ALBUM REVIEWSFEATURED

Rachael Rose and ‘Butterfly’ Look for Answers about the Afterlife

‘Butterfly’ takes us down that winding road of the inevitable…death.  However, this isn’t a gloom and doom song about the end of days.  It is a beacon of light that begs the question of “what really happens when we die?” and combines that with a glimmering and optimistic answer.  Hopefully we are with the ones that went before us, and if we are first, then hopefully our loves will follow us there. Rose says of the track, “Overall the song is about the idea of being so deeply bonded with someone that you believe you would stay connected in any and every lifetime.”

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Kathie, Kathy, Dolly and Punk Rock

On August 25th, 2026 the world stopped with the news that Dolly Parton had passed away.  It was a shockwave that was felt by so many.  Everyone who had ever been touched by her music and her kindness was saddened to learn that the earth would keep spinning without The Smoky Mountain Songbird. We were so lucky to live in a timeline that saw us floating on this space rock with such a bright and selfless human being.  So how would we cope?  For me this bombshell coincided with my mom, Kathie, coming up to Nashville to see my new house and celebrate her birthday.  She was also arriving in Music City with her friend, Kathy, who was also celebrating her birthday.  The best thing that we could do was to dive headfirst into the sounds and soul of Dolly.

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Ghost: 2 Big To Rig (Zealous) Review

This past weekend, I and fellow wondrous dreamer and writer Melinoe Morningstar were gifted free IMAX tickets to see the debut of Ghost’s concert/live album film ‘2 Big to Rig’. (Thanks so much again to Dorothy Keeler and Amelia Marrero for thinking of me – and to Melinoe for rallying for a 9:30 PM showing, which is hilariously a bit too late for us to just be getting out haha We are gettin’ old, baby!)

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Rosemary Shultz: “Tied to You” Single Release

As I yapped my way into another friendship post Bowery performance, Rosemary and I slowly developed our own connection. I ventured to the Teakwood Garden (RIP) to dive into Rosemary’s Musical World once more. I was there when she performed the Harmonica for the first time live. I took a day off my neurotic schedule to dress up like a fairy princess, and enjoy some tea at the Troll House Cottage. I badgered my husband to take me to the 1865 Club when we were counting pennies to support our evening out. I fought my way to show up to house shows haggardly when I felt like the social experience would be a direct cause of my death. And after I bit the bullet to write my first Rock Oracle Article? Rosemary’s TreeHouse Collab was the first local show I covered as an Oracle for Rock Oracle. To get to my point, it has not always been easy for me to nurture a connection with Rosemary. In fact, both of us have been on the hustle with our Earth energy, and Watery Dreams. Yet, there has been a String Tied to You, Tied To Me.

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

Rock Steady Nashville Crushes Their First Live Event at The Basement East

I’d like to start off with saying a MASSIVE THANK YOU to Rock Steady Nashville and everyone involved (will give more details on that a bit later) for organizing such a kick ass, inspiring event. Nashville certainly has a reputation for its extensive music community, but there’s also a lot of other  art and artists here that sometimes wind up feeling a bit separate from the music scene, which has always felt like a missed opportunity in my mind.  What I loved most about Rock Steady’s event was that it brought together several different artists and mediums – as well as missions – into one event … all in the name of Rock! What could be better?!

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

WNXP Summer Line Series with Bully and Massie99

This summer’s shows hit a little bit different than last summer’s shows because now, Rock Oracle is a building a team and we had our first team building exercise at WNXP’s Summer Line Series. We were in attendance for the second of four events curated by Nashville Public Radio Station WNXP (91.1 FM) for this summer. By we, I mean myself, plus new additions to the squad Sarah and Stacey who, along with Florida Oracle, Mooney, have been instrumental in taking Rock Oracle to the next level.  The first WNXP event was with Devon Gilfillian and was deemed a huge success as people filled the Ascension St. Thomas Landing at Nashville Yards on June 26th.  The sophomore installment of this well orchestrated showcase was Bully and Massie99, on August 22nd, at the outdoor venue.  I was thrilled to introduce these artists to my team and share in a magical night evening of music community. 

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Fontaines D.C. New Single and Music Video ‘Marianne’ Unveiled

And “Marianne” feels like the beginning of yet another version.

It’s haunting, cinematic, strangely danceable, and emotionally heavy. Grian’s baritone sits over it like a ghost, while the lyrics and instrumentation leave just enough unanswered that I’m still wandering around my little haunted house looking for clues. Add the music video, the emotion surrounding Trev, and the story of how this song found its place on the album, and “Marianne” feels like far more than just another single.

It feels like a doorway.

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FEATUREDINTERVIEWS

Meet Musician Jon Worthy

Jon is a grinder. A hustler is the greatest sense. A go getter of all things and he will not be bogged down by the way that the music industry is dictating how you should go about your tactics. Go back to 2019 when he played 121 shows – including a handful of festivals such as Musikfest. In 2020 (you remember that beautiful year), Worthy pivoted to recording and production where he set up a studio in his house and began releasing self-produced tracks. Songs such as “She’s Alright,” “Remember When” and “I’ll Be Ok” were released at that time. Worthy has also worked with several prominent names including Lincoln Parish (Cage the Elephant), Andrija Tokic (Alabama Shakes) and Arlie. Also, in 2019 Worthy released his third full-length album called Something’s Gotta Give. This album veered towards more of an indie-Americana-folk blend than his prior releases. The album has amassed well over 300K streams and radio play across the country including heavy rotation on Nashville’s Lightning 100. 

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

Are You Ready to Rock? Rock Steady Nashville Sure Is.

Rock Steady will be making its debut as a show promoter at The Basement East on Sunday, August 23rd for an evening that celebrates Nashville’s enduring rock scene. That’s right, it is not all country music. This unique event is a new collaborative concept that aims to connect the creative thread between the long-standing legendary rock music scene and its surrounding arts community. This music and art showcase honors Nashville’s past, present, and future local rock scene with live performances, local art features, interactive experiences, and community organizations. Nashville’s rock scene is incredibly rich in history and has long been a launching point for some of the highest rock talents. This legacy continues to influence the scene today, setting the foundation for Nashville’s unique music community. While much has changed in this city, Nashville’s supportive network of impassioned artists remains the same

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“Nimrods” A Green Day Film & Soundtrack Review

The Movie itself is a wonderful, nostalgic experience. Reminding me of a childhood comfort film, “Crossroads” with Britney Spears. “Nimrods” mimics that same flow of plot build up. Creating mythos worthy obstacles that build the confidence of the young performers into the successful achievement of their Labors along the Hero’s Journey of their Dreamiest Visions. Ensuring to embrace the naturally cheesy or corny moments in life with an upbeat essence throughout the entirety of the film. There was an enriching emotional element behind the story that is more Punk Rock than any superficial macho shit-head would like you to believe. As a Green Day Fan-Girly, I adored the nuggets of truth I knew were a mirrored aspect of the band’s story. It was Generationally healing to experience how the band passed the torch onto the New Age. 

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Sophia Brand’s New Single ‘Rodeo’ is Much More than Just Another Breakup Song

Sophia told me, “Honestly, ‘Rodeo’ was born out of a moment of transformation. After being cheated on and discovering it was with the same woman who had been involved with a previous partner, I was done being the victim. I didn’t want to write another heartbreak song so I leaned into the anger and the writing process became my way of reclaiming power. I wanted it to be a song about recognizing the pattern, refusing to be blindsided again, and this time being the one in control. The concept is equal parts seduction and revenge with luring him back in and then tearing him apart. I want anyone listening to feel empowered with any situation that leaves them feeling minimized because it’s not in their control”. She added, “Anyways, I promise I’m a nice person!”

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

A Damn Good Time with Hayden Pattengale & Band at Basement East

Living in Nashville quickly introduces you to the wide world of music. It seems that everyone you meet is involved in the music industry somehow and most are extremely gifted in their area of expertise.Having lived in/around the city my whole life, I’ve been honored to meet many of those people – some being some of the most talented musicians in the area. Even more of an honor, some of those people have become good friends over time. Hell, I eventually snagged one of my own to marry LOL which is funny, really, because I used to vehemently state: “I will NEVER marry a musician!” Don’t ask why I used to say that LOL I can’t recall what so heavily concerned my early-20s brain about it … but I’m VERY glad (obviously) that sentiment didn’t manifest!

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Let’s Get Weird One More Time!

The complexity of the music paints abstract grooves and scratches scores of stories we have all wanted to behold. Their voices add to the fray and slap on yet another layer of gorgeous convolution. Izaac has a raspy, robotic element piped into his microphone that heightens this mystical adventure.  His words seem to bounce around the room and crash through any physical barriers. Gabrielle is not to be missed on the other side of this team.  She brings forth an element of soul, hitting high angelic notes and phenomenally constructed primal screams.  She dances graciously between notes and vocals.  She is in the moment.  We are all in the moment.

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FEATUREDINTERVIEWS

“Deidre” A Modern Mystical Muse From Austin, TX

It is not a secret that I am a vibrant critic of the social media music and artistry world. I tend to be quite cantankerous around this modern culture and industry. Most of the time, the artists you discover through popularity contests online and viral trends, are inauthentic, mass produced slop. I romanticize the elder generations and how other musings were discovered. However, nothing is inherently benevolent, nor inherently malicious. There are the hidden gems to be treasured in these online spaces. Social Media is an amazing tool for the underdog to have a chance at achieving their dreams. It is a fine line in these spaces. The critique is absolutely necessary to maintain the ethical efficacy. Although, on the other end of the spectrum we have the elitist march that snubs anyone who dares to utilize such a tool for their benefit. I do believe it is in how you use the tool, not the fact that you’re engaging with the tool at all. And so, I am grateful for the use of modern technology. Otherwise, I am not sure how else I would’ve aligned with Deidre and her magickal, mystical musings. I suppose, the Universe would’ve found a way through the networks of that era. Nevertheless, these are the moments I find reward in the bullshit I sufferingly indulge within my online presence and engagement. This is the magick of sacrifice. This is the beauty of the internet, and its empowering capability of connection. This is a story of the wellness we can cultivate within social media culture. The healing, and unity, of our virtual realms. 

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August Tarot of the Month – Mandrake – A Love Letter to Music and its Creators

Music can produce such intense responses for listeners – we know this to be true – but have you considered what that experience is like for the creators? Composing the notes and rhythms, building the songs from the ground up … musicians pour parts of their soul into the music they share out. As consumers, it’s easy to take elements like that for granted, of course. 

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Parker Barrow | Hold The Mash | Album Review

When you listen to the album, it seems timeless in the sense that you could drop this compilation in any decade, post the mid-60’s, and it would be identifiable as being made in that timeframe.  This construction of their art is well thought out, well place and certainly orchestrated with meticulous care. The fact that Parker Barrow’s sophomore record and the Rolling Stones 25th studio release came out within a week of each other is quite a cool coincidence.  It bookmarks a place in musical history, yet it also says that the future has been listening and that the music never dies;it just takes on new shapes with fresh voices. Megan is that vocal prominence that tears into these tracks with a vibrance and a soul sound that is never mundane.  She never sings in an idle space. Megan’s range matches the components of her bandmates’ abilities, and that is to say it is all endless. The twin lead guitars of Tipton and Bender jangle and twang with idyllic riffs and Safka’s electric ivories dance alongside, as all the cosmic tones race in the ethos of these recordings. Turner’s powerful pacing from behind the kit looms large with Priber’s bass and that uproarious thundering echo of life maintains an arc of toe-tapping joy.

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Nina Sasaki & Black Velvet: Our Japanese Stevie Nicks 

My time with Nina was priceless. It is a chapter of my life I wish didn’t have to end. And it most certainly hasn’t died. It has only transformed. I am no longer Nina’s personal assistant. I no longer walk Max (her German Shepherd Son, my beloved Cousin-puppy. Nina has always felt like an Auntie or Sister figure I could admire. In fact, she inspired my love for German Shepherds. So when I met my dearest Husband, it felt like fate when I learned he had a German named Sunna!) I also no longer manage Black Velvet’s Facebook page, and other minimal band management or content tasks. Interesting how life seemed to always have a plan for me. I didn’t realize just how valuable my experiences with Nina would evolve into. At the time in my twenty-something mind, they seemed like cool stories to share. Obviously, they are! It is quite humorous to me to realize that I have always been guided towards my purpose with every universal mentor that has appeared before my path. I may have lost myself. I may not have seen myself. But the Divine has always had my back. I have always been Blessed with the Bestest. 

