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Styx And Foreigner, With Very Special Guest John Waite Announce “Renegades & Juke Box Heroes” Tour

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Ten years is a long enough wait for two powerhouse and legendary classic rockers to hit the road together again! STYX and FOREIGNER – who continue with the next leg of their two-year Farewell Tour – team up this summer for the “Renegades & Juke Box Heroes” co-headlining trek, produced by Live Nation. Legendary British rocker, John Waite, will bring his #1 songs, “Missing You” and “When I See You Smile” to the party, rounding out a great night of hits.

FOREIGNER and STYX are ready to rocket across North America starting June 11, 2024 in Grand Rapids, MI at the Van Andel Arena. Nothing sounds more like summer than collective feel-good anthems such as “Come Sail Away,” “Feels Like The First Time,” “Renegade,” “Juke Box Hero,” “Mr. Roboto,” and “I Want To Know What Love Is.”

STYX founding guitarist James “JY” Young exclaims, “We’re very excited to be sharing the concert stage with FOREIGNER and John Waite in the summer of 2024. We have previously toured with FOREIGNER and the result was both bands kicked ass and had a great time doing it. Looking forward to seeing everybody this summer!”

Says FOREIGNER founding member and lead guitarist, Mick Jones, “I am very much looking forward to the band being back on the road with our old friends, STYX. Our ‘Soundtrack Of Summer’ tour ten years ago was a blockbuster, and our tour album was a Billboard chart success. It’ll be a great time had by all. As an added bonus, John Waite will accompany us on the journey, adding his #1 hits to a special night of Classic Rock.”

“As we continue on with our Farewell Tour, I have been very moved by the support and reaction of all of our fans. To perform these next shows with our friends STYX and John Waite makes it even better. I am so looking forward to spending many beautiful summer nights all around the country, full of great Classic Rock, music, and great friends,” added FOREIGNER lead singer, Kelly Hansen.

And as John Waite declares, “Looking forward to blazing across the USA with my band this summer. All the hits in all the cities. It will be major. A great night. Don’t miss it – be there!”

Coming December 11 to align with the band’s announcement for the next leg of FOREIGNER’s Farewell Tour, Rhino Records will release brand new Atmos remixes of their classic compilation album, RECORDS. It spans the group’s first four full-length studio albums and remains one of their best-selling albums to date. Re-released earlier this Fall by Rhino Atlantic as a 1LP BEST OF package in black vinyl as well as a clear vinyl Walmart Exclusive, this new digital offering of RECORDS will be available at all digital streaming partners who support spatial audio mixes, including Apple Music, Amazon Music and TIDAL. Mick Jones continues to elevate FOREIGNER’s influence and guide the band to new horizons with his stylistic songwriting, indelible guitar hooks and multi-layered talents while lead singer Kelly Hansen, one of rock’s greatest showmen, has led FOREIGNER into the digital age inspiring a whole new generation of fans. Bassist Jeff Pilson; Michael Bluestein on keyboards; guitarist Bruce Watson; Chris Frazier on drums and guitarist Luis Maldonado provide an unprecedented level of energy that has resulted in the re-emergence of the astounding music that speaks to FOREIGNER‘s enduring popularity. FOREIGNER has an extraordinary streaming and radio audience driven by a catalogue of no less than sixteen Top 30 hits. With more Billboard Top 10 hits than Journey, and just as many as Fleetwood Mac, FOREIGNER is universally hailed as one of the most popular rock acts in the world with a formidable musical arsenal that continues to propel sold-out tours and album sales, now exceeding 80 million. Responsible for some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems, including “Juke Box Hero,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Feels Like The First Time,” “Urgent,” “Head Games,” “Say You Will,” “Dirty White Boy,” “Long, Long Way From Home” and the worldwide #1 hit, “I Want To Know What Love Is,” FOREIGNER still rocks the charts more than 40 years into the game with massive airplay and continued Billboard Top 200 album success. Streams of FOREIGNER’s hits are approaching 15 million per week.

Multi-Platinum rockers STYX–James “JY” Young (lead vocals, guitars), Tommy Shaw (lead vocals, guitars), Chuck Panozzo (bass, vocals), Todd Sucherman (drums, percussion), Lawrence Gowan (lead vocals, keyboards) and Ricky Phillips (bass, guitar, vocals), Will Evankovich (mandolin, guitars)—released their 17th studio album, CRASH OF THE CROWN, on June 18, 2021 on the band’s label, Alpha Dog 2T/UMe, which was hailed by critics as their second “masterpiece” album in a row. The first being 2017’s THE MISSION, their first new studio album in 14 years at the time. CRASH OF THE CROWN was written pre-pandemic and recorded during the trying times of the pandemic. It’s available as clear vinyl, black vinyl, CD on digital platforms. They released more new music on September 17, 2021, THE SAME STARDUST EP, originally sold as part of Record Store Day (June 12, 2021). Available on blue 180-gram 12-inch vinyl only, featuring two brand-new songs on side one (“The Same Stardust” and “Age of Entropia”), as well as five live performances on side two of some of Styx’s classic hits previously heard during their “Styx Fix” livestreams that kept fans company during the pandemic on their official YouTube page, including “Mr. Roboