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Leslie Jordan Releases ‘The Agonist,’ A Musical Tribute To Her Grandfather’s Lost Writings

Eric Alper
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Leslie Jordan Releases ‘The Agonist,’ A Musical Tribute To Her Grandfather’s Lost Writings

Nearly a decade ago, when sent photocopies of her late, wayfaring grandfather’s poetry and short stories, singer-songwriter Leslie Jordan knew that the treasure trove would eventually make its way into her musical story. He wrote short stanzas of evocative poetry, short stories of provocative men and women, and long journal entries about his love affair with alcohol and his brother’s wife, Sylvia. With pages of typewritten entries, Jordan pieced together the story and set it to song with her beautifully melancholy Americana and roots sensibilities. Today, she released the stunning collection, dubbed The Agonist.

For the former member of Grammy-Nominated duo All Sons & Daughters, using the long-lost collection of his work as inspiration for songwriting was not only a way to connect the thread of their familial creativity but also to complete the journey of her lost and lonely grandfather. Jordan found a universal truth in the process. “All lives deserve redemption, even the messiest,” she says. “This is my attempt to create light from dark.” Produced by Kenneth Pattengale (The Milk Carton Kids, Joy Williams, Willie Watson) at Far Cry Studios in Los Angeles, The Agonist features guest appearances from The Milk Carton Kids, Sara Watkins (Nickel Creek, Watkins Family Hour), and Brittney Spencer as well as a host of the loosely-gathered Americana genre’s finest musicians.

Fans can stream or purchase The Agonist today at this link. If you’re in Nashville, don’t miss Jordan’s album release show on April 30th at Analog at Hutton Hotel. Purchase tickets here.

Meredith Moon Releases New Single “Sapphire Blue” Ahead Of Upcoming Album

Eric Alper
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Meredith Moon Releases New Single “Sapphire Blue” Ahead Of Upcoming Album

Canadian songwriter and instrumentalist Meredith Moon announces the release of her single “Sapphire Blue.” The track, produced by Colin Linden (Lucinda Williams, The Band, Bob Dylan) is a preview of her new album to be announced soon.

Out today on all digital services via Compass Records, “Sapphire Blue” is an acoustic-based, mid tempo groover that evokes a feeling of mystery in the search for an escape from a ‘dark force’ of sorts, and tells a story of driving across the continent looking for the light with which to lift it, with Moon’s plaintive vocals answered by Linden’s vibey electric guitar.

Meredith Moon started writing songs at the age of eight, and growing up immersed in folk music including the music of her father Gordon Lightfoot, became a self-taught guitar player at the age of fourteen. A few years later she found her sound as a busker on sidewalks from Halifax to Vancouver. She spent years traveling across Canada, and the world, by means of road and rail, finding inspiration for her unique style of songs which are crafted in a true storyteller’s fashion.

Meredith has been described as a ‘gem’ in both the old-time and contemporary folk music scenes for her unusual expression of the genres, combining influences of folk-punk with a traditional Appalachian sounds. Besides playing traditional tunes often ‘non-traditionally,’ Meredith presents a powerful voice and highly contemporary clawhammer banjo style which has earned her acclaim in the international roots music community. She is a multi-instrumentalist, incorporating finger-style/travis picking guitar, piano and lap dulcimer, among other instruments, into her performances.

“Sapphire Blue” is available on all digital platforms today via Compass Records.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES:

Apr 25 Austin, TX – Radio Coffee and Beer Tickets
Apr 26 – Fredericksburg, TX – Pecan Groove Store Tickets
Apr 27 – Terlingua, TX – The Boathouse Tickets
Jun 6 – Toronto, Canada – Hugh’s Room Tickets

Rising Appalachia Celebrate ‘Wider Circles’ 10th Anniversary With Remastered Re-Release

Eric Alper
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Rising Appalachia Celebrate ‘Wider Circles’ 10th Anniversary With Remastered Re-Release

In celebration of Earth Day, internationally revered folk-soul ensemble Rising Appalachia commemorates the tenth anniversary of their landmark album Wider Circles with a poignant and timely digitally remastered re-release, debuting an unreleased track “All Fence and No Doors,” new artwork ties into the full-circle aftermath of Hurricane Helene, and a bundle of local Appalachian-influenced merchandise available on April 25, 2025.

Originally released in 2015, Wider Circles marked a major artistic and geographical expansion for the band. “It was the beginning of what we now call the Slow Music Movement,” reflects vocalist, multi-instrumentalist and co-founder Leah Song. “We toured the album by train and sailboat, carried these songs into prisons, across borders, and into the heart of communities grappling with ecological and cultural resilience.”

Wider Circles has songs tied into the group’s travels across Italy and through Ireland down into Latin America into the BriBri tribes of Costa Rica, and deep roots to their home in the American South between Appalachia, Atlanta, and New Orleans. It features love letters to North Carolina, a tribute to Ralph Stanley, spoken word by Theresa Davis, traditional Appalachian songs like “Bright Morning Stars,” and some of our originals that have become the most beloved of our entire collection cherished by the band and fans alike such as “Medicine,” “Wider Circles,” “Invitation”, and “Novels of Acquaintance.”

Reflecting on the band’s journey and their trajectory since the album’s inception, singer, multi-instrumentalist, and co-founder Chloe Smith reflects, “Time is a slippery beautiful thing you can never quite get a hold of by the tail. Ten years ago we made the album Wider Circles, and as we work on writing our new album, this anniversary feels like something to share and celebrate with our fans. Looking back, we were neck deep in touring and finding our way in the wilds of taking a crack at music for a living as young women—equal parts student, activist, folk singer. This particular body of work felt like a large culmination of the many influences we picked up along our route.  Wider Circles was a moment in our artistic path that was deeply inspired by the timeless work of Joanna Macy and her translation of Rilkes poem “Widening Circles.’ The song and the album’s theme is meant to address the necessity of open dialogues and perspectives in times of severance and severity.”

Now, in the wake of Hurricane Helene that devastated parts of their Southern Appalachian community in September 2024, Wider Circles resonates louder than ever with the proverbial circles widening to the destruction and silver linings that occur through  natural disasters.

Central to the re-release is “All Fence and No Doors,” an unreleased studio track written years prior during the band’s time in New Orleans that was facing their own hardships after Hurricane Katrina. “The lyrics have always echoed our concern for environmental justice,” says Leah. “But after the storm, the meaning changed. Lines like ‘all this water coming after me’ and ‘I don’t have enough water to drink’ became chillingly literal. This song felt like the right sound to add to this body of work, and almost feels timeless. Recorded at Echo Mountain in Asheville, North Carolina many years back, this new version feels as if it was always a part of this album.”

The track was mixed by longtime engineer Julian Dreyer whose own studio was impacted by the flooding, and features the newest full time band member Duncan Wickel on cello alongside David Brown on guitar, and Biko Casini on percussion.

The re-release also features hauntingly stunning artwork by Asheville-based woodblock printmaker Ashley McGrath, whose studio was destroyed in the floods. Leah discovered one of Ashley’s prints washed up in the River Arts District during a community cleanup. “The print was covered in mud, but something about it struck me. We tracked down the artist and I knew I wanted to work with her,” Leah recounts. “It felt like serendipity—art and nature, destruction and renewal, all in one.”

In honor of Earth Day and the re-release of Wider Circles, Rising Appalachia is releasing a limited edition collection of merch that includes the album on vinyl, a hand-screened poster, tote bag and bandana featuring McGrath’s new artwork her and the band designed exclusively for the re-release, and Southern Appalachian wildflower seed packets curated by Sow True Seed in Asheville, NC. Vinyl & merch can be purchased HERE.

“It feels like this album, which helped define our voice as a band, has come full circle. What started as a celebration of roots, movement, and resilience is now a reflection of how those values sustain us through crisis,” adds Chloe.

To purchase the Wider Circles 10th anniversary merch bundle and learn more about Rising Appalachia, please visit: risingappalachia.com.

Simple Minds Release ‘Live In The City Of Diamonds’ Ahead Of Major North American Tour

Eric Alper
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Simple Minds Release ‘Live In The City Of Diamonds’ Ahead Of Major North American Tour

Today, BMG releases Simple Minds’ new live album, Live in The City of Diamonds, ahead of the band’s biggest North American tour in four decades. The album is available now in a variety of formats, including a 2 x CD Media Book featuring 24 tracks and a 24-page book including exclusive photos and tour notes written by Jim Kerr, Double Black Vinyl with 18 tracks, housed in a gatefold sleeve with a hi hi-spec finish, and Specialist Retail Exclusive Vinyl that is Double clear/glitter vinyl housed in gatefold sleeve with hi-spec finish.

One of the greatest live bands of their generation, from their roots as a nascent post-punk art rock band, through their arena and stadium straddling days in the 1980s and ‘90s, and up to the present day, Simple Minds have always prided themselves on their live reputation, having last year played to approximately one million people around the globe.

Live in The City of Diamonds completes the triptych of the Live in The City series, dating back to 1987, and captures the visceral excitement of a Simple Minds concert. Recorded at a sold-out Amsterdam’s Ziggo Dome on April 6, 2024, to an audience of 17,000 people, the band play a perfect mixture of songs from throughout their dynamic career.

The album features early pioneering tracks such as “Love Song,” “Sons and Fascination” and “Sweat in Bullet,” songs from their era-defining album New Gold Dream, including their first Top 20 UK single “Promised You a Miracle,” the tribute to their hometown of Glasgow and live set opener, “Waterfront,” 1985’s international hit “Don’t You Forget About Me” and songs from the multi-platinum album Once Upon A Time (both celebrating their 40th anniversaries this year), 1989’s number one single “Belfast Child,” and “See The Lights,” a fan favorite from 1991’s Real Life.

Live in The City of Diamonds is the perfect summation of Simple Minds’ current live prowess and the ever-evolving sound of a remarkable band, which features the extraordinary talents of lifelong members and friends Jim Kerr (vocals) and Charlie Burchill (lead guitars), with Gordy Goudie (rhythm guitar), Ged Grimes (bass), Cherisse Osei (drums), Erik Ljungggren (keyboards) and Sarah Brown (vocals).

LIVE IN THE CITY OF DIAMONDS OUT TODAYLIVE IN THE CITY OF DIAMONDS OUT TODAY

Tracklists:

CD Media book:

CD1

1. Waterfront

2. Love Song

3. Sons And Fascination

4. Sweat In Bullet

5. This Fear Of Gods

6. Let There Be Love

7. She’s A River

8. Once Upon A Time

9. Glittering Prize

10. New Gold Dream

11. Promised You A Miracle

12. Belfast Child

CD2

1. Someone Somewhere (In Summertime)

2. See The Lights

3. Book Of Brilliant Things

4. Don’t You (Forget About Me)

5. Alive And Kicking

6. Sanctify Yourself

7. Vision Thing

8. The American

9. Solstice Kiss

10. Premonition

11. Hunter And The Hunted

12. Colours Fly And Catherine Wheel

Vinyl:

Side A:

1. Waterfront

2. Love Song

3. Sons And Fascination

4. Sweat In Bullet

5. This Fear Of Gods

Side B:

1. Let There Be Love

2. She’s A River

3. Once Upon A Time

4. Glittering Prize

5. New Gold Dream

Side C:

1. Promised You A Miracle

2. Belfast Child

3. Someone Somewhere (In Summertime)

4. See The Lights

Side D:

1. Book Of Brilliant Things

2. Don’t You (Forget About Me)

3. Alive And Kicking

4. Sanctify Yourself

SIMPLE MINDS – NORTH AMERICAN TOUR 2025

MAY

16 – Ridgefield, WA – Cascades Amphitheater

17 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena

20 – Concord, CA – Toyota Pavilion at Concord

22 – Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum

23 – Greater Palm Springs, CA – Acrisure Arena

24 – Chula Vista, CA – North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre

25 – Phoenix, AZ – Talking Stick Resort Amphitheatre

27 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena

30 – Austin, TX – Moody Center

31 – Woodlands, TX – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion

JUNE

1 – Irving, TX – The Pavillion at Toyota Music Factory

4 – Rogers, AR – The Walmart AMP

5 – Maryland Heights, MO – Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre

7 – Atlanta, GA – Cadence Bank Amphitheatre at Chastain Park

10 – Columbia, MD – Merriweather Post Pavilion

11 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center

13 – Wantagh, NY – Northwell at Jones Beach Theater

14 – Philadelphia, PA – The Mann Center

15 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center

17 – Montreal, QC – Centre Bell

18 – Toronto, ON – Budweiser Stage

20 – Chicago, IL – Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island

21 – Clarkston, MI – Pine Knob Music Theatre

22 – Noblesville, IN – Ruoff Music Center

For complete details and ticket availability, please visit www.simpleminds.com/tour. The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, behind-the-scenes tour, group photo in front of the stage, exclusive VIP merch item & more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com.

Inimitable musical pioneers for nearly half a century, Simple Minds are among the most successful UK bands of all time, having achieved more than 1B global streams on Spotify alone (with over 8.3M monthly listeners on Spotify alone) and total worldwide sales in excess of 60M, including six #1 albums in the UK and chart-topping releases in countless other territories including Germany, Italy, France, Spain, Australia, and New Zealand.

Coalescing around childhood friends Jim Kerr and Charlie Burchill, Simple Minds emerged in 1978 with an immediately distinctive sound simultaneously rooted in punk, art-rock, and the electronic avant-garde. Over the next four decades, the band has pushed their open-armed approach to fashion a broad array of stylistic varieties – spanning pop, funk, gospel, soul, dance music, and more – into their own world-straddling brand of stadium-sized rock. Their continually evolving body of work is highlighted by such landmark LPs as 1982’s New Gold Dream (81,82,83,84), 1984’s Sparkle In The Rain, 1985’s Once Upon A Time, and 1989’s Street Fighting Years, along with a stunning canon of iconic global hit singles spanning “Love Song,” “Someone Somewhere (In Summertime),” “Glittering Prize,” “Promised You A Miracle,” “Up On The Catwalk,” “Speed Your Love To Me,” “Waterfront,” “Belfast Child,” and of course the timeless teen anthem, 1985’s US #1 classic, “Don’t You (Forget About Me),” the latter of course famously featured in the classic John Hughes film, The Breakfast Club.

Named as the world’s “Best Live Band” by Q Magazine in 1991, Simple Minds have long commanded the stages of sold-out arenas and stadiums around the planet. Their world-class credentials have been burnished in recent years by an array of equally remarkable accomplishments – from acclaimed new albums (including 2018’s Walk Between Worlds and 2022’s Direction of the Heart, both of which had top 5 chart debuts in the UK), best-selling live albums, career retrospectives, and epic world tours to accolades and honors like a 2014 Q Inspiration Award (presented by avowed fan Manic Street Preachers’ James Dean Bradfield) to a prestigious Ivor Novello Award for “Outstanding Song Collection” – all of which serve as timely reminders to a new generation of Simple Minds’ ongoing appeal as well a springboard for their next burst of creativity. Now as ever, Simple Minds remain a band touched by powerful magic, continually willing to experiment while remaining true to their original instincts.

“The truth is we never fully wound down,’ says Charlie Burchill. “There have been lots of different incarnations of Simple Minds, but we’ve always kept our identity. A legacy can be a burden if you allow it to be. For us, it’s been empowering.”

“We’ve been on one hell of a journey,” says Kerr. “I’m grateful for the career we’ve had, but I’m mad enough to think we can still hit new levels. This is what we do – write, record and play live. One of the things I’m most proud of is that people say to me, what Simple Minds are you talking about? The avant-garde, the art-rock, the pop, the ambient, the instrumental group, the political, the folk, the stadium band? To play all those different styles but at the same time be quintessentially Simple Minds is an amazing thing.”

Missy Raines & Allegheny Release “Eula Dorsey” Ahead Of ‘Love & Trouble’ Album

Eric Alper
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Missy Raines & Allegheny Release “Eula Dorsey” Ahead Of ‘Love & Trouble’ Album

Missy Raines & Allegheny kick off an 18 date tour with the release of “Eula Dorsey,” the second single from their upcoming album Love & Trouble. Co-written by Missy and Tony Rackley, the song draws its inspiration from Appalachian ballad tradition and tells the fictional tale of a Scottish immigrant making her way in 1800s West Virginia. Missy describes it as a twist on the “Knoxville Girl” model, saying that she wasn’t interested in making another woman a victim in another song.

Missy elaborates: “A fellow West Virginian and friend once referred to an older friend of her family named, Eula Dorsey. Eula Dorsey? I was instantly intrigued. I thought, what a beautiful and yet somehow lonesome name. More than that, I was transported to a world where Eula might live. Who was she? What did she do? Where was she now? So I took this crumb of an idea to my dear friend, Tony Rackley, and he and I wrote “Eula Dorsey” together.”

“I had recently been to Scotland for the first time and was enchanted by the starkly beautiful Scottish landscape and its’ striking resemblance to West Virginia. So we told Eula’s story from the perspective of an immigrant who didn’t want to leave home but ultimately needed to be in control of her own destiny. It’s a bit of a twist on the usual “Knoxville Girl” themed folk story. In the end, Eula does what she feels she has to do and makes her own peace.”

Missy Raines & Allegheny continue their evolution as one of the most charismatic bands on the contemporary bluegrass scene with their latest set Love & Trouble coming May 16th. The songs on the album span re-workings of traditional songs, covers of contemporary songs and Missy Raines originals and showcase a band that is at the peak of its powers. About recording the new album, Missy says: “We had lots of shows under our belt and there was an overwhelming feeling of connection you can only get from a lot of time on stage together. I knew I wanted to try and capture the magic again and I think we did.”

