Gibson, the iconic, leading American instrument brand has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, becoming one of the most relevant, played, and loved brands around the world. As part of Gibson’s commitment to artist-first culture and music discovery, Gibson is proud to officially announce that alt-rock/pop artist Towa Bird has joined Gibson as the brand’s Marquee Artist.
Gibson’s new Marquee Artist program goes beyond guitars to provide emerging artists with support and services committed to artist career growth. As a Gibson Marquee Artist, Towa will have access to Gibson’s global resources and work with the brand to create collaboratively inspired cultural campaigns, participate in product development and launches, support Gibson Gives nonprofit initiatives, and join in special events across Gibson Brands products and channels, reaching millions of fans worldwide. The Gibson invests in furthering the careers of artists on the rise who reflect the brand’s mission to celebrate and amplify music across genders, genres, and generations.
“It’s truly amazing to be able to have worked so closely with Gibson and now be their new Marquee artist. All my favourite guitar heroes played Gibsons and I hope to be that one day,” said Towa.
“Boundless and fearless, Towa has such range which you can see in fans, message and music, and in her guitar playing from incredible guitar solos to ballads,” says Beth Heidt, Chief Marketing Officer at Gibson. “Towa is an unapologetically unique artist that cannot be categorized and is a true inspiration to players all over the world. We are thrilled to have Towa Bird join us as a Gibson Marquee Artist.”
“We are honored to work with an artist as genuine and with such raw talent as Towa,” adds Raeann Vinton, Cultural Influence at Gibson. “She is magnetic, in both her music and her spirit. The Gibson family is thrilled to support Towa worldwide as a Marquee artist.”
Hailing from planet Earth, sister duo Girl Tones are trashing the party in the official video for their raucous debut single “Fade Away.” Directed by Casey Pierce and premiered by PAPER Magazine, the video is full of color-blocked primary tones as the duo hosts a rageful pity party. Crushing flowers, tearing through walls, and rigging drum kits with balloons, Girl Tones thrashes over being burned over and over again — Watch.
On the video, Girl Tones shared, “Everyone loves a party. But when does it stop being a party and become a chore?”
At the end of August, Kenzie and Laila shed their classical training to tap into the escapism that the new project of Girl Tones provides for them. Produced by Brad Shultz and recorded at the infamous Nashville studio Battle Tapes, the first single was released via Parallel Vision
Having already produced several tracks on his Def Jam albums, araabMUZIK and Dave East have answered the fans’ calls, as the duo have collaborated for a full body of work. Produced in its entirety by araabMUZIK, Living Proof, will be released on 11.15.24.
Joining Dave & araab, Living Proof features guest appearances from Fabolous, Swizz Beatz, Benny The Butcher, Milllyz, Ransom, Giggs, OT The Real, Quany GZ, Stacy Barthe & Cruch Calhoun.
Along with announcing their collaborative project, Dave and araab also released the project’s first single, “Buss Down,” which features Fabolous. “Buss Down” is now available at all DSP’s.
Dave East & araabMUZIK’s Living Proof will be released on 11.15.24.
Echoes of the Cosmos is a twelve track journey into the void of Hip-Hop, Trip-Hop, Cinematic soundscapes, Ambient Lo-Fi, Electronica, and elements of Classical.
Having been a life long musician and multi instrumentalist, over the course of his life Montao grew up playing live in a multitude of environments. This included orchestras, jazz bands, funk bands, and renowned mid 2000’s indie rock band ‘elmor’. Following this plethora of live performances and experiences to date, when lockdown hit, it hit hard!
However, out of the darkness came the light, and Montao was born. The name itself derives from the idea of “My Way”, with ‘Mon’ being French for My, and ‘Tao’ in Chinese Philosophy standing for Way.
From putting all his newly found time and energy into music creation and production, thus began the journey.
With thirty five years experience of learning and performing music, plus such an expansive taste and love for a copious amount of genres, it was time to put ‘pen to paper’ and unleash long awaited dormant ideas.
His debut album, “Echoes of the Cosmos” shines through putting a fresh new stamp on the music scene, offering a genuinely unique and creative body of work. The album showcases a wide variety of styles and production skills, painting different pictures, musical landscapes and emotions as the listener goes through the twelve tracks.
The line-up of collaborations speaks for itself, working with such an undeniable hot bed of talent including Slug (Atmosphere), Masta Killa (Wu Tang Clan), Sa-Roc, Napoleon Da Legend, Koncept, Copywrite, Lane Shuler, and River Nelson.
Echoes of the Cosmos is out now- https://ffm.to/echoesofthecosmos
The album also drops alongside a brand new website and merchandise product line- https://montaotunes.com
Montao said:
“When looking back at what I’ve created to this point, it truly encapsulates…me! To have truly expressed myself through my musical ideas, stories, and themes.
