Acclaimed Toronto-based folk-pop artist Melanie Peterson will release her eighth EP, ‘Read It On The Radio – Vol 2’, out now, following her month-long residency at the legendary Cameron House in Toronto last month.
Peterson, known for her luminous vocals and emotionally resonant songwriting, reunites with longtime producer Mitch Girio for this second installment of her ‘Read It On The Radio’ series. The project captures the warmth and intimacy of her live performances while showcasing her interpretive depth across a handpicked collection of covers.
The EP opens with a heartfelt rendition of John Fogerty’s “Have You Ever Seen the Rain”, where Peterson’s acoustic phrasing and understated delivery reflect a sense of quiet joy. “I started feeling more and more happy inside while performing the song live,” Peterson said. “It didn’t matter if I was upset or frustrated or whatever. I kept getting happier every time I sang it.”
Another highlight, Melanie Safka’s “Brand New Key”, connects Peterson back to her musical roots. “My parents were folkies and named me after Melanie,” she recalls. “It’s remained a favourite to perform live,” featuring her trio partners Paul Therrien, Jennifer Wakefield, and Peter Collins on backing vocals.
Peterson also takes on The English Beat’s “Save It for Later”, a power-pop anthem that transforms under her melodic folk sensibility. With Peter Collins on harmonies and Mitch Girio’s textured guitars, the arrangement adds emotional clarity to the original’s restless energy.
Her interpretation of “Elliot’s Song” from HBO’s Euphoria offers a quiet, introspective moment. “We had a great time giving it a gentle lift in this version,” Peterson shares. Written by Labrinth, Muzhda Zemar-McKenzie, and Zendaya, the song fits seamlessly into the EP’s reflective tone.
Closing with Nick Lowe’s timeless “(What’s So Funny ’Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding”, Peterson channels optimism through jangly guitars and bright harmonies. “There’s never a time when this message feels out of place,” she notes. “Singing it now feels more relevant than ever.”
The EP marks another creative chapter in Peterson’s evolving artistry. From her early breakout at Canadian Music Week to multiple FACTOR grants and national airplay, she continues to define her own path through song. BBC Radio once described her as “Mary Poppins with a broken heart,” and that blend of tenderness and precision remains evident in every note.
Peterson’s upcoming residency at The Cameron House will celebrate both her original catalogue and the new EP. Each Monday evening, she and her band performed two sets—one of her signature originals and one featuring the new covers—creating a unique listening experience that blends storytelling and musical craft.
Joining her on stage are Peter Collins (bass, backing vocals), Jonathan Billings (guitar, backing vocals), and “Lucky” Pete Lambert (drums, backing vocals). The performances promise the same warmth and connection that have made Peterson a beloved presence on Toronto’s live music circuit.
With ‘Read It On The Radio – Vol 2’, Melanie Peterson invites listeners into an intimate dialogue between artist and song—a collection that bridges eras, influences, and emotions with unfiltered grace and charm.
