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INsiders Guide: Grace Annabella Anderson, Georgia Weber and The Sleeved Hearts, MyCompiledThoughts, Kirk Hammett, Nueve Lio…

Photo Credit: Athina Sonitis

Singer, songwriter, model, and actress Grace Annabella Anderson transforms heartbreak into melodic relief with her new single “Transgressor.” Written during a bitter New York winter, the track captures the sharp ache of disillusionment, and the sensation of love turning spectral, lingering like a ghost in the corners of a city that once felt safe.

Produced by Thomas Dulin of The Planetarium, the song shines with a rich, cinematic sound. The multi-hyphenate delivers her vocals with a distinct, haunting presence that anchors the track. Musically, “Transgressor” takes cues from the Ultraviolence-era of Lana Del Rey, enveloping listeners in dreamy vocals, jagged electric guitar, and a heartbeat of reverb that fills every pause with feeling. The cinematic arrangement never crescendos; instead, it lingers in the fragile space between realization and release.

Anderson’s lyrics, informed by her background as a published poet, are intimate, restrained, and piercing. The song unravels slowly, tracing a reckoning between illusion and truth, capturing the moment one sees another’s true colors while recognizing their own naivety. The title, “Transgressor,” reads like both a confession and a quiet accusation, ending abruptly mid-phrase, leaving the story unresolved yet profoundly resonant.

‘Transgressor’ is winter to me,” Anderson portrays. “I wrote this one February, when the city was consumed by bitter, unshakable cold, and someone who had blanketed my heart had abruptly pulled away – only then did I realize the extent to which I had become attached to him. In the subsequent weeks, he became a ghost to me, haunting dimly lit street corners, dive bar windows, taxicabs, and half-conscious dreams. I mourned who I thought he was, I lamented who I wished he was, and I sought out any sort of cosmic guidance I could.”

Anderson’s work exists at the intersection of literature and sound. Her writing has been featured in Mistake House MagazineApplause Literary JournalNew Croton Review, and NYU’s West 10th, where she received the Editor’s Award in Poetry.

“In many other songs of mine, I’m venerating a certain ideal, a romanticized possibility of what could be or could have been,” she depicts. “Transgressor is a 180º pivot from that, it chronicles an arc of disillusionment as I’m forced to come to terms with someone being antithetical to who I thought they were, and my subsequent naïveté.”

Georgia Weber, an Australian-born singer, songwriter, and upright bassist now based in New York City, has garnered widespread acclaim for her latest EP, Big In Japan, with her band The Sleeved Hearts. Blending indie-folk storytelling, jazz influences, and pop elements, Weber’s innovative sound has resonated with both critics and audiences. Bass Magazine praised her “poignant use of subtlety, tension, and release,” while Cheers to the Vikings called the album “a rare kind of beauty that stays with you,” highlighting its warm atmosphere and rich melodies. EARMILK noted Weber’s thoughtful incorporation of Japanese art and culture, reflecting her genuine care and love for the themes woven throughout the record. Additionally, Bass Musician emphasized her decade-long influence on the New York jazz scene and how her new work pushes jazz into exciting, unexpected directions.

R&B/Soul musician and producer MyCompiledThoughts continues his streak of sonic therapy with his latest single, “Anymore,” featuring Ky Alexander, available now. This is the first in a series of upcoming singles that serve as a real time “musical journal,” returning to the very foundation of how this rising R&B star began his creative journey. 

“The top-line melody embeds itself in your head before you even have a choice—an instantly memorable hallmark of accessible music that lingers long after it ends,” EarMilk proclaims calling it, “A true gem of a track that paints a beautiful picture of MyCompiledThoughts’ sonic capabilities.” 

“The song was written and recorded on the spur of the moment,” says MyCompiledThoughts. “I was feeling emotional after breaking up with a long-time partner that I genuinely thought would see me win. This is my ode to that moment, to the pain of losing someone who you thought would be your forever person.” 

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The collaboration with Ky Alexander came together very organically on the first day they met. “I’m the heart and Ky is the action, I’m pure emotion and Ky balances it out by adding context and reason to the piece.” 

Built on hauntingly melodic production and vulnerable lyricism, “Anymore” is a reflection of MCT’s emotional depth and evolving creative identity. As MCT continues his series of diary-style releases, “Anymore” stands as both a personal timestamp and an open invitation into his inner thoughts . 

“Anymore” is out now on all major streaming services. Listen now

One of the most iconic rock guitarists of our generation, Kirk Hammett—legendary guitarist of the multi-platinum-selling, nine-time GRAMMY® Award-winning band Metallica—continues his long-standing partnership with Gibson. Today, the iconic instrument brand proudly unveils its latest collaboration: a bold new acoustic from Gibson CustomKirk Hammett teamed up with the master luthiers at Gibson Custom in Bozeman, Montana, to create the Gibson Custom Kirk Hammett Raven, a majestic counterpart to the legendary Gibson Hummingbird™. The Kirk Hammett Raven is limited to only 100 guitars worldwide—and available at authorized Gibson dealers, Gibson Garage locations, and on www.gibson.com.

While it shares the Hummingbird’s square-shoulder silhouette, Kirk Hammett’s Raven distinguishes itself with a dark, artistic twist on the Hummingbird aesthetic. Crafted with a Sitka spruce top and mahogany back and sides, and supported by traditional scalloped Advanced X-bracing, it delivers the timeless acoustic tone that has captivated musicians and audiences for generations. Its mahogany neck features a comfortable Round profile and is topped with a bound ebony fretboard, complete with 20 frets and mother-of-pearl star inlays. A 16″ radius makes it ideal for fast, expressive playing. Grover® Rotomatic® tuners ensure reliable tuning, while TUSQ® components—including the nut, saddle, and bridge pins—enhance tonal consistency and tuning stability. The headstock showcases the Gibson logo alongside a striking mother-of-pearl raven skull inlay, reinforcing the instrument’s bold identity.

Nueve Lio is stepping into the spotlight with the release of his new album, Herturn, a project that captures his one-of-a-kind sound and exceptional storytelling. Seamlessly merging seductive R&B lyrics and raw emotions, Nueve Lio delivers an authentic experience that is as personal as it is powerful.

From the captivating rhythms of “Run It Back” and“Bedroom” to the empowering anthem “Her Own Money,” Herturn showcases Nueve Lio’s creative versatility and sharp lyrical vision. Each track paints a vivid picture of resilience, ambition, and self-expression — proving why his artistry stands out in today’s West Coast music scene.

With a blend of soulful melodies and smooth production , Herturn positions Nueve Lio as a genuine and dynamic voice in modern music. His creative fusion of styles and storytelling delivers a listening experience that feels timeless yet fresh.

Herturn is available now on all major streaming platforms, follow @Basednineside for more updates.

About Nueve Lio:

Nueve Lio is a 22-year-old singer-songwriter born in Southern California, with an upbringing that shaped his distinctive sound. Having lived in Japan and Guam, he draws from a wide range of cultural and musical influences. In his music, you can hear the inspiration which makes his sound unique and authentic to his story.

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The West Coast singer has opened for Kalan.FrFr, Thuy, D.Savage, and 310 Babii as well as headlining his own sold out shows in his hometown. Billboard recently supported his single “Candles” featuring Karri, which has over 1.5 million streams on Spotify.

His recent project, HERTURN, showcases his evolution as an artist, featuring standout singles like “Run It Back” and “Bedroom.” With each release, Nueve Lio continues to refine his craft and push creative boundaries, building a sound that’s introspective. Nueve Lio has surpassed 5.6M streams on Apple Music & 21M streams on Spotify. Follow @basednineside on social media for updates and more.

Los Angeles-born rapper, producer, professional skateboarder, and multidisciplinary artist Navy Blue (Sage Elsesser) releases his new single and video “Orchards,” available now via Freedom Sounds. The track marks the first glimpse of his forthcoming album The Sword & The Soaring, arriving November 11. LISTEN HERE.

Following his 2024 release Memoirs in Armour, which explored themes of protection, vulnerability, and spiritual grounding, “Orchards” opens a new chapter of creative clarity and ascension. Produced by Child Actor, the track unfolds through luminous, meditative soundscapes, weaving together natural imagery and transcendental introspection.

“Child Actor has been a guiding light and force for me and my creative process. When he shared the beat, it was titled Orchard, just as Low Threshold was. The titles of his beats are always spot on and seem to set the stage. This time with the warm glow of a winter sun piercing through the clouds. I visualized an apple orchard melting into a singular vanishing point, and began to write. Thousands of individual trees bearing fruit, connected through soil and roots, with an expansiveness that resembles the infinite source.” — Navy Blue

Sydney-based songstress and multi-instrumentalist Ella Haber prepares to release her debut LP ’Through Blood, Like Kin’. Ella has built a powerful reputation as an authentic and impressive artist following the international and local acclaim of her 2019 debut EP ‘Clay’. She was the only Sydney act invited to perform at Gilles Peterson’s inaugural We Out Here festival, followed up by an exclusive London headline showcase hosted by Jamz Supernova. She has gone on to support Cymande, Alfa Mist (at the Sydney Opera House), and Emma-Jean Thackeray & Surprise Chef.

