Hitting the fairway for a very good cause, GRAMMY® Award-winning, global megastar DJ Khaled excitedly presents the inaugural WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC on Thursday July 20 in Miami, FL sponsored by Jordan brand. The perennial hitmaker will be joined by an A-list cohort of players, teeing off to support various charitable initiatives for a great cause. The proceeds will benefit the We The Best Foundation and their various endeavors in education, the arts, and so much more. This inaugural tournament will be an experience like no one other.
About the event, Khaled commented, “Just to be out on the golf course with close friends and family of mine is a blessing. Giving back makes it even better. I can’t wait to see you all at the first-ever WE THE BEST FOUNDATION GOLF CLASSIC. We’re starting something very special here while introducing the sport of golf to a wider community.”
The festivities commence on Wednesday July 19 when Khaled welcomes sponsors and guests. Bright and early on the following morning July 20, registration and breakfast commence at 8am with celebrity intros at 9am. The tournament kicks off at 9:30am sharp followed by awards at 2:30pm.
Stay tuned for more from DJ Khaled soon.
Electronic music innovator Eprom, revered for his boundary-pushing work in sonic and visual arts, is thrilled to release of his long-awaited LP, Syntheism, his first album in a decade, on June 9th. Eprom, birth name Alexander Dennis, has captivated audiences and critics alike with his multi-faceted sound that eschews genre labels in favor of raw computer outputs, experimental techniques, breakbeat manipulation, and complex rhythms that evoke tension and release.
Following the album’s release, Eprom takes his unparalleled “Robotics” live show on the road with a one-night-only headlining event at Denver’s Mission Ballroom on July 29th. This show marks the debut of “Syntheism Robotics,” a larger-scale interpretation of the inaugural show at The North Warehouse in his hometown of Portland, Oregon. Tickets: https://rb.gy/kd1fv.
“Syntheism Robotics” is a true spectacle of EPROM’s virtuosic talent, showcasing proprietary animatronics as part of the production. The event is an audacious display of EPROM’s utopian vision that combines music and technology, perfectly encapsulating the essence of Syntheism.
Syntheism is more than just an album; it is a rich and complex alternate history in which the drought that preceded the collapse of the Akkadian Empire never occurred. This alternate timeline offers a techno-utopian society with its own distinct culture, languages, and beliefs. Each track from the album is named after an organization contributing to this alternate world’s growth and advancement. The combination of EPROM’s unique sound and the album’s engaging narrative paints a vivid image of an alternative reality.
MULL HISTORICAL SOCIETY is back with a brand new album: ‘In My Mind There’s A Room’.
Released by the Xtra MIle Recordings label on 21 July, the first new material from Colin MacIntyre in five years will feature contributions from an all-star cohort of thirteen guest authors: Ian Rankin, Nick Hornby, Jacqueline Wilson, Val McDermid, Jennifer Clement (‘Widow Basquiat’), Booker-winning Sebastian Barry, Alan Warner, 2021 US National Book Award-winner Jason Mott, Scottish poet laureates’ Jackie Kay and Liz Lochhead, and booker-shortlisted Stephen Kelman (‘Pigeon English’).
His collaboration with Liz Lochhead, “1952”, can be heard today.
WATCH VIDEO HERE || STREAM ON ALL SERVICES HERE
Mull Historical Society is the musical project of Colin MacIntyre – the multi-award-winning musician, producer, author for adults and children, and playwright. Writing music that is often personal and steeped in the tradition of his native island, yet with an adventurous spirit and outward-reaching appeal, over the last two decades his works have resonated with audiences both in the UK and all over the world.
In 2023, Mull is bringing his worlds of words and music together for the extraordinary new album ‘In My Mind There’s A Room’, Produced by MacIntyre. Across its fourteen songs, MacIntyre has enlisted an all-star cast of literary giants to contribute their own words about a special room that plays or has played a significant part in their lives. Using these words as the lyrics, Colin has then written the musical arrangements to create a 14 track album of personal and thoughtful songs. Rather fittingly, these songs were recorded in a room that holds a special place in Colin’s heart – his grandfather’s flat above the bank in Tobermory, Mull, which has since been turned into a fully-equipped recording studio.
NADINE KHOURI is pleased to present an animated video for her new single: “Song Of A Caged Bird”.
WATCH HERE
Originally penned as a lament on surveillance capitalism, “Song of a Caged Bird” took on new meaning for Khouri during the pandemic when the world outside fell away, replaced by a miasma of ceaseless 1s and 0s. Reflecting on making the single, Nadine says:
“We were getting ready to go into the studio to record it and the whole world went into lockdown… Of course, the lyrics spooked me out then and the song took on a whole other meaning for me when I was between four walls for months. Ironically, the social media I was bemoaning had, quite literally, become my only way of connecting with anyone in the outside world.”
The new single is accompanied by a beautiful hand-drawn animation by Marseille-based illustrator Aude Nasr, which is revealed today (9 June) and premiered by Under The Radar. Speaking about the video Nadine says:
“I love Aude (Nasr)’s work and find her characters really relatable. Her illustrations are beautiful and thoughtful, often giving voice to others. By chance, I saw that we were both living in Marseille, so we met and found a lot of common ground between us. The collaboration came about in a really organic and inspiring way. It was a joy to collaborate on this with her.”