“Eula Dorsey” is available HERE on all streaming platforms today.  Look for the new album Love & Trouble coming May 16th.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES:

25 Apr – The Avalon Theater – Easton, MD – Tickets
26 Apr – Lucketts Community Center – Leesburg, VA
27 Apr – Southern Maryland Bluegrass at the Elks – Prince Frederick, MD
30 Apr – Club Passim – Cambridge, MA
1 May – One Longfellow Square – Portland, ME
2 May – The Parlor Room Northampton – Northampton, MA
3 May – Cafe Amici – Hamden, CT
4 May – Godfrey Daniels – Bethlehem, PA
6 May – 185 King Street – Brevard, NC
14 May – Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum – Owensboro, KY
15 May – Natalie’s Grandview, Columbus OH
16 May – Purple Fiddle – Thomas, WV
17 May – Allegheny RiverStone Center for the Arts – Foxburg, PA
18 May – Riverdog Concerts, Oberlin OH
22 May – Station Inn – Nashville, TN
23 May – Red Clay Music Foundry – Duluth, GA
24 May – Randy Wood Guitars – Bloomingdale, GA – Tickets
20 Jun – Wenatchee River Bluegrass Festival – Cashmere, WA
21 Jun – Wenatchee River Bluegrass Festival – Cashmere, WA
5 Jul – Stecoah Valley Cultural Arts Center – Robbinsville, NC
11 Jul – High Mountain Hay Fever Festival – Westcliffe, CO
12 Jul – High Mountain Hay Fever Festival – Westcliffe, CO
18 Jul – Shady Grove Bluegrass Festival – Sundre, Canada
19 Jul – Shady Grove Bluegrass Festival – Sundre, Canada
24 July – Brewminatti, Prosser WA
25 Jul – Columbia Gorge Bluegrass Festival – Stevenson, WA
26 Jul – Columbia Gorge Bluegrass Festival – Stevenson, WA
1 Nov – Sultana Downrigging Festival – Chestertown, MD

Leftover Salmon Release “Twisted Pine” Featuring Del McCoury Ahead Of ‘Let’s Party About It’ Album

Eric Alper
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Leftover Salmon Release “Twisted Pine” Featuring Del McCoury Ahead Of ‘Let’s Party About It’ Album

Following the announcement earlier this month of the band’s upcoming album, Let’s Party About It, Leftover Salmon is thrilled to release their latest song “Twisted Pine” featuring the legendary Del McCoury on vocals.  “Del McCoury and the Del McCoury Band are very near and dear to our hearts, having toured and recorded together on several occasions,” says Drew Emmitt (mandolin, vocals).  “For me, singing with Del has been a highlight of my musical career, he is simply the best bluegrass singer on the planet. When I wrote ‘Twisted Pine’ I had Del in mind to sing it with me and I am so thankful that it came to fruition. What an honor indeed to have Del on our record once again!”

“Having Del McCoury play music with us is a dream come true for us Salmon boys,” adds Vince Herman (guitar, vocals).  “He’s the band leader of the best bluegrass band on Earth, and I swear the nicest person on the face of the Earth as well. Del’s harmony on this tune really brings on the lonesome! Thanks, Del!

“Twisted Pine” follows the release of “Big Wheel,” a song about living life and enjoying the ride.

“‘Twisted Pine’ is my way of writing a Bluegrass song that sounds like an old traditional one,” continues Emmitt.  “To me it’s a metaphor for the changing seasons and life in general.”

Leftover Salmon’s new studio album, Let’s Party About It is due out on May 9 via Compass Records.  The band kicked off their spring tour this week, and will make stops throughout the Midwest including a very special performance of the National Anthem at Wrigley Field on April 25, before the Chicago Cubs Major League Baseball game.

To help commemorate their 35th anniversary, Leftover Salmon will take their celebration to one of the most iconic venues in the country: Red Rocks Amphitheatre on May 26, 2025. This momentous concert will also feature rising bluegrass stars Kitchen Dwellers as a co-headliner, plus Clay Street Unit, along with special guests Bill Payne (Little Feat), Laurie Lewis, Jason Carter, AJ Lee and many more guest appearances before they embark on their Summer Tour with The Infamous Stringdusters and Kitchen Dwellers.  Tickets and up-to-date news can be found at leftoversalmon.com.

The new studio album reaffirms their status as pioneers of blended bluegrass and showcases their unmatched musical chemistry. For the first time ever, the band wrote the album together in a single session as a group.  Longtime friend of the band and storied songwriter Aaron Raitiere (Lady Gaga, Lukas Nelson, Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson, Anderson East, The Lone Bellow, Trace Adkins, and more) also joined the band for the writing session. The resulting album captures the energy and camaraderie that have defined Leftover Salmon’s three-and-a-half-decade-long career.

The album was recorded at Compass Sound Studio (formerly Glaser Sound Studio, aka “Hillbilly Central”), the iconic birthplace of Outlaw Country, with the band joined by special guests such as Del McCoury (vocals), Sam Bush (fiddle, mandolin), Jason Carter (fiddle), Jeff Coffin (saxophone), and more. The band captured an unmatched level of talent and energy, which shines through on every track.