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

Pavement Rocks 26 Song Set at The Ryman

The show was beyond phenomenal with Pavement playing for nearly two hours on Monday, July 27th.  School night Schmool night. They orchestrated 26 songs (including the encore) and sounded incredible.  The Ryman is a fantastic venue known to locals as “The Mother Church” (it is in fact an old church) with a glorious sound built into its walls. You couldn’t recreate the sonic tonality or the ambience of its foundation today if you tried.  Everyone was up out of their pew row seating and on their feet the entire time, singing the words and shouting the hooks where they were needed.  Fifty-two-year-old me kept thinking back to my teenage self and wondering if he would have appreciated this as much as I do now. 

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Meghan Pulles: New Single and New Record

 I can honestly say that Pulles has left everything on the table and has come at us with a record from a deeply emotional place and ‘The Midhaven’ is just a sample of her putting her vulnerability on display so that the world may not only empathize together but also begin to heal through human connection. When the single drops,there will also be a gorgeously shot, black and white video, to accompany it. This is the first time that Pulles has released a video and a single on the same day. Meghan’s voice floats in the atmosphere and invites you to take part in the feast of her magical lyrics. Her words are a sonnet filled with staggering imagery that invokes heartfelt sentiment.

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

615 Indie Live Announces Year Three Return and Opens Artist Submissions

Now entering its third year, organizers say 2027 will build on the festival’s momentum with more venues, more local artists, and an even greater impact for Nashville’s independent music community. Several new festival initiatives and partnerships will be announced in the coming months as 615 Indie Live continues to expand its impact on Nashville’s independent music scene. The artist lineup will be unveiled later this fall.

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Artist Review | Kingfishr

If you’ve learned anything from my handful of articles, it’s probably this: my feet may be planted firmly on American soil, but my heart has always belonged to Ireland. There’s something about the people, the stories, and the music that keeps calling me back. Supporting the fiercely talented, resilient, and endlessly authentic artists coming out of Ireland isn’t just something I enjoy, it’s something I’m genuinely passionate about. Thankfully, bands like Kingfishr make that passion ridiculously easy. 

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Album Review | Madonna | Confessions II

With that, Madonna’s Confessions II is most certainly a Love Letter to the Oppressed. To all the Girls, Gays, and Theys. To everyone who has ever been exiled for being nothing other than themselves. Every song is a dance ballad of self empowerment, and healing. I cannot pick a favorite. Nor can I pick a song that is more meaningful. The entire album is medicine for the soul. As I said, it is Doctor’s Orders. Oracle’s Orders to initiate yourselves into this frequency with at least 1 Full Cycle from Start to finish. To feel into your body, and release any stored up toxins that shame you for being who you are. You are not a threat. You are not vile. You are beautiful as you are. We all serve our purpose. We all have a light to give to the Universe. We are the colors on her voided canvas. It is our Birthright to Shine. 

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Album Review | Death Cab for Cutie | I Built You A Tower

Their mixes ranged from simple and methodical to complex and inspired, and the lyrics … well … Death Cab for Cutie has been one of my favorites for so long specifically because of their lyrics. (Ben Gibbard is a lyrical genius, and I don’t care who might try to say otherwise LOL) Their writing style has always struck a chord with me. I’ve always especially admired and connected with their use of metaphors, which only helps to create stronger visuals of their stories, and this album is no different. I Built You A Tower is a beautiful blend of complex emotions (deeply felt nostalgia). I don’t know how they always do it, but they do – and it’s magic! 

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Hot Ticket Set to Open in East Nashville 

Programs involving painting, writing, sculpting, sewing, and other art-minded gatherings could be offered in time.  This is for people to get off their screens and get involved with their neighbors. Bond made sure to let me know that one policy would be “no phones on the dance floor”.  Hot Ticket will be about staying present and living in the moment. Bond regaled about her time as amusician, “I remember when people danced at our shows.  Nobody dances at shows anymore.  If someone starts dancing now, people are like ‘what are you doing?’” As an artist, a fan and a patron of other spots around Nashville, Bond leans into shifting the paradigm. She went on to add, “We all feed off each other’s energy and being in a smaller and more intimate space for that is vital”.  LGTBQ+ events will also be a focal point for Bond and McCoy.  There are promises of Queer Dance Parties and Drag Brunches among those festivities. 

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

The Nordic Experimental Folk Experience

I can’t recall what song played first – or which one I trulyheard first –  but I do remember when Straylight Run’s song, Existentialism on Prom Night, came on … This immense feeling of understanding and presence washed over me. Every single note, every vibration streaming through the air … it was as if I could feel the molecules shifting around me – the air around me changing as each note rang out from the speakers. I’d even go so far to say I envisioned the music in my mind’s eye, each note producing a different color, image, shape, etc. Again, only sharing my own experience here and would never aim to talk someone into doing it, but I will say – the whole experience was magical, to say the least. In the end, I felt opened up to music even more than before – more than I could have ever imagined was possible, really. My psyche changed for the better that day.

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Freaky Wilderness ‘Wind Swept World’ | New Music Video Review

This Music Video will present simple to the simpletons. Those who have never ripped apart their soul, nor faced the most painful of ego deaths. The Music Video is a Message of Harmony. Of Family, of Joy, and of Play. Hellooooo Jupiter in Leoo. I love this season for us. Just as the World is seemingly falling apart, we are reminded that sometimes it is fun to tear things down. Sometimes it is fun to RAGE! In the most innocent of waves. I thoroughly enjoyed the progression of the video. The themes of the imperfect, shyly awkward, and pure evolution of the children throughout this creative process? Just phenomenal! I dive deeper into these themes in my “Music Message” series on my “Come Drink the MoonJuice” Podcast. Where I have teamed up with Rock Oracle to Bring People Together Through Music! Where my dearest Gemini, Michael of Freaky Wilderness, is also Bringing People Together Through Music. The World needs more Life. We need to reconnect to our innocence. Our playful frequency of Freedom. To Love, and to Create. To nourish that imagination within the Heart and Mind of a child. Now that is beautiful parenting at play!

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

Gigi Perez | Artist Spotlight

Gigi Perez, the Florida-raised indie-folk artist behind the TikTok sensation and multi-platinum hit “Sailor Song,” is currently making her way across North America on tour. At just 26 years old, Perez continues to build momentum following the release of her 2025 debut album, At the Beach, showcasing the heartfelt songwriting and raw emotion that have made her a fan favorite. Whether you’re learning about Gigi Perez for the first time through this article or have already fallen down the rabbit hole of her music, one thing becomes clear rather quickly: she’s incredibly talented. Her voice has a unique character that instantly sets her apart, adding richness and emotion to every track. Just as impressive is her songwriting, with lyrics that manage to be both intimate and impactful, leaving a lasting impression long after the song ends. 

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Where Victims Lie | What Was Left Behind EP

Where Victims Lie is from Jyväskylä, a town my American tongue does not even want to attempt to speak. The group originally formed in 2000, heavily inspired by modern extreme styles and darker themes like murder. What is more Metal and Finnish than that?! However, from 2000–2010 they had some Structural Roadblocks. Of course, the blockades designed to trial our Hero’s Journey. The band’s initial run was unfortunately turbulent and constantly interrupted by external obligations. The Curse of the Modern World, and the Path to Success. They released their initial Promo 2003 EP, but went on a three year hiatus almost immediately afterwards.  Some members had conflicting priorities with other bands, and the band drama struck again. They reformed in 2006, releasing another Promo 2007, but hit further roadblocks and ultimately disbanded in 2010 without ever releasing a proper full-length album. I can relate heavily to the Stop, Go… Stop, and GOOO!! Tidal waves of pursuing one’s passions.

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A Tale of Two Punk Rock Dreamers

The necessary Brick in the Wall to hold our foundation into manifestation of these Visions. And so, if my memory serves me well? I would say that I am pretty sure Mooney was not a fan of Melinoe upon first impressions. I cannot say I am surprised by that. I’m an Aquarius. I am not always as I seem to be in this dream. However, as many Green Days as I have had? I cannot be certain I have all the details properly lined up. How accurate are these memberberries? Accurate enough to come from the heart. For all I do remember? We had this Western Drama Shoot Out Moment. Her shock when she discovered I was a fan of Green Day (The Band, not the Herb. Although that bond matured in ethical timing), it was a monumental moment that blew Mooney’s mind. We became Best Friends, ready to do Karate in the Garage. Because I too was dumbfounded by the fact that she too LOVED Green Day

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The Tale of Two Air Signs

Welcome Ghouls, Demons, and Fellow Wyrd Ones!! Behold another Love Letter. Another Writer Announcement for the leg of our Lively team at Rock Oracle. Let’s give a Warm Welcome to Stacy Lowry. My dearest Stacy, it is not your mom who’s got it goin’ on, it is you! My favorite Gemini. A true gift of Mercury anointed with Venus, Jupiter, Neptune and the Sun! I have adored the development of our Sisterhood. Unlike Mooney and I? Stacy and I have not known each other as long. Our Tale is still being written to the depth of Mine and Mooney’s. In fact, at the time we initiated your Coming of Age into Rock Oracle? We just celebrated our One Year Anniversary. It doesn’t feel like that short of time. I feel like our souls have known each other for aeons. Another soul making their way home, in typical Gemini fashion. Late, but just in time! Divine Time!

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Nicky Diamonds Shines Bright At Nashville’s Cannery Hall Supporting Madam Radar

Recently, we were invited to the Cannery Hall to check out a band called Madam Radar. First, to set the scene, Cannery Hall is a well-known, beloved – and newly revived – multi-room venue, housed in a brick building that was built in the 1800s. (Us natives and tourists alike love Nashville’s historic buildings). Our show was in “Row One” – one of four venue spaces – and my main plan was to focus on taking photos of Madam Radar for Melinoe to use in her write-up. As we walked into Row One, though, I was taken back by the sound of guitar slides, simple – yet captivating rhythm sounds – and that specific, soulful resonance you can really only experience with Blues music. It was the opener of the night: Nicky Diamonds

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A Night with Madam Radar at Cannery Hall

Throughout the concert, I will say, I have not had that much silly, carefree fun in a long, long time. I cannot quite recall the last time I had laughed that hard, and cried just as much from the laughter. My cheeks were sore, and my belly ached. I often had to cross my legs to avoid breaking the seal. I had a night in which I felt fully Alive, and so, so deeply in Love. Madam Radar was the soundtrack to this experience. A Series of Fortunate Events that will be tattooed unto my Psyche, and permeated amongst my Heart. I will never forget the Dreadful, Endearing Smile plastered on my dearest beloved’s face when Madam Radar announced a love song, and I gushed all over him. Shattering his comfort zone of public displays of affection. Welcoming in our soulful friends to witness the moment, and chime in with laughter at the Expense of the Rigid Capricorn. Only for my Dreamy Charm to also crack my emote-less Gemini into a frenzy of giggles when she caught me lost in my own world, snuggled up on the dance floor with my Husbondi, drifting into the emotion of the music. The Romance was enough to fill my cup and mark Madam Radar as a key artist I would want selling out Weddings, Birthday Parties, Anniversaries and every Milestone of Life Events. 

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

615 Indie Live Expands Into Year-Round Showcase Series

Following the success of the annual 615 Indie Live festival, organizers today announced the launch of the 615 Indie Live Showcase Series, a monthly concert series that will rotate among Nashville’s independent venues, pairing each host venue with a lineup of emerging local artists. The new series is designed to keep support for independent venues in the spotlight throughout the year, culminating each February with the annual 615 Indie Live festival.