DESSAUER DEBUTS WITH ENTHRALLING SINGLE ‘ILLUSION OF SEPARATENESS’// LISTEN HERE
Introducing Dessauer, a Berlin based artist who debuts today with a beautiful piece of experimental electronic music in ‘Illusion Of Separateness’. A sprawling arrangement that takes you on a journey from first note to last, the track is an immersive piece which includes notes that haunt and notes that are redemptive. Take a listen HERE.
This is step one from Dessauer, an artist creating forward thinking electronica with a multi-faceted story that lives within it.
Picking up the pieces of a fragmented family and personal history marred by distance and war, Dessauer’s new EP “Limbic Resonance” tells a twofold story of reclamation; that of heritage, and of self. Dessauer, whose pen name is taken from his maternal grandmother’s lineage, was misdiagnosed with Bipolar disorder at age 13, and subsequently overmedicated. After living in a neurochemical haze for the duration of his teenage years, now healthy, Dessauer returns to Germany, the country his family fled from nearly a century ago, to begin anew. Embodying themes of anxiety and fear, excitement and immersion, submission and ego death – and ultimately, rebirth, Dessauer’s first ever solo release draws from the reservoir of his cross-continental journey within. The first track taken from his debut project is “Illusion Of Separateness”, an experimental electronic track which taps into the depths of Dessauer’s past – and future. “There’s a certain heaviness to what I’ve been through, I think that’s reflected in the music” Dessauer admits. “That said, I’m actually one of the most optimistic people I know. It’s comical really. But I just feel grateful to be here, expressing myself and telling my story”.
Myles Lloyd is an R&B, pop artist from Montreal, Canada. His vocal presence and songwriting is filled with a careless emotion that can be defined as vulnerable, honest and when at its best, confusing. Filled with complex stories and real-life scenarios that have come to his attention over the past years, his music acts as a release when his thoughts are finally transformed into lyrics.
Now, he is back with his new single “Shadows”, a mellow refusal to let inner demons dictate your next move and start making your own decisions. With transitional monologues and soaring energy, Lloyd’s latest single soars with euphony. In collaboration with global producer Nepaondabeat, as well as 4nghts and Niketaz, their seamless writing efforts formed the foundations of a tune that highlights creativity at its core, and catharsis in its choruses. Lloyd explains, “I don’t think I can ever leave the negative thoughts aside entirely and this song is explaining just that. I just have to learn to live with it and embrace my flaws. Shadows will always follow.”
“Shadows” narrates the idea that, sometimes, our actions implement our feelings, rather than our truth. In an ode to empowerment, he continues, “I hope this song encourages others to recognize if you have any flaws or stuff that you should work on and get right to it. Don’t wait to be your best self.”
As he sings, “This time around my demons roam lonely,” Lloyd’s latest offering showcases his blissful echoic vocal energy, dreamy melodies and resonating resilience in a truly enthralling way. Hoping that his listeners will confide in his experiences, “Shadows” beams a positive light on the ambition to be a better person, and the battle to find inner strength.Racking up over four million streams for his previous releases and garnering acclaim from the likes of Complex, Teen Vogue, Wonderland Magazine, Rolling Stone, PAPER, Live Nation’s Ones to Watch & On The Radar, Exclaim!, Source, Revolt, Sniffers and Hip Hop DX, to name a few, Myles Lloyd is tipped to be one of the hottest artists for 2023 and beyond. Catch him performing at Sol Blume, California this August.
Scottish singer-songwriter – PHILIP SETH CAMPBELL – has unveiled “Magical West”, the first single to be taken from his forthcoming solo album ‘City Lights’ (out 1 September 2023 via Assai Records).
The artist has also announced an extensive UK and Ireland tour for Autumn 2023, as well as three in-store shows in his native Scotland to mark the album’s release.
LISTEN ON YOUTUBE HERE || STREAM ON SPOTIFY HERE
A shimmering and synth-heavy cut that feels as though it was plucked straight from the silver screen, “Magical West” arrives as the first sampler from Campbell’s forthcoming album ‘City Lights’ (out 1 September via Assai Records).
An amalgamation of Campbell’s life and career up until this point, the new record unfolds like a series of cinematic snapshots captured in timeless technicolour. From new single and album opener “Magic West” to plucky ballads like “Break The Curse” and “Sober Boy”, and from the bluesy soulful title-track “City Lights” to riled-up and rocky “Gut City Blues”, the LP sees the artist traverse time and genre with a deft sense of musicality that glints and glimmers like an unearthed trove of deep-buried treasure.
Speaking of the new record, Campbell explains:
“”City Lights” is everything I know. The album flowed naturally, each song informing the next. It’s half new songs and half older unfinished pieces. I’ve been writing it since I was 16, all through my 20s and my years in London, through moving home to The Temperance Movement, touring, resting and having a family.”
The sound of an artist who has been through the wringer and emerged all the more assured on the other side, the album tells the tale of the highs, lows and everything in between. From major labels and critical acclaim to bands, solo records and eclectic collaborations, Campbell’s musical scars have only served to hone his craft and embolden his work in a way that makes him the musician he is today.
Speaking of his varied career and the bumpy road he’s traversed to get to this point, Campbell adds:
“A new band here, a new project there, a change of direction again and again until, suddenly there was calm and the time to think. In a small studio just outside Glasgow, with pictures of Bowie, Jagger, Neil Young and Tom Waits, I recorded an album about my whole life. I had no desire to shed my skin. I was perfectly comfortable in it for the very first time.”