Leftover Salmon on Tour

4/25 – Outset | Chicago, IL

4/26 – Atomic Pavilion | St. Louis, MO

4/27 – MerleFest | Wilkesboro, NC

5/7 – Princess Theatre | Decatur, AL

5/8 – The Basement East | Nashville, TN

5/9 – From The Earth Brewing Company | Roswell, GA

5/10 – The Windjammer | Isle of Palms, SC

5/11 – The Bier Hall at Intuition Ale Works | Jacksonville, FL

5/16 – Tico Time Bluegrass Festival | Aztec, NM

5/18 – Golden Road Gathering | Placerville, CA

5/23 – DelFest | Cumberland, MD

5/24 – Dark Star Jubilee | Thornville, OH

5/26 – Red Rocks Amphitheatre | Morrison, CO#

6/19 – Utah Arts Festival | Salt Lake City, UT

6/20 –  Sawtooth Valley Gathering | Stanley, ID

6/22 – 4 Peaks Presents Live at the Tower Theatre | Bend, OR

7/9 – Concerts Under the Stars | King of Prussia, PA*

7/10 – Wolf Trap – Filene Center | Vienna, VA*

7/11 – Koka Booth Amphitheatre | Cary, NC*

7/12 – Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion | Portsmouth, VA*

7/13 – The Amp Ballantyne | Charlotte, NC*

7/15 – Interlochen Center for the Arts – Kresge Auditorium | Interlochen, MI*

7/16 – Rose Music Center at The Heights | Huber Heights, OH*

7/17 – Peoria Riverfront | Peoria, IL*

7/18 – Meijer Gardens | Grand Rapids, MI*

7/19 – Driftless Music Gardens | Yuba, WI*

8/7 – Amphitheater at Las Colonias | Grand Junction, CO*

8/8 – Grand Targhee Bluegrass Festival | Alta, WY*

8/9 – KettleHouse Amphitheater | Bonner-West Riverside, MT*

8/10 – Marymoor Live | Redmond, WA*

8/12 – McDonald Theatre | Eugene, OR*

8/13 – Britt Music & Arts Festival – Britt Pavilion | Jacksonville, OR*

8/14 – McMenamins Grand Lodge | Forest Grove, OR*

8/15 – The Glow Plaza Festival Grounds | Reno, NV*

8/16 – The Warfield | San Francisco, CA*

9/12 – Bender Jamboree | Las Vegas, NV

9/14 – Bourbon & Beyond | Louisville, KY

10/4 – Southern Strings | Aiken, SC

1012 – Cavefest | Pelham, TN

12/11 – 14 – Strings & Sol | Puerto Morelos, QR

#w/Kitchen Dwellers & more, 35th anniversary & album celebration

* w/ Infamous Stringdusters and Kitchen Dwellers

“Pee-wee as Himself” Tells the Story of Paul Reubens and Pee-wee Herman

Eric Alper
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“Pee-wee as Himself” Tells the Story of Paul Reubens and Pee-wee Herman

“Pee-wee as Himself” is the definitive story of the artist and performer Paul Reubens and his indelible alter ego Pee-wee Herman. Rubens’ first film Pee-wee’s Big Adventure and his children’s television series Pee-wee’s Playhouse were cultural touchstones of the 1980s. However, when Reubens was arrested for indecent exposure, the strict separation he created between himself and his alter ego backfired.

Tea Time for Tummies: How to Support Your Digestive System Naturally

Eric Alper
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0

By Mitch Rice

Digestive discomfort can be more than just a mild inconvenience—it can affect your entire day. Whether it’s bloating after meals a sluggish gut or feeling constantly uncomfortable your digestive system may be signalling for a little extra care. Fortunately there’s a simple and natural solution that’s been used for centuries—digestive health teas.

In this article we’ll explore how teas can naturally support your digestive system the best types of herbal blends for gut health and tips for making tea a comforting and effective part of your wellness routine.

Why Digestive Health Teas Matter

Digestive issues have become increasingly common in today’s fast-paced world. From stress and poor diet to over-reliance on processed foods our gut health often takes the hit. This is where digestive health teas come in.

These teas typically made from herbal blends can soothe the digestive tract reduce bloating relieve indigestion and support regular bowel movements. They work by relaxing the muscles of the gastrointestinal system reducing inflammation and encouraging natural digestive processes.

By incorporating teas that soothe the stomach into your daily routine you’re giving your body a gentle nudge in the right direction—naturally and without harsh chemicals.

Top Herbal Teas for Digestion

There’s a wide variety of herbal teas for digestion each with its own unique benefits. Here are some of the most effective options:

1. Peppermint Tea

Known for its refreshing flavour peppermint tea is also a powerhouse for easing digestive discomfort. It relaxes the muscles in the digestive tract and can help reduce bloating gas and abdominal pain.