I’ve not ‘tried’ to create anything for the sake of it. Everything has come naturally through my love of music, with many of the genres I have grown up meticulously listening to, obsessing over, and learning.
Also, it would be criminal not to mention my life long love for movies, and how that has played a huge part in my creativity over time. It’s impossible not to see this in my music.
This album is my first journey of many to come.”
LA-based, Maryland-made indie-rock band Never Ending Fall releases their newest single “ISABEL.” The release closely follows their August album American Disco, but is yet another sonic shift for the group. Playfully experimenting with pop elements, shimmering synths, and wistful optimism, the song feels like joyful escapism. But through it all, NEF stays true to their rock roots allowing guitar to drive the song to its conclusion — Stream.
“Our aim is to combine the old with the new,” shared the band. “We wanted to take on a familiar but modern sound while reflecting about coming-up-short and heartbroken.”
Leading up to today’s release, NEF has been hosting the ‘Never Ending Stream‘ on Twitch where they are live-streaming for 24 hours a day for 7 days straight. Heavily involved with their active Twitch community, NEF has previewed new music, slept on camera every single night, filmed new episodes of their TikTok series ‘Can It Kirkland,’ completed a corn maze dressed as The Wizard of Oz characters, and so much more.
legendary emcees Termanology and Tek (of Smif-N-Wessun) announced their formation for a forthcoming collaborative project, Teknology, which will be released on 12.13.24.
In addition to the new project announcement, Term & Tek also released the project’s title track, “Teknology,” which is produced by Statik Selektah. “Teknology” is now available at all DSP’s.
Teknology features guest appearances and production from Bun B, Paul Wall, Freeway, Statik Selektah and Lil Keke.
Termanology & Tek’s Teknology will be released on 12.13.24 via Perfect Time Music Group.
Stream Termanology & Tek “Teknology” (Prod Statik Selektah): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RkrGxu55VfU
You can now purchase, stream, add & favorite the “Teknology” singleat your preferred DSP:
Alternative R&B artist ilham (pronounced like Elon, but with an “m”) has released “games,” available now on all digital platforms via The Orchard. Spotlighting her unique voice, ilham reminds listeners not to let anything dim their light on the new single. The accompanying visual, directed by Dragan Andic (Chris Brown, Coi Leray, Fridayy), features ilham and her crew as they tee up on the golf course and emulate the unbothered nature of “games.”
platinum-certified singer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Sueco has released the deluxe version of his standout sophomore album, Attempted Lover. Featuring five brand new tracks and two music videos for “Happiest” and “Cocaine,” these songs bring insane energy to the already highly-rated album.
Dead Signals, the groundbreaking production company behind critically acclaimed cult-hit podcasts Archive 81 (which had been adapted into a Netflix series) and The Deep Vault, is thrilled to announce the release of their newest audio venture, Generation Crossing. Created by celebrated storytellers Marc Sollinger and Dan Powell, this concept album embarks on an 800-year journey to a distant planet, exploring the evolution of a society formed within the confines of a generation ship. Releasing November 12th, 2024 via Bandcamp, Generation Crossing is a nod to Adrian Tchaikovsky’s Elder Race and Orson Welles’ War of the Worlds, with exceptional and encompassing audio you should listen to with the lights off.
Through a series of monologues, the album traces the arc of a civilization over eight centuries, told from the perspective of a single consistent character: the ship’s AI. Inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the radio narrative, Generation Crossing tells an evocative oral history by Sollinger with original atmospheric electronic music by Powell, inspired by ambient greats Gigi Masin, Brian Eno, William Basinski.
Sollinger explains, “I’ve always been fascinated by the concept of a generation ship. They provide this incredible lens to explore how societies evolve, how myths form and change, and how ordinary lives are shaped by profound cultural shifts. I wanted to create a narrative with only one constant character, the ship’s AI, and see if we could make audiences care deeply for them in just a two-minute monologue.” Sollinger cites the work of Ursula K. Le Guin, particularly her story/song cycle “Always Coming Home,” as a significant inspiration for the project.
Powell elaborates, “We wanted to create an audio experience focused more on music and atmosphere than on physical action. I’m a fan of ambient electronic music, and the idea of scoring these monologues with spacey, moody synth music was really exciting. I’ve always loved dramatic monologues as a narrative format, and I believe Marc is exceptionally skilled at writing them, so this felt like a perfect framework for us.”
ome One’s Sons (Daniel Allen, Greg Dunne, Ger Dunne, Joe Monaghan & Ross Gavin), the rising Irish folk band, are set to release their latest single, “The Best Man,” on November 7th. This poignant ballad tells the story of the friendship between Rory O’Connor and Kevin O’Higgins, two Irish revolutionary leaders whose bond was tragically severed by the Irish Civil War. The conflict culminated in the execution of O’Connor, ordered by his former friend, O’Higgins.
O’Connor and O’Higgins had formed a close bond, and just over a year before his execution, O’Connor stood as O’Higgins’ best man at his wedding. In a devastating twist, O’Higgins signed the warrant that led to his friend’s death—an execution carried out without trial.
In “The Best Man,” Some One’s Sons capture the emotional turmoil and sense of betrayal that gripped Irish society during this time. The chorus begins with a vow of loyalty, “And by your side, I’d fight till my last,” but soon transforms into a heartbreaking plea for forgiveness beyond the grave, “This was not my plan, for my Best Man.” The Mullingar-based band masterfully blends traditional Irish folk music with contemporary soundscapes, creating a powerful and evocative track that is sure to resonate with fans of both Irish music and history.
Some One’s Sons have been on a steady rise, with sold-out performances in Liverpool and Dublin, and headline shows at renowned venues like the Róisín Dubh and Whelan’s. They have also recently supported celebrated acts such as the Wolfe Tones, Sean Keane, and George Murphy, and have performed at major events like Electric Picnic and on the main stage of the Fleadh Cheoil.
As excitement builds for the release of “The Best Man,” Some One’s Sons invite listeners to immerse themselves in the rich melodies and heartfelt lyrics that have become a hallmark of their music. They are also preparing for two special performances: a hometown gig at The Stables on November 9th and an intimate concert in The Cobblestone on December 7th.
LEYA, the New York-based avant-pop duo of Marilu Donovan and Adam Markiewicz, announceI Forget Everything, their first return to the studio since 2022’s Eyeline mixtape and their first solo release since 2020’s breakout Flood Dream, arriving November 22 via NNA Tapes. Announced today alongside their new single and video “Corners,” I Forget Everything is about a loss of identity, a disassociation of meaning amidst stillness, and signals both a return to form and an augury of a new era for the highly lauded project.
From deep roots in the NYC underground to international recognition as a crossover force, LEYA’s work has long found its way into a range of spaces from fashion runways to Pornhub. I Forget Everything arrives on the heels of a relentless multi-year touring schedule, sandwiched amidst collaborations with recording artists, filmmakers, choreographers, and major fashion houses—a further blooming of their beguiling, potentially existent-in-any-context din into newer identities.
On I Forget Everything, LEYA have sought to return to the basics of their raw sound while furthering their language, harnessing production experiments percolating in their tangential work in recent years. Their hypnotic new single “Corners,” released today with a self-directed video in collaboration with videographer wally, embodies this shift. Cascading harp weaves amidst hazy strings, channeling a new grandiosity, while holding true to their characteristic rawness. Fledged by subtle, bubbling production, Markiewicz’s voice is more central than before, as he sings a tale of toxic love. Floating choral lines sit atop arching, stretched orchestral tones, eventually ceding into a cavernous harp outro; we hear LEYA’s sound quietly move into new territory.
Following the release of his heartfelt ‘Copium’ EP, Swedish pop sensation Boy In Space (Robin Lundbäck) unleashes striking new single ‘Too Much To Lose’, out November 1st.
With a steady string of releases throughout the year, Boy In Space is taking a fresh approach to his already recognisable sound. He has been making music in the American Upper South, discovering places like Nashville and collaborating with Country rooted musicians. Following single ‘Dancing On Dynamite’ the Swedish artist now presents ‘Too Much To Lose’, arguably one of his strongest songs to date. This new release showcases a shift towards more guitar-heavy influences compared to his earlier work. A haunting pop track that tells a tale of star-crossed lovers, with their hearts entangled in an unwanted romance that has simmered beneath the surface for far too long
Final words – ‘Taxi take me home/I should be alone/Should I stay instead’ – poignantly express the dilemma, being torn between wanting to be with someone while wanting what is truly best for them.
The song explores the complexities of a forbidden romance, depicting two individuals struggling with long-suppressed emotions. The closing lines of the track poignantly capture the central dilemma – the internal conflict between desire and doing what’s right for the other person.”
Boy In Space: “‘Too Much To Lose’ talks about the sensation of wanting someone you’ve been with but knowing it would just make things so much worse if you would cross that line. And what it’s like dealing with that, going back and forth in your own head.”
XXIM Records is proud to announce the release of Blackbirds And The Sun Of October, the new album from I
Italian artist, producer, pianist and composer Federico Albanese’s upcoming album Blackbirds And The Sun Of October was inspired by – and entirely written and recorded in – Albanese’s home region of Monferrato in Northern Italy. “It’s an album about coming home, and reconnection,” he says. “Above all, about heritage.” It’s set for a February 7th release via XXIM Records.
This release, his first full length album for the label, marks a new chapter in his already stellar career. Restlessly creative, Albanese’s ever-evolving quest for new sounds and experimentation has been more extensive than most.
Today Albanese shares the title track from the album, “Blackbirds and the Sun of October.” It’s a more modern, bustling composition built around an ascending piano line and steady drums, a hint of darkness swirling around in the background. It was, says Albanese, the first thing he wrote on his arrival to Monferrato, just as the autumn colors were coming into bloom; serendipity dictated the title. Check out the new single and video via YouTube.
singer, poet, songwriter, visual artist, film producer, activist and author SERJ TANKIAN, lead singer and lyricist for the GRAMMY© Award-winning rock band System Of A Down has debuted the new video for the song ”Life’s Revengeful Son.” The song is the fourth single and video off SERJ TANKIAN’s 5-Song EP of new music titled FOUNDATIONS, which is available worldwide via Gibson Records HERE. “Life’s Revengeful Son” incorporates a variety of instrumentation, including acoustic and electric guitars and dramatic orchestration, into an epic closer with unmatched imagery: “The final revolution will occur when the arms of the clock fall,” Tankian sings. “Jesus seen in the streets, dragging a car axel instead of the cross.”
Miami/NYC-based musician, producer and multimedia artist Stranger Cat embraces all parts of herself with sultry track and whimsical video, “Doin It Right,” out now. The artist’s resilient, self-produced sophomore album Slow Jam Love Letters To My Body In Pieces due out November 15 and is available for pre-order now.
A soulful slice of art pop, slinky and steady, “Doin It Right,” smoothly sits within the greater message of the forthcoming body of work. Its spacious, careful production leaves room to let the lyrics simmer as the artist unabashedly explores various sides of herself. FLOOD Magazine, who premiered “Doin It Right” says the new single “gradually stacks layers of vocals and other near-ambient pop sounds atop each other until the recording’s stark conclusion. Meanwhile, the single’s video keeps the camera rolling for another couple minutes as Cat-the-performer completes the track’s inspired interpretive dance.”
In her own practice of self-discovery, Stranger Cat hopes to inspire other listeners to do the same, sharing, “It is my hope that engagers will feel permission to be fully free in expression, even if just for a moment, and wave your freak flag to celebrate whoever you are fully.” After a serious accident left the artist bedridden the song and video came about after the artist’s morphine-induced recovery time in the hospital produced visions of all her alter egos living freely, and giving her life advice through song and dance.
Sonically, Stranger Cat cites Frank Ocean as inspiration, and used a Prophet synthesizer and beats processed through a real space echo and analog gear. Co-produced by Stranger Cat and Radio Déserte in Paris’ Studio Guillame Tell, she adds, “I brought it to a space of real surrender in myself, again, on the edge praying and asking the real questions: “Am I doin it right?”
Coming off his aspirational, intimate and deeply personal breakthrough project, Hotel 1105, emerging Chicago artist D2x’s new sonic odyssey, The Hunger Era, takes things to a new level. The Hunger Era is now available at all DSP’s.
The Hunger Era EP is produced by frequent collaborators Ro Moore & Gold Haze, and features guest appearances from Chris Patrick and Ausar.
The Hunger Era is now available via Fake Shore Drive/D2x Music Group.
You can now purchase, stream add and favorite The Hunger Era at your preferred DSP:
Over pensive, yet hazy synth loops and guitar patterns, “Faded and Braided” offers an atmospheric soundtrack to a calming afternoon. Suited perfectly for an eerie movie scene, the new track demonstrates a culmination of Applesauce Tears’ signature sound- one that has been honed in after releasing twelve albums prior. Primarily consisting of dreary instrumentals, the new track features hypnotizing vocals from Tama McGee, in which just the song title is beckoned. Fitting perfectly into the sonic world of acts like Boards of Canada or Black Moth Super Rainbow, the new track is accompanied by a trippy music video filled with colorful visuals.
The Artist Spotlight program provides fans a new path of music discovery and exposes the Gibson international audience to innovative new music that reflects diverse genres across the globe.
NASHVILLE, TN (October 30, 2024) Gibson, the iconic, leading American instrument brand has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, becoming one of the most relevant, played, and loved brands around the world. As part of Gibson’s commitment to artist-first culture, and music discovery, Gibson has launched the brand’s first-ever Gibson’s Artist Spotlight program which features an evolving and diverse roster of musicians and provides emerging artists from diverse genres around the world with global exposure and services committed to their career growth worldwide. Today, Gibson is thrilled to introduce Texas-based Gina Chavez into Gibson’s Artist Spotlight program.