Claudia Cappelletti is an Italian singer/songwriter whose music has taken her around the world, giving her the nickname of “the Nomad of the world”. Having graduated from the CPM Music Academy in Milan, she then went on to sing at luxury hotels internationally, wowing audiences with her charismatic and explosive performances, before making her way to the States where she lived for several years. Her time spent there is where her sound became influenced by American rock and indie bands including Band of Horses, Bleachers and The Killers.
Over the last few years, Claudia Cappelletti focused on her own music, creating a new five-track EP, alongside acclaimed producer Ryan Hadlock (The Lumineers, Vance Joy, Brandie Carlile, and many others) at the Bear Creek Studio in Seattle.
Her latest single “Mine” showcases some of her strongest and most empowering work to date. Speaking on women’s rights, Claudia Cappelletti joins the fight for equality, sharing, “As I traveled as a singer around the world so many times I got to live in underdeveloped countries where many women and girls continue to experience discrimination because of their sex and gender. I can’t deny the anger I felt for the injustice those women have to face in their everyday’s life.”
“Mine” is Claudia Cappelletti’s way of inspiring and uniting all the people around the world to fight for the rights for women to live free from violence and discrimination, to enjoy the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health, to be educated, to own property, to vote and to earn an equal wage. The lyrics give a voice to women who can’t express their own voice. The track showcases real speeches from politicians and girls around the world who talk about women rights, including Pakistani education activist Malala Yousafzai who said “I speak not for myself, but so those without a voice can be heard. Those who have fought for their rights. Their right to live in peace. Their right to be treated with dignity. Their right to equality of opportunity. Their right to be educated.”
Sonically, “Mine” features hopeful guitars and strings which elevate the spirit of the song, combined with the beating of the drums and bass representing a real army of women fighting for their rights. The accompanying music video shows a compilation of black and white footage of women going through different experiences, from fighting for their rights, to being stuck in an unhealthy relationship and feeling like a shadow of the person they are. Splashes of colour and uplifting moments then enter with Claudia Cappelletti delivering energy and passion, showing that there is hope and light at the end of the tunnel.
“Mine” marks the beginning of a new chapter for Claudia Cappelletti, as she confides, “I spent such a big part of my life singing other people’s songs until I started to feel the need to tell my own story, my truth, my point of view about life. I grew up with a very low self esteem, I was bullied from a very young age to the point that I was judging negatively even a simple act like “writing my story” as it wasn’t important enough or good enough to be told. Until I finally realized that my happiness was my own responsibility and that I couldn’t wait for the world and the others to be perfect for me to be happy. I stopped comparing myself to the others, I started celebrating my uniqueness smiling at knowing that there is only one single ME in this world, with her unique amazing story.”
Glasgows Dead Pony might just be one of the most exciting Scottish exports. An infamously hard-edged city in the UK’s grim far north-west, Glasgow’s weathered concrete and moody skies weren’t the obvious surroundings in which the creative vibrancy of youngsters like Anna Shields and Blair Crichton alongside bassist Liam Adams and drummer Euan Lyons would be allowed to flourish.
A swaggering, genre-obliterating banger, new single ‘MK Nothing’ – the first taste new music – position the Rock quartet alongside scene-leading trailblazers. Testament to the broad spectrum of influence, feeling every bit Wolf Alice, Kid Kapichi or Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, too.
contemporary Americana artist Dusty Waters shares her album Pass It On. The seven new songs presented on this record speak across time and place to express a modern woman’s experience of the deep South, a manifestation of the magic and mourning of the bayou state, and a hopeful ode to the power of self-actualization.
Pass It On was written over the three years from 2019 to 2022 by the New Orleans-based songwriter/musician Jennifer Jeffers. She uses the name Dusky Waters as a nom de plume as well as an expression of her affinity for the magic of twilight hours and the presence of the Mississippi River that has anchored her life from her childhood on the banks of its tributary Arkansas River in Little Rock, to her early twenties in the delta of northern Louisiana, to her current crescent city home on the gulf coast. Absorbing and exploring the sounds that she uncovered along the way, her songs ultimately uncover what it is to be a black, southern, millennial woman, negotiating the 2020s. Or, as Dusky succinctly puts it, “it’s about living, loving, and losing in Louisiana during the pandemic years.”
Vancouver musician Colleen Rennison captures the dreamy bliss of having a summer crush on her new single ‘I Do’ out now on all digital streaming platforms. Listen here.
‘I Do’ is the second single from Colleen’s new album Persephone set for release later this year. The laid back R&B track wears its retro influences proudly, giving it a hopeful optimism that feels satisfyingly sweet.
“I wanted to capture the excitement and delicious agony of being enamoured with someone and daydreaming about them to the point of almost insanity,” says Colleen. “I woke up in the middle of the night and wrote the chorus. I’d been listening to a lot of The Temptations and The Supremes and had been crushing on a graffiti writer who’s name I kept seeing everywhere, hence the line: ‘every time I see your name/ I seem to hear sweet refrains.’”
breakout Australian artist Eddie Benjamin releases his latest EP Weatherman, a dazzling eight song set full of radio-ready melodies, introspective lyricism, and boundary-pushing, genre-defying pop. The singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer releases the EP on the heels of several acclaimed singles, including the project’s most recent offering “Stargirl.” Listen to the full EP HERE via Vol. 1 Records/Epic Records.
The EP arrives with new single “Over The Moon,” a sun-kissed anthem showcasing vibrant production, intoxicating groove, smart songwriting, and Eddie’s knack for writing earworm melodies. An upcoming music video for the track will premiere imminently.
Equal parts sweet, devastating, and serenading, the Weatherman EP dabbles in retro influences while sounding very much ahead of its time – a sound that has become the burgeoning superstar’s calling card. “All of my songs are about major moments and memories in my life,” Eddie says. “That’s what drives my music—it’s a constant flow of colors and intense, sometimes terrifying emotions.”
The story opens with the soulful lead single and title track “Weatherman.” On it, the artist makes his mission statement clear: “Go tell the weatherman I said, I want it sunny outside today.” The song demands blue skies and sunshine — an uplifting ray of hope in a tumultuous era. It kicked of excitement for the project last year, receiving acclaim and attention from publications such as Rolling Stone with TIME calling it “one of the best songs of the year so far.”
Greensky Bluegrass are thrilled to share “Get Out.” “‘Get Out’ is anchored in internal reflection but also includes commentary on our society’s struggle to better itself,” says Paul Hoffman (mandolin, vocals). “Recognizing patterns in our behavior doesn’t always make them easy to correct.”
“Get Out” follows “Congratulations & Condolences” which released last month. Both songs are rare B-Side recordings from the band’s most recent studio album Stress Dreams (Thirty Tigers) and showcase the profound songwriting and storytelling that Greensky is so well known for.
“Congratulations & Condolences” was co-written by Greensky’s Paul Hoffman and Joshua Davis (Steppin’ in It, Shout Sister Shout). After Davis lost his father and received a son days apart, the timing of back-to-back congratulations and condolences provided striking context to the complexity of life and friendship.
COLBIE CAILLAT
“Pretend”
• “With ‘Pretend,’ I felt embarrassed a bit. I didn’t know if I wanted people to think I’m pretending or is he pretending. It’s just one of those things you realize you’re in.” – Colbie Caillat
• “Pretend,” the second single from her forthcoming independent debut Along The Way, was written by Caillat alongside Grammy-winning, Hall of Fame songwriter Liz Rose and 7x chart-topping songwriter AJ Pruis. A common theme found throughout the album, “Pretend” laments on the ending of past relationship but aims to focus on the happy times rather than succumbing to feelings of sadness and regret.
• To date, Caillat has been honored with two Grammy Awards, numerous RIAA Platinum and Gold certifications, and has accumulated more than 15 billion streams across her catalog including songs “Try,” “Bubbly,” and “Lucky” with Jason Mraz.
HUNTER DAILY
Die in LA
• “Age of Depression” completes a series of releases that make Hunter Daily’s debut EP, Die in LA, out today. This is Daily’s love/hate letter to her hometown, Los Angeles.
• “‘Age of Depression’ is a song I wrote with my sister. This is the only song that will come out with my sister and I singing together, but because this song is really special to us and helped us see the light in a really dark time, we decided to put the song out in dedication to that time and to help give hope to those that need it… the best is yet to come!” – Hunter Daily
• In these songs, Hunter shares her lived experiences, whether that be about wanting to get away, being a pessimist in relationships, depression, falling in love, or heartbreak all shaped by LA.
Philadelphia-raised, Los Angeles-based soul-pop singer/songwriter Noah Guy releases his new single “BROTHER’S KEEPER” featuring Emmy Award-winning saxophonist Braxton Cook.
Get “BROTHER’S KEEPER” HERE via 10K Projects.
Written during a 2-year lapse in communication between Noah and his older brother, “BROTHER’S KEEPER,” doubles as both a strikingly intimate apology letter and an anthemic ode to brotherhood/kinship at large. Masquerading behind rich tenor vocal runs, and a melody that dances over progressive synths, hip-hop/soul chops, and live percussion, we find Guy at his most honest and vulnerable – admitting that in growing up and pursuing his own life path, he has failed to “protect” and “keep” the family unit strong.
“BROTHER’S KEEPER” serves as a universal reminder to wear your stripes pridefully and to look out for the ones who looked out for you. Family is not fleeting.
The record features infectious saxophone melodies and riffs from world-renowned jazz saxophonist and multi-instrumentalist, Braxton Cook, a friend and musical collaborator of Guy. On a more personal note, Cook’s involvement also serves as a special bonding force between Guy and his older brother, as they both grew up listening to/admiring his music throughout their teenage years.
Serving as the follow up to previous single “BIG BOYS DON’T CRY,” the new track arrivals on the heels of his EP TAKEN TIME?! (ACT I)which arrived in November of last year, featuring singles “5 MO’ MINUTES” and “2 DOGS 1 LEASH,” a dreamy tune thatquickly surpassed the 4 million stream mark and gained acclaim from the likes of Billboard, 1883 Magazine and more.
world-renowned drag artist and multi-hyphenate talent Jujubee teams up with beloved soulful pop artist Jackie Lipson for their Pride Month anthem “UBU” via Alt Eden Records. In the empowering lyrical narrative of the upbeat party song, both artists take turns sharing the journey it took to get them to where they are now. The song serves as a reminder to listeners that when you live your most authentically, there is a group of people waiting to know and love you – Stream.
On their release, Jujubee and Jackie said, “Queer and Trans people exist, and we will not be erased. No matter how many fearful politicians, no matter how many proposed bills aimed at stealing our basic human rights, we will persevere, and we will thrive!”
They continue, “When it’s not safe to be you, it can be extremely isolating. We want Queer youth to know your chosen family is out there and supportive. We’re at your favorite bookstore, we’re at the concert of your favorite band, reach out!”
French multi-talented artist and Odyzey Music label head CloZee releases her new single ‘Courage’ featuring electro-R&B songstress ROZET, the second release off her forthcoming album, Microworlds, due out this summer.
Entering the second phase of Microworlds, CloZee transports fans on an intimate odyssey with ‘Courage’. A testament to her ability to craft harmonious, emotionally-evoking soundscapes, ‘Courage’ smoothly traverses with blissful synth melodies, textured basslines, and ROZET’s airy vocals. Gallantly embracing her personal vulnerabilities around her own identity, ‘Courage’ is a paragon of CloZee’s symbol as a champion for self-expression.
‘Courage’ arrives with an official music video featuring dancer Jalen Rashad. An eye-grabbing performance by Jalen, ‘Courage’ embodies what it means to be comfortable in one’s skin and the inner peace that comes with it. ‘Courage’ serves as the second in CloZee’s forthcoming three-part music video series, following ‘Microworlds’.
The track comes perfectly timed with the celebration of Pride Month. A member of the LGBTQ+ community, CloZee said, “This song and music video is about the courage to become and finally be able to express who you really are. It is about the importance of role models who give you the strength to not hide anymore, to be proud of who you are, and to be able to fully express yourself. It could be about that one encounter, or that one moment in your life that makes you finally go through the next chapter, and allows you to be you.”
The String Cheese Incident are thrilled to announce their first studio album in over six years, Lend Me A Hand. The new collection of songs showcases the full depth and character of their songwriting like never before, ultimately delivering some of their most intimate and emotionally potent material to date.
A poignant yet high-spirited reflection on love, loss and resilience, Lend Me A Hand emerged as SCI coped with such life-changing events as the sudden death of their close friend Jesse Aratow (a member of their management team for most of the band’s history). As they dreamed up a batch of songs firmly centered on their storytelling, the band joined forces with Brad Cook (Bon Iver, Hiss Golden Messenger, Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, Waxahatchee), a producer whose distinct vision helped SCI to fully embrace the album’s rootsy simplicity.
“Every album’s a snapshot of the band at that moment, and this record turned out to be one of our most introspective,” says Moseley. “We were coming out of the pandemic and coming up on our anniversary; we’d lost someone who’s been an important part of our team for so long. All those thoughts and feelings coalesced into something that’s much more focused on the storytelling, and feels more like hanging out in the living room with us while we sing you some songs.” “Rather than trying to be flashy with the musicianship, our goal was to make sure nothing got in the way of the lyrics,” adds Nershi. “So even though we’re still a jam band at heart, all these songs can really stand on their own.”
Singer/songwriter Claire Guerreso is happy to release her new single “Where Do We Go From Here” that is out now and featured on ABC’s Grey’s Anatomy.
Claire says, “’Where Do We Go From Here’ is a cinematic interpretation of the feeling you get when you’re faced with a difficult decision in that sink or swim moment.”
Claire Guerreso encapsulates a multi-faceted sound fusing indie-pop, rock and soul. She is drawn to music that dials in on deep emotions. Her airy, unearthly tone perfectly ties together each song. She possesses a quality that is pensive and moody allowing the listener to get absorbed into her songs. Her poignant pieces emphasize introspective themes of loss, grief, transition and liberation. Some tracks are wistful and melancholic while others are punchy and empowering. Those pithier offerings are all about being secure in your own skin. That encourages others to find their inner confidence as well. Guerreso has received acclaim from notable publications such as Wonderland and Substream Magazine. She has also obtained airplay on international radio. This year she released a slew of new music. Her song “Without You” was featured on the popular CW drama All American. She also has a song “Show Ya How” in the new Netflix movie Players, staring Gina Rodriguez and Tom Ellis of Lucifer. Guerreso’s single “The Let Down” was unveiled February 3rd 2023 via Kobalt Music.
North Carolina based indie-Americana folk quartet Mipso announce their propulsive sixth studio album Book of Fools, due out August 18. The album is available to pre-order on vinyl now here. Alongside the announcement, the band shares the first taste of the project with “Carolina Rolling By” out everywhere now. The track acts as an ode to driving through their home state and discovering beauty that exists alongside pain. Plus, the band will hit the road on a lengthy tour across North America beginning in Portsmouth, NH on August 17 with tickets on sale now via mipsomusic.com/tour.
Book of Fools, out August 18, sees the band at their most assured, guided mostly by their own intuition and less impacted by time constraints, expectations or outside forces. Over ten cohesive tracks, driving rhythms, earnest, thoughtful lyricism guide the band back to their roots and who they are at their core. As guitarist and vocalist Joseph Terrell puts it, “‘Book of Fools’ feels more relaxed, more confident, more us – like we’re wearing our favorite clothes and telling our favorite story and it feels exciting again.” There’s a fresh, solid confidence and profound understanding of one another that radiates through the music. It’s this palpable connection that can only come from this group playing together around the world several hundreds of times and it’s here they rediscover their joy and unmatched connection as musicians and as best friends.
Out today, “Carolina Rolling By” is a relaxed, country-tinged groove that tells the story of a down-and-out pill-popping truck driver trying to get back on his feet. Written in part as a love letter to driving around their home state, Mipso’s signature layered, poignant harmonies paint a vibrant portrait of the view out of the driver’s window–the deep, clear blue sky with the sun beating down and the crisp air floating by. Terrell says the song came about after a boating accident that led to him needing to take painkillers during recovery. Similar to previous Mipso releases, the track finds beauty in pain and allowed Terrell the space to craft the ode to driving through North Carolina that he’s always wanted to make. It was during his recovery that the song materialized. Terrell says with a fresh understanding of the power of pills, “I couldn’t walk for 12 days but I had my grandma’s guitar and some hydrocodone and worked on this song I think because I fully understood for the first time how anyone could get addicted to those.”
As any true artist knows, a career in music is never linear. There are hills and valleys that can take you on journeys beyond what you could have ever imagined. You have to trust the process, stay authentic, and surround yourself with people that see your vision. This is the approach of Brooklyn based, singer-songwriter MSB (Micheal Sackler-Berner). From landing early sync placements on hit shows like Sons of Anarchy and Law and Order, to winning the 2022 USA Songwriting Competition (Jazz), to working with heavy hitters like Grammy Award winning Steve Jordan (Stevie Nicks, Bob Dylan) and David Kahne (Paul McCartney, Lana Del Rey), MSB has lived a life beyond what any artist could hope for – and yet somehow this is still just the beginning.
Leading with the heart wrenching “Shout Out Loud”, this album was co-written and produced with long-time friend and collaborator Nick Movshon (Amy Winehouse, The Black Keys, Bruno Mars). Deep into the pandemic, the album “Borrowed Time” was a lifeline for the two creators, as they locked themselves up in a classic New York brownstone studio and channeled their fears and uncertainties of the times. The result is an album that reflects on finding meaning and beauty amidst chaos. A self proclaimed mid-life crisis album.
Brazilian wunderkind Cour T. releases his new single ‘TRiiiBAILE’, the first single off his forthcoming debut album Brain Deals out this fall via Dirtybird Records.
An ambitious offering from the rising talent, ‘TRiiiBAILE’ is threaded with the rhythmic percussion and groovy basslines that have become a quintessential part of Cour T.’s sound. A five-minute venture through tribal tones and whimsical drum patterns, Cour T. crafts a uniquely exotic soundscape befitting Dirtybird’s worldly house and techno catalog. Through textured layers and tenacious energy, ‘TRiiiBAILE’ showcases Cour T.’s sense of curiosity as a producer. Marking the first release off his upcoming debut album Brain Deals, ‘TRiiiBAILE’ is a testament to Cour T.’s development as an artist under the A&R direction of Claude VonStroke and the future of the Dirtybird brand.
Brazilian producer/DJ Cour T. is quickly becoming a vanguard within Brazilian house music and beyond. No stranger to Dirtybird, Cour T. has a longstanding history with the iconic American house and techno label, having released seven EPs on the label including last year’s Florestao. With his trademark sound, a mix of percussive rhythms, repetitive basslines, and deep, psychedelic synths, Cour T. has garnered the support of Claude VonStroke, Claptone, Chris Lake, Dennis Cruz and Jamie Jones. This year, Cour T. seeks new heights with his forthcoming debut album Brain Deals and upcoming North American tour. ‘TRiiiBAILE’ arrives just in time for Cour T.’s return to Dirtybird CampINN.
Catch Cour T. live at Dirtybird CampINN and stream ‘TRiiiBAILE’ out now.
Cour T. Tour Dates
June 9 – San Francisco, CA – Audio SF
June 11 – Orlando, FL – Dirtybird CampINN
June 13 – Pomona, CA – Space Taco
June 13 – Edmonton, AB – 99ten
June 18 – New York, NY – Somewhere Nowhere
June 20 – Space Yacht – Los Angeles, CA
June 28 – Las Vegas, NV – We All Scream
Marcus Lowry is a Canadian singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer based in Montreal. Since earning his Bachelor’s degree in jazz performance from the University of Montreal in 2017, Marcus has worked with a wide array of Canadian and international jazz, folk and pop artists, such as Belle Grand Fille, Diane Tell, Alex Le Blanc, Aaron Dolman, Marthe Halvorsen and many more.
His debut solo album, “Time, Time, Time” is set to be released this coming fall. It is produced by the beloved Canadian musician and producer Joe Grass, recipient of two Félix awards and multiple Juno nominations.
Marcus is also one half of the aptly named avant-folk duo, Gen & Marcus. In 2019, they co-produced and released their first album, “Warden”, to local and critical acclaim. The following year, Marcus served as the producer and musical arranger of Belle Grand Fille’s second album, “Nos Maisons,” which also received widespread praise as well as a Félix nomination.
Puma June, a moniker for multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Shanti Abbott, is a Canadian artist based in Toronto, Ontario. Evoking a hopeful sadness through her introspective song writing, June has a rich, ethereal chamber-pop style, with a sprinkle of R&B. With eclectic influences from Aretha Franklin to Feist to Lana Del Rey, there is no way to really place Puma June’s sound – perhaps somewhere between Amy Winehouse and Charlotte Day Wilson, unhinged.
June, a vocalist, self-taught guitarist, and Suzuki-trained violinist, spent her formative years song writing and getting involved in musical projects in her hometown of Barrie, Ontario. Most notably, June created a folk duo with her twin sister, initially known as “Shanti and Vale”, and later, “Concordia”. The two never expanded past the small-town scene and after the release of their 2019 single, decided to shift focus onto their solo projects. June was a part of various other orchestras and indie-rock/folk bands through her formative years, including backing vocalist and violinist for Barrie-based indie-rock band “House Art”, Toronto-based folk-rock group, “Hungry Lake”, and a violinist in the Huronia Symphony Orchestra. Finally, in 2020, “Puma June” was officially born – a project mixing all the genres of June’s youth and finally giving June the platform to find her own, singular, voice.
Flawes’ modern take on timeless pop put them on the map from the very beginning, resulting in a famous fan in the shape of Billie Eilish, sessions with Finneas, repeated support from Radio 1 and performances at Reading and Leeds. Having just finished as guests on Tom Grennan’s European tour, Flawes’ return this year has been better than ever with the singles ‘Don’t Blame Me’, ‘Is It Any Wonder?’, ‘Tears Won’t Show’ and ‘Satellite’ – today they release their eagerly anticipated sophomore album ‘One Step Back, Two Steps Forward’. Listen HERE. The album release will be celebrated with an in-store at Banquet Records tomorrow and a headline show at COLORS in London on 22nd June.
‘One Step Back, Two Steps Forward’ is a driving-with-the-top-down record, their slick, uplifting sound powered by propulsive rhythms, yearning guitars and choruses that soar. Informed by an attitude that every moment matters, it’s a record which wastes no time in unveiling its direct yet nuanced pop charms. Not a single song lingers until the four-minute mark, creating a breathless momentum that feels like an instant greatest hits collection. Entirely written or co-written by Flawes, the album also features contributions from Mike Crossey (The 1975, Wolf Alice, Foals), Simon Oscroft (Olivia Rodrigo, Portugal. The Man), Jonathan Gilmore (Rina Sawayama, Twenty One Pilots) and Thom Powers (The Naked and Famous).
Vocalist Josh ‘JC’ Carruthers says, “‘One Step Back, Two Steps Forward’ reflects our attitude towards most things in life: be positive through the tough times, and trust that things will be get better. You often have to take a step backwards before things can improve. Whether that’s by ending a toxic relationship or removing yourself from a situation that doesn’t serve you. The songs we wrote for this body of work naturally seemed to fit into one of two categories – they either focused on past situations or on a more positive future, so the track-listing pretty much wrote itself! We also like the positive spin it puts on the traditional ‘one step forward, two steps back’. Flawes is a reminder to embrace your imperfections as they really do make you who you are!”
New York City/Los Angeles-based alt-pop group MisterWives share track and video, “Ultraviolet” out everywhere now. The stripped-down latest track uncovers the struggles that lie beneath the surface in pursuit of self-love. The band’s highly anticipated fourth studio album Nosebleeds is due out July 14 and available for pre-order now. Plus, The Don’t Look Down Tour with Bishop Briggs will set out across North America this fall beginning September 8 with tickets on sale now via misterwives.com/tour.
“Ultraviolet,” out today, shows a more vulnerable side of lead singer Mandy Lee as it closes the forthcoming fourteen track collection with a steady moment of reflection, one that grapples with comparison and encourages self-care and compassion. The idea for the song emerged after Lee came across a photo series by artist Debora Lombardi who photographed flowers under ultraviolet light. Lee explains, “These flowers became technicolor revealing fluorescent hues and glittering patterns that were only visible under UV when in complete darkness which made me think about how much light and beauty is uncovered in ourselves when we’ve been through the dark.”
Describing the touching subject matter, Lee continues, “Ultraviolet is a delicate and intimate reflection of struggling with comparison, self deprecation, lack of embodiment and the awareness of wanting to break those lifelong unhealthy coping mechanisms that no longer serve who you want to be.” Throughout the track, Lee learns to embrace her flaws and accept herself for who she is, gradually working towards self-empowerment and growth. “Much like the flowers, we all carry so much within ourselves that isn’t presented on the surface and I hope this song is a reminder to be gentle and compassionate with ourselves and each other.”
Christian Lopez has shared his new album, Magdalena, his fourth full-length studio album along with a brand new video for the song “Harper’s Ferry.” “As I get older, my only goal is leaving behind the purest form of what I can do and give,” shares Lopez. “This album is just that.. no frills, no cowrites, no studio band, no compromises.. Just me.” Magdalena is a personal journey shared through song where Lopez looks inward and shares stories of love, loss and everything in between.
VINCINT, the acclaimed singer-songwriter, vocal powerhouse, and LGBTQ+ icon, unveils his highly anticipated second single of the year, “Take Me Home,” out today. The captivating track is accompanied by a visually striking music video featuring the multi-talented model and musician Jonah Almost.
LISTEN TO “TAKE ME HOME”
WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO
Following the tremendous success of his earlier single, “Romance,” which premiered with an awe-inspiring companion video on Rolling Stone, VINCINT continues to demonstrate his artistic evolution and creative versatility with “Take Me Home.” The song combines VINCINT’s distinct, soulful vocals with irresistible melodies and introspective lyrics, creating an emotional connection that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
“‘Take Me Home’ is the fraternal twin sister to ‘Romance’, says VINCINT. “It’s the continuation of the best night of your life; it’s the moment in the night when you’ve let go of reality taken the shot you shouldn’t have and start dreaming of a life with the person you’ve been dancing with for 10 minutes; it’s blind romanticism smothered in glitter and psychosis!
The music video for “Take Me Home” is a stunning visual masterpiece that seamlessly complements the song’s heartfelt narrative. Featuring the magnetic chemistry between VINCINT and Jonah Almost, the video explores themes of love, longing, and the search for belonging. Directed by a visionary team of creatives, the video elevates the song’s intensity and captures the essence of VINCINT’s musical prowess.
“The whole thing came together seamlessly,” says Jonah Almost about the music video’s creation. “I was a lil nervous cause it was my first time meeting VINCINT, but he was such a pleasure to work with.”
London based; fast rising R&B songstress Alysha is back with her latest emotive offering “Finer Things”.
Floating atop simple R&B and trap infused production Alysha’s recognisably direct vocals take centre stage. Laced with nostalgic harmonies and delicate backing vocals Alysha’s ability to show vulnerability in her artistic delivery shines through. Addressing the shift she longs to see in the world Alysha sings “Look in the mirror and tell me what you see, you live in a world full of fake fantasies, running around playing insanity, but deep down inside you know your empty” as she highlights her need for connection in an often superficial world.
Talking on the track Alysha says: “Following on from my last single “Lord, Help Me”, where the lyrics discussed my journey into spirituality, I wanted to write about worldly issues on “Finer Things” in a metaphorical way without the song being too gospel inspired. The lyrics discuss an exploration into the human psyche and the exploitation of our planet.”
Brooklyn based artist Elliot Lee fuses dark pop melodies with edgy vocals and innovative electronic rock soundscapes to create an unpredictable sound, acting as a voice for the voiceless. Elliot Lee holds an awareness of what music that is unhindered by norms can do for the underrepresented. This bravado oozes through the cracks of their homemade music, with tracks that are laced with late night slumber party confessions and existential cognizance. Inspired by the feeling of loneliness, Elliot’s music acts as a reminder that you are never alone. Their new single “Easy To Be You” is released in celebration of PRIDE Month. The song “is about struggling with self image and identity expression as a queer person. It’s meant to encapsulate the (sometimes self-imposed) ebb and flow of femininity and masculinity that many of us experience and also to portray the frustration that comes with seeing other people seem to fit so easily and comfortably into those categories,” confides Elliot.
https://www.instagram.com/elliotleeofficial
https://www.tiktok.com/@elliotleemusic
The celebration around 50 years of hip-hop continues on Apple Music with this year’s Juneteenth 2023: Freedom Songsplaylist, featuring exclusive covers of beloved classic rap songs by rising stars 2Rare, Baby Tate, BEAM, Big Yavo, Blxst, Lola Brooke, redveil, Symba, and more. Listen to this exciting group of emerging artists pay homage to the culture and future of hip-hop, while also joining Apple Music’s previous Freedom Songs collections featuring 6LACK, Denzel Curry, Lupe Fiasco and more.
Apple Music’s ‘Juneteenth 2023: Freedom Songs’ playlist link: apple.co/juneteenth23
“A legacy to me is something that the next generation will be inspired by,” says BEAM. For his selection, the rapper and producer selected Busta Rhymes’ 1998 track “Gimme Some More.” “I’m inspired by fast rapping, whether it’s from my dad or whoever make a verse or whoever is doing it now. That song inspired me, and soon as I saw it on the list, I had to do it. I was so excited.”
Frank Iero said on the “Grey Veins” video: “I’ve always said that if I couldn’t be in a band the only other thing I would want to do is to make monster movies. It’s been my dream ever since I was a little, and it was the thing my dad and I bonded over. From an early age music and monsters is just something that went hand in hand for me. (Japanese film genre) Kaiju is something I have been fascinated by ever since I was a kid and I have always wanted to do an homage to that art form in a music video. I love that L.S. Dunes is such an open minded and inspiring collective of artists that allowed me to chase that idea and make that dream a reality. ‘Grey Veins’ felt like the perfect song to pair with this concept and so when the time came I knew David and Allie at My Good Eye, our frequent collaborators, were the perfect match to bring this to fruition.”
Andy Frasco & The U.N. have released their deeply moving new single, “Iowa Moon,” available now at all DSPs and streaming services. “Iowa Moon” heralds the upcoming arrival of Andy Frasco & The U.N.’s eagerly awaited new album, L’Optimist, arriving via Fun Machine Records/Soundly Music on Friday, August 11. Pre-orders are available now.
Co-written by Frasco with Kenny Carkeet (AWOLNATION, Anti-Flag), singer-songwriter Paul McDonald, and veteran troubadour Steve Poltz, “Iowa Moon” sees the hard-traveling songwriter pondering the possibility of getting off the road to remain at home with his beloved, inspired in part by his first real girlfriend.
“She was the first girl I ever really committed to,” Frasco says. “It’s like, I don’t know what the fuck I’m doing, this is a new world to me, but I know that I love being with you and I love you teaching me how to love. I’m not really a good communicator outside of my art, so I wrote ‘Iowa Moon’ to say, I know that I’m difficult. I know that I’m on the road all the time. But I love you.”
Frasco’s sixth released studio album and most hopeful and enthusiastic collection thus far, L’Optimist also includes the ebullient first single, “You Do You.”
Female powerhouse, AleXa, is back with another hard-hitting soundtrack-esque single, “Juliet,” out today. Named by Elle as an artist who’s “breaking the mold of the typical K-pop star”; “Juliet” is an indie alternative driven song with a powerful build up that accompanies a deep heartbreaking story written by AleXa. She elaborates; ““Juliet” has a nostalgic sound, reminiscent of the late 2000s – early 2010s pop ballads. It’s a song written with a storyline of the universal struggle of feeling one-sided in a relationship. I hope fans and listeners alike can find comfort in this new approach I’m taking to my artistry.” Today, AleXa has also released 6 remixes “Juliet”; Spanish Version, Retro Electro Mix, Disco Mix, City Pop Mix, Drumline Trap Mix, and Sped Up Version.
Email: neill@outloudculture.com
