XXIM Records is proud to announce a new album from award-winning Italian pianist and composer Olivia Belli.
Intermundia, Belli’s second full length release for the label, sees the acclaimed pianist go beyond her deep connection to the natural world to explore the spiritual side of nature, something beyond the physical – the world of thin places.
These locales, said to be where heaven and earth virtually meet, are places to soothe and sedate, or to beguile and enchant – places to catch glimpses of the transcendent. “Here, you become freed from everything non-essential, everything in the modern world,” explains Belli. “It is only you and your soul.” Such places have long been a part of her life and her own spiritual journey, and for Intermundia Belli chose eight locations, all in central Italy, very close to her home in Le Marche, and each represented by one track.
Written in her home studio, each track started as a mood. A feeling. Inspired by field recordings Belli took at each location, she put the unique magic felt at each place into music, that otherworldly quality that goes beyond time or the purely physical. In other words, she sought to channel the locales’ spiritual essence, to give it a voice. Nowhere is that clearer than on ‘Valadier’, the first track to be taken from Intermundia and a wonderfully calm, wistful work that conveys the same hope and sense of absolution to be found at the Tempio di Valadier, a sanctuary located at the entrance of the Frasassi Caves, in the province of Ancona, Marche.
“Tempio di Valadier is my refuge where I train myself to see what is real but invisible, to see beyond physical things to the spirit that shapes them,” explains Belli. “The temple has a singular beauty and a particular atmosphere that emanates from its perfection, in contrast with the bare rock.” The track itself develops in an arc, beginning and ending in the same way – in the shadows. Progressing through a harmonic loop, it gets brighter and brighter until its themes are exposed in full light. Belli’s piano presents two continuous and sinuous themes, varied in different ways; a violin sings its own theme, composed of a few notes, spaced out by silences.
An accompanying video showcases the temple’s beauty, and its harmony with the surrounding nature. A place of pilgrimage since the 9th Century, it is where many seek silence and introspection – and ultimately, spiritual growth. “The Tempio di Valadier – and the other locations included on Intermundia – are the places that give me the opportunity to do just that,” Belli says. “We each have our own, personal places where we can better perceive that most precious part of ourselves – we just have to find them”.
The story of elvis, he was Schlager, begins ca. 2016 in Chicago where Buono had relocated after four decades as a Philadelphia area resident, who frequently traveled to New York in his 20s & 30s soaking up the scenes at Tonic and The Village Vanguard. In Philly, in addition to his ubiquitous presence at a multitude of performances, Buono notably volunteered for the renowned avant garde presenter Ars Nova Workshop and put on his own live events at a series of West Philadelphia spaces. He also founded, wrote music for, and played guitar in the post-punk outfit, Split/Red, which Brooklyn Vegan called “Beefheart-ian….punk with an unbridled, avant-garde antagonism.”
Deeply embedded and inspired by the fertile music scene in the Windy City, where he moved at 38, he wanted his first Church Chords album to be fully Chicago-centric, using only locals. Buono oversaw a session at Steve Albini’s famed Electrical Audio that attempted to, as he puts it, “synthesize ‘electric-era’ Miles Davis with Black Sabbath.” A laudable experiment that he felt was ultimately a failure, opting to stick it in his back pocket for re-evaluation later on.
In Fall 2016 Buono relocated to Los Angeles and, a year to the day after his Electrical Audio session, dusted off the shelved material in a session with bassist Devin Hoff (Julia Holter, Sharon Van Etten), percussionist John Herndon, and multi-instrumentalist Ben Boye (Ty Segall, Bonnie “Prince” Billy). The trio laid down new rhythm tracks for six songs from the original session — a 35-minute continuous improvisation that changed the dynamic and structure of the work. In addition, Buono produced an additional 4 songs from tracks laid down by Chicagoan multihyphenate Jim Baker on ARP2000. Elliot Bergman (Wild Belle) produced one of these songs, “Recent Mineral” aka “Renda,” which has versions in both English and Portuguese.
For the next little while, Buono started massaging this mass of material into shape alongside co-producers in the vein of a hip-hop producer. As he did, more voices and players from an equally vibrant L.A. scene were folded into the proceedings. Among them, keyboardist Sam Barsh (Kanye West, Kendrick Lamar); guitarists Nels Cline (Wilco), Jeff Parker (Tortoise), Mark Shippy (US Maple), Brandon Seabrook; horn player Josh Johnson (Leon Bridges’ musical director); percussionist Kenny Wollesen (Bill Frisell, Tom Waits); and Nate Walcott (a multi-instrumentalist known for his work with Bright Eyes, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Phoebe Bridgers).
It was at this point that Buono made some crucial decisions related to the album and the Church Chords project as a whole. The biggest was that he opted to lessen his contributions as a performer; to instead take on the role of a producer in the mode of Teo Macero or a member of Public Enemy’s Bomb Squad. He would be directing the sessions and helping finesse the finished product but otherwise staying out of the musicians’ way as they wrote lyrics and improvised.
Shifting gears between intimate bedroom lofi to musical theatre rock, bog berries create a sonic landscape of catchy hooks garnished with emotional lyrics. The brainchild of Massachusetts native Cooper Evello, each bog berries track is warmly condensed with layers of vocal harmonies, enamoring synths, and punchy body percussion. Aspiring to craft intriguing, yet unusual melodies in the vein of Lizzy Mcalpine, Darwin Deez, or corook, bog berries are ready to cause a stir with their unique brand of indie pop.
Debuting out of the Boston suburbs, bog berries provide a cathartic tune dedicated to the routine mundaneness that pairs with aging on “Nobody Told Me”. Packed with melancholy that is further flavored by serene harmonies and wistful guitar patterns, the track acts as a relatable mantra for those at a crossroads evaluating their life decisions. At the forefront, “Nobody Told Me” celebrates concepts of nostalgia, yearning, and perception of reality, all combed into a catchy indie pop potluck.
“Winters Past,” the forthcoming album from Drifting In Silence, embodies the transformative power of ambient music to narrate the depth of human experience. Winters Past represents a new chapter for Derrick Stembridge, the multi-instrumentalist at the helm of this evocative project. Each track is a testament to the nuanced artistry that has defined Drifting In Silence’s evolving soundscape.
The opening track, “As The Last Leaf Falls,” captures the poignant moment of change between seasons, its melodies like whispers of leaves descending softly to the ground. It sets a reflective tone for the album, inviting the listener into a space of serene introspection.
“The Embrace” follows, offering a sonic hug enveloping one in comfort during solitude. The track weaves a tapestry of sound that suggests closeness and warmth, contrasting the coldness indicated by the album’s theme.
“Shimmering Memories” glitters with the nostalgia of winter’s past, with notes that glisten like the first frost under a morning sun. It’s a track that holds time still, allowing the mind to wander through the corridors of memory.
“In Stillness” speaks to the serenity of a snow-covered landscape, where the world seems to pause and take a deep, calming breath. It’s a track that resonates with the peace found in solitude, echoing the silence that comes with a fresh snowfall.
“Live To Tell” is a ambient cover originally by Madonna and Pat Leonard. This cover is a pivotal point in the album, its contemplative sound providing a deep, reflective experience that sets the stage for the concluding piece.
Finally, the title track, “Winters Past,” concludes the journey. It is an ode to resilience, a composition that moves through the chill of winter and into the promise of spring. This piece embodies the hope that comes after enduring the long, reflective night of the soul, greeting the dawn of new beginnings.
Brooklyn’s up and coming rising pop-rock unit Razor Braids consists heavily of roaring queer feminine energy. With soaring harmonies and a magnetic sound, the three piece offers a cathartic sound unlike any other. Recently performing at 2023 SXSW and 2023 Boston Calling opening for The National and Foo Fighters, Razor Braids have also received praise from Brooklyn Vegan, Philthy Mag, Analogue Trash, and Creem Magazine to name a few. As of right now, Razor Braids are gearing up for the release of their sophomore album Big Wave. A glittery yet intense roller coaster ride through self acceptance, the project explores themes of passion, joy, despondence, and confusion, and will be unveiled on June 7, 2024.
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, coming February 23rd, 2024.
With a career that spans 30 years and includes nearly 400 IMDb credits, Debi Derryberry is one of Hollywood’s most active and sought-after voiceover artists, best known for voicing Jimmy Neutron in the Academy Award-nominated film Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius. Debi’s fans have rocketed her TikTok page to more than 26.1 million likes and 1.2 million followers. As if that’s not enough, Debi is also a lifelong musician and award-winning singer/songwriter who will release her fourth children’s album, Gotta Go Green, on March 8, in time for Earth Day.
Even before its official release, Gotta Go Green has been honored with a prestigious National Parenting Products Award.
With titles like “My Electric Car,” “Recycle!,” “I’m a Great Recycler,” “Carbon Footprint,” “Little Tiny Molecules of H20,” and “Earth Day’s My Birthday,” the upbeat, fun songs on Gotta Go Green are all about helping kids and families become more environmentally aware and eco-conscious.
“This album is so important to me as a way of helping to shape the next generation of our planet’s caretakers,” says Debi Derryberry. “My intention is to try to bring awareness to recycling, pollution, and some of the tangible things we can all do to help fix our world. I want these songs to be played anywhere kids might be receptive to learning how to be part of the solution, while also having a terrific time dancing and singing along!”
She continues, “I LOVE to help…with anything! And I live my life actively trying to be a better custodian of our planet. My hope is that the ideas in Gotta Go Green will stay in children’s young, active minds as they grow to adulthood.”
Album highlights include the catchy, contemporary pop sounds of “Gotta Go Green,” “My Electric Car,” which pays homage to all electric cars (including Debi’s!), and “Earth Day’s My Birthday,” a song that was originally written as a single to help bring attention to Earth Day but ended up becoming the inspiration for Gotta Go Green. Debi wrote “I’m A Great Recycler” when her son, River, was six years old. She says “We had a giant compost bin, and we were big recyclers even back then. I included River in the music video of this song, showing him helping to recycle bottles. River is now 22 years old, and I’m glad he has grown up knowing how important recycling is!” As a single, “I’m A Great Recycler” won both a 2023 NAPPA Award and a Parents’ Pick Award.
rising alternative/indie singer-songwriter Luke Middleton, announces his forthcoming debut EP, nothing ever after, out March 1st. Produced by Nathan Darmody (Allstar Weekend), nothing ever after tackles topics such as readjusting to life post-service, its emotional aftermath, and the mental health challenges he faces everyday. In his battle to turn pain into peace, the rising artist wishes to dive below the surface, pouring his heart out in every lyric and letting his audience know they are never alone.
Following a successful 2023, Orlando trash rock band FELICITY is excited to announce details of their first new music of 2024. The band will be releasing “CHARLIE SHEEN”, featuring Jon Lundin of Point North, on February 21 via Zodhiac Records. Pre-save the song now, here: https://listentofelicity.com/charliesheen.
“The world is truly a crazy place. We started this band in the garage of Damien’s parents, and I remember we used to jam Point North’s cover of ‘Hammer’ for fun to warm up and goof around. Back then, they were an up-and-coming band with such a unique sound that we always admired,” says guitarist Drew Rapier. “This journey has been so INSANE! It’s hard to believe that we are collaborating with Point North a few years later and releasing one of our favorite songs we’ve ever created, ‘CHARLIE SHEEN.’”
“CHARLIE SHEEN” is a song for anyone who has struggled with self-destructive behavior. Adds Rapier:
“As a band, we’ve always struggled to find our identity and place in the music scene. We’ve felt overlooked, passed over, and at times forgotten. Over time, that can take a toll on your mental health and lead to self-destructive behavior.
We wanted ‘CHARLIE SHEEN’ to speak to some of our experiences and hopefully be a beacon of hope to anyone who can relate to our story and know they aren’t alone.
Working with Point North was a life-changing experience for us. Jon is a prolific songwriter who challenged us to leave our comfort zones and encouraged us to explore new genres that we would never have been brave enough to venture into without his support. We are so excited to share ‘CHARLIE SHEEN’ with everyone!”
Pop punk YouTube star NOAHFINNCE has released his anthemic new single “3 DAY HEADACHE” today. Sonically, the track showcases the artist’s pop side and was penned by Noah about the hitting a wall of burnout — an all too relatable feeling for many recording artists. It’s the final single to be released ahead of his debut album release and the lyric video can be seen here.
“3 DAY HEADACHE is a song about being so exhausted and burnt out that I gave myself a migraine,” explains Noah on the new song. “I feel like I’ve been in a constant cycle of burnout, breakdown, bounce back for my whole adult life so why not put it into a cheesy lil bop?”
NOAHFINNCE is gearing up for the release of his long-awaited debut album. Pulling inspiration from My Chemical Romance, Bring Me The Horizon, 100 gecs, Kesha and The Prodigy, ‘Growing Up On The Internet’ will be released via Hopeless Records on March 8, and can be pre-saved here and pre-ordered here.
The album was co-written with of Danny Jones and Dougie Poynter from McFly, and produced by ST£FAN, Julia Sykes, LAWRENT (Chain Smokers, Cheat Codes), Thomas Mitchener (Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, The Damned) and Arcades (BTS). It features the brand new “3 DAY HEADACHE”, plus previous releases including anti-terf song, “SCUMBAG”, title track “Growing Up On The Internet” and “I Know Better”.
‘Growing Up On The Internet’ takes you on a journey exploring Noah’s formative years, where he found himself navigating a suddenly accessible and unknown internet world. Going against the grain, having resilience in the face of adversity and trans and LGBTQ+ rights, are just some of the themes woven throughout the 11 tracks.
He explains, “I only recently began processing the effect that growing up on the internet with hundreds of thousands of eyes on me, has had on my development as a person. It’s impossible to separate who you are as a person and who you would be without people on the internet telling you who you should be – I’m sure a lot of my generation and generations to come can find solace in somebody recounting their frustrations with the world as it is now.
As a society, we’re entering uncharted waters where nobody quite knows the repercussions of having unrestricted access to any thought any person has at any time. Human beings weren’t built to perceive and compare ourselves to millions of others, we were made to pick berries and build relationships within our local communities.”
Turkish superstar DJ/producer Mahmut Orhan continues the rollout of his highly-anticipated debut album, Pangea, with the gritty new single “Nighter,” out now via Ulta Records.
Featuring the powerful vocals of Tuana Yilmaz, Mahmut Orhan explores an array of visceral dance music textures on “Nighter,” from the heavy, guttural basslines to the scintillating, futuristic synths. While not a complete departure from his indie dance roots, Orhan reveals the trajectory of his evolving sound, fit for the massive stages he’ll encounter in 2024.
To start 2024, Orhan has embarked on an expansive world tour. With such a versatile concoction of sounds at his disposal, he’s able to perform in all corners of the world, up and down the Americas from Canada to Argentina and Central Europe to Saudi Arabia. As the weather warms up for festival season, Orhan will debut at several renowned music festivals, including one of the biggest in the United States, Coachella.
On March 22, Orhan will deliver Pangea, his debut album that will continue his mission to harness the universal power of music by blending intercontinental and intercultural sounds.
Rock band New Years Day is excited to share “Half Black Heart”, the title track from their forthcoming 5th studio album. Fans can stream the brand now single now, here: https://orcd.co/halfblackheartsingle. Half Black Heart will be out in on March 1, 2024. Pre-order/pre-save he album now at: https://newyearsday.lnk.to/HalfBlackHeart.
“‘Half Black Heart’ is my anthem!” shares vocalist Ash Costello. “The concept behind it is simple yet powerful – no one is purely one thing. Nobody is so flawless that they have the right to pass judgment on someone else’s flaws. We all exist as a mix of good and bad, innocence and guilt, a bit angelic and a bit devilish.”
She continues: “The message is rooted in the idea that “he who is without sin can cast the first stone,” meaning that no one is in a position to judge because everyone makes mistakes. I don’t believe in the idea of a flawless human being, and this song is my way of addressing those who may expect perfection from me. Essentially, it’s a declaration that neither I nor anyone else will ever be perfect.”
New Years Day announced Half Black Heart in late 2023, following the release of “Vampyre” and “Secrets”. The record also features the band’s 2022 hit “Hurts Like Hell” and recent single “I Still Believe”. Last fall they also embarked on The Kiss of Death Tour with In This Moment and Ice Nine Kills, in addition to being featured on WWE NXT’s Halloween Havoc. Fans can catch New Years Day back on the road this spring with Lacuna Coil. They’ll also be performing at Welcome To Rockville and Sonic Temple Art & Music Festival. For a full list of dates, please see below or visit: nydrock.com.
Rising singer-songwriter Sydney Sherrill has released her new single “Kiss and Tell” and officially revealed the details for her debut album 17 Young and Stunning, out March 15. Over flirty guitar riffs and playful piano licks, “Kiss and Tell” demonstrates Sydney’s rich and powerful vocals as she speaks to a fling between friends that isn’t built to last.
LISTEN TO “KISS AND TELL” HERE
“‘Kiss and Tell’ is inspired by my two best friends who basically swapped boyfriends within our friend group and we really never addressed it,” shares Sydney. “It’s now a very big inside joke that we all like to laugh about, but at the time it was a fun secret love…square? There’s something really fun and sneaky about a situationship with a friend that I wanted to write about!”
Gab Rhome’s journey through 2023 was nothing short of remarkable, with his music gracing the catalogs of prestigious labels such as Club Bad, Disco Halal, and Get Physical. As we move forward, Gab is perfectly positioned for another year filled with mesmerizing releases and dynamic live performances that are sure to captivate audiences worldwide.
Radiating a refreshing ambiance, “Overconsumed” emerges as a masterpiece, presenting a poetic tribute to the delicate balance of pursuing perfection without being engulfed by the waves of potential possibilities. Serving as Gab’s first release of 2024, the track offers a tantalizing preview of the musical endeavors in store for this year.
Waiting for Smith is set to captivate audiences once again with the release of his latest single, “Small Things.” This mellow offering serves as a powerful reminder of the transient nature of worries and the potential for positive change. It is poised to become the anthem for those seeking solace in the midst of life’s challenges. Producer and frequent collaborator Grammy award winning producer Danton Supple (Coldplay, Kylie Minogue, Elbow, Patti Smith) creates the perfect, breathy soundscape for Harry Lloyd’s (aka Waiting For Smith) soft vocal lines and soulful delivery as he comes to the conclusion that directing attention towards what truly holds significance, as ultimately, all things shall pass.
80s icon Deniece Pearson reveals another taste of her forthcoming new album ‘Free-Queen-See’ (out this summer) with her electrifying new single ‘Evolution X’ complete with remixes out now.
With nods to early 00s pop ‘Evolution X’ marks a change in direction from Deniece’s recent more reggae-flavoured releases. This time she’s returning to the pop genre that made her famous. Co-written with acclaimed American songwriter Holly Lamar who penned the hit ‘Breath’ by Faith Hill, and with production from Pert Makela, & RauliEskolin, ‘Evolution X’ is a big song! As the title suggests it reflects Deniece’s own real life evolution as she continues to evolve as a solo artist, forty years into her career. It’s a bold statement of intent, she’s back and she means business.
“My evolution is mine” says Deniece. “It’s up to us what we make of our lives, what we accept and allow each other to do to ourselves and our planet. It’s about mind over matter we get to choose our destiny. I can honestly say this is one of my favourite tracks I’ve ever recorded.”
2023 was somewhat of a reintroduction for Deniece as she celebrated 40 years in the industry releasing new music and performing two sold out shows at Pizza Express Live in London along with a string of other live performances up and down the country. The Brit Award winner, Grammy nominee, and lead singer of iconic pop group, FIVE STAR released two singles, ‘Forever Young’ – afeel good infused pop-bop which reached #12 in Music Week’s Pop Chart and went Top Ten in their Black Chartand her firsteverChristmas single, ‘Santa Claus is Coming’ which hit Number 1 in the Reggae chart. Both singles along with ‘Evolution X’ will all be included on her brand-new solo album ‘Free-Queen-See’ out this summer – her first new album in over a decade.
Testament to her enduring popularity Deniece has been welcomed back to the public eye with open arms, including high profile appearances Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, BBC Breakfast, ITV News and Sky News and interviews with the likes of The Sun, Daily Star, Daily Express, Record Collector, Big Issue, Heat Magazine, Retro Pop and more.
During her time with FIVE STAR, Deniece achieved unprecedented success with over 20 top thirty UK singles, including chart-toppers like ‘System Addict’, ‘The Slightest Touch’ and the anthem ‘Rain Or Shine’. The group holds the distinction of being the youngest British act to have a number one album, the first black group to win a BRIT (Best Group 1987) as well as the first group to achieve seven consecutive hit singles from a single album in the UK.
After taking a career break to raise her two children, Deniece made a triumphant return to the stage, captivating audiences with her remarkable talent. Her performances in the West End production of the Michael Jackson musical ‘Thriller Live’ in 2009 garnered great reviews, as well as starring in ‘Respect La Diva’ where she wowed audiences with her sensational cover of Beyonce’s ‘Listen’ and a medley of Whitney Houston hits. Deniece’s star power extended to international stages, including a memorable performance at the Sydney Opera House in Australia as a lead singer in the show ‘Disco Divas’.
Deniece’s appearance on BBC1’s The Voice in 2012 opened new doors, including an incredible opportunity to support The Jacksons on their UK tour. In September 2013, she released ‘Rafiki Yangu’ (Swahili for ‘My Friend’), a heartfelt tribute to Nelson Mandela and Africa’s pursuit of peace and prosperity. The song, dedicated to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, demonstrated Deniece’s commitment to using her platform to make a positive impact.
