

Keep it locked for the gvllows’ new track “No Way Out”, which will be released mid-December across all streaming services.