Amerik, the moniker of celebrated artist and producer Adam Booth, continues to captivate audiences with the imminent release of his highly anticipated single, “If I Told You,” featuring the rising Northern Irish talent, Niall McDowell Oct 20th. This collaboration marks the grand finale of a trilogy of singles, showcasing the exceptional musical talent emanating from the vibrant Northern Irish music scene.
Having garnered critical acclaim from esteemed publications such as Hot Press and The Daily Mirror, Amerik has firmly established himself as a formidable presence in the music industry. His boundary-pushing sound and dynamic productions consistently deliver a unique sonic experience.
“The Real Thing,” the inaugural single from this project, witnessed Amerik join forces with the burgeoning star Sasha Samara, celebrated for her enthralling vocals and emotive performances, leaving an indelible mark on audiences.
Wilfie Gilbert, a revered figure in the Northern Irish music scene, brought his captivating songwriting and soulful vocals to “Nevermind.” Gilbert’s ability to weave compelling narratives through his music perfectly complemented Amerik’s production prowess, resulting in a collaboration that enthralled listeners.
Emerging Northern Irish talent Niall McDowell adds his distinctive sound to the trilogy’s final single, “If I Told You.” Together, they combine their skills and artistic vision, delivering a groundbreaking track that is poised to resonate deeply with audiences.
Reflecting on this exciting project, Amerik expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Working with such incredible talents from Northern Ireland has been a truly inspiring experience. Each artist brings a unique perspective and energy to the table, and our collaboration has resulted in something truly special. I can’t wait for the world to hear these singles.”
“The Real Thing” featuring Sasha Samara was released on August 18th, with “Nevermind” featuring Wilfie Gilbert following closely as the second installment. All tracks will be available on all major streaming platforms.
Amerik extends heartfelt gratitude to Arts Council NI and the National Lottery for their invaluable support in funding this project.
Minneapolis hip-hop pioneers Atmosphere have announced their new Talk Talk EP, and shared singles “Talk Talk (feat. Bat Flower),” and “Rotary Telephone.” The title track comes complete with a music video, which collates hundreds of clips of live performances, fan interactions and behind-the-scenes footage from Atmosphere’s tireless schedule of touring North America and Europe this year. Shot and edited by ZooDeVille, the video sees rapper Slug and producer Ant come together night after night to fill darkened rooms with love, light and a little bit of laughter.
The genesis of the Talk Talk EP was during a recording session for the title track, “Talk Talk”, which originally appeared on their latest album, So Many Other Realities Exist Simultaneously. A collaboration with Lifter Puller alum Bat Flower, the song exists alongside electro classics in an uncanny valley that’s been warped into a sweaty nightclub. Enamored with its outcome, Slug and Ant returned for a longer exploration of that sound, to mesmeric results. On Talk Talk EP, the Minneapolis legends dart across threads of space-time to grab hold of the one where they became titans of the electro-rap genre that was foundational to their youths. By evoking acts like Kraftwerk and Egyptian Lover, Atmosphere makes visions of the future from four decades ago seem new once again.
The Talk Talk EP is available for pre-order here. Additionally, a limited vinyl variant, cassettes and exclusive merch items can all be pre-ordered via atmospheresucks.com. The limited vinyl variant features alternative cover art and is also a zoetrope – as the record spins, sequenced images will appear and listeners will be able to see a moving picture in the vinyl.
The pioneering hip-hop duo will continue their nonstop 2023 touring schedule, picking up in Hawaii on 14 Oct before their Tour De Friends headline dates supported by HEBL & NOFUN!, that includes their first hometown shows of the year, performing at Minneapolis’ First Avenue on 24 Nov (Sold Out) and Saint Paul’s Palace Theatre on 25 Nov. Additional Sold Out shows on this run include Vancouver’s Commodore Ballroom, Sacramento’s Ace Of Spades, Los Angeles’ The Bellwether and San Diego’s The Observatory (North Park). Tickets for the upcoming tour dates can be purchased at atmospheresucks.com.