Following the success of her debut solo album, ‘Imprint’, released in the summer of 2014 and supported by a 16-date UK tour alongside Billy Ocean, Deniece continued to captivate audiences. Notably, she joined forces with DJ and producer Sigala to perform his chart-topping hit ‘Easy Love’ on the Top Of The Pops New Year’s Day BBC1 Special.
After captivating audiences with his debut single “While You Were Out,” 23-year-old Mayo newcomer Seán Joyce is gearing up to release only his second single, “The Face,” on February 23rd via Faction Records. Following a year of refining his sound and re-approaching the writing process, Joyce presents “The Face,” an emotional piano-led piece showcasing his powerful falsetto voice and the remarkable production talents of Cormac Butler (known for his work with The Academic and Sorcha Richardson).
In “The Face,” listeners will once again experience Joyce’s ability to deliver raw emotion with every line, echoing the passion, pain, yearning, and hope found in his previous work. The track promises to be a poignant addition to Joyce’s growing repertoire, drawing on his personal experiences to connect with young adults navigating the complexities of love and relationships.
Seán Joyce has quickly emerged as a fully formed artist, honing his craft over four years with dedication and collaboration with some of Ireland’s top-tier talents, including James Vincent McMorrow and Cormac Butler.
Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists such as Bon Iver, The 1975, Declan J Donovan, and RY X, Joyce’s music defies genre constraints, offering listeners a multifaceted experience that transcends traditional boundaries. With “The Face,” he continues to showcase his versatility as a singer-songwriter, weaving together poignant narratives with captivating melodies.
“The Face” will be available on all major streaming platforms on February 23rd. For more information on Seán Joyce and updates on his music follow him on social media.
Racing out of Oakland, CA, Spurts is the sentimental slacker rock group composed of hometown friends Robert Sanlis (guitar / vocals), Nathan Graves (keys), Chris Schubert (bass) and Jack Kovacich (drums). With their DIY recordings and energetic live performances, Spurts deliver music that embodies listening to a playlist full of forgotten 90’s bangers. Though their tracks have a glaze of nostalgia imprinted in them, the four-piece offer a cynical, yet self-aware take on indie rock that is explored further on their forthcoming LP That Was Mean And I’m Sorry.
Alien Ant Farm have released the official music video for their single “So Cold” today. Fans can watch the video HERE and stream the song on digital platforms HERE.
“So Cold” was the first taste of new music from the Southern California rock band after a long musical hibernation and is taken from the band’s upcoming new album ~mAntras~ to be released April 24, 2024 through Megaforce Records.
~mAntras~ is a record that will not only challenge your preconceptions of the band, but will also firmly reassert their place in the world. The band’s sixth full-length, it was shaped by personal change and growth, and it represents as close to a new beginning as a band first formed in 1996 can get. At the same time, it’s not a record that dismisses and disregards the past. Far from it. A record of deep contemplation, ~mAntras~ was born out of various trials and tribulations—its songs don’t just take the listener on a musical journey, but, as its title suggests, also on a personal and spiritual one.
Alien Ant Farm have encountered a lot of adversity since blowing up in 2001 with two iconic songs—first their own composition, “Movies”, and then their classic, generation-defining cover of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal”—but none more so between the release of Always And Forever and this record. It’s no surprise, then, that a lot of it has been captured on the 11 tracks that make up ~mAntras~. As guitarist Terry Corso puts it: “Growing up, divorce, children, family, death, band break-ups, surgeries, illness, health—everything is in this record. It’s literally a product of all the fucking shit, good and bad, that we went through.”
AMEN is the 3rd release by bassoonist / composer / producer Joy Guidry. Representing a major step up in her ability to fully realize and embody a sound and concept, AMEN moves from rousing, rafter-splitting spiritual jazz and gospel compositions to ambient compositions that create a powerful statement of communal healing and peace. The album features contributions by Niecy Blues, Kalia Vandever, Tyrone Allen and Jessie Cox.
Love is a verb. It is an action taken, one that must be renewed within the self. It is a process of learning, evolution, and the very nature of what it means to nurture ourselves and others. And few artists know this as intimately as Joy Guidry, the Texas-bred, California-based bassoonist. The fruits of her efforts can be heard through Guidry’s latest album, Amen.
“I hear other artists say, ‘I put my life and soul into this.’ And I could never relate because I have never been in an emotional place where I can just let go and not be afraid of vulnerability,” says Guidry. “But now, I’ve finally made a project that resonates with me so deeply from beginning to end. I’m so happy where I am in life, and “Amen” truly represents that there was no bullshit as I went into this.”
Born and raised in Houston Texas, Guidry first found music through the church. Growing up, if r&b was for cleaning on Saturdays, then gospel, says Guidry, was the standard for Sundays.
Guidry is a visionary. Her keen understanding of how different genres of music can speak to and meld into one another mimics the intricacies and interwoven elements of life. Her releases include commissioned works as well as her debut full-length Radical Acceptance released in 2022.