In line with Gibson’s ongoing commitment to elevating new music from emerging musicians around the world throughout the year, the Gibson Artist Spotlight Program highlights an evolving roster of musicians who are celebrated across Gibson’s global and international channels. Fans can learn more about Gibson Artist Spotlight musicians and listen to their music every month HERE.
On their long-awaited full-length debut, Falling Upward, Love Bash have crafted a musical multiverse that chronicles founding member Adelaide “Adi” Day’s journey of gender transition through an exuberant interplay of deeply felt songcraft, collectivist performance, and limitless creative invention. The album follows the path of Adi’s journey towards transition in staggering detail, chronicling her struggle to come to terms with trauma and unmet expectation, of suffering great loss before finally achieving self-acceptance through an understanding of who she truly is. The panoramic range of Love Bash’s timeless sonic approach – encompassing elements of dance, synthwave, house, gospel, soul, indie, R&B, and more – extend those humanist themes even further, its blissful electro-pop lit by singular ingenuity, audacious energy, and a remarkable spirit of purpose.
While intensely personal, songs like the sonorous, trap-infused new single, “Falling” (featuring Elizabeth Kinslow), present a patently universal perspective on how each of us navigate life’s perpetual fluidity, understanding that each passing day is filled with possibility and continual change.
“[‘Falling’] relates to going against conformity and the obligations of my relationships to begin to live for myself,” Adi explains. “I found that the vessel of my identity was broken at its core and lacked artistic integrity, so I had to trust my spirit and throw away the old ideas of who I am and start over.”
Grabbitz, the trailblazing DJ, producer, singer-songwriter, and instrumentalist behind iconic dance anthems, is set to release the highly anticipated sequel, “Hero Pt II,” on October 31st via his renowned Blue Butterfly Records.
“Big Epic Nothing is my way of continuing to refine my craft and expand this combination of rock and electronic music that I love. To me, it almost serves as a continuation of Time Isn’t Real. I made a promise to my fans and listeners that I would release more music with Blue Butterfly Records and I couldn’t be happier with this being the first official album on the label. I’m at a point now where I fully trust my instincts and taste, I don’t second guess my work, and I’m ready to lay it all out for everyone to hear.”
— Grabbitz
Country music’s most notorious rebel, and the greatest Country singer in the world, Wheeler Walker Jr., is back! After recently completing his 72-city Spread Eagle tour, on 11.15.24 Wheeler will release an expanded edition of his latest release album Ram. The Ram Deluxe Edition will include two new remixes produced by Pops (J.Cole, The Game ft Kendrick Lamar, Big Sean); “Born To F*ck” featuring recent Grammy Award Winner Killer Mike (who swept all of the major categories including Rap Album Of The Year at the 2023 Grammy’s), and “Money ‘N’ Bit*hes” which features one of Hip-Hop’s most inventive and fun artists Danny Brown. “Money ‘N’ Bit*hes” featuring Danny Brown is now available at all DSP’s.
These two new collaborations cement Wheeler’s legacy of fearlessly pushing boundaries and organically aligns with his “no fucks given” ethos, something Hip-Hop has long embodied. “Wheeler has been waiting to collaborate with hip-hop artists his whole career. They’re the only popular artists he understands. He grew up in Kentucky listening to Country, but his friends played him N.W.A., and the Geto Boys. He loved it” a close source confirmed. “The Geto Boys were nastier than him and they were on FUC*ING MTV! 2 Live Crew fought for freedom of speech thirty years ago and Wheeler still can’t get on a playlist. Hip-hop artists are attracted to collaborate with Wheeler because of his language, artistry, and attitude” the source adds.
Walker’s collaboration with Killer Mike on “Born To F*ck” was conceived out of a mutual appreciation for classic hip-hop. The two initially connected over their love for Scarface from The Geto Boys. Killer Mike’s verse is dedicated to Brother Marquis of 2 Live Crew; an homage to the unapologetic style that Wheeler has championed throughout his career.
Danny Brown’s feature on “Money ‘N’ Bit*hes” further solidifies the symbiotic connection between Walker and the rap world. Wheeler recalls similar conversations with Brown about their shared admiration for music that pushes the boundaries of free speech. It’s no wonder Snoop Dogg once sang Wheeler’s breakout hit “Fuck You Bi*ch” on his Instagram; a nod to the respect the trailblazer garners from legends across genres.
“My two favorite rappers are Killer Mike and Danny Brown. Lucky for me, they’re the only two rappers I’m friends with. So I called ‘em up and we made magic together” Walker explains.
Emirati-British creative Alya is joined by Nigerian rapper Lifesize Teddy (Mavin Records) on the “Glitter & Gold” Remix, out today via LPME Records/Studios. On the empowering Afro-pop track, the duo provoke thoughtful reflection as they speak on the importance of self-love. The single serves as a reminder that not everything shiny is worth holding onto.
Philadelphia native, LA-based singer-songwriter Andrea Vallé shares new video for new single “Hood N***a” featuring BbyAfricka and ZelooperZ. The track showcases Andrea’s laid back style with experimental production with clever lyricism. Listen HERE. Watch HERE.
Andrea Vallé in her own words:
“After a long hiatus from releasing music, ‘Hood N***a’ is the fun and long awaited comeback single. As well as my official LA debut on the scene. Walking into this new era of music has me feeling free and eager to share the experimental pockets I’ve entered since my last release ‘Badder Not Sadder’. I’ve touched on almost every genre from rap, to alternative r&b, to hyper pop, and house. I’m super excited to lean into this unconventional notion of sounds.”
critically acclaimed Italian emo-tech duo Mathame officially unleash their highly-anticipated single, “Discovery Channel” via Republic and Casablanca Records. The collaboration with Lyke arrives hot on the heels of the duo’s high-octane performances during ADE where they tantalized fans with the explosive track, making it a staple in their sets throughout the week. The track’s pulsating beat immediately plunges listeners deep into the throws of Mathame’s innovative spirit, as the driving bassline sets an infectious rhythm and promises an unparalleled sonic journey. The track is driven forward with an instantly recognizable lyrical sample from Bloodhound Gang’s “The Bad Touch,” that bursts with nostalgia and adds a viscerally addictive layer to the track. “Discovery Channel” showcases Mathame’s technical prowess and boundless vitality as they continue to breathe new life into tracks of other genres and decades. The hard hitting masterpiece unleashes a euphoric wave of sound, inviting listeners across the globe to dive deep into the duo’s effervescent vision as they continue to carve out a unique space for themselves and push the limits of the genre.
Rock band Senses Fail is thrilled to hitting the road this fall with fellow New Jersey act Saves The Day for the iconic New Jersey Vs. The World Tour. A celebration of all things NJ, the two bands will be playing seminal records – Let It Enfold You and Through Being Cool, respectively – in full. The tour kicks off on November 5th in Austin, with stops to follow in Orlando, Philadelphia, Chicago, Seattle, Los Angeles, and more. Additionally, the bands will be teaming up with Veeps to livestream their hometown show on November 14th from New Jersey’s Wellmont Theater. Tickets for the upcoming livestream can be purchased now here.
On the upcoming tour, lead singer Buddy Nielsen shares: “If you would have told me when I was a teenager that not only would I be a professional musician but one for over twenty years I would have laughed in your face. It’s surreal to sit here and think about embarking on our biggest headline tour ever but here we are and I can’t be more excited to get the show on the road!“
Quebec City, early 2023, Vince Fournier and Jam Gosselin, the powerhouse singer and bassist of Our Darkest Days, crossed paths with Mathieu Hébert of Go Great Guns. Mathieu unveiled a batch of raw, electrifying songs he had just penned. Blown away by Mathieu’s undeniable talent and fueled by an unquenchable fire for melodic punk rock, the trio decided to join forces to craft the ultimate punk rock album. They knew they needed a second guitarist and a drummer to complete their vision, and they wasted no time in the hunt.
By spring 2023, Jo Thivierge, a long-time friend of Vince and Jam and a multi-instrumental dynamo from Persistence and Exhibition, was locked in as their drummer. With the heart of a rookie but the chops of a seasoned pro, Jo plunged headfirst into the project with unwavering enthusiasm.
Just a few weeks later, the final piece fell into place. Maxime Larouche, a young and fiery musician, emerged as the lead guitarist. His raw drive, exceptional skill, and magnetic personality made him the perfect fit.
After months of intense discussions and relentless searching, the band christened themselves “Drop It First.” The name strikes with a fierce, distinctive edge that perfectly captures the quintet’s relentless pursuit of sonic perfection.
Their highly anticipated album ”Fundamentals” is set to drop on January 17th 2025, under the independent label Thousand Islands Records. Collectively, the five members boast an impressive arsenal: 10 EPs, 11 LPs, 10 music videos, and over 1250 live shows.
The chill is setting in, and the world’s iciest festival is back to turn up the heat: Igloofest Montreal returns from January 16 to February 8, 2025, in the heart of the Old Port, with an untamed lineup that’ll unleash everyone’s party animal! Expect explosive beats from Four Tet, Michael Bibi, Claptone, Apashe, Zeds Dead, Tape B, Skepta (Más Tiempo), Bon Entendeur, Steve Angello, Adriatique, and many other global icons, for what promises to be, “the hottest party of your life!” And for the young festival goers, the Igloofête free-entry Saturday parties offer music and treats galore for the whole family. This year, Igloofest takes the cold across the province, with epic parties in Gatineau from February 13 to 15, 2025, and in Quebec City from March 6 to 8, 2025, as part of a wild, boundary-pushing monster tour. Get ready for a fierce winter fiesta!
Roaring Crowds the World Over
Get ready for a monstrous edition that will electrify Montreal’s winter! Kicking off on Thursday, January 16, Igloofest opens with a bang as UK tech house sensation Michael Bibi makes his much-anticipated Montreal debut. The heat continues Friday, January 17, with local legend Apashe bringing his theatrical energy for an epic performance alongside IMANU’s addictive bass. And to wrap up the weekend, masked maestro Claptone will bring his signature melodic house beats on Saturday, joined by Dombresky’s catchy tunes that are sure to create a euphoric atmosphere.
The excitement continues into the second weekend, starting Thursday, January 23, with cloud rap icon Bladee immersing Igloofest in his ethereal vibes, joined by DOSS with her entrancing sounds and London’s COUCOU CHLOÉ opening the night with her unique flair. The following day, Friday, January 24, legendary duo Zeds Dead promise to break the ice with their powerful bass and addictive melodies, while Tape B and his clever blend of genres will add a touch of infectious energy to the evening. Finally, on Saturday, January 25, we’re gearing up for a unique show, as grime icon and UK scene pioneer Skepta (Más Tiempo) raises the temperature with his unrivalled charisma in his first house-infused DJ set in Canada, which is bound to create the perfect atmosphere to close this weekend of madness.
February brings even more excitement! Thursday, January 30, the festival rings in the month with Bon Entendeur’s vintage grooves and Boston Bun’s vibrant rhythms. Then on Friday, January 31, Swedish House Mafia’s own Steve Angello will get the crowd moving with his powerful beats, just after KILIMANJARO will have made his mark with his smooth Afrobeat sounds. On Saturday, February 1, you won’t want to miss mythical duo Adriatique and new French idol Marten Lou who will be mixing deep and hypnotic rhythms, for an immersive melodic house music experience, accompanied by none other than Yulia Niko.
As the final weekend approaches, Turkish star Mahmut Orhan and Belgian producer Maxi Meraki will take the stage on Thursday, February 6, for a warm, festive night. Friday, February 7, the spotlight shines on Cloonee, who skillfully wanders through the most frenzied house repertoire, as does Brazilian Classmatic, also taking part. The grand finale? Four Tet, with whom Igloofest audiences have an undying love affair. The man who almost lost his fingers there in 2019 will be back to close this 17th edition with class and magic, not to mention the irresistible charm of Avalon Emerson, who will also be part of the festival’s last night.
Malachiii, the artist behind the song of the summer, “Move,” reaches a poignant new apex in his career and unleashes his talent to the Afro House genre for the first time with the release of his breakout solo track with his new sound, ‘Back 2 Me’. After writing and featuring on “Move,” Malachiii is arriving to the scene with another globally resonant track, officially out today, Friday, November 8, 2024. Arriving as a follow-up to ‘Move’ and a continuation of Malachiii’s ever-evolving sonic journey, “Back 2 Me” is a viscerally addictive track, that transcends genres and highlights his ability to seamlessly blend elements of Afro House, hip-hop, pop, and R&B to create a sound for the masses. The track immediately transports listeners to the shores and beach clubs of Ibiza and Mykonos, where he was inspired and embraced by the dance community – the places that influenced him to begin carving out this unique new sound for himself. The track’s infectious rhythm and deep basslines are uplifted with Malachiii’s instantly recognizable vocals, creating an undeniable energy perfect for dance floors across the globe. The catchy lyrical hooks lend a pop-like sensibility to the bouncy blend of tribal percussion that maintains the track’s groove-heavy essence of Afro House. Intentionally built for accessibility, “Back 2 Me” arrives as a magnetic, irresistibly danceable track that is sure to ignite speakers from European clubs to car stereos around the world.
buzzing UK producer nimino enlists the enigmatic house music maverick Claptone for a remix of his viral hit “I Only Smoke When I Drink.” The new remix is out now via Counter Records/Ninja Tune. The new remix arrives as nimino is in the heat of his current North American tour.
Initially blowing up on TikTok with 17M organic plays, “I Only Smoke When I Drink” is currently clocking in at over 500,000 plays per day, has spent nine consecutive weeks on Billboard’s Dance/Electronic Chart, reached #57 on the official UK Singles Chart, has moved up to the BBC Radio 1 A list, and has amassed over 100k Shazams since its release. Wonderland has it on repeat, Diplo is rinsing it in his sets, and Music Ally analyzed the strategy behind its success.