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Fenian: Kneecap Album Review

“Fenian”, a term that has historically been used, often derogatory, to describe Irish nationalists and republicans. Over time, however, the word has come to symbolize a big “fuck you” to the British government. I truly love a story of taking back a word and using it against those who gave it to you.  To truly understand the word’s significance, one must first understand Ireland’s long and complex struggle for self-determination. A self-determination that is truly inspirational if it’s truly seen for what it is.  Personally, a motivational story to myself. Not only coming from an Irish family, but coming from a story of self-preservation. 

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Princess Goes ‘Sincere Chroma’ | New Single & Video Review

Welcome Ghouls, Demons, and Fellow Wyrd Ones! I find myself, once again, struggling on where to begin with the tale I am about to tell. Another Tale of Princess Goes. The Tale of their phenomenal new single, “Sincere Chroma.” A Second Single Release. Another stepping stone leading us through this intimate journey towards the final Masterpiece that is their next LP. I love the sensation of an enticing, slow burn. Especially after witnessing the next chapter crafted by this inspiring group of men. A trio of artists. I was going to gasp if it were a trio of Air Signs. Along this pathway, I have discovered Matt Katz-Bohen to be a Gemini. The Plot thickens. My curiosity could not remain at bay for much longer. The anticipation was killing me. What is Peter?! How do these men compliment each other in such Divine Harmony?? What is the spiritual, Astrological alignment of these Three Musketeers? Well, I did some googling. Turns out our Pal Peter, is a Virgo. A nugget of information that only expanded the HeartFelt message I was receiving through this song, the previous single, and what I am anticipating to be an Album full of Musing Medicine.

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Nashville’s Punk Scene Shows Up

Snooper ripped their opening set starting at around 7:45pm and had there been doors; they would’ve been blown off.   Snooper’s latest album, Worldwide, came out in October, and I am happy to say that I picked up a copy on cassette tape during the show. I was right up front for the festivities and the mosh pits.  With my camera in hand, I braved the sea of bodies swarming to the sensational music created by the band that was formed by the duo of vocalist Blair Tramel and guitarist Connor Cummins. The band is now rounded out by bassist Happy Haugen and drummer Conner Sullivan.  People filled the lot and found spots to watch from every possible angle.  It was an all-ages show and I am always so happy to see moms and dads bringing their children to enjoy in the solace of live music. Everyone was having an awesome time and treating each other with kindness. 

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Mr. Dinkles’ Insightful EP is Out Now

So, in their messaging you will definitely feel that presence of the punk rebellion. As it was with The Sex Pistols, Black Flag and so many more, Mr. Dinkles keeps this format of not backing down and challenging the norm. Punk is not dead. This is exemplified in “Letter to Elon”, which I have written about in a past article. It speaks on his hypocrisy of not being American yet hating immigrants and spending on rockets when we could use the aid domestically or at least Earthly. It is served up nicely alongside a bed of “Socialism Ditty” that screams about sharing the wealth. “Socialism Ditty is about billionaires taking everyone’s money,” says Rettig. There is humor in the ask but also a furious frustration that looms large.

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Broadening My Musicality with Behemoth

Thankfully, my husband (Dustinn) and I have similar tastes in music. When it comes to the Metal genre, though, Dustinn definitely has a broader horizon than I. One of the more obscure sub-genres of Metal is Death/Black Metal (honestly not sure I fully understand the difference between the two, but I’m learning!), and while Dustinn looooves it, I don’t normally partake in leisure listening. It’s never really been my vibe and, most times, winds up making me unbelievably uncomfortable. “This sounds too evil – turn it off” … something I’ve had to say more than a handful of times LOL

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The Gritty and Authentic New Record from Heels To The Hardwood

The Seattle-based band, Heels to the Harwood, have a new album out called “Let Up”, that will help you turn off that outside noise that rattles your brain and it will assist in easing your soul. The toe-tapping-Americana-fuel ensemble is exactly what the world needs right now to help us navigate this floating rock as it spins into total chaos. The PNW group has always been dripping in wonderful lyricism and smooth melodies, and this album continues with that trend of well-played tracks and brilliant writing. The band formed in 2011 and soon released their debut self-titled album, “Heels To The Hardwood,” in September 2014. They followed this up with their second full-length album, “Love Versus Tragedy,” in February 2017, and their third album, “Where We Come From,” dropped in 2019. In 2023, they released the singles ‘Intentions’ and ‘1 Past 5 (Say Hello)’. The latter now appears on the latest project.

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Cam Gallagher & The Tasty Soul Are Set To Release New Music

I’d say that Cam Gallagher is at it again, but the truth is this dude never stops. I often read about or see the moniker “The Hardest Worker in Showbiz” tied to an artist, and I can honestly say that I have met that someone personally. I first saw Cam play with a southern rock band, and then a soul band and a jazz band, then with operatic band and most recently at a rock/punk show. Oh, by the way, he is a saxophone player. This guy is so versatile that he can play across any genre of music and fit the part. And let me just say that calling him just a saxophone player is very limiting to the full description of what Cam brings to the Nashville music scene.

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Princess Goes (To The Butterfly Museum) “Stranger” Single Review, Released May 13th

Princess Goes (To The Butterfly Museum) has done it once again. They have created yet another song that tickles my inner child pink with feverish enthusiasm. I don’t know a more accurate way to describe what their music does to me. I am fulfilled with the same Ecstasy a Child experiences when they Witness the world for the first time. When everything is shiny and new. When every moment is met with the highest of expressions of the human spectrum. I suppose I could summarize the sensation by stating I am an Aficionada or a Devotee to the band and their sound. Internally I feel as if I am the loudest and giddiest of screaming fans. However, not in a cringey, parasocial way. Without sounding too mad? This music speaks to me on a deeper level than most. This art has tapped into something lost and forgotten within me. A soul retrieval if you will. Not simply this song, but the works of the group as a whole.

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Freaky Wilderness: “Immeasurable Heaven” | Psychedelic Rock For the Soul

I remember the day I sat down to listen to the album. I was outside in the freakishly warm Nashville weather. It was December after all. The sun was bright. You would’ve sworn it was Gemini Summer, not end of the pole Sagittarius Winter. I was walking my dogs down a median field near our apartment subdivision. A Sacred ground full of Sacred Trees. My own Nashvillian “Freaky Wilderness.” (Fun Fact: This Land is considered Sacred and Protected by the City/State. It is preserved to avoid building more stupid, tall and skinny, unaffordable, and cheaply crafted “housing.” I have a few Tree Spirits here. Two of which deceased during the Nashville Ice Storm of 2026. May they RIP. However, Blanche is still standing strong!) The Entire Album is beautifully entrancing. I told Michael I envision myself walking down the street to the beat on a half gram of mushies. For those squares out there, a joint is just fine too.

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Forrest Frank- “Your Way’s Better” A Christian Artist Spotlight for Felicity 

It is not my job to project myself onto anyone. I do express myself vibrantly proud. I am not ashamed of myself, nor how I choose to express myself. Something I have battled with. I have been ridiculed most of my life for who I am and how I choose to be. I do not want anyone else to feel the same sorrow I have felt in the past. To question oneself is an indescribable pain. A pain particularly inflicted upon others by Christians. A pain my Christian Family, Country and Globe continues to inflict upon me to this day. In fact, I can dread sharing my thoughts out of anxiety that it may inflict a negative feeling onto someone else. I hate the thought that my perception, my feelings and my life could trigger such outrage in another being. An outrage so vastly intense that it wishes to diminish my right to exist. It wishes to exile me (and others) out of the tribe. Starve us of love and belonging. All for the Sin of being different. The Sin of Defining God/The Universe/The Divine for oneself. Yet, I shall bravely persevere in presenting this article to you all. 

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The Criticals, Lombardy and Bad Bad Luck at Skinny Dennis was a legendary Monday!

Monday evening was elevated to a whole new level thanks to RockNite.Nash and Skinny Dennis in Nashville. Along with curator, and guitar Goddess, Grace Bowers, they put on a banger of a FREE show, and it was exactly what we needed on a school night. Three stupefying bands raged the stage with a bewildering showcase that had the crowd moving in both chaos and tandem. There was crowd surfing, moshing and a meshing of community that found the perfect home for folks to let off some steam. Thank you to everyone that made this show happen. What a joyous occasion. Thirsty Thursdays have their place. Taco Tuesday can be pretty great. However, Mosh Pit Monday was exactly what I needed before the work week officially got hectic. The Criticals,Lombardy Band and Bad Bad Luck put on a stupendous show at Skinny Dennis and I was right up front to soak it all in and I feel great for saying YES! to a weekday show.

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Popville’s 2nd Anniversary Pool Party

Welcome My Ghouls, Demons and Fellow Wyrd Ones! I had the absolute pleasure of attending Popville’s 2nd Anniversary Party at the Covered Bridge Recording Studio, hosted by the Fabulous Nikki Forbes. Popville truly is everything Pop inside the pits of Nashville. Nashville definitely wants pop, and that was most certainly demonstrated by the killer crowd that abandoned the Broadway Chaos to join us all in celebration of this Anniversary. It is quite refreshing to have a solid event choice outside of the never- ending country music tickets being shoved down our throats in Music City.

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Toadies on tour with a New Album after Nearly a Decade

The current tour is built around a new album called The Charmer.  It was released on May 1, 2026, via Spaceflight Records, and it is their first full-length studio release in nearly a decade. Produced by the late Steve Albini in 2024, the 13-track album features a raw, fast-paced sound born from “pandemic-era introspection”.  Frontman Vaden Lewis had said in a statement, “This album has been a long time in the works, and it’s such a joy to see it come together, we went back to basics for this session: all analogue, live takes, high energy.” Drummer Mark Reznicek added, “I’ve been a fan of Steve Albini’s since I first heard the albums he recorded with the Pixies and PJ Harvey, so being able to record with him is really a dream come true. In fact, when we first signed with a major label, they asked us who we would like to work with and we all said “Albini!” Well, for whatever reason, the label didn’t go for it. And now 30 years later, it finally happened!” 

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Music City Madness, Dee’s Lounge & Everything Local | Vendors, musicians & community came together to create a space filled with harmony

 This month’s event was hosted by Dee’s Lounge in Madison, Tennessee. Owner, Amy Dee says of her place, “I couldn’t find a classic country venue around Nashville when I moved here, so I opened one”.  Since 2016 it has grown to so much more than just a hub for country music, as the venue host all types of genres with just three simple rules: Pay Your Tab, Don’t Be an Asshole and You Must be 21 to Enter. It remains a classic “dive-bar” with lovely locals and a fantastic staff that want to make your experience a great one.  The decor is straight out of the 1970’s (think Urban Cowboy) and you feel like you’vefound a second home when you walk through the doors.  Not only is there a space to play music inside with nice sound quality, but there is a space out back with a large stage and plenty of seating and room for dancing on those sunny days.  This was one of those days. 

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Rock and Roll in East Nashville

If you are looking for some good old rock and roll music in Nashville, then The Cobra on the east side of town is definitely a spot that you’re going to want to check out. The Cobra is a great venue to hear anything from punk to country and everything in between. They have a kick ass staff, and the smaller space creates great sound and a stellar vibe. The show we are talking about now fell right into that classic sound with three artists lending something, each a little different. The bill on Thursday, April 30th, 2026, was Leilani Kilgore, Catchfire and Cordell Winter.

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Artist Spotlight on Dolly Cash

I grew up in Abingdon, VA. It was a small historic town in South-Western Virginia, in the Appalachians. But after graduating High School, I bounced around the US in the army. Maryland, Alabama, South Carolina, North Carolina, Afghanistan. It was in North Carolina, more specifically Fayetteville, that I began to hone my music skills. The community within the city was very rooted in the arts. I’d crash on my friend’s couch and cut songs with like 5 or 6 different people. They would put on cool local shows and really push each other to create. I got out of the Army in 2016 and moved back to Abingdon. After a year of couch surfing and job hopping, I applied to go to The University of Tennessee. That’s how I ended up in Knoxville. While here, I met my wife, and realized Tennessee was now home. While here, I got back to my mountain roots, fell in love with mountain music, as well as the Goth culture. I believe traveling to the US and war-torn countries has given me an appreciation of where I live. 