Recognizing her trans identity and embracing the need to make difficult decisions with the people in her life brought forth the heart of Radical Acceptance. “There’s nothing wrong with us. There’s nothing wrong with any of us, when we look in the mirror, and we see something wrong, that was purely taught,” Guidry says. “I felt like I could never walk into my life. So after releasing Radical Acceptance, it was time for me to truly practice radical acceptance and understanding and practicing radical self love.”
the grunge rock band The Suicide Disease have shared their latest single, “Constellations” just in time for Valentines Day. The ballad released under Zodhiac Records was produced by Ricky Armellinoof Ice Nine Kills and KJ Strock (Machine Gun Kelly, Crown The Empire, Motionless in White, We Came as Romans).Listen to “Constellations” Here Written as a love letter to loved ones lost, the group’s lead singer Jay Francis shares: “This was a sad song for me to write. The first line really says it all, ‘take my stars away with daylight’s arc’. As we try to communicate to those that are no longer with us in the stars at night time it’s inevitable that daylight will return-then reality sets in and we must come face-to-face with the fact that they are no longer with us.”
HARD Events has announced the dates and new venue for the 2024 edition of HARD Summer Music Festival. For the first time, HARD Summer will take place at Inglewood’s Hollywood Park, adjacent to SoFi Stadium, on August 3 and 4, 2024.
Since its debut edition in 2008, HARD Summer has remained as a staple of the Southern California festival scene, growing steadily while showcasing its signature multi-genre curatorial ethos and Y2K aesthetic. The festival is now the largest electronic music event in Los Angeles and a stronghold for the city’s diverse melting pot of musical styles and influences.
This year, HARD Summer is relocating to the expansive Hollywood Park, situated on the renowned grounds of SoFi Stadium and YouTube Theater. Spanning 300 acres, this mixed-use development promises a fresh experience for attendees. With its spacious layout, Hollywood Park offers ample room for dancing and exploration, interactive features, and innovative activations, ensuring a fully immersive music festival experience.
“We are thrilled to partner with HARD Events to bring another festival featuring diverse programming to Inglewood,” said Adolfo Romero, VP, Programming and Booking for SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park. “This partnership not only amplifies Hollywood Park’s influence in the festival space but also solidifies our dedication to curating global entertainment that authentically mirrors our vibrant local community.”
Visit HARD’s official website for more info and to sign up for presale. Additionally, in celebration of the festival’s relocation to the 310 area code, HARD is also offering a $3.10 deposit available only on February 16th.
JBL, a pioneer in innovative audio, is partnering with talented platinum-selling singer, songwriter, recording artist, producer and author Madison Beer. With over 2.4 billion streams earned worldwide, Madison is a dynamic and versatile artist whose sound blends pop, R&B, and soul influences with her powerful vocals. Recognized by fans and millions of social media followers as a creative force and visionary, Madison will create exclusive content while on tour with her JBL PartyBox and headphones by her side.
Madison will bring her JBL PartyBox and her favorite JBL headphones along for the ride as she documents behind-the-scenes moments and shares her tour experiences with her fans.
“I am excited to partner with JBL and give fans a behind the scenes look at my life on tour,” said Madison Beer.
JBL will be activating across New York City May 17 and 18 for the launch of the latest JBL PartyBox. Madison will host an intimate event on May 18th in NYC to launch the new JBL PartyBox series lineup. The event will be held during the NYC stop of Madison’s tour where fans will have the chance to win tickets and JBL products.
“Madison Beer’s unique voice and style make her a perfect fit for our brand, as we continue to champion and celebrate the voices of those who embrace self-expression,” said Chris Epple, Vice President of Marketing at HARMAN. “JBL stands as a beacon for inspiring, empowering, and connecting creators to embrace their individuality and we are excited that Madison Beer has made JBL products an indispensable part of her journey.”
For additional information on JBL or to view behind-the-scenes content from Madison in the coming months, visit www.JBL.com and follow @jblaudio on Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
With an infectious dose of sultry and a scorching serenade, Salt Lake City-based Talia Keys unleashes a fresh new sound with this scintillating take on a timeless chestnut.
The woozily intoxicating “Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of These)” finds the singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist/social-activist pivoting to a different lane than some fans may be familiar with; tapping into Eurhythmics’ eternally-ethereal vibe while still mutating the soundscapes with futuristic synths, industrial guitar tones, shuffle on the snare and assertive kick drum thump. At once nihilist and inspirational, the track offers observations of the quest for inner fulfillment, and muses on the desires that motivate us all.
“Sweet Dreams” transcends the label “classic”; the song has long levitated in a rarified air of pop music royalty. Iconic Eurythmics vocalist Annie Lennox’s pioneering androgynous style no doubt a North Star for Talia in more ways than one, and within Keys’ stacked, stirring vocal harmonies lies an unspoken passing of the torch at play. Talia’s performance embodies the vulnerability inherent in the original number, yet her trademark bluesy verve swiftly bubbles to the surface, injecting a dash of authentic defiance.
She was ably-assisted on this single by Ryan Conger, the first of a trifecta of crucial covers on the way from Keys.” -B. Getz
This past weekend at their packed show in Las Vegas at Fremont St. Experience, The Offspring announced they will be returning to Las Vegas for a take-over of The Punk Rock Museum to celebrate the 30th anniversary of their acclaimed record, Smash, during the weekend of April 12th-14th with a slew of fun activities.
Throughout the take-over there will be a Pop-Up exhibit of never before seen Smash era items, including photos of the band by world renowned photographer Lisa Johnson as well as additional Smash memorabilia.
Band members will be participating in a variety of different events throughout the weekend. Lead guitarist, Noodles will be an official tour guide for the museum across the weekend. You can join Noodles as he gives personal, guided tours at the museum and hear some of his fun and crazy stories. Book your tickets for Noodles’ tours now HERE.