In what’s been a landmark year for the duo, Atmosphere not only released their new album addition to So Many Other Realities Exist Simultaneously earlier this year, but also released for the first time ever their cult mixtape Sad Clown Bad Dub 2. They were recently featured on The Danny Brown Show podcast and Slug contributed to The New York Times’ “50 Rappers 50 Stories” piece in celebration of the 50th anniversary of hip hop this year. The band also announced an official collaboration with Victrola, the leading vinyl record player manufacturer of turntables and music-related products for more than 115 years, which included a limited edition run of Victrola’s portable Revolution GO record player branded with an iconic Atmosphere touch. This limited run is available via victrola.com.
Taking place over the course of three days at Theater Amsterdam, Charlotte de Witte and Don Julio Tequila will join forces during KNTXT Turbo Club to serve three of the
powerhouse artist’s favorite things: Tacos, Tequila and Techno. By night, KNTXT Turbo Club will feature a massive – soon to be announced – lineup of live music experiences. By day, the venue will be transformed into the CHARLOTADA, a hangout with a laid back vibe and a specially curated menu of tacos and tequila cocktails, including the Don Julio Blanco Paloma. And since it’s no secret that Charlotte loves tacos…, a range of mouth-watering tacos will be available, including a Don Julio Infused Ceviche Taco, created exclusively for the event. In addition to drinks,
bites and beats, fans will be able to get their hands on the latest KNTXT merch, including a limited edition CHARLOTADA tee.
de Witte, said, “We all know that a good sip of Don Julio gets any party started. Combine this with a night out and pre-event tacos and you know you’re in for a good time. I’m very excited about our entire KNTXT Turbo Club in Amsterdam this year, and any night out deserves the best possible start with good nutrition and hydration. Techno, tacos and tequila. The CHARLOTADA will offer a laid back place to hang
out with friends before the night starts. I would like to invite all food and music lovers to come eat, drink and dance with us during this year’s Amsterdam Dance Event. Let’s create something special!” Best known for her “dark and stripped-back” brand of techno and crossover to other sounds of the underground, Charlotte de Witte pushes the boundaries of the electronic genre with music that has a distinct and unforgettable sound that is uniquely her own. De Witte’s innovative ability allows her to seamlessly blend genres and styles that have won her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
Norwegian rising star Torine drops a fiery new track with the release of “Medicine” (via Universal Music). One of Scandi’s hottest musical imports, Torine continues to deliver on every inch of hype bestowed on punk pop-inspired creations so far. “Medicine” injects relentless energy into her sound. Full of high guitars and hard-hitting drums, the track follows the same sound universe as her recent hit Seven Minutes in Heaven. While “7 minutes in Heaven” was simply about taking a short amount of time to figure out what you want and who you want, the sequel “Medicine” has a slightly darker undertone. It’s about escaping reality in various ways, one of which is self-medication. Torine elaborates, “I might be the best at escaping reality that I know of. Often, I wander around in my own little pink cloud even though it’s thunder and lightning all around me.”Today’s new track “Medicine” and its predecessor “Seven Minutes in Heaven” comes fast on the heels of the critical and commercial success of Torine’s first EP “UNHOLY’’. Telling the story of her life in black and white with little room for shades of grey, the EP describes Torine’s early years spent trying to figure out her own identity amongst a family caught between religion and drugs. In her own words. “The burial of the person I used to be”. Now, the pop-punk princess takes a big step into the future with new music this fall. The music reflects her evolution to where she is in life now – a person who speaks to those who are usually not spoken to and writes songs about girls the exact same way that boys do. And most importantly, normalizes it. The handcuffs from the past are gone. Torine feels more liberated than ever. Free to explore herself both lyrically and musically.Despite her young age, the 23-year-old from Arendal, Norway has built an impressive artistic CV. Torine’s music career started as an ambitious 16-year-old when she auditioned for Norwegian Idol. Five years later she has established herself as a rebellious, honest, and vulnerable artist who creates music for outsiders who thrive outside the box. With over 200 million streams under her belt and successful tours in both Europe and Asia, Torine has proven that she has a voice, stage presence, music, and identity that qualify her for a place among the stars. Torine is especially excited about her upcoming U.S. Touring dates. 