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TreeHouse Nash Queen, Mar Lamar has an Album in the Works

This leads into the Sol purpose Artist Spotlight. Not only do I want our readers to know more about her and TreeHouse Nash, Mar Lamar is Crowd Funding her next Album. A solo project that is near and dear to her heart. Listening to her passion, and witnessing her vulnerability within her content humbled me to say the least. I have found a new awareness within how much of my own passion and vulnerability I have kept buried beneath my surface. A fear that continues to lurk within my young/naive phase of life. A commonality for Aquarian folks. Often priding myself at how open I can be, not realizing that there could be so much more of myself I could offer to the world. Not for myself. Not solely for humanity. But for the Circle of Life. The give and take that is required for evolution, progression and harmony within society, civilization, and more intimate communities. Mar Lamar has granted me a gift of evolution spiritually, astrologically and creatively.

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The Weird Sisters Have a New Single Out

When you see them play live, it is a cavalcade of foot pedals and knobs turning, all while playing their instruments and singing melodic harmonies that match the tonality of lasers and humming spaceships.  They are wildly mesmerizing and talented as all get out.  So, when a new song comes from the depths of the minds from this dynamic duo, you know that the work has been put in and sonically it will be different from anything you typically hear in the mainstream.   

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A Night at the Popera

An evening of beautiful music happened as The Vinyl Lounge played host to what was dubbed “A Night at the Popera”.  Four classically trained opera singers gathered for a genre-bending, theatrical live show.  Powerful women with formidable voices brought pop, folk, synth-pop, hyperpop, and pop-punk to the stage and mashed it up with definitive sounds that you don’t normally hear together. What happened was a gorgeous moment in time. Meghan Pulles, Arily Michelle, Sunshine Scott and Cassandra Pinataro electrified the space with a magnificent showcase of unbridled force.  Armed with their voices and the will to be heard these women grasped the attention of their onlookers to deliver messages of courage, femineity and individuality.  A Night at the Popera grew out of music but created and curated a likeminded community that thrived in the mantras of these fabulous musicians. 

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Niv Snaggletooth Covers Los Lobos with New Single ‘Will the Wolf Survive?’

Welcome Ghouls, Demons, and Fellow Wyrd Ones! This Dark Moon, We are planting another Venusian Seed! A seed planted by the hands of our Libran Man, Niv Snaggletooth! As this lunar transit initiates a spark of creativity in Aries, with a lovely handoff to the embodiment of Taurus. I love the synastry with the Libra and Taurus essence harmonizing in true Venus Fashion. I find the overall character arch within the Life of Niv to be beautifully in alignment. And this is only intuitively based off his Sun Sign, his intentional story I will be sharing below, and the Soul felt within the Exclusive listening experience of his New Single. I will admit to my ignorance of this song. I was slightly shocked to discover it was a cover of a 1984 release from Los Lobos. I had missed that memo when I connected with Niv to cover this release. (LOL) With that, I unknowingly signed up for the Musical Adventure of a lifetime.

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Popville Masquerade Ball- A Night with Jean Saint Lazarus, Kate Cosentino and Kelley Cole!

Welcome Ghouls, Demons and Fellow Wyrd Ones! I had the absolute pleasure of being invited to
Popville Music’s “Masquerade Ball- A Night with Jean Saint Lazarus, Kate Cosentino and Kelley Cole!”
It was a lovely Spring Nashville Evening. I had never been to the East Room before. Or not knowingly. I
have driven by The Cobra a thousand times. I have stopped by the Alternative and Occult Shop “Hail” a
handful of times. This can go to show, how directionally challenged I am. Or how often I Passenger
Princess my way through Life at the hands of my Beloved. Or maybe it highlights what a nightmare
Gallatin Ave truly manifests to be. I will digress. As I finally secured a free (rare) parking spot, I began my
Final Candle Vendor Evening and my First Rock Oracle Drop in with Popville Music.

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What Is The Meaning of Life? 

“’meaning of life” is about giving depression company,” meg shares. “It’s being fucking tired, stuck in self-sabotage and procrastination, feeling nothing and living vicariously through other people instead. It’s a pretty goddamn selfish song.” 
 
She further explains, “It’s also about ruining normal, sweet moments with nihilistic thoughts, like what happens when I die while I’m trying to find that a Bed Bath & Beyond coupon.There’s no reason to it. And if there’s no reason to it, then maybe there’s no reason to me. It’s about the freedom and relief in realizing that maybe it’s not about everything being meaningless, but about how hard it is to find meaning when there’s no reason to it.” 

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Maria Magdalena’s New Single ‘Smell Me I’m Running’ Is A Mystical Journey

In this modern era, in some small realms of the world, a woman is mostly able to ponder these questions. She is able to act out what it may mean to be a free woman of this world. A woman free from the biased lens of our inherited patriarchal mold. What if we were written without the venom that is the Male Gaze? Not the Masculine gaze that Worships the Goddess, but the Male Gaze that imprisons us all, even themselves. As the song concluded, I had to replay immediately. I wasn’t too sure how I could label the song. There were components of a more Gothic and/or Vampiric Undertone. A scene that could express various moments in time, however particularly, the 40’s-60’s came to mind. We have the melody cloaked in an essence of Femme Fatale, with a subtle bop that reminds one of Marina. Giving the song a connection to the Pop Femme Frequency. There is a darkness and lightness to the song. A duality that only an integrated soul could express. There is a sound in alignment with those who enjoy workings from artists such as, Alexa Dark, Luvcat and Portishead. An eclectic tuning that embodies the complexity of what it means to be a woman and feel as a woman feels.

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Hussy Fit Wants You To Listen

To engage with Hussy Fit is to mix all your favorite cereals together.  They are dynamic in flavor. The band pulls from genres past and present and keeps their personal style at the focal point. The band consists of Cordie Nicole adding synth flare to her vocal prowess, Izzy Cring – bass, vocals, Nick Doukas – guitar, Saige Cordero – guitar, backing vocals, and Jackson Tsukahara – drums.  For this single they brought Seth Lake in for multiple guitar parts and let producer Lonny Cagle chime in on those gang vocals for the track. 

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HoneyWire drops Bruxism (Full Moon In Libra)

Bruxism is a phenomenal album. Overall, I am truly surprised at how much I personally enjoyed it. As I have mentioned before, it can take a lot for me to get into certain genres. This album hooked me in right away. Opening up with “Mouthguard” you can feel into the tone of the album. The water element of emotion most certainly makes herself known through the essence of instrumentals and lyrics. Kaleb reported that this album was one he had been working on during some intense Pisces transits. For those who know, it was a brutal 3 years of Saturn in Pisces. Where we all collectively (and personally) faced the disillusionment of ourselves, our lives, our past and our desires for the future. Between the melodies and the song titles, I would argue that Jupiter, Neptune and Pisces all came together to fuel, to heal and to bless HoneyWire with Gemini superpowers. 

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House of the Setting Sun

The night was curated to flawlessness. As I exited, I hugged people that I had only met a few hours before.  We need more interactions like these.  Stop with all the divisive behavior and come together over commonality. We have limited time on this floating space orb, and we should be sharing in its beauty, rather than fighting for control.  Find your community.  Find your space.  It is then that you will find your peace. 

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The Debut Album From Lauren Morse Is Here

A beautiful quote. One that I couldn’t have expressed better myself. I find it necessary to more artists to share their bleeding heart of change for the world. Nowadays, too many mindless, mediocre, arrogant and soulless folks are creating art. Whether with quick gimmicks, trendy quotas or AI thievery (I am Looking
at you Spotify), we are missing the Soul of the Muse. Everyone wants to get rich, get famous and get laid. In fact, most male musicians will admit to only learning an instrument in order to find their way into the skirts of females. Fucking PATHETIC! What happened to the passion? How can we reverse the Social Media bandwagon of quantity over quality? We can start by supporting Artists, Musicians and Creatives alike who have no other purpose in their art outside of living a Life of their Dreams and Being the Change they Wish to See in the World. Artists/Musicians like Lauren Morse.

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Moon Mother Drops Sophomore Record with “Meadowlands”

The record is a gorgeous jaunt through a woodland of feverish sentiment.  There is some absolve from hurt that happens with the recognition of trauma.  The message is quite clear that lessons can be learned, and that growth is possible if you choose to accept that things can get better.  “Meadowlands is without a doubt the most powerful thing we have ever created. It is a world for itself and we have undergone a kind of inner revolution in the making of this record. A death and a rebirth, I think it can be felt throughout the journey of listening to this album. Meadowlands – the place outside, the place within.” says Mehner. 

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TRIVAX: Iranian Black Metal & The Anti-Islamic Memorandum New Moon Aries-March 19th, 2026  

A Backstory From Melinoe: As I sit to create this article, I contemplate exactly where to begin with this story. Which message do I ultimately seek to give? Why was it Vital for me to collaborate with Shayan, Frontman of TRIVAX? Often, lost in my never-ending search for meaning within my intuitive endeavors. I suppose I shall summarize a bit of the beginning. Starting with the Full Circle, Saturn Return Closing, personal Cycle, closure this has all spiritually manifested itself to be. I began my Anti-Christian journey, seedlings planted since childhood, and the mistrust within the Church I was raised to be devoted and faithful. The regime of my cultural lens and the nurture I received. The undertone to the Great American Nation.  

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Nosey Flynn @ McNamara’s Irish Pub & Restaurant- St Patty’s Day Extravaganza Done Early

The Glorious McNamara Pub was founded in 2010 by musician Sean McNamara, his Wife Paula McNamara and partners Kirk Orndorff, and Francis Gyebi. McNamara’s Irish Pub is located in Nashville’s Donelson neighborhood. This Restaurant and Live Music Venue blends Authentic Irish Hospitality with a Passionate commitment to live traditional music. The founders have come together to combine over 50 years of expertise and knowledge in opening McNamara’s. Known for its house band Nosey Flynn, and visiting Celtic artists, the venue has become one of the city’s primary homes for Irish folk performance. With traditional pub fare, whiskey selections, and a cozy multi- room interior modeled after neighborhood pubs in Ireland, McNamara’s functions as both a restaurant and a cultural gathering space for Nashville’s Celtic music community.

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The Binding Divide debut their single ‘Finding Forever’

‘Finding Forever’ is very engaging, and the production is layered nicely with Alysa’s voice pushed forward to really showcase her soulful tonality.  The bassline and drums lead the song into a steady gait, and the writing follows to create a beautiful segment of art.  The words draw the listener in with lovely storytelling before the one-minute mark with a familiar relationship thought, “I don’t know what you expect me to do/ I am losing myself in you/ And I don’t know what you expect me to say/ And I’m going crazy, crazy”.  There is carefully placed chaos that sonically pounds from underneath the prose and builds to the next set of lexicon in, “What am I gonna do when you’re stuck in my veins/ going straight to my heart and my brain/ You are the only truth/ I know it/ finding you/ I think I’m finding forever”.  

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TreeHouse Nashville- Waning Gibbous in Scorpio

Twas a fairly standard rainy, and mildly stormy, Nashville (almost Spring) Saturday. A perfect night for the Underground Music Scene of aspiring artists that lurk within the streets of this city. Ambitious beings, with a vision, a dream, a heart and a purpose to climb the mountain that is their artistic legacy. Here under the Waning Full Moon, now in Scorpio, hidden by the dark clouds. A perfect night to cozy up with a dear friend, enjoy an immaculate charcuterie board (handcrafted by Hive Board Nash) and experience the musical craft from the bleeding hearts of Nashville. TreeHouse Nash was hosting their March show at the lovely Rosemary Schultz’ home. I had the pleasure to witness to a night full of local, underground, debuting, passionate, and everything in between, artists, creatives and musicians. Here the community gathered into an intimate space, all for the shared love of music. 

