Electronic Press Kit (EPK)

Short Bio (for quick promotion)

Mike Zimmermann (@firesideghosts) crafts what he calls Acoustic Post-Wave, fusing the nostalgia of ‘80s new wave, the energy of ‘90s grunge, and the atmospheric depth of modern shoegaze.

A seasoned performer with deep Toronto roots, Mike brings an emotional and introspective energy to every stage, reimagining classics and sharing original songs that explore roads not taken, moments missed, and connections overlooked.

Full Bio

Mike Zimmermann (@firesideghosts) is an independent acoustic artist with a sound best described as Acoustic Post-Wave—a fusion of ‘90s grunge grit, ‘80s new wave melancholy, and modern shoegaze atmospherics. A founding member of an alternative rock band in the grunge era, he took a long hiatus from writing and performing before recently rediscovering his voice in the raw, vulnerable world of solo acoustic music.

With a history of performing at some of Toronto’s most iconic venues—including The Rivoli, The Horseshoe, The Opera House, The El Mocambo, and Lee’s Palace—Mike has returned to the stage with a renewed artistic vision. He also continues to foster the local music scene through numerous collaborations, and by running open mics and songwriter panels that connect and support indie artists.

His songwriting is deeply narrative, exploring themes of reflection, affection, and rue—the roads not taken, the moments overlooked, and the emotions that linger in between. His performances are both intimate and expansive, stripping down ‘80s and alternative classics and originals to their barest essence.

Live Performance Videos

Original Acoustic Performance: “What I Need”

Music Samples

Studio Recording: “Miss You”

Press & Testimonials

Audience member: “You make John Prine sound like Slowdive” Instagram Post

Sample Covers Setlist

• Just Like Heaven - The Cure
• Where Is My Mind - Pixies
• Round and Round - New Order
• Take On Me - a-ha
• I Bet You Think About Me - Taylor Swift
• Basket Case - Green Day
• Sex and Candy - Marcy Playground
• The Man Who Sold The World - Nirvana
• Hasn't Hit Me Yet - Blue Rodeo
• Into The Great Wide Open - Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers
• All Along The Watchtower - Bob Dylan
• Stick Season - Noah Kahan
• Lacy - Olivia Rodrigo
• Dancing in the Dark - Bruce Springsteen
• February Air - Lights
• Turn The Page - Bob Seger & The Silver Bullet Band

Gear

I am completely self-sufficient (instruments, mics, stands, PA) and have a compact off-grid setup that can run on batteries for at least 5 hours if needed.

Contact Information

Email: mike@firesideghosts.com

Social Media: instagram.com/firesideghosts

Website: firesideghosts.com