The Island music scene will boast a deep lineup of musicians and industry professionals gathering at this year's East Coast Music Week in Sydney, Nova Scotia. To celebrate the big year for PEI nominations and showcasing acts, six Island indie-rock and pop acts are coming together for a two-day sendoff party at The Sportsman's Lounge, April 8 and 9.

On Friday April 8, indie four-piece Racoon Bandit headline a night alongside SORREY and DJ Whaleskin. Racoon Bandit's 2015 recording Close Your Eyes is nominated for Rock Recording of the Year, while dream-pop act SORREY got a nod for Thick As Thieves for Pop Recording of the Year.

Saturday April 9, three-time nominees this year, Coyote headline a bill with Andrew Waite & The Firm as well as Dylan Menzie. Coyote's album Proof of Life is nominated for Group Recording of the Year, Pop Recording of the Year and Rising Star Recording of the Year. Both Andrew Waite & The Firm and Dylan Menzie are showcasing in Sydney, when the ECMA's take place, April 13-17.

The ECMA Sendoff Showcase promises to be a festive, well-attended weekend, and a great chance to wish the musicians well as they prepare for a busy week in Cape Breton.