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New Singles From Red Guitar Music Out Now

There are a couple of new singles out now from Red Guitar Music that are certainly worth checking out. RGM is a full-service record label located in Nashville that was founded by guitar player and Catchfire band member Travis Fairley.  By “full-service” Fairley includes A&R, booking, publicity, recording, mixing and producing.  RGM was created by an artist, for artistsand is a niche label that caters to those young up and coming artists looking to get a foothold in Music City.  Travis himself has been able to navigate this landscape quickly, after graduating with a music degree from Belmont University.  He is a guitar player, a performer and an engineer who has worked with musicians of country, rock, Americana, folk, grunge, and classical backgrounds.  His latest artists are Carl Pariso and The Tower Brothers. 

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Meels Headlines The Station Inn

Meels comes to us via Los Angeles but you would never think it when hearing her sing. She has a sound that mirrors the legends that laid the groundwork before her. Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, Linda Ronstadt and even Dolly herself would certainly lift a smile to know that this young lady is carrying on in a much-needed tradition of Americana and Folk. Tonight, she was supported by another Los Angeles resident named Phoebe Sanders. 

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Eastside Bowl, DRKMTTR and 615 Indie Live

February 7th, 2026 marked the second installation of 615 Indie Live in Nashville, Tennessee. There were nearly 70 collective musical acts performing at 15 venues across the city. The purpose is to promote within.  The nonprofit organization of Music Venue Alliance Nashville (MVAN) works hard to make sure that independent venues and artists of the area are represented and able to perform during a typically slow time for live music. This is a celebration of new artists, singers, songwriters and original music that you may not get your ear to through any other channel.  The whole experience was just $20 to get into every spot and see every band possible.  

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Caermonia Memoriam Norway 2026

At the end of the Ceremony, I would say I felt changed to some degree. Not only for the love, harmony and peace felt within the community for my husband and I. But from the force of MUSIC. Music that brings us all together. Even the darkest of us. Music is a foundation of home within us all. If you cannot relate to someone who is different than you, I dare you to connectto them through music and art. We can bridge our division through the deep inner networkings of the muse within us all. Because at the end of the day, we are all people grieving the loss of something or someone we love. We are all people fighting to find joy in creative endeavors. We are all souls living in a sea of chaos. We release the horrors through the rite of creation and we unify within community. May we all continue to create. For we never know the significance of what we shall leave behind. And it will always be worth it. Whether it is a billion beings, or one lost soul. The inspiration you leave behind is your magick mark upon this realm. 

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Nashville Heats Back Up with 615 Indie Live

615 Indie Live is a celebration of Nashville’s Independent Venues and Artists, and it is produced in partnership by the Music Venue Alliance Nashville (MVAN) and Visit Music City. The event was created last year to support Nashville’s independent music venues and to showcase the city’s local diverse music ecosystem by driving business, both new and loyal, to Nashville’s Independent Music Venues during a historically slow time of year, while raising awareness of their importance. It also supports Nashville’s local artists, by investing more than 50% of the event budget towards paying participating artists, performers, and musicians. Finally, it acts as a fundraiser for MVAN, with proceeds from ticket sales contributing to the organization’s Emergency Relief Fund and operating budget.     

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Paul McCartney’s “Eyes of the Storm” Keeps The Beatle Touring

McCartney carried his 35mm Pentax camera around him during these three months and created portraits of not only his mates John Lennon, Ringo Starr and George Harrison, but of loved ones, roadies, fans, hotel and airport workers and a handful of “unidentified women backstage”. Pulled from McCartney’s personal archive, most of the images have never seen the light of day before this worldwide tour. What is created is a perspective of the young upstarts before they wave of mega-stardom.  The gallery is aptly named “Eyes of the Storm”.  

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LIVE REVIEWS

Here’s to a Weird New Year

When the music hit, it was simply stunning. The red tapestry that hid our presenters eased aside, and we gazed upon our bards who were set beside their keys and strapped with a guitar, a saxophone and an armament of talent. A backdrop of red beams shown through a cloud of eerie fog.   The opening tone was a taunting murmur of hum that drifted about the atmosphere and held us tightly.  That hope we longed for was imminent, if even just for a moment.   

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Elvis Presley’s Birthday Bash in Nash

Elvis’ 91st trip around the sun would have been this year and his “Birthday Bash” was happening Friday, January 9th.  It was featuring Elvis tribute man Dennis Jalefrom Austria on Lead Vocals with The TCB (Taking Care of Business) Band Members & guests Glen D. Hardin, Terry Blackwood, Larry Strickland, Boh Carter, Paul Leim, Donna & Craig Morris, Larry Hall, Mike Brignardello, Kerry Marx, The Holladay Sisters , Bobby Ogdin with Special Guests Deborah Allen, Thomas Gabriel (Johnny Cash’s grandson) and was hosted by Donna Presley, who is Elvis’ first cousin.  I wasn’t going to miss it.  This would be the closest to The King that I would ever get.  

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Vincent Bonelli Brings A New Single To The New Year

To get to know Bonelli is to be immersed in all things’ music. He began playing the guitar at just 5 years old and by age 11 he was jamming at venues across his home city of Buffalo, New York. His smooth style and jazzy rhythms produced a full-length record by 15 years old.  The record was called “Lines” and earned him a spot endorsing music gear from manufacturers like Keeley Electronics, J. Rockett Audio Designs, Walrus Audio, and Morley. A couple years later, Bonelli dropped his second album (which he again produced and mixed), titled ‘Vincent Bonelli’ and then the teenager made the decision to head to Nashville and get a music related degree from Belmont University.  

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Dann Huff & Friends: A Special Night in Music

3rd & Lindsley, Nashville, hosted an event that was 35 years in the making. It was the triumphant return of guitar hero Dann Huff, under the lights, for the first time in a long time. Maybe youhave never heard of Huff, but you have certainly heard him play. He deserves a mention alongside any legendary axe wielder that you can speak into existence. Google his name and you will find him listed as a player with hundreds of famous musicians and on just as many hit records. I’ll give you two names: Michael Jackson and Taylor Swift. 

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Rawlings New Record “I Fixed It All”

I am enamored by the depth of his song that he titles ‘Teeny Tiny’.  Rawlings says of the track, “This is by far the hardest song to put out. Because it attempts to address the end of innocence, something I feel too guilty to speak about regularly.” When I told him that I thought the song was gorgeous, but that I wanted to know about the story behind the song he went on to tell me, “Thanks for saying that. It is based on the truth. We should make time to discuss this song in more detail. I couldn’t do the truth justice without dedicating time to give you the background.”  So, I will have to dive deeper into that with Rawlings in a future interview as we were cut short for time when I brought up the inquiry. 

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New Music from Cam Gallagher & The Tasty Soul

My newest medicine has arrived in the form of Cam Callagher.  Music journalists often scribe about young artists having “old souls”, and if I had a better descriptor, I would write it differently, but I do not, so I’ll leave Cam’s elucidation there.  Glenn Miller comes to mind when I think of Cam and what he brings to Nashville’s music scene and what he brings to the industry as a whole.  He is not only an exquisite saxophone player, but he is a producer, songwriter, arranger, and band leader. 

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The Criticals Return Home to Nashville

The Criticals at this show consisted of Christian Kaplan (drums), Cole Shugart (lead guitar), Augustus Carroll (rhythm guitar), Henry Henson (baritone guitar, keys), Michael Meadows (bass) and Parker Forbes (lead vocals).  The band is listed as a duo of Forbes and Shugart but implements an array of these players that appear both on the album and on tour.  The six-piece ensemble came out to face the overjoyed audience with gleaming smiles of their own.  Happy to be home?  Excited that the long tour was finally over? Feeling gratitude to be surrounded by not only their fans, but also their friends and family?  It seems that all these things were in play and that they were more than ready to give a brilliant performance.  Which they most certainly did. 

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WNXP Gives So Much. You Should Give Back.

To say that WXNP saved my life may be the most honest thing I have ever written, because I was truly starting to feel lost until I discovered these wonderful curators of musicality.  I came to the state’s capital just over two years ago after losing my small brewery in Seattle to the hardships of COVID shutdowns.  There I was privy to KEXP and listener powered radio.  That station and those DJs eased my soul everyday with affirmations of “You are not alone” surrounded by gorgeously manicured playlists.  I was scanning the dial one morning in Middle Tennessee during an episode of deep thought, and I was wondering if my decision making was correct.  Should I have stayed in the Pacific Northwest? Why did I choose to live in Nashville? What am I going to do for work? Will I ever be happy again?  You know, normal life thoughts.  Then I bumped into the station that quite literally based their model after my old hometown heroes, and I began to feel at ease.   

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Tyler Childers Brought Us Together

When you go see Tyler Childers live you will find out that he is multifaceted.  This article is more than just music because Childers is a preacher, a carnival barker, a comedian, a motivational speaker, and oh yeah, a wonderful singer and songwriter.  In between songs he can make you laugh or rile you up or make you sink into deep reflective thought… and when he plays… you are completely engaged. That’s exactly what he did on Saturday night in Nashville at Geodis Park.  Tyler was in town supporting his “On The Road” tour both Friday and Saturday nights on October 11th and 12th. This tour comes in the wake of Childers’ Rustin’ in the Rain album, which debuted at #10 on the all-genre Billboard 200 chart. Childers was there along with special guests Charley Crockett and Cory Branan.  

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Standout Guitarist Leilani Kilgore Releases Her Debut Album

Leilani Kilgore has already been praised by Guitar World magazine for her “killer vibe and chops to back it up.” Kilgore, touted as a “must-see live performer” by Loud Hailer Magazine, has hundreds of live shows and festivals notched in her belt, both in the U.S. and overseas, including headlining slots on legendary stages like Sturgis Buffalo Chip and Summerfest, and she has opened for such renowned acts as Buddy Guy, Lita Ford, 38 Special, The Dead Daisies (feat. Glenn Hughes and Doug Aldrich) and Tommy Castro. So yeah, she is doing her thing, and we need to all listen. Her sound is certainly engrained in rock and roll, but this bluesy underbelly pads the backbone of the blistering and raucous forefront.  

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We Caught Those Fists in Nashville

This was the third cultivated show by Rolling Stone Magazine monikered as the Gather No Moss Tour.  Fans knew exactly when to clap and clamor back with audio responses provoked by the group. It was as if we were watching a classic rock band we had seen for years, yet this is fresh and new and certainly exciting.  If you are not listening to Wet Leg, then you are doing yourself a disservice.  With just the two records out in only a few years as a collective the band has a ceiling that currently is way above the peer of human eyes. 

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Whitney Phillips is Listening

Whitney Phillips is one of those people that sees an opportunity to get back to our roots and build, rather than tear down.  Oh, who is Whitney Phillips?  Lemme spin the record back for a minute.  I met Whitney years ago when she was a singer/songwriter from Seattle and a good friend of my now ex-wife’s. I knew she was good and that she was starting to scratch her name into the ledgers of the industry, however, she has become more than just the background voice that she used to provide to mega-stars. 

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NIN Peels It Back in Nashville

The setlist drew from The Downward Spiral more than any other album, although they played from various records. The group was now gaining momentum with rising fury and ripped one expeditious track after another; this included ‘March of the Pigs’, ‘Repitle’ and “Heresy” (all from The Downward Spiral); then ‘Copy of A’ (from 2013’s Hesitation Marks) and ‘Gave Up’ (also from Broken). They then began their rapid trek onto the more intimate setup where it got more electronic with Boys Noize joining in for all four of the songs. These were essentially remixes as Boys Noise shifted the tonality a bit with his additional soundscape.  It was ‘Vessel’ (Year Zero), ‘Closer’ (The Downward Spiral), ‘As Alive as you Need Me To Be’ (from the new TRON:Ares soundtrack) and ‘Came Back Haunted’ (Hesitation Marks). I would love to hear a proper recording of the joint they prepared on ‘Closer’ (I’ll include that clip too).