https://ellahaber.bandcamp.com/album/through-blood-like-kin

Brooklyn’s Victoryland, the avant-pop project of Julian McCamman, is excited to announce their signing to NY/Nashville indie label, Good English Records. With the news, they’re also announcing their label debut, My Heart Is A Room With No Cameras In Itout January 23, 2026 everywhere digitally and on cassette tapes. The first preview of the sonically jubilant, lyrically introspective album arrives today with “No Cameras,” in which fractured synths flutter around propulsive drums as McCamman ponders love and perception. Tapes are available for preorder now at goodenglishrecords.bandcamp.com.

“A pop song about the plight of the heart to be seen and to hide at the same time,” says McCamman. “Zoom out on the house, you’re in your own mouth. Zoom out enough on the heart and it’s in a house.”

Fresh-faced Country singer-songwriter KC Bruner today releases her alluring new single “Country Magic Spell,” ahead of All Hallows’ Eve. The ethereal and enchanting track finds Bruner in a siren-like state, luring in her love interest with charm and Country magic. Backed by Appalachian-style acoustic guitar and a folksy fiddle that seems to call from the Smoky Mountains, Bruner’s velvety vocals stand tall across the low-lit tune.

Apollo Brown and Ty Farris – No Celebrations
The joint “No Celebrations” is all about the relentless grind it takes to reach the top, and the mindset it takes to stay there. 
It’s a reminder that no matter how much you win, how far you climb, or how loud the applause gets, humility has to come first. 
You might feel like poppin’ that bottle, but this isn’t the time to celebrate. There’s still more to build, more to prove, and more to become. 
The work doesn’t stop because of a little success. If anything, it gets harder and more personal. “As long as I’m breathin’, I’m workin’…” 
That’s the code. Stay focused. Stay grounded. The mission’s not done yet.
No Celebrations is out now – https://ffm.to/nocelebrations

Rising alt-pop artist, $kin Up, has announced that on November 15th, he will be taking the stage at the legendary Viper Room in Los Angeles, CA, for a high-octane headlining set. The show celebrates the release of his most recent single, “I Feel Ready,” out now. 

The Viper Room performance marks the final stop of the Punk Kid Tour, which saw $kin Up deliver his dynamic live shows to audiences in New York City, Nashville, and his hometown of Atlanta. The tour caps off a breakout year of new music and growing momentum as he wraps what has been a monumental 2025.

Mythology evokes images of gods, titans, demons, and beasts of every kind. Yet, it’s the spark of humanity that keeps us telling and retelling myths. It’s these stories of seduction, inheritance, and hubris that Nashville-based folk duo Haunted Like Human rekindle in the 14 songs on their third album American Mythology, out now.

Rising pop powerhouse Max Rae is ending 2025 on a high note with the release of her new single “Karma,” on Oct. 31st followed by two festive originals that promise to dominate holiday playlists: “Christmas Fever” (out October 24) and “Auld Lang Bye”, her cheeky reinvention of the New Year’s Eve classic, arriving November 21.

https://www.instagram.com/max.rae.music/?hl=en

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Written across the late 2010s–2024 and recorded at Revolver Recording Studios, Fireside Sound and Joshua Tree Recording Studio, the record was co-produced by Grammy winner Mikal Blue, Vanessa Silberman, and the band. Guests include Christopher Thorn (Blind Melon) and Peter DiStefano (Porno for Pyros). Across eight tracks, “Alien,” “Angel,” “Waterfalls,” “Never Gonna Bring Me Down,” “Queen,” “She Felt at Peace,” “What About Love,” “TK”, the band leans into themes of healing, resistance, and renewal, with water as a recurring image for transformation.

There is a certain solace to be found in minimal music—a contemplative joy that emerges through sustained repetition and subtle variation. Solo Three, the slyly absorbing new album from Michigan-based composer and multi-instrumentalist Erik Hall, embodies that hypnotic charge while boldly reimagining a distinct selection of contemporary classical works. 

Solo Three is the third in Hall’s trilogy of releases reinterpreting and reimagining contemporary pieces, beginning with 2020’s Music for 18 Musicians (Steve Reich) and 2023’s Canto Ostinato (Simeon ten Holt), both of which were critically acclaimed.

It’s announced today for a January 23rd release date via Western Vinyl, and today Hall shares the first single, which is an adaptation of Steve Reich’s “Music for a Large Ensemble.”Check out the piece via YouTube, and pre-order the album here.