Best for: Relieving cramps bloating and indigestion.

2. Ginger Tea

Ginger stimulates saliva bile and gastric enzymes that aid digestion. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help settle an upset stomach.

Best for: Nausea slow digestion and acid reflux.

3. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is not only calming to the mind but also to the stomach. It can help reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and muscle spasms.

Best for: General gut health reducing bloating and easing stress-related stomach discomfort.

4. Fennel Tea

Fennel seeds have been used in traditional medicine to combat indigestion and gas. The tea helps the body expel gas and ease painful bloating.

Best for: Post-meal fullness gas relief and IBS symptoms.

5. Liquorice Root Tea

Liquorice root can soothe ulcers and reduce inflammation in the gut lining. It’s commonly used for IBS relief and heartburn.

Best for: Soothing the digestive tract and supporting a healthy gut lining.

These are just a few examples of the best teas for gut health and incorporating a mix of these can offer a well-rounded digestive aid.

Natural Ingredients That Work Wonders

Many digestive health teas are effective thanks to their powerful plant-based ingredients. Here’s a closer look at a few standout choices:

  • Chamomile for digestion: Helps relax the gut and promote smoother digestion.
  • Peppermint tea for bloating: Eases tension in the gut wall and reduces gas buildup.
  • Ginger tea benefits digestion: Improves circulation and supports the breakdown of food.
  • Fennel and anise: Help eliminate trapped wind and reduce cramping.

Using a combination of these ingredients can offer broad relief for many common digestive complaints.

Teas for Common Digestive Problems

Depending on what your tummy is struggling with there’s likely a tea to help. Here’s a quick guide:

Digestive Issue Tea Solution
Bloating & Gas Peppermint Fennel Ginger
Indigestion Chamomile Liquorice Root
Nausea Ginger Lemon Balm
IBS Symptoms Peppermint Fennel Chamomile
Acid Reflux Ginger Marshmallow Root

These teas serve as natural remedies for bloating indigestion and more offering gentle relief that supports rather than suppresses your gut’s natural functions.

How to Brew the Perfect Cup for Your Gut

Making a healing cup of tea is about more than just hot water and a teabag. To get the most out of your caffeine-free digestive teas follow these tips:

  • Use fresh filtered water: This ensures a clean smooth base.
  • Steep the tea properly: Most herbal teas benefit from 5-10 minutes of steeping to extract all the active compounds.
  • Avoid boiling water for delicate herbs: Use water around 90°C to preserve their properties.
  • Drink mindfully: Sip slowly after meals or at times of discomfort.

Timing also matters. Drinking tea 20–30 minutes after meals can help soothe the stomach and improve digestion.

Lifestyle Tips to Boost Results

While digestive health teas offer tremendous benefits on their own combining them with a few simple lifestyle habits can make them even more effective:

  • Eat slowly: Chewing food thoroughly reduces strain on your digestive system.
  • Stay hydrated: Water supports digestion and nutrient absorption.
  • Avoid heavy meals at night: This helps prevent indigestion while sleeping.
  • Incorporate fibre: A fibre-rich diet supports gut motility and reduces bloating.

Pairing these habits with the right teas can lead to lasting digestive wellness.

Discover the Power of Digestive Health Teas with Mother Cuppa Tea

If you’re ready to take control of your gut health the natural way look no further than the curated selection of digestive health teas at Mother Cuppa Tea.

Their specially blended teas are designed with your tummy in mind—crafted from all-natural ingredients and free from caffeine artificial additives and fillers. Whether you’re looking to ease bloating calm IBS symptoms or simply support your digestive wellness you’ll find a delicious and soothing solution to suit your needs.Start your journey toward better digestion with confidence and comfort—shop Mother Cuppa Tea’s digestive health range today.

Conclusion

Supporting your digestive system doesn’t have to involve complicated diets or harsh medications. With the simple addition of digestive health teas you can enjoy comfort balance and a happier tummy—naturally. These herbal infusions work gently yet effectively to relieve common issues like bloating gas and indigestion.

Whether it’s a calming cup of chamomile or a zesty ginger brew let herbal teas be your go-to remedy. Embrace the tradition trust the plants and make tea time your gut’s favourite moment of the day.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

10 Great Songs That Feature Bagpipes – And Sound All The Better For It

Eric Alper
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10 Great Songs That Feature Bagpipes – And Sound All The Better For It

Bagpipes have been around for centuries, echoing across hillsides and battlefields and celebrations. But what happens when they show up where you least expect them — in rock songs, pop hits, and modern anthems? Magic, that’s what.
There’s something so beautiful about the raw emotion that bagpipes bring to a song, adding a texture that’s ancient, haunting, and completely unforgettable.
Here are 10 incredible songs from 1950 onward that prove when you mix a little tradition with a lot of heart, you get music that moves mountains.