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Muddy Roots takes All Kinds

If you’ve never heard of it, Muddy Roots takes place every year at the June Bug Ranch north of Cookeville. I’ll be the first to say that I wasn’t sure what to expect from a punk festival in somewhat rural Tennessee but it’s a safe, fun place where feral kids roam free, Nazis aren’t welcome, and people genuinely look out for each other.  Sure they have used Narcan out there and people break bones, but I’ve seen over a hundred people throw cash into a PBR twelve pack box to help someone out.  We pick up our people who have fallen in the circle pit of life.

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I Believe in a Thing Called The Darkness 

My passion for the British rock group began back in 2003 when I first heard the single ‘I Believe In A Thing Called Love’, off their debut album Permission to Land.  Now singer/guitarist Justin Hawkins, his brother guitarist Dan Hawkins, bassist Frankie Poullain, and drummer Rufus Taylor (son of Queen drummer Roger Taylor) are back with their eighth studio album. If you know anything about The Darkness, then you know about a high level of intensity when playing live gigs.  As the band first emerged on the scene there was this inkling that they were some kind of joke band.  That they were spoofing the 1970’s hard and glam rock scene, but those ribbings were quickly left by the side of musicality road.  This band is absolutely enthralling.  Listeners and critics alike fastly found themselves realizing the technical fortitude of this sonically reverent band. 

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Bully Packs A Punch at The Blue Room

I was back at The Blue Room again in Nashville to cover the Bully show with Jawdropped supporting on the second evening of a two-show engagement.  You know you spend a lot of time at a venue when you walk up to the ticket person and they say, “Oh, it’s you again”.  I laughed.  Live music venues are my happy place, so I was certainly glad to be there again.  This would be my third time seeing Alicia Bognanno and her band.  “Bully” refers to her “inner bully” or the “inner demons” she confronts in her music and life. The name Bully also represents the initial band she fronted a decade ago but later became synonymous with Bognanno herself as the sole member.  

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Arts Fishing Club Drops Lines in Blue Room Waters 

Their sound is hard to root down and that’s why I am excited about their future.  You can say they are this or that, but their ability to play just about anything is evident in their music.  At the core, Arts Fishing Club is branded as an indie-folk rock band, but I am not sure that’s the best descriptor of what they are about, although I am not sure how I would list them if I had to.  The music is fun.  The band plays tight.  It’s fast when it needs to be but slows down with all the right accents tapping directly into all the listeners emotions. They keep it light between songs too, letting the audience know just how much fun they are having.  On this Thursday, in the dimly lit architectural aqua-bowl of a room, our guiding light was AFC. 

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The Staggering Expanse of Man

The song’s beginning challenges the impact of our global footprint with its prose.  The band is screaming for us to listen and take heed, but our consumption may be drowning those cries out.  So, there is a musical shift that happens and the song structure slows as if to appeal to us with another approach.  This is one of those many layers that the trio brings to the forefront of their efforts.  With tightknit precision and playing, the group captures their audience in mystical undertones that float beneath rough and metallic surfaces.  It is absolutely gorgeous to listen to the transition from heavy to soft without losing the engagement of the audience.  It might have been three separate songs if conceptualized differently, but it works as one opus and only for a few seconds are we fluttering in this softened sonic status before being hurled back into a deeper sound. And for all this, we are just :40 seconds into our journey. 

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Top 10 Ozzy Moments

Today we mourn the loss of a metal giant and the man known as the Prince of Darkness to his fans. Ozzy Osbourne will be remembered eternally… that I have no doubt about. Ozzy was one of the greatest frontmen of all-time and he gave us some of the grandest bangers in Rock and Roll history. He was also well known for his crazy antics both on and off the stage. Ozzy has passed over on this, July 22nd 2025 and his legend is etched in the annuals of music history. His family has graced us with this note:

“It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning,” the statement read. “He was with his family and surrounded by love. We ask everyone to respect our family privacy at this time.”

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Jukebox Jam 2 at The Basement East

The Basement East in Nashville was transformed into an old juke-joint/ sock hop with soul on Saturday night. The room was electric as people poured in, some donned in 1950’s and 60’s attire to watch a spectacular evening of beautiful music from the yesteryears. The stage was set with glittery streamers laced in a gold and red background, paper records looped around the venue, as a disco ball illuminated both floor and ceiling. There was an enchanting feeling that made me sense Michael J. Fox was about to blow up this “Under the Sea” monikered prom by ripping his cherry red Gibson ES-345 guitar and showing us the future of music.  

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Matt Cameron is Leaving Pearl Jam

After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam. Much love and respect to Jeff, Ed, Mike and Stone for inviting me into the band in 1998 and for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, one filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter. I am forever grateful to the crew, staff and fans the world over. It’s been an incredible journey. More to follow. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. 

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Dann Huff | When Words Aren’t Enough | Album Review 

I must imagine that putting together a record of this magnitude would be daunting.  That is, to say what you want to say in one short playlist, oh, and it’s all instrumental.  I am not a guitar player or a musician of any sort, but I do understand the complexities of music to a degree.  I can hear the storytelling and grasp the imagery of the bard. I can close my eyes and be swept away sonically, as easily as the next and I know what I like.  I really like this record. 

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Bruce Almighty

Springsteen is STILL digging through his back-catalogue and is now talking about a follow-up to the already new box -set. Tracks II is a heap of previously never heard material already, but he says there is still more to share. “Tracks III, is already finished,” Springsteen told The New York Times. He said the next set will return to sessions dating from his 1973 debut, Greetings From Asbury Park, N.J., and include music recorded as recently as 2024. “It’s basically what was left in the vault,” Springsteen added. “So there was a lot of good music left. There are five full albums of music.” If you’re a fan of The Boss this is a great time to to be alive.

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Brian Wilson has passed at 82

A singer, songwriter, and record producer, Brian Douglas Wilson was born on June 20, 1942. He co-founded the band in Hawthorne, California, in 1961, with his brothers Dennis and Carl Wilson, their cousin Mike Love, and their friend Al Jardine. I was lucky enough to see the remaining members minus Wilson perform at Bourbon and Beyond last year in Louisville, Kentucky.

That tonality and surf & sun soaked scapes that Wilson and his family created will never be damaged as they live in infamy. The legacy is greater than the man himself who was unfortunately blanketed in hopelessness for a good portion of his life. Thankfully he was able to break free from his own shadows and share the music with his fans once again.

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Sly Stone, Sly and the Family Stone Frontman, Dead at 82

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved dad, Sly Stone of Sly and the Family Stone,” his family said in a statement on Monday, June 9. “After a prolonged battle with COPD and other underlying health issues, Sly passed away peacefully, surrounded by his three children, his closest friend, and his extended family. While we mourn his absence, we take solace in knowing that his extraordinary musical legacy will continue to resonate and inspire for generations to come.”

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The Journey with Inclement Weather Department

I met Cam, Joey, Trevor, Brian, Connor and TJ before even knowing that they were a band. I co-owned a small batch brewery in north Seattle, in a neighborhood know as Ballard (don’t let anyone tell you it was Fremont).  About 2 blocks up the road, in Fremont, sat an unmarked building, with no windows and no plaque out front even though it was once the home of Reciprocal Records until the early 1990’s.  Why is that important?  Well, it is where Nirvana, along with producer Jack Endino laid down the band’s first album, Bleach.  Other bands like Soundgarden, Death Cab For Cutie, Green River and Tad, among others, would also record here.  I didn’t know this at first and I soon realized that I near a pretty special place in music history. 

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Metallica Causes Quake

I had never heard of Metallica, and this, their second album was my first exposure.  I scanned through the album in my headphones while another tune played across the airwaves.  Probably Deep Purple – they were my “go to” at that time.  As a DJ in the 80’s you sampled an album by lifting and placing the needle ten times and hearing the beginning of each song.  The first one to catch my attention was “Trapped Under Ice.”  Harder than most stuff I listened to, but it was fresh, aggressive, and damn good music.  It became my theme song for that show, and eventually was my opening song every Friday night. It seemed the perfect segue from the guitar-laced classic rock played before my shift started.   

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Billy Idol & Joan Jett Still Crushing It

Billy Idol followed about a half hour after Joan and her Blackheart mates finished their set.   Idol, now 69, also looked fantastic and I wondered how he would sound. I have been a long-time fan of both musicians since I was about 12 years old.  I knew about Runaways and was also listening to Billy’s former band Generation X thanks to the older kids that I knew when I was in middle school.  Again, these formations broke-up long before I was listening, but I had catching up to do.  

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Fontaines D.C. w/ Jadu Heart @ The NorVa 

Diva-Sachys vocals were SO dreamy against the heavier guitar riffs in this song. In ‘Mild to Moderate Pain’ there was a heavier use of drum/beat machine which again, really helped you get lost in this melancholic setting they created as you quite literally feel every beat go through you no thanks to how close we were to the speakers. ‘Metal Violets’ is already one of their faster paced songs without being too in your face but in a live setting you can see it’s one of their favorite songs to play as their energy, especially in the ending breakdown, really amps up. Long story short: these guys are under appreciated and deserve their roses. 

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Spinning The Black Circle Of Life 

I was beyond thrilled that I was in the right place at the right time to complete this journey of mine.  I still have my Lollapalooza ticket from 1992 and I was sure to get an actual ticket from this show as well (it’s in the mail-hopefully). I write about many shows, as I go to a lot of concerts, but this one rang special.  I do not know if I will ever see the band live again, but I got to see them when they were just starting out and now, I have visited them as one of the biggest bands in the world. I am glad we all got to live this long and navigate this floating rock together.  

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There is an Assassinate Attempt Being Made on Public Media 

Several years ago, in Seattle I discovered Independent Radio (and yes, I am capitalizing because it’s important), funded by the listeners, and it changed my life for the better.  That radio station was KEXP and it became my everything.  DJs can play whatever they want, any theme, without algorithms or pay-to-play formats.  They are both educational and spin a heavy rotation of local music as well as classic indie gems. I had never heard anything like it before.  You might catch Public Enemy, followed by Joni Mitchell and then some small independent artist follows that track. Each radio host did their own thing as well.  John Richards was the host that I first caught onto, and his music knowledge floored me.  I like to think of myself as having a refined palate of sound logged in my craw, but this dude buried my grasp of music, and I learned so much from him.  I am forever indebted.  I got to meet him once and as I trembled terribly inside, I think I played it cool. 

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Gentry Blue Immerses Audiences in Sound

I find myself in East Nashville once again amongst a row of “Dive Bars” and independently operated live music venues.  I find the area to be a great section of the city where you can find hard working bands grinding out passionate sets on any given day of the week.  Downtown on Broadway you can certainly find an amplitude of fine musicians doing the same thing and the music is fantastic, but sometimes the tourists can be too much.  You won’t find a gaggle of bachelorettes in sparkled hats and boots sipping blue drinks from penis straws.  East Nashville is a little rawer and more local driven. The strip includes famously great joints like The Underdog, The Cobra, The Basement East, The 5 Spot and so many more.  Tonight, I was patronizing The Cobra that not only offers cheap drinks but three different areas for music to happen.  There’s a spot near the main bar, an outside space and “The Venue” which is just off to the right when you enter streetside. 

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Getting to Know Echo Pilot

We all met at varying times. Echo Pilot is the brainchild of Ryan Van Abeele (singer/rhythm guitarist) and was started in 2018. Andrew Stuart Howsmon (bass/backing vocals) auditioned and was brought on in 2022. Dan Russell (drums) was recommended by a friend and fan of the band and auditioned and was brought on in October 2023. Aaron Smith (lead guitarist) auditioned around that time as well and was officially brought on in January 2024. The name Echo Pilot was literally just thrown together by Ryan who thought the two words together sounded cool. There’s no awesome name origin story (laughter ensues). 

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Sweet Mylo Just Got Sweeter

Sweet Mylo was a band I bumped into as I was just starting to check out the local Nashville music scene.  I went to see my friend Ian Brice of Loose Bolts play in East Nash and this is where I met the duo.  Sweet Mylo is an indie-pop band formed by husband-and-wife Kevin Jones and Grace Melody Jones.  I was mesmerized by the group from beginning to end. This week they will be releasing a new album (officially their first, as I would learn).  The band will also be playing a live show at the Historic Stonewall to promote the project.  Historic Stonewall, in the heart of Gallatin, Tennessee’s downtown district, has been standing iconically since 1831. This architectural wonderment has been a silent spectator to the evolution of the community around it for almost 200 years and serves as an event space and music venue.  Almost one year ago to the day I got to ask the band about their formation, their process and the future of Sweet Mylo.  Enjoy! 