Torine Touring in the United States:For tickets and information click HERENovember 8 – San Francisco, CA – The ChapelNovember 10 – West Hollywood, CA – TroubadorNovember 11 – San Diego, CA – QuartyardNovember 12 – Phoenix, AZ – Last Exit LiveNovember 14 – Salt Lake, UT – SoundwellNovember 16 – Colorado Springs, CO – Black SheepNovember 17 – Fort Collins, CO – Washington’sNovember 18 – Denver, CO – Marquis 
Following his joyfully received summer single ‘Costa Del Mersey’, Montao has made a quick return via his next single ‘Halloween House (Remix)’, featuring Hiphop heavyweight Copywrite, and the incredibly talented Lane Shuler.
A remix of his 2022 release ‘Halloween House’, the track takes the whole experience to another level with extra samples, scratches, and genius intricate wordplay.
Lane’s verse set’s the scene with solidity and descriptive lyrics, immersing the listener into a journey through the ‘Halloween House’.
Soon after, the beast comes out of his lair and as expected from Copywrite, it is unforgettable. His unique creative flair and lyricism is un-deniable, and this track is a welcome addition to his status and legacy.
A certified banger showcasing seasonal fun, crazy times, and the formula of an incredible collaboration.
Just….DON’T turn around!
Halloween House (Remix) is out now- https://ffm.to/halloweenhouseremix
globally renowned DJ/producer Francis Mercier continues his hot streak of releases with a new single, “Ya Rayah (Win Msafer).” The track honors the late, great Algerian musician Rachid Taha and comes in collaboration with Taha’s son, a seasoned house music producer who goes by the stage name of Clyde P. “Ya Rayah (Win Msafer)” is out now via Universal France and Barclay/Pantheon.
Following Francis Mercier’s success with reinventing classic hits from globally revered artists of past decades, Rachid Taha’s estate called upon Francis personally to breathe new life into Taha’s hit “Ya Rayah,” an Algerian classic that was originally released in 1997. Francis’s modern adaptation adds “Win Msafer” to the title—which translates to “immigrant, where are you going?”—a reminder to not forget the roots one comes from and to recognize the importance of returning home. It serves as a powerful tribute to Taha, who passed away in 2018. He was 59 years old.
Sonically, Francis Mercier displays a deep respect for Rachid Taha’s work, leaving the original vocals untouched as he revamps the production. Now infused with the dancefloor-ready Afro house rhythms that Francis has become famous for, “Ya Rayah (Win Msafer)” has already made the rounds in the dance music scene this past summer as German electronic trio house and techno titans Keinemusik have shown major support, reserving it for peak moments of their lengthy sets.
Francis Mercier has established himself as a current leader in the Afro/world house scene, amassing over 75 million streams across his catalog. In the past couple of years, he’s released several official modern dance music reinventions of hits from his childhood from artists like French-Spanish singer Manu Chao, Grammy-award-winning Jamaican band Black Uhuru, Burkinese musician Victor Démé, and Malian duo Amadou & Mariam. Each of these all-time great artists is fully credited to the releases and has placed their trust in Francis to deliver their music to new, dance-oriented generations. Through his live, energy-fueled DJ sets around the globe, Francis has shown that differences in neither language, culture, or age can stop people from coming together to dance to these songs as he continues to break down barriers through music.
Los Angeles’ IRONTOM pull back the veil on their new album GEL pt.1. IRONTOM exists to be critical of the whole world and everything wrong with it, while simultaneously acknowledging that that includes them. They want to watch the world burn while they pee on the fire. And in seven songs that reach across the rock genre, they defiantly do just that – Stream GEL pt.1 / Order on CD and vinyl.
The band explains that “’Gel’ is like opening your front door to realize you are at the top of Mount Everest but it’s in the center of Hollywood and your only way out is to shoot down a water slide where you witness golden and crusty characters of the self-obsessed and overstimulated. You encounter exquisite pranks and divine disasters. This is only the beginning.”
With the album opener “Common Chaos,” the throttle is smashed into high gear and jammed there for the rest of the record. Countless characters battling their own self-absorbed tendencies and the fear of becoming the summation of the chemicals they consume are introduced across the following tracks. Closing with “Stick Figure Attack,” a more down tempo offering, IRONTOM leaves listeners on a cliffhanger of sleep deprived paranoia.