One of the highlights will be on Saturday, April 13th with The Punk Rock Museum hosting a fun and intimate Q&A session with the full band that will also include an acoustic performance of a few of their most beloved Smash songs. The ticket for this special event will include a copy of a limited edition of Smash in a special variant for The Punk Rock Museum signed by the entire band and a guided tour with Noodles. Tickets for the Q&A are available now HERE.
This is the final single before the Seattle-based cinematic indie-rock outfit of Alie Renee Byland drops their sophomore album, Heavy For A While.
“Dark and magnetic, but also deeply emotive” – Under the Radar Magazine
“The forthcoming record from Byland is an unashamedly huge-sounding thing” – FLOOD Magazine
“With all the fervor of Big Thief, Belinda Carlisle, and even Manchester Orchestra, the crunchy guitars and impassioned vocals from Byland drive this one into goosebump-inducing territory” – buffaBLOG
“Intense vocals and atmospheric elements characterize this musical journey, inviting listeners into a sonic landscape where emotion and intensity collide” – Last Day Deaf
Multi-hyphenate DJ, producer, and acclaimed photographer DJ E-Clyps has partnered up with Bay Area powerhouse EMPIRE Dance to launch his new label, Blacklight Factory. Today, Blacklight Factory released its debut single with EMPIRE Dance, “Cuzido,” from DJ E-Clyps and vocalist Anya V.
“Cuzido” is a sign of what’s to come on Blacklight. It’s heavy on the low end, features a slinky, sexy R&B-infused vocal, and a tempo that skits between house and hip-hop influences. The track has already been earning support from tastemakers like Blessed Madonna and BBC Radio’s DJ Spoony.
“Cuzido” is the sort of genre-blending that DJ E-Clyps has become known for in a career that started in hip-hop before transitioning to house and has seen him release on virtually every major dance label, including Cajual, Relief, Toolroom, DIRTYBIRD, Nervous, and Ultra. In addition to his musical output, DJ E-Clyps has emerged as a prominent activist and photographer whose work has been featured in Time Magazine and New York Magazine as well as exhibited in galleries across the country.
Gilbert, Pennsylvania – February 16, 2024 – Camp Punksylvania Music & Camping Festival has announced the fourth round of Artists set to perform at the highly anticipated 4th annual event.
Pennsylvania’s first punk rock summer camp, Camp Punksylvania takes place July 5-7, 2024 at the West End Fairgrounds. The festival features four stages and one-of-a-kind events that showcase and uplift the voices and talents of those in marginalized communities, as well as spotlighting notable artists for the fans.
Artists such as legendary punks D.O.A. and skacore punks Kill Lincoln have been announced, along with several regional, up and coming acts. This is the fourth of several announcements of artists spanning 3 days. Talents are curated by Riot Squad Media’s executive team in collaboration with booking agencies, management and PR firms, record labels, media outlets & lifestyle brands.
This announcement leaves only four bands left to be announced, including the Friday and Sunday Main Stage headliners.
Los Angeles psych-rock gurus Levitation Room release their third full-length record Strange Weather — available everywhere via ONErpm / The Reverberation Appreciation Society / Greenway Records — Stream.
For the last decade, East LA’s Levitation Room has been known for their self-produced, otherworldly music that’s connected with fellow travelers in the hallucinogenic world of outré rock. With today’s release, we see the band take a conscious shift into all the other sub-pockets within the rock space. Collaborating with former Brian Jonestown Massacre keyboardist Rob Campanella, Jason Kick (Mild High Club), and The Black Crowes’ Joel Robinow, Levitation Room take a new step in their story with this album.
The band shared, “‘Strange Weather’ is a culmination of all our influences and a testament of the hardship, beauty and wonderment of our experiences; individually and collectively. The world is a weird place and the contrast between disparity and bliss, like the seasons of our lives, are sometimes strange and enigmatic. We hope that anyone that listens to it, can take something from it.”
Perfectly timed for Valentine’s Day, Levitation Room released the official video for “Heaven” earlier this week. Directed by longtime creative collaborator Ivan Trejo, the video is for all lovers, young and old, and features couples sharing moments of their lives, even guitarist Gabriel Fernandez’s parents — Watch.
Brooklyn based rock band Midnight Foolishness have today released their latest single, “Quitters Get Nothing.” “Quitters Get Nothing” is the first track to be shared from the band’s forthcoming album Hands Up Chin Down, which is set to be released this summer. The band has also shared the music video for the infectious track and is available to check out now at
Nashville-based alternative pop/rock artist Kitty Coen announces her long-awaited, spellbinding debut album, HELLCAT, due out April 30. Alongside the announcement, Coen recalls falling in love with the wistful, glowing track “yellow light” out now. With her first full-length project, Kitty Coen finally writes her own story where she reclaims her own narrative and fervently learns to turn pain and anger into power and fiercely uncompromising artistry. On February 24, Coen will support lively five-piece Stolen Gin at The End in Nashville with tickets on sale now here.
HELLCAT, the forthcoming unapologetic collection by Kitty Coen, is a defiant body of work that showcases the artist’s strength, perseverance and determination through a blend of genres, confessional lyricism and unflinching honesty. The title and the album’s themes are derived from the word’s definition, and its ties to societal rejection of women deemed “witches.” Coen explains, “At one time the word ‘witch’ was not negative but was applied to women who worked in holistic medicine to heal people with illnesses. Through time, the church detested these women because it argued with divine greatness and ultimately went against the church.”