The song is just a glimpse of nimino’s knack for catchy songwriting. Paired with his unique world-building techniques, nimino creates a rich palette of illusory, lo-fi, UKG-flecked house and hip-hop that has caught on in a serious way. Claptone deftly takes these soft, fuzzy sounds and reimagines a bouncy, tech house-laced foundation for them while retaining the magic of the lead synths and vocals.
Belgian composer Alice Hebborn‘s debut album, Saisons, is a contemplative journey through sound and nature. It’s a deeply personal exploration of humanity’s relationship with the natural world, shaped by Hebborn’s walks in the countryside and her readings on ecofeminism and environmental harmony.
Saisons was born out of Hebborn’s move to the countryside in 2021, where her daily immersion in wild landscapes inspired the intricate sonic world of this project.The seven-movement album for piano and electronics does not represent literal seasons, but rather collects impressions of nature as it is today—fluid, unpredictable, and increasingly disrupted by climate change. Pianist Nao Momitani, Hebborn’s close collaborator, performs on the album, blending acoustic and electronic textures into a harmonious and organic soundscape.
The album is out December 6th release date via Western Vinyl, and today she shares the new track “Saisons – Movement 6,” which has a timely beauty. “The track is inspired by the joy revealed by the abundant strength of nature, when all life unites in a swirling movement carried by the continuous flow of the river,” Alice describes.
This is rising artist Yasmina Moonlight who recently released her new single “Level Up” . “Level Up” comes off the heels of Yasmina’s debut single “Habibi (My Baby),” which explores the complexities of navigating heartbreak and the emotional challenges of leaving a hostile partner. To date, Yasmina has earned media support from Ones To Watch, EnVi Media, NALUDA, V13, and Between East among others in addition to landing on Spotify’s ‘New Music Friday Maghreb’ and TIDAL’s ‘New Arrivals: Pop’ playlists.
Signed to LPME Records, Yasmina Moonlight blends pop elements with Arabic and Hindi influences to bring a unique cultural fusion to the mainstream. The Dubai-based creative previously appeared on X Factor Dubai 2023 where she captivated fans and judges alike with her magnetic stage presence and soulful vocals. In addition to music, Yasmina has also been featured in films, commercials and billboards across the globe. The multi-faceted artist has also scored brand partnerships across the beauty industry including big names like Sephora, Huda Beauty, and Too Faced Cosmetics to name a few.
Japan’s HARU NEMURI has teamed up with Thailand’s Pyra for a new single called “Don’t make love vow”. Pre-add and pre-save “Don’t make love vow” here: https://lnk.to/dont_make_love_vow
“The song was created from a critical perspective on the system of marriage,” says HARU NEMURI on the lyrics of the upcoming single. “The institution of marriage has historically served as a mechanism to bind and regulate individuals and communities economically, socially, and religiously. In Japan, only heterosexual (men and women couples) are granted the right to use this institution, which could be seen as society imposing normative rules on forms of love and is profoundly unequal. Having to constantly prove one’s relationships to authorities and receive their endorsement is, simply put, strange. So, in this song, from the perspective of if love truly exists, does it really require such a contract? Isn’t this just an obsession by having “no guarantee without a contract”? The song attempts to separate love from the institution, challenging the necessity of the institution itself.
In the summer of 2021, Brighton-based, Scottish-Thai songwriter Helen Ganya’s grandmother passed away. The grief hit the artist hard, not only because it marked the loss of her last remaining grandparent, but also because it felt like her links to being half-Thai were disintegrating. Ganya grew up in Singapore, but spent her summers in the northeast of Thailand where her mum’s side of the family is from, visiting her grandmother. Where would all those memories go now that the person at the centre of them was gone? What was her relationship to this place without that glue? And so, in an attempt to process it all, Ganya began to write. “I got my diary and wrote every single memory of my time as a child in Thailand, spending time with her, my grandad, my aunts and cousins and everything,” she explains, “I had these snapshots of memories that I just wrote down because I just suddenly panicked: it was like, who am I, then?”
It was for this reason that, while Helen Ganya was waiting for her acclaimed 2022 album, polish the machine, to come out, she was already working on what would become her arresting new record, Share Your Care. Ganya has been releasing music since 2015 (formerly under the moniker Dog in the Snow). In the records she’s put out over the years, she’s shown a proclivity towards dark and artful rock and off-kilter sounds, garnering praise from the likes of the Sunday Times, Uncut, Clash, Loud & Quiet and more. But Share Your Care marks a new era, building on Ganya’s past sonic worlds and interspersing them with traditional Thai instrumentation, resulting in a plush, luminous, psych-tinged affair that is full of feeling.
Email:neill@outloudculture.com
Socials: @neillfrazer