On the track, he shares: “‘Music for a Large Ensemble’ is another treasured composition by Steve Reich and the closing piece on this record. I wanted to conclude this series of albums the way it began, as a sort of bookend and an ode to the process of making them. Beyond the interest of his concept or experiment, Reich’s music also simply imbues a gratifying emotional arc that’s accessible to any ears; something akin to a pop sensibility. The CD of his 1980 recording has lived in my car for years, and it was a total joy to transport this work into the sonic world of my studio.”

Fresh off the announcement of their highly anticipated new album Listen Up!New Found Glory is excited to share their new single “Treat Yourself”. The third track to be released from Listen Up!, “Treat Yourself” is a fast-paced song about being kinder to yourself in the face of hard times. Stream “Treat Yourself” here and watch the new visualizer here.

This is a fast more west coast punk style song,” shares guitarist Chad Gilbert. “It’s about how people are very hard on themselves when it comes to mistakes and failure and how a lot of that is put on by false expectations of the world and people around you.

He continues: “People seem to forget about the hard times they already have been through and conquered in their past, which should be a reminder that they are capable of getting through tough times. A reminder that we are our own worst enemies at times and we have to give ourselves a break. We gotta treat our own selves better.

the genre-blending rock artist, Leon Knight, released his highly anticipated single Yes I Do” feat. DE’WAYNE via Knightmare Records. The track premiered yesterday before hitting DSP’s with an On The Radar performance full of swagger and explosive energy.  

Winter is closing in, and the world’s coldest festival is turning up the heat once again. Igloofest Montréal returns to the Old Port from January 15 to February 7, 2026, ready to ignite the ice with a bold lineup of international icons and homegrown heroes. For nearly two decades, Igloofest has transformed the coldest months of the year into a reason to celebrate – a uniquely Canadian ritual that proves you can always throw an unforgettable party, no matter the conditions. What began as a wild idea in the snow has evolved into a global winter phenomenon, and the festival’s 18th edition promises four weekends of pure fire under the frost.

Igloofest Montréal 2026 is led by one of the festival’s biggest bookings to date: DJSnake, a global superstar and in demand collaborator who has featured the likes of J Balvin, Travis Scott, Future, Selena Gomez, and more across his expansive catalog. He’s one of the most influential French-speaking artists in the world, making an exclusive Canadian appearance with his signature fusion of global rhythms and festival anthems in tow.

He’ll be joined across Igloofest’s renowned Sapporo and Videotron stages by high-energy powerhouse duo SOFI TUKKER, Belgian rap icon Hamza, pioneering Canadian selector A-Trak, and versatile French standouts MadeonThe Blaze (DJ Set), and Trym. Highlights continue with the debut of an explosive new bass collaboration, Black Tiger Sex Machine & Kai Wachi: Skull Machine, the atmospheric stylings of Elderbrook (DJ Set), and a back to back meeting of legendary minds between techno titan and MOOD label boss Nicole Moudaber and Montréal trailblazer Misstress Barbara, who celebrates 30 years behind the decks.

House and techno fans will be spoiled for choice with Disco Lines, the viral hitmaker behind this year’s global summer anthem “No Broke Boys” with Tinashe. Added depth comes from rising tech house sensation Max Styler, empowering dance artist Aluna, eclectic Peruvian DJ and producer Sofia Kourtesis, the dreamlike sounds of DJSeinfeld and sleek selections of Cole Knight, Canadian-born, bass-driven house producer Nostalgix, and local minimal techno up-and-comer GuillaumeMichaud. Additional highlights include Belgian chart-topper Lost Frequencies, Dutch electronic duo Weval (DJ Set), Japanese producer Qrion, hard-hitting techno producer AZYR, Scottish export Hannah Laing, and forward-thinking multi-platinum producer HighKlassified.

Igloofest once again shines a spotlight on Montréal’s electrifying homegrown scene, celebrating the raw energy of the city’s underground on an international stage. This year, the festival welcomes two of Montréal’s most emblematic collectives – T.I.T.S. featuring CoriNo Police, and CHAR.L.N. B2B Inside Blur, and Hauterageous featuring San FarafinaMonib, and Siren Mars – each making their Igloofest debut and ready to get even the coldest crowds moving.

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Local highlights continue with two Montréal staples that embody the vitality of the city’s electronic scene: the Ferias collective with Alina B2B Guthrie, and Homegrown Harvest, spotlighting rising talents badgalquirit, donotstealmyname, and Traxence. Fans can also catch heat from DJ Smokey and Shadow Wizard Money Gang – the hyped, Skrillex-backed collective – plus local trance and acid techno favorite CultMember, Montréal’s bass crew Musik Me Luv with Dick Lee, nad, and Pleurire, and the techno-forward collective OCTOV, featuring BitterCaress, KORVN, and Manolow.