On the creation of the album, IRONTOM shares, “This is the first time we’ve followed our hearts as closely as possible. We put one million percent of our love and care into making this record. Through this process, our connections as friends and brothers have strengthened greatly. As a band we continually lead with love, light, trusting our instincts – while also surrendering to the desires of this record’s spirit. Behind every joke is a truth and behind every truth is a joke.”
Along with the album comes the official video for “Narcissist,” directed by Max Harper with creative direction by Amalia Irons. The ominous cast of characters from the band’s recent videos join forces again for more perfectly coordinated nonsense that will leave you wondering “what did I just subject myself to?”
After months of anticipation, MANY EYES – the new band fronted by iconic metalcore frontman, Keith Buckley – finally releases its debut single, “Revelation” via the Perseverance Media Group label. The song was co-written by Buckley with new band members and esteemed multi-instrumentalist brothers, Nick Bellmore and Charlie Bellmore.
Listen to “Revelation” HERE.
“Revelation” is a fast-paced, hard hitting track that reflects on Buckley’s internal battles as he’s worked on overcoming alcoholism over these last few years.
Commenting on the song, Buckley shares, “‘Revelation’ is about recognizing evil and having the courage, the wisdom and the faith to face it directly. I hope anyone who listens to this song feels empowered to confront injustice, no matter what form it takes in their lives.”
The band also shares an incredible, newly animated visual for the track, created by 3D artist Matthew Collamore (Polyphia). Watch it HERE. The “Revelation” single art was developed by Nick Steinhardt (from Touche’ Amore’) and Ryan Sanders from the MDRN DVSN agency.
A long and winding road brought Buckley to MANY EYES. As it did for so many of us, the pandemic forced Buckley to sit with himself and look back on his life, and he found himself at the end of the line. He knew something needed to change, so he decided to focus on his mental health, chose sobriety, spent a month in a recovery facility “to learn how to live soberly,” and reorganized his priorities as a father and husband.
Grammy-winning live electronic trio RÜFÜS DU SOL release their official remix of Swiss duo Adriatique and Danish trio WhoMadeWho’s hit collaboration ‘Miracle’ out now via Rose Avenue Records.
For their first official remix since 2021, RÜFÜS DU SOL have seamlessly infused their uplifting melodic signature throughout Adriatique and WhoMadeWho’s ‘Miracle’. Dreamy and everlasting, RÜFÜS’ remix unfolds over a blissful eight minutes of soft synth builds, sultry vocal chops, and rippling percussion. Expanding on the euphoric nature of the original, RÜFÜS’ reinterpretation is perfect for sundrenched dancefloors and breezy nights under the stars.
“The guys of RÜFÜS did exactly what a remix stands for, they extended the original in an epic way and made ‘Miracle’ a future classic. We always play it as a second break in our DJ sets to extend our original“. – Adriatique
“We have had the pleasure of touring with RÜFÜS DU SOL in the past few years and feel very connected to the band and their music. It’s a little miracle what they have created for us here. Hope you will enjoy it as much as we already do!” – WhoMadeWho
Unveiling the Sonic Evolution: Derrick Stembridge’s Past Present Future Archive: I to Premiere on Labile Records This October
Derrick Stembridge, the award-winning composer celebrated for his visionary contributions to the musical project Drifting In Silence, is primed to redefine genre boundaries with his upcoming album, “Past Present Future Archive: I.” Set for release on Labile Records on October 13th, this aural tour de force will be accessible across all major streaming platforms and available in CD format.
About the Album: An Aural Journey Through Time
Past Present Future Archive: I function as an aural biography, chronicling the watershed moments of Stembridge’s captivating journey from budding artist to sonic virtuoso. Mastered by Benjamin Lincoln at Middle Mastering, the album is an immersive narrative featuring a rich tapestry of ambient, electronic, and industrial elements.
DIM KELLY returns to Lee Burridge’s All Day I Dream imprint to release his newest EP Pianologic. On the heels of two highly celebrated EPs released on the label – Nocturna Animal in 2021, and Mangrove in 2022, DIM KELLY is back once again, delivering a masterful body of work which graciously toes the line between more joyous, light compositions and darker melancholic soundscapes.