1. AC/DC – “It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock ’n’ Roll)” (1975)
Bagpipes in hard rock? It sounds crazy — until you hear it. Bon Scott took up the pipes himself to bring this song to life, and the result is pure electricity. When those pipes come in halfway through, it’s not just unexpected, it’s heroic. This is the sound of every dreamer who refuses to give up.

2. Paul McCartney and Wings – “Mull of Kintyre” (1977)
When McCartney swapped rock ‘n’ roll for rustic bliss, he turned to the Campbeltown Pipe Band to capture the spirit of Scotland. The bagpipes don’t just accompany the song — they are the song, swelling with pride and nostalgia. It became one of McCartney’s biggest hits for a reason: it’s pure love set to music.

3. Big Country – “In a Big Country” (1983)
Big Country made magic by mimicking bagpipes with guitars — but listen closely, and you’ll hear real bagpipes sneaking into their music too. Their signature sound was proud, full-hearted, and wide as a Highland sky, with pipes giving their anthems an extra lift that still feels fresh today.

4. Korn – “Shoots and Ladders” (1994)
Jonathan Davis didn’t just sing — he pulled out a real set of bagpipes and blew listeners’ minds. The intro of this song is a haunting, almost eerie pipe solo, before the band crashes in with heavy guitars. It’s unsettling, powerful, and one of the boldest things a metal band has ever done on record.

5. The Real McKenzies – “Scots Wha Hae” (1998)
The Real McKenzies are a Canadian Celtic punk band that don’t just use bagpipes — they live bagpipes. “Scots Wha Hae” is a traditional tune turned into a rip-roaring punk anthem, with bagpipes wailing proudly over the chaos. It’s the sound of heritage meeting rebellion in the best way possible.

6. The Battlefield Band – “After Hours” (1987)
If you want to hear how bagpipes can be tender, mournful, and completely hypnotic, look no further. “After Hours” by Scottish folk legends The Battlefield Band weaves pipes into gorgeous, thoughtful arrangements. It’s a song that feels like the very soul of the Highlands, captured forever on record.

7. Glen Campbell – “Bonaparte’s Retreat” (1974)
Glen Campbell gave this traditional fiddle tune a Nashville makeover — complete with unexpected bagpipes. Blending country warmth with a Highland cry, Campbell’s version of “Bonaparte’s Retreat” is cheerful, charming, and proof that sometimes, musical traditions are meant to cross oceans and collide.

8. Mike Oldfield – “Moonlight Shadow” (1983)
This dreamy pop-folk song, made famous by Oldfield and vocalist Maggie Reilly, subtly features bagpipes in the background layers, adding to its wistful, magical feeling. You might not catch them right away, but once you notice, you’ll realize they give the whole track a beautiful, faraway sadness.

9. Seven Nations – “Big Dog” (1998)
Seven Nations blend rock and Celtic traditions better than almost anyone, and “Big Dog” shows it off. With roaring guitars and soaring pipes front and center, it’s an adrenaline rush wrapped in plaid. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to dance, fight, and celebrate — sometimes all at once.

10. The Chieftains with The Rolling Stones – “The Rocky Road to Dublin” (1995)
When Irish music legends The Chieftains teamed up with The Rolling Stones, you knew magic was going to happen. “The Rocky Road to Dublin” is a dizzying, joyful explosion of sound, with bagpipes galloping alongside Mick Jagger’s spirited vocals. It’s tradition, rock ‘n’ roll, and pure joy in one glorious package.

The Speaker Wars Premiere “Roadmap to Healing” Video Ahead Of Debut Album Release

Eric Alper
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The Speaker Wars Premiere “Roadmap to Healing” Video Ahead Of Debut Album Release

The Speaker Wars, led by ex-Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers drummer Stan Lynch and guitarist/vocalist Jon Christopher Davis, premiere the third video from their debut self titled album scheduled for release May 30th.

As with the previous videos for the songs “You Make Every Lie Come True” and “It Ain’t Easy”, the video was directed by Brad Osborne and filmed in Denton, TX. Stan Lynch comments: “This one had legs from the start — it’s written from the heart. It’s a roadmap to healing. It’s the truth.”

Jon Christopher Davis adds: “It was a simple chorus I had lying around. I sat at Stan’s piano and played it. He immediately knew where I was trying to go. Two hours later, the song was finished. The end result is a soul scratcher.”

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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