Coen continues, “They began hunting and killing any woman that fit this “description” consisting of any woman who appeared educated, attractive, tempting, or dominant in any way.” It was this attack on women that has played a role in societal stigmas against women today, and with this project, the musician intends to take back her power and empower silenced voices along the way. Coen shares, “I believe that this album shows the progression of a woman harnessing her anger and frustrations with the world and utilizing them to create magic, love and light.” Over eleven potent tracks, Coen finds hope in struggle and finds solace in her own strength.
Hood River, Oregon’s alt-pop pride and joy flor, today release the official video for “Same Color as the Sun.” Created by A Betawave Media Production, the video is an honest look into the band in a more simplified setting than catching them firing on all cylinders on tour. The video was recorded in the same studio that the band initially recorded the track in — Watch.
flor closed out 2023 releasing “Same Color as the Sun”, quickly seeing it praised by Rolling Stone and Ones to Watch. Soon after, the single began taking off at Triple A radio, with early support at at 91x, KVYN, WWCD, WERS, KLRR, KQCJ, KROQ, KITS, WAQX, WNRN, Sirius XM/Spectrum.
Gently rising from a vulnerable, celestial place, the track saw the band in a state of creative refresh, as they learned to no longer fear the intimacy of sharing their art with the world. The song is about learning to love again, in a way that’s so fresh and new, it feels previously untapped. This sentiment is mirrored in the way that flor is feeling newfound freedom as a band, in charge of every aspect of their process.
UK based singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist ‘Here’s The Steeple’ (aka Dan Walters) has returned once again with exquisite new single ’This Machine Builds Facists’.
Through his music, Dan projects his love for intricate textures, thoughtful lyrics, and vocal harmony.
The new single is no exception, and he said:
“This Machine Builds Fascists is about how I feel capitalism has led to a sense of global insecurity, which has resulted in a surge of right wing populist thought which verges on fascism.This song is inspired by experimental folk artists such as This Is The Kit and Rachael Dadd. I was initially a bit wary of going back to writing political songs, but I’m angry about the current political context and I wanted to express that.”
Alongside his thought provoking songwriting, the music projects an idyllic overall sound. With his signature guitar being accompanied by trumpet, saxophone, and piano.
Here’s The Steeple is the musical handle of multi-instrumentalist Dan Walters. His songs combine intricate textures and thoughtful lyrics with a wide range of folk influences, all delivered with a uniquely rich and soulful Northern voice to warm you up like a good cup of tea.
Dan has previously supported Will Varley, Rozi Plain, Scott Matthews, Tiny Ruins, and Steve Mason (The Beta Band).
His previous songs have been featured on Fresh On The Net, BBC 6 Music, and BBC Introducing alongside numerous other radio stations.
Johnny St. Grace released a haunting cover of Cass McCombs’ “County Line.”
This is the second song in a series of femcel ballads chronicling female loneliness, following early February’s homage to Dido’s “White Flag.”
For the making of “County Line,” Johnny and her production team aimed to craft a marriage between Drake’s “Hotline Bling,” Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On,” and The Phantom of the Opera.
Stay tuned for original singles from Johnny St. Grace’s forthcoming full-length record, Tweaker Gospel.
BAYEM is a 25-year-oldmodern pop artist and producer from Indianapolis, USA. Raised in a musical family, he was exposed at an early age to underground house, acid jazz, neo soul, and mainstream music. His songs interpret this diverse well of influence in a wholly unique way, with his raw perspective on life and culture being aptly manifest in his fresh lyrical depth and undeniable hooks.
German quartet Letters Sent Home released their newest single “Ignorance” featuring Dead Lakes vocalist Sumner Peterson via SharpTone Records off of their upcoming debut album Forever Undone. “’Ignorance’ represents the frustration and helplessness of young people regarding the climate crisis,” shares the band on their new rallying cry. “At the same time, it is begging the people in power to start working with us to try and save the planet.”
“Ignorance” is available to stream now at https://bfan.link/ignorance-2, with a new visualizer also available now at
Sita Abellán releases a new short occult horror short film, which comes in the form of a music video for her recently released track “DIABLA.” The film comes as a collaboration with filmmaker Francesco Calabrese, known for his story-driven, visually striking work in both the narrative and commercial fields.
The film, which juxtaposes the famed 90’s Spanish clubbing movement Ruta Del Bakalao with a period piece set in the 1600s, is a story of resilience and survival in a world where all aspects of society are hell-bent on conforming those who deviate from the norm. In the video, Sita and others like her are condemned as witches due to their “abnormal” appearances (featuring Sita’s iconic blue hair) and hunted by the townsfolk. “This could have been me in a past life, somehow,” Sita remarks on the role. Speaking to the true nature of her ever-evolving character, It’s Sita’s first proper foray into acting, sharing the screen with award-winning actress Rossy De Palma (Julieta, The Flower of My Secret) and Lola Rodriguez (Veneno).
I’ve been trying to shoot a narrative music video for a while now but, for some reason, never really had the chance—often because the song structure wouldn’t allow it or because the artists or labels weren’t so keen on landing their music to something that’s not music-centric. Luckily, Sita and her team were very open to going the other way, and the track itself is – strangely enough – very cinematic. Sita’s acting skills came naturally, along with the willingness to immerse herself in the character and the world we’ve built around her, not to mention the fact that she brought along some amazing actors and, to top it all off, an icon of European cinema like Rossy de Palma. — Francesco Calabrese
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