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Two Helpings of CAKE

The show included all the hits and fan favorite songs, as well as a few covers and a new piece from their upcoming 2025 album (no release date as of yet). That was certainly my big take as they approached the start to a new tune called ‘Billionaire in Space’ and announce the upcoming drop.  CAKE hasn’t had a studio album release since 2011 with Showroom of Compassion – so to hear of a brand-new record coming out I was beyond excited.  This unknown titled piece will be their 7th studio album release. 

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Michael Shannon, Jason Narducy & Friends Channel R.E.M. (and Literal R.E.M.) in Athens, Georgia

I fell in love with Athens during my first visit in 1999 or so. Sure, it was initially fueled by the fact that I’m a huge R.E.M. fan and, as such, Athens is basically Mecca, but it quickly became more than that. Athens is an anomaly in the south: a quaint, college town with a rich history of art and music, surrounded by sprawling farmland, isolating it from neighboring Atlanta, making it a funny little island, where, for decades now, weirdos get to be weirdos, experimenting with sounds, words and visuals, free of judgement and expectations. Leaving Athens always stings a little, in that I find myself wishing I could spend more time there, or had lived there in my 20s.

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Parker Barrow Doesn’t Rob Their Audience

Parker Barrow.  Parker Barrow.  Parker Barrow! I want to say it as many times as I can so that you will remember the name of this band. After seeing them perform live at 3rd & Lindsley in Nashville, I will never forget.  I have to say thank you to Gregg Bell, Parker Barrow’s manager, for reaching out to me and inviting me to the show.  I have been getting a lot of submissions through Rock Oracle to go out and see bands or listen to a new single and most the time I listen or find them online and I pass for one reason or another.  When I looked up this bluesy-southern rock band I found myself going down the rabbit hole to watch and listen to as much as I could – and then I saw them live – and I am a fan for life! 

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Record Store Day Returns in 2025

EXCLUSIVES: These titles are physically released only at indie record stores. 
RSD FIRST: These titles are found first at indie record stores but may be released to other retailers or webstores at some point in the future. 
SMALL RUN/REGIONAL TITLES: These titles are either regionally based and sold at specific stores, or are press runs under 1000, which means they may be much more difficult to find at record stores around the country. 

Many of these RSD titles are in “limited” variety, so that usually means waking up early to secure your place in line. I usually tend to get up around 6am to be in line be 7am depending on the store and their hours.  I strongly encourage contacting your local record store, or visiting their social media page or website, to see if they offer any guidance on how the queue will be operated. Most stores opt for a “first come, first served” basis and only allow a few people in the building at a time to cut down on the wildness of 1980’s Black Friday’s mayhem style.

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Kenya Eugene Finds Her Truth With New EP

The music is more complex than just reggae.  It’s more of an amalgamation of various platforms that one can clearly hear with all her projects.  A quote I found on Kribbean.com from Kenya seems to summarize my interpretation.  “Because of my Caribbean heritage and musical influences I gravitate towards a number of genres, which you can hear in my music. I consider myself to be more of an international artist, although I am a balladeers at heart, you can hear musical influences such as reggae, r&b, pop, and soul in my work”.  

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Sex Pistols rock secret show at 100 Club in London

The 2025 iteration of the Pistols includes Jones, Cook and Matlock but are now fronted by Frank Carter (of Gallows, Pure Love and Frank Carter and the Rattlesnakes) instead of Rotten and the group reconvened for a secret show at the same venue, with a now capacity of 300.  It was packed with devoted fans and stars such as Noel Gallagher, Paul Weller, and Bobby Gillespie. Fans old and new were greeted with roaring renditions of classics like “Holidays In The Sun” and “God Save The Queen”. “This is where it all kicked off, really, all the punk,” says Cook. It was the band’s first performance at the iconic London venue in 50 years. The Sex Pistols performed under the pseudonym SPOTS, “Sex Pistols On Tour Secretly,” as they did in the late 70s to sidestep potential bans.  All accounts say the show was both nostalgic and energetic and that the bands performance was less violent and tighter. 

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Stick it to the Man

I love how clean this track is.  It is a true testament into their production value and the uptick that I have personally seen in their professionalism. The mixing of the song by engineer Steve Hardy is absolutely fantastic. This band hits hard and plays fast but there isn’t any fallout of chaos.  The song could quite easily fit into a movie soundtrack that is looking for a theme song.  I imagine the underdog protagonist fighting against the corporate entity, who is looking to capitalize on humanities willingness to overlook their wrong doings for a handful of dimes.

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

Live From Nashville… It’s Tuesday Night!

The Cannery Hall is located along “Music Row” in Nashville, Tennessee and it is a staple of Music City.  It is the largest independent music venue in Nashville. Anchoring Cannery Row, just outside of downtown Nashville’s lower Broadway and “The Gulch,” Cannery Hall is in the Station District. The historic building dates to 1883 and has been a music venue for over 40 years. The last time I was here I saw The Lemonheads supported by former band member John Strohm.  Tonight’s show was at the Row One Stage of the buildings four available spaces for shows.   

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Echo Pilot’s Record Release at The ’58

Let me start by saying that Punk Rock is Not Dead! I was so enamored by the garb of some of the people at the show on this night.  Leather pants, mohawks, shredded jackets of jean and leather, platformed boots, piercings and tattoos glistened across the room.  I was on the cusp of being the oldest in this space and basked in all these 20-something-year-olds who knew the music of the past and are now carrying the torch for the future. One kid literally had on a jacket with the phrase “Punk Rock Is Not Dead” sewn onto the back.  While “heroin-sheik” has been replaced with High Noon Hard Seltzers (not a bad thing) the rawness of rock is still alive. This wasn’t necessarily a punk rock music show, but the sense was

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

The New Mastersounds bring Jazz-Fusion to Nashville

I was treated to an extraordinary show last week at the world-famous Exit/In in Nashville, Tennessee with The Gripsweats supporting The New Mastersounds. The two, powerhouse, electronic-forward, funk, jazz-fusion, jam bands, put on a display of rhythm-heavy-keypunching vibe and a toe tapping cavalcade of fun on a Wednesday night. I know that’s a lot of descriptors slammed together in one nearly non sensical sentence structure, but it is well needed to identify these sets.  

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

The Band Feel plays Conduit in Orlando

The St Louis based band seem to be hitting their stride at the right time. Heading on the road for their first headlining tour across the US after opening for Dirty Honey, Rival Sons and Blackberry Smoke it seems like they are starting to get the attention they deserve. They were recently chosen to perform at the huge music festival Bourbon & Beyond later in the year which will get them access to a whole new audience. One audience that already has fallen in love with them is Uncle Jessie himself, John Stamos who recently mentioned him on Lipps Service podcast as one of his favorite underrated rock bands.

 I talked to a couple of friends into going with me to their show here in Orlando at a small rock club called Conduit which is best known for their heavy metal and punk shows which was apparent by the numerous NO STAGE DIVING signs posted throughout the venue.

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B SidesFEATUREDLISTS

Kurt’s Kuotes

A lot of people loved Kurt Cobain.  I loved him.  However, it wasn’t the love he needed or necessarily wanted.  Fame comes at a price and for Kurt, that payment was his life.  The media liked to say that he was my generations John Lennon, but john got to be forty years old.  What would we have learned from Kurt and his music had he lived to be middle age, rather than taken from the light at age 27.  Some say he was just another member of that dumb club.  The “27 Club” which lifted the red velvet rope for Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Amy Winehouse, Brian Jones, Jimi Hendrix and more.  

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

FireAid Draws Music’s Biggest Stars

Three weeks after a violent series of historic wildfires killed 29 people and destroyed more than 16,000 structures in the Los Angeles area, more than two dozen of music’s biggest names gathered for the Fire Aid Benefit Concert on Thursday, January 30th.  Labeled as “an evening of music and solidarity,” organizers set out to raise money for affected residents and to “prevent future fire disasters throughout Southern California.” There were so many musicians wanting to help to the cause, that what was initially set as a single event turned into dual concerts at the newly opened Intuit Dome and local landmark Kia Forum, both of which were streamed for free on major streaming services, social media like YouTube and TikTok and broadcast stations. What we saw was absolutely spectacular. 

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

Host Malone

Post Malone will be the Record Store Day Ambassador of 2025 according to the organizers of the annual event. Record Store Day returns for its 18th year on April 12th, celebrating close to two decades of supporting physical media, independent artists, and brick-and-mortar record stores. 

“What an honor, I can’t believe I was chosen to be Record Store Day’s Ambassador for 2025,” Malone said in a statement. “Record Store Day is so important and I really hope to do my part to keep it alive. We love hitting local shops when we’re on the road, seeing all the crazy artwork, the whole energy in a record store is just super inspiring. I feel at home.”

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWSMUSIC NEWS

Rachel Platten Brings Viewers, and Herself, to Tears

On Monday Night we were treated to a very special performance, and it wasn’t by the Minnesota Vikings as they were dominated by the Los Angeles Rams 27-9.  It was in the cards that the Rams would win as all of LA, and most of the country, was supporting the team due to the devastation that was happening in their hometown via the wildfires. The true joy was what happened prior to the opening kickoff and that was cause by Rachel Platten. 

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MUSIC NEWS

A Benefit Concert Planned in LA

A benefit concert for victims of the ongoing California wildfires has been announced. The show is billed as ‘FireAid’ and will take place on January 30 at the LA Intuit Dome. The show’s exact lineup has yet to be announced. Proceeds for the event will go to a 501(c)(3) with the purpose of “rebuilding infrastructure, supporting displaced families, and advancing fire prevention technologies and strategies to ensure LA is better prepared for fire emergencies,” according to a press release. A significant aspect of the relief efforts includes a $1 million pledge from the Recording Academy and MusiCares.

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MUSIC NEWS

New Look For Jane’s Addiction?

Last September, the band announced the cancellation of its remaining tour dates following an onstage altercation between singer Perry Farrell and Navarro. The band said it “made the difficult decision to take some time away as a group,” therefore forfeiting the rest of the dates of their tour. A short time later, Navarro, along with Perkins and Avery, posted a joint statement to their respective Instagram accounts in which they said the cancelation of the tour is a result of a “continuing pattern of behavior and the mental health difficulties of our singer Perry Farrell.”

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LISTS

What to Expect When Expecting New Music

Well, 2024 has come and gone and we saw some amazing music come out of the last 365 days. Now it is on to 2025 and whole new list of tasty tunes is being splattered before our ears. Last year we saw a huge wave of new and established artists releasing a mass of incredible tracks. Will this year be able to hold up to the onslaught of fantastic art we were given in the previous time slot? I am compiling a list of albums that will hit wax, streaming services and the airwaves this next year. This will be an ongoing process- full of constant edits and adds and updates. Here is what I have gathered so far about what to expect when expecting new music in 2025.

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Top 5 Records of the Year

Another year has passed, and we were once again treated to so many great new albums.  I just hope that 2025 presents us with as much music enrichment as these last 365 days.  I am attempting to list my Top 5 records of 2024 and in doing so I have scratched out so many, then rewritten some of those deleted mentions and then re-rewritten the entire list multiple times.  Each time that I have done so I have compiled an original listing once again

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

Happy Elke Day! 

As I stood outside The Blue Room, I felt my body battling both the 25-degree weather and the sheer excitement of the show that I was going to see.  Tonight, attached to Jack White’s Third Man Records, the shivering crowd was going to be let in to Elke’s record release party.  Elke was debuting her new project Divine Urge.  It is her sophomore record.  The show was being sponsored by Nashville’s public radio station WNXP and the former “Record of the Month” artist, Meg Elsier, was slated to be the opener.  This was going to be a beautiful culmination of talent, music and like-minded folks gathered to share in the mystical power that live music holds over us.   

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Love Courtney 🖤

On March 14th, 1995, my friend Josh Kaye and I grabbed tickets to go see Hole at The Edge in Orlando, Florida.  It was one of the first shows that Courtney Love and her band played after the death of her husband, Kurt Cobain, nearly one year earlier.  This was the closest I could get to seeing Kurt and Nirvana and I was super excited to see the show.  To see Courtney, and no, I don’t think she had anything to do with his death.  I think that conspiracy makes people feel better about the untimely death of our John Lennon. Like, he didn’t leave us, he was taken away. 

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B SidesFEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

The Thrill of the Pick!

Record Store Day was created with a nod to “Free Comic Book Day”. Its inspiration came from an independently owned record store ownership meeting in Baltimore. Founded officially by Michael Kurtz, Eric Leven, Amy Dorfman, Carrie Colliton, Brian Poehner, and Don Van Cleave, Record Store Day was established in 2007 in celebration of individual artists. Packed with performances, special appearances, and meet-and-greets, Record Store Day celebrated everything musical while upholding the individuality of each store. 

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B SidesFEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

Beyoncé Bounced 

“Cowboy Carter” has been considered a reclamation of country music because it highlights Black artists’ contributions to the genre. Many folks had hoped that it would bring even more visibility to country Black artists.  Emmett Price III, dean of Africana studies at Berklee College of Music, said her album was “calling into question not only the historical and cultural roots of country and Western but also how we normalize certain cultural aspects of country culture.”  

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

A Space Disco with The Weird Sisters 

They are the self-described “Dance Commanders” and that aptly chronicles the status of their compilations.  Funk has collided with electronica and slammed danced with jazz and soul with punk-EDM and psychedelia ploughing into the onslaught. Are you getting it yet?  You will just have to listen for yourselves.  In fact, I implore you to dive into the pool. The water is nice, but you cannot see the bottom and if your feet do not touch, you are in the right place. 

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

The Beatles Get a Grammy Nod

The Beatles might finally be able to win a “Record of the Year” Grammy. The Fab Four’s latest “new” song, ‘Now and Then,’ was nominated this past Friday for the “Record of the Year” Grammy and will be competing against songs by Beyoncé, Billie Eilish, Chappell Roan, Charli XCX, Kendrick Lamar, Sabrina Carpenter, and Taylor Swift featuring Post Malone.  

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Melancholy Goes Up To 11 

Since 1978, when The Cure formed, they have always seemed older to me than they really were, but now they are older and the insight that they have ingested is recognizable more than ever.  It took 16 years to make this album because they wanted it to be right.  We know that Robert Smith craves perfection as do all the great artists and he didn’t want to just give the world “something”.  He wanted to give then “everything”, and in this album he showed us his heart.  He cares.  He always has.  However, over the last few years he has lost more than ever and it’s transparent in these eight songs.  

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THANK YOU MR. JONES

With producing credits for legends such as Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, Lesley Gore, and Donna Summer, his impact on contemporary music is legendary. He embarked on a journey that had him starting a life as a touring musician, serving as Dizzy Gillespie’s musical director in the 1950s. Jones went on to arrange songs for Ray Charles, Count Basie, Dinah Washington, and others before incorporating synthesizers into his own practice.  In the 1960s, Jones began work as Mercury Records’ vice president. He concentrated on music for the small and big screen, eventually scoring nearly 40 films and hundreds of TV shows.  When you look at the vast scope of his career, accolades and accomplishments it’s hard to believe that this was done by one person. 

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PARENTAL ADVISORY EXPLICIT CONTENT

However, rather than determining whether albums would be labeled (nineteen record labels had already voluntarily added advisory stickers a month earlier), the Senate hearing would provide a chance to hear all sides. John Denver, for example, spoke about his own experience with censorship when his song “Rocky Mountain High” was thought to be about drugs. (“This was obviously done by people who had never seen or been to the Rocky Mountains,” he told the committee.) Ultimately, the PMRC won, and through a deal with the Recording Industry Association of America, labels were added to albums on November 1, 1985.  

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Meg Elsier Raises the Roof 

I brought my niece, Becca, as my plus one guest and didn’t know what to expect when encountering this rising star.  Meg Elsier is just 30 years old- as is my niece- and she is quickly rising up the ladder of stardom in the industry.  Nashville Scene magazine just awarded her the Best Indie/Rock Debut Album by its writers a few days ago.  Meg debuted her record, Spittake, in June. The album deserves any accolades that it gets.  I had been listening to it on my playlist for about a month before I got the news that I would have a face to face with this Berklee School of Music prodigy. 

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Songs of a Lost World

The album is titled Songs of a Lost World and the group had already dropped two tracks from the LP on streaming services. So why did it take so long for this record to be produced?  The project has been long discussed by Robert Smith throughout several interviews. When talking to the LA Times in 2019, he put the onus on himself for the delays. “I keep going back over and redoing them, which is silly. At some point, I have to say that’s it. It’s very much on the darker side of the spectrum,” Smith added. “I lost my mother and my father and my brother recently, and obviously it had an effect on me. It’s not relentlessly doom and gloom. It has soundscapes on it, like Disintegration, I suppose. I was trying to create a big palette, a big wash of sound.” From what I have heard on the pair of songs released, he and his mates have done just that.  Meaning, they have captured that classic Cure sound that I was first mesmerized by in high school.   

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Catchfire takes you to the ‘Wild Side’

The rattling echo from the burning words and instrumentals stays with the listener even when the song is silenced.  It is now out there in the ethos for others to discover- for that is all that we can do.  We create and place our art in the world for the scavengers to find.  This track is certainly art and I am happy that I got to hear it before most.  This is a band to be on the lookout for. 

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

Bourbon and Beyond: Days 3 & 4 

Days One and Two of Bourbon & Beyond were highly organized and very strict when it came to the front gates.  The event was constantly posting on their socials and emailing out rules and regulations for standards that they wanted upheld throughout the long weekend.  You could only bring in chairs if you had a “Chair Pass”, which cost gobs of extra money, and they sold out in 45 minutes.  You could bring in a towel to sit on if your towel met specific requirements as far as size and, get this, thickness.  Water bottles had to be clear, and empty upon arrival, and not have a capacity of over 20ozs.  There were also lists of “Do’s and “Don’ts” that festival runners hammered into your brain repeatedly.  Then came day three. 

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Bourbon & Beyond: Day Two

So now we reside in Day Two of Bourbon & Beyond. Day one nearly killed me as I realized that 10 hours standing in the sun after driving three hours to get here was too long of a day for this 50-year-old. There is nowhere to hide at this festival.  There are tents around the Expo Center, but the tents seem hotter as they are jammed with people and there is no catching a breeze.  I applaud the staff as they have done a great job of handing out free cold waters to people in the pit areas in front of the stage.  These are certainly the danger areas of the festival.  I’ve seen a few people get carried out due to the heat and the medical tents keep a heavy rotation of people getting IV’s.  So, Day Two, I decided I was going to dial it back a bit so that I could go a little heavier the following days.  It’s all about pace, right?! 

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Bourbon & Beyond: Day One

Here I am, in my hotel room, just north of Louisville, Kentucky in Sellersberg, Indiana pondering what I have seen over the last two days.  It’s Bourbon & Beyond and it’s a lot.  According to local news sources and the Bourbon & Beyond website the festival is bringing in $12.5 million dollars in local revenue and over 270,000 concert goers over the four days of music. The venue, which is located at The Highland Fairgrounds at the Kentucky Exposition Center, between the airport and the University of Louisville, is a massive lot of land as you would imagine.  The festival started in 2017 and has grown immensely since its inception.  This year hosts 110 bands/artists and 5 different stages located across the property.  

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

Childish Gambino in Tampa

I first heard Childish Gambino on the Late Night with Conan O’Brien show singing Heartbeat from his debut album Camp in 2011.  I immediately downloaded Heartbeat and then found Bonfire and Sunrise which are two of my favorite rap songs of all time.   The humor that Gambino has in his lyrics is incredibly unique as he tells you about his background as a BLERD(black nerd) from Georgia who went to NYU and then wrote for 30 Rock under Tina Fey. 

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

Jon Bon Jovi Saves A Woman In Crisis 

Bon Jovi has worked with vulnerable people through his Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, which provides food, affordable housing, job training and social services to people experiencing hunger, poverty and homelessness. Bon Jovi also has had training in speaking to individuals during difficult situations. In February, Bon Jovi was recognized as the MusiCares Person of the Year for his philanthropic efforts.

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Here We Go! 

As a wanna be skater and surfer Jane’s songs were the soundtrack of so many skating/surfing videos in the mid to late 80s that they became ingrained in my subconscious. The Hard Rock Hotel in South Florida was the backdrop for this latest adventure. You probably have seen the giant guitar shaped hotel in commercials over the years or while driving on the Florida Turnpike. Looks are deceiving in just how big that casino and property really are. After quickly putting in a losing bet on the Texas A&M game it was time to go in.  

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Fresh Lemons : Nothing Canned

The Lemonheads are an indie/alternative/punk band, originally from Boston, Massachusetts formed in 1986, and they were playing their two most successful albums tonight. The setlist was It’s A Shame About Ray which was constantly in my cars cassette player my senior year of high school (1992), and Come On Feel The Lemonheads (1996) which featured the single “Into Your Arms”.  

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FEATUREDMUSIC NEWS

Oasis is Back, Definitely Maybe

We never saw The Beatles reunite but some current fans find this to be equal to or greater than that reconciliation. And if Fab Four from Liverpool were bigger than Jesus (John Lennon’s words), then how big is this news?! If you don’t recall in 1996, Noel Gallagher “joked” in an MTV interview that Oasis was bigger than The Beatles, but he later denounced his claims saying he was “high” at the time.  

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FEATUREDLIVE REVIEWS

The Queen of Noise Rocks The Ryman

There are only a handful of true rockstars left in the world and Joan Jett is certainly one of them.  On Sunday, August 25th, I witnessed that greatness at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee.  Joan Marie Larkin has been doing this rockstar thing for a bit now, and she still has that “It” factor.  She changed her last name to “Jett” when she was 16 because it sounded more like a rockstars name.  She always knew what she was going to do in life. She was born for this.  There were no other options. 

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B SidesFEATUREDINTERVIEWS

Cinematica | Small Town Artist Highlight

The band itself started simply enough: Eddie and Bean, guitar and drums, two guys making instrumental music together. Six months later, bassist Oj joined, and the connection was immediate. The trio eventually christened themselves the “Cosmic Triangle”, which is exactly the sort of wonderfully dramatic name I expect from a psychedelic instrumental band wandering around the New Mexico desert.
And for nearly nine years, the triangle held.

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B SidesFEATURED

September – Tarot of the Month: Hibiscus – Lean into Joy!

The people who make music (at any/every stage of the process) absolutely embody Hibiscus/Hummingbird energy. They pursue that flow in order to send something of true beauty out into the Universe that brings so much joy to so many people. While joy (as well as music that brings joy) can be highly subjective, some artists that immediately come to my mind are: Cher, Hans Zimmer … DOLLY PARTON. (We will miss you so much, dearest Dolly. See here for The Godfather’s piece regarding his mom’s recent visit and their outings that led them to honoring and sending love to Dolly.) Artists like these more-than-honorable mentions have creates such an abundance of good energy with their music – and thank Universe for that.

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Tower Brothers | All The Dogs | New EP Review

The band is originally from Boston, but has made a home in Nashville and is on the label Red Guitar Music. RGM is a record label based in the Music City and founded by Travis Fairley of Catchfire. Signing with the label means full service. RGM handles A&R, booking, publicity, recording, mixing and producing. I have had excellent music pushed my way by the label including Catchfire, Carl Pariso, and Daisy Sellas. The band under my current light is made up of the brothers Jackson Tower (Keys / Bass / Vocals / Guitar) and Owen Tower (Guitar / Vocals), alongside friends Thomas Prescott (Guitar) and Quinten Cohen (Drums / Vocals).

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