Once again, Igloofest will transform Montréal’s historic Old Port into an open-air winter playground, set against a stunning city skyline, riverfront views, and easy access to downtown’s vibrant energy. From its free and festive Igloofête programming and fan-driven snowsuit tradition to its striking architectural scenography and world-class music, Igloofest continues to prove why it’s a must-attend winter destination – uniting Canadians and international travelers through music, culture, and the shared joy of winter.

Winter 2026 marks a historic milestone for Igloofest, as the iconic event expands beyond the province of Québec to bring its frosty magic to audiences across Canada. Renowned for transforming the coldest months of the year into a full-scale celebration of music, dance, and community, the festival will now take place in four major Canadian cities – Montréal, Gatineau, Québec City, and the newly announced Edmonton – with an additional market to be revealed before the end of 2026.

As Igloofest spreads across the country, it remains true to its DNA – a festive spirit, a love of winter, and a distinctly Québécois authenticity. The festival’s iconic colorful snowsuits and must-have Igloo toques will once again define the look of the dancefloor – because a winter without Igloofest simply isn’t winter at all.

Igloofest’s ticket on sale will begin November 7 at 11am ET at the festival’s official website. Fans can get a jump on tickets by signing up for the pre-sale beginning November 6 at 11am ET at the link here.  New for 2026, the festival introduces an exclusive VVIP side stage ticket experience – offering premium mainstage viewing, expedited entry, and dedicated comfort zones featuring private bars, raised platforms, and direct proximity to the artists and performances.

Igloofest is an 18+ event. This excludes the January 29 event headlined by Hamza, which will be a 16+ show.

Igloofest Montréal 2026 Lineup

WEEKEND ONE
January 15 – Disco Lines, Cult Member, Liv K
January 16 – SOFI TUKKER, Aluna, Suray Sertin, Cori, No Police, CHAR.L.N B2B Inside Blur
January 17 – The Blaze (DJ Set), Sofia Kourtesis (DJ Set), Kris Guilty, Dick Lee, nad, Pleurire

WEEKEND TWO
January 22 – Madeon, Bolarinho
January 23 – Nicole Moudaber, Misstress Barbara, Kris Tin, San Farafina, Monib, Siren Mars
January 24 – Skull Machine (Black Tiger Sex Machine & Kai Wachi), Nostalgix, KATTANA, KAT2KAT, DJ Smokey, Shadow Wizard Money Gang, D.Blavatsky, NASTY GLOSS

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WEEKEND THREE
January 29 – Hamza, Manaré, High Klassified, YAYA LA BAE
January 30 – DJ Snake, A-Trak, Arielle Roberge, BitterCaress, KORVN, Manolow
January 31 – Lost Frequencies, Qrion, Jares, Guillaume Michaud, Shirlee, Cirque Cosmic

WEEKEND 4
February 5 – Elderbrook (DJ Set), Weval (DJ Set), Laure
February 6 – Trym, AZYR, Hannah Laing, Zorza, badgalquirit, donotstealmyname, Traxence
February 7 – Max Styler, DJ Seinfeld, Cole Knight, Andrea de Tour, Alina B2B Guthrie

Igloofest thanks its partners who never drop the beat.
Igloofest warmly thanks its presenting partner Sapporo; as well as its collaborating partners: Videotron and belairdirect.; its major partners: National Bank of CanadaPoppers, and Loto-Québec; and its official partners: SAQNYX Professional MakeupLiquid I.V.Sour Patch KidsCanadian ClubOlé Cocktail Co.Red Bull, and STM. Finally, Igloofest extends its thanks to its public partners: the Old Port of Montreal, the City of MontrealTourisme Montréal, and the Government of Québec.

About Igloofest
Since 2007, Igloofest has brought together thousands of music lovers to dance under the stars in Montréal’s Old Port. With its striking winter-meets-industrial setting, bold architectural stage design, and lineups that spotlight the best local and international talent, Igloofest stands as one of the most iconic and beloved events in Canada. Complete with its playful Igloovillage activations and its infamous one-piece snowsuit contest, the festival has become a symbol of creativity, resilience, and joy in the heart of winter. Now celebrating its 18th edition, Igloofest expands across the country: Montréal from Jan 15-Feb 7, Gatineau from Feb 12-14, Québec City from Mar 6-8, Edmonton from Mar 13-15, and an additional market to be announced – closing out the season on an unforgettable high note.

  • Email: neill@outloudculture.com
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