rock journalism Archives

June 30, 2026 Stacy Marie

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.

FEATURED MUSIC NEWS

June 29, 2026 Mooney

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.

ALBUM REVIEWS FEATURED

June 25, 2026 Melinoe Macaria Mourningstar

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.

B Sides FEATURED

June 24, 2026 Melinoe Macaria Mourningstar

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

B Sides FEATURED MUSIC NEWS

June 24, 2026 Melinoe Macaria Mourningstar

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!

FEATURED LIVE REVIEWS

June 23, 2026 Stacy Marie

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

FEATURED LIVE REVIEWS

June 23, 2026 Melinoe Macaria Mourningstar

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.