DIM KELLY has an expansive musical background, influenced by classical music, hip hop, and club music. In addition to his aforementioned releases on All Day I Dream, DIM has released electronic music under an impressive slew of labels, including Lee Burridge’s other imprint TRYBESof, Armada, and Reworck. As his taste and production focus have evolved over the last 25 years, DIM has meticulously developed an incredibly rich sonic palette, which is evident across the Pianologic EP.
The EP kicks off with its titular track, a standout from the body of work. ‘Pianologic’ greets us with a complex rhythmic pattern, the percussion rooted in the soul of house music. Before long, DIM’s classical influence is apparent, as elegant piano notes dance above the driving beat. Around the three minute mark, the complex drum pattern cuts out, and we are left with a long, exquisite piano solo over a simple four four beat. Adorned with stunning melodies, the piano solo serves as a moment of pure euphoria amidst the elaborate percussion present throughout the rest of the track.
The second track is a collaboration between DIM KELLY and Stereoclip, ‘Preach The World’. There is a captivating contrast found between the joy in ‘Pianologic’ and the darker emotions evoked from ‘Preach The World’. Still, the track is beautiful – its soft melodies blend perfectly with the sharper percussive elements, creating an atmosphere where shadow and light intertwine, like feeling melancholic towards the future.
South African multidisciplinary artist Muzi releases his fifth studio album uMUZI, out now via Fool’s Gold Records.
An autobiographical collection detailing Muzi’s universe and how it came to be, uMUZI sees the “Zulu Skywalker” return to Earth, grounded by his memories and the desire to reconnect with his late parents. Where his previous album, INTERBLAKTIC, focused on Muzi’s journey as an artist, uMUZI serves as his origin story, chronicling the moments that have truly made Muzi who he is – from describing his parents’ first date with ‘eMtunzini’ and his first crush with ‘Queen’, to his introspective approach to his period of homelessness on ‘Problems’ and his tumultuous relationship with his father on ‘Timer’.
uMUZI features a new collaboration with Coldplay’s Chris Martin singing in Muzi’s native Zulu on ‘Queen’. The album also includes appearances from British rapper The Last Skeptik on ‘Milk & Honey’ and legendary 72-year old South African guitarist Madala Kunene on ‘A Letter To Zeno’.
Watch Muzi’s official ‘eMtunzini’, ‘Light’, and ‘Queen‘ music videos.
As leaders in of the electronic music genre, deadmau5 and REZZ have never been shy about their respect for one another from deadmau5 releasing her widely embraced early EPs on his mau5trap label to their 2021 collaboration “Hypnocurrency” and their recent REZZMAU5 headlining slot at Canada’s Veld Music Festival this past summer. A much buzzed about collaboration since 2018, now the pair are uniting once again as REZZMAU5 for the release of “Infraliminal” out today, October 13 on mau5trap.
Shape-shifting rat-tat-tat beats, pulsing synths and atmospheric chords as first heard on deadmau5 classic “Superliminal” from his 2012 album >album title goes here< are revisited and reinvigorated by both artists for REZZMAU5.
“’Superliminal’ is my favorite deadmau5 track. That’s one of the key songs that stunned me & I immediately had to learn to produce music. I put my own lil spin on it, while Joel also did his own lil spin, and we combined it together for now called ‘Infraliminal,’” shares REZZ.
Look for REZZMAU5 to reunite once again live at Hijinx in Philadelphia December 30, 2023. For more information and tickets, log on here: HiJinx Festival | Philadelphia, PA
DJ Bingo and the members of Wheeler CM Sound System, the vanguard of eco-conscious music, are poised to elevate the Kool Keith Black Elvis 2 Tour with their groundbreaking fusion of socially conscious lyrics and sustainable rhythms.
In a resounding call for environmental awareness, the collective is set to weave their unique message into the fabric of this highly anticipated nationwide tour.
Wheeler CM Sound System have emerged as an exemplar in the music industry, heralding a transformative approach that marries the realms of music and sustainability. Their unwavering commitment to minimising carbon footprints in music production and touring is a testament to their mission: inspiring change through the medium of music.
“We firmly believe that music can serve as a powerful catalyst for change,” affirms Elizabeth Diluzio from Wheeler CM Sound System, “our participation in the Black Elvis 2 Tour amplifies our mission to ignite environmental consciousness on a broader scale.”
Elizabeth has also been monitoring the group’s Eco friendly practises, to ensure they inspire and act as a witness to other touring artists, kicking off a new trend to ‘Tour More Responsibly’
The Black Elvis 2 Tour, fronted by the iconic Kool Keith, has already stirred immense excitement within the music community. Wheeler CM Sound System’s inclusion in the tour lineup promises to infuse a dynamic eco-conscious element into the concert experience.
During WCM Sound System’s performance, audiences can anticipate an electrifying synergy of socially charged lyrics and sustainable beats. The collective’s dedication to eco-friendliness is evident in their meticulous choice of environmentally friendly equipment, waste-reduction strategies, and their endeavour to inspire eco-conscious practices among their fan base.
In true spirit of celebrating of the tour, the group have also dropped their epic new single ‘Kingston Girl’ which is out now– https://wheelercmsound.bandcamp.com/album/kingston-girl
This collaboration between Wheeler CM Sound System and Kool Keith is a testament to the transformative power of music to kindle change, champion environmental mindfulness, and pave the way for a sustainable future.For more information on Wheeler CM Sound System:https://linktr.ee/wheelercmsound
Tenor saxophonist Ivo Perelman and trumpet player Nate Wooley, whose Polarity was one of the first two releases on Burning Ambulance Music, return for a second collection of intimate, deeply communicative duos. Perelman’s discography numbers in the triple digits at this point, but his encounters with Wooley — himself a deeply creative improviser who has performed in a wide range of contexts — are some of his most surprising and exciting. On this disc, Perelman even lays down the horn and includes vocalizations in his improvisations.
Ivo Perelman
Born in 1961 in São Paulo, Brazil, Perelman was a classical guitar prodigy who tried his hand at many other instruments – including cello, clarinet, and trombone – before gravitating to the tenor saxophone. His initial heroes were the cool jazz saxophonists Stan Getz and Paul Desmond. But although these artists’ romantic bent still shapes Perelman’s voluptuous improvisations, it would be hard to find their direct influence in the fiery, galvanic, iconoclastic solos that have become his trademark. Moving to Boston in 1981, to attend Berklee College of Music, Perelman continued to focus on mainstream masters of the tenor sax, to the exclusion of such pioneering avant-gardists as Albert Ayler, Peter Brötzmann, and John Coltrane (all of whom would later be cited as precedents for Perelman’s own
work). He left Berklee after a year or so and moved to Los Angeles, where he studied with vibraphonist Charlie Shoemake, at whose monthly jam sessions Perelman discovered his penchant for post-structure improvisation: “I would go berserk, just playing my own thing,” he has stated. Emboldened by this approach, Perelman began to research the free jazz saxists who had come before him. In the early 90s he moved to New York, a far more inviting environment for free jazz experimentation, where he lives to this day. His discography comprises more than 100 recordings, with scores of releases appearing since 2010, when he entered a remarkable period of artistic growth and “intense creative frenzy,” in his words. Many of these trace his rewarding long-term relationships with such other new-jazz visionaries as pianist Matthew Shipp, bassist William Parker, guitarist Joe Morris, and drummer Gerald
Cleaver.
Critics have lauded Perelman’s no-holds-barred saxophone style, calling him "one of the great colorists of the tenor sax” (Ed Hazell in the Boston Globe); “tremendously lyrical” (Gary Giddins); and “a leather-lunged monster with an expressive rasp, who can rage and spit in violence, yet still leave you feeling heartbroken” (The Wire). Since 2011, he has undertaken an immersive study in the natural trumpet, an instrument popular in the 17th century, before the invention of the valve system used in modern brass instruments; his goal is to achieve even greater control of the tenor saxophone’s altissimo range (of which he is already the world’s most accomplished practitioner).
Nate Wooley
Nate Wooley (b.1974) was born in Clatskanie, Oregon and began playing trumpet professionally with his father, a big band saxophonist, at the age of 13. He made his debut as soloist with the New York Philharmonic at the opening series of their 2019 season. Considered one of the leading lights of the American movement to redefine the physical boundaries of the horn, Wooley has been gathering international acclaim for his idiosyncratic trumpet language.
Wooley moved to New York in 2001 and has since become one of the most in-demand trumpet players in the burgeoning Brooklyn jazz, improv, noise, and new music scenes. He has performed regularly with John Zorn, Anthony Braxton, Ken Vandermark, Evan Parker, and Yoshi Wada. He has premiered works for trumpet by Christian Wolff, Michael Pisaro, Annea Lockwood, Ash Fure, Wadada Leo Smith, Sarah Hennies and Eva-Maria Houben.
In recent years, he has built a reputation as a composer of music epic in scope and social in design. His series of solo works based on the International Phonetic Alphabet, The Complete Syllables Music, was compared to the literary work of Georges Perec and hailed as “revolutionary solo repertoire” by All About Jazz. At the other end of the spectrum, his decade-long Seven Storey Mountain cycle has encompassed almost 50 different performers, the most recent version consisting of a 32-person ensemble. This iteration, Seven Storey Mountain VI, “expresses communality, with all of its potential for the profound and the spiritual,” according to Pitchfork. SSMVI appeared on many year-end lists, including as record of the year in El Intruso’s International Critics List and critic Peter Margasak’s personal list.
The Eighty Six Seas is the moniker of Nick Stevens, a Brooklyn-based artist who weaves a tapestry of indie folk, indie rock, indie pop, and electronica into a sound all his own, decorating it with sweeping strings and poetic stories. After being exposed to a wealth of musical sounds and styles new to Stevens, he founded The Eighty Six Seas – an homage to the 1986 Boston Celtics. Though Stevens originally grew up in Massachusetts, he has since relocated to Brooklyn, which is where the bulk of his songwriting takes place. Most recently, The Eighty Six Seas are gearing up for the release of their concept album Scenes From An Art Heist, slated for release in early 2024.
head of their new EP, The House Will Always Win, New York’s indie-country rockers Divining Rod present “King Of The Night”, a buoyant trackabout weekend revelry, tying one on, and letting loose. In addition, it’s about the monotony of repeating the same round of misbehaving and drinking. It’s a honky tonk version of Groundhog’s Day.
Toronto-based Breeze are back with their highly anticipated album, “Sour Grapes,” set to release December 8, 2023 through Hand Drawn Dracula Records. The album delivers a distinctive 90s-inspired sound that explores the complexity of relationships and builds upon the brit-pop new-wave sound that garnered critical acclaim for their 2021 release, “Only Up,” praised by the likes of CBC Music, Stereogum, and NPR. “Sour Grapes” represents an exciting direction for Breeze, capturing the essence of their evolution as a band. Originally a solo project helmed by renowned producer Josh Korody (known for his work with Tess Parks, Dilly Dally, Fucked Up, Weaves), Breeze has since transformed into a five piece following their debut performance on KEXP Live At Home Session. The album was recorded and meticulously crafted by Korody at his Candle Recording studio, with additional recording at Hotel 2 Tango alongside Shae Brossard, and mastering by Mark Gardiner (of RIDE) at OX4Sound studio. On album opener “You’ve Decided,” Breeze employs a charmingly frenetic interplay of guitar and piano, think The Style Council and Black Grape, scored over a lyrical confrontation demanding accountability. The track sets the tone for the album’s duality of serving up-beat driven melodies mirroring tenuous conversations and relationships. The pace and vibrant energy carries through on “Ready For Love” with Korody’s emotive vocal pleas tugging at heartstrings while the cascading rhythm effortlessly sways the dance floor, evoking the bravado of Fontaines D.C. and the melancholy of The Human League. Recorded by the band at Montreal’s Hotel2Tango, the track was written by keyboardist James Kearns while sick with COVID then taken to a dramatic new level in the studio. Breeze showcases their versatility with “Have You Ever Suffered,” an exploration of lo-fi beats and electronic post-punk blending into a raw and energetic composition. Korody’s poetic prowess builds with the intensity of the band’s powerful percussion. Seamlessly weaving a tapestry of influences, making “Have You Ever Suffered” a must-have for any well-worn mixtape thriving on groove, grit, and modern angst. 
Slash Feat. Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators have confirmed a massive run of 2024 international dates. The newly announced The River Is Rising-Rest of the World Tour ’24 will kick off with the band’s return to Mexico City’s Pepsi Centre WTC, and will see SMKC hit 20 countries, and 31 cities across the globe. General on sale for tickets begins Friday, October 20 at 10:00 AM local time, but fans can access pre-sale tickets from Thursday, October 19 at 10:00 AM local time by signing up at https://laylo.com/slash/m/river-is-rising. For tickets, pre-sale access and more information, visit: https://www.slashonline.com/tour/.
A decade and four albums into their career, the universally acclaimed album 4–which debuted as the #1 Most-Selling Hard Rock Album–is SMKC like you’ve never heard them before. A vibrant rock album fueled by memorable guitar hooks and compelling melodies, big choruses, and even bigger riffs, 4 hits on a wide range of sounds, styles, and moods in 10 songs, and does it all with laser-sharp musical focus and a lightning-in-a-bottle sense of immediacy.
The fourth studio album from SMKC and SLASH’s fifth solo album overall, SLASH and his bandmates MYLES KENNEDY (Vocals), TODD KERNS (Bass & Vocals), BRENT FITZ (Drums), and FRANK SIDORIS (Guitar & Vocals), partnered with producer Dave Cobb (Chris Stapleton, John Prine, Jason Isbell, Brandi Carlile), on 4 resulting in the band’s strongest album to date. Recorded at RCA Studio A in Nashville, Cobb shared the band’s desire to lay down the tracks live in the studio–including guitar solos and vocals–revealing a stunning, vital sound and style all captured live.
The instructions were simple. A couple of years ago, Anthony Pirog reached out to old friends and new collaborators alike with an open-ended request: could they send him an original ambient track, between four and five minutes long, that he could then record on top of? He put “ambient” in quotes recognizing that each musician would have a different definition of the term.
“It was an exciting challenge because I had no idea what they were going to send,” the guitarist recalls. “I didn’t give any guidelines other than putting ‘ambient’ in quotes.” Pirog would then push himself to react musically to whatever sonic guideposts he was given.
This creative exercise set the template for Pirog’s rich and multifaceted new album called The Nepenthe Series, Vol. 1, set for a November 10th release via Otherly Love. The album places the guitarist’s work in communion with musical luminaries like John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Ataxia), Nels Cline (Wilco), Andy Summers (The Police) as well as longtime collaborators such as his wife, Janel Leppin, and Luke Stewart. With one exception, each of these nine compositions was initiated and conceived by a different collaborator; together they comprise a mesmerizing tapestry that evokes as many different ideas of ambient music as there are individual tracks.
Pirog has never made an album quite like this nor has the guitarist and composer ever followed a conventional path throughout his 20-year career. “I studied jazz in school, but I don’t really play jazz. I play music that has the spirit of jazz,” the musician explains. “But even if we’re doing free improvisation, ambient sounds and approaches are not off-limits ever.”
For most any musician, the making of the sophomore record carries a certain weight: the hope to do it differently this time around and to make it even better can loom large over the creative process.
For Ozark composer Saunder Jurriaans, he shrugs off these tropes in Phantom Limb, upcoming follow up to his much-acclaimed debut Beasts (Decca). It’s announced for a November 17th release via his own Ghost Talk Records imprint. On it, the LA-based multi-instrumentalist’s new songs explode with a looseness indicative of the artist’s ever-expanding musical knowledge and experience.
Following the brooding, head-bopping “Everything Shines,”and layered psych-rock track “A Little Lie,” the new single “Her Ghost”spotlights the adventurous compositions and piano playing he’s become known for. It’s a taut slice of piano work that shows Saunder’s balance of the dramatic and the refined. “‘Her Ghost’ is a bit of an ode to the late composer/pianist Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou, whose complex, lyrical melodies deeply influenced me,” Jurriaans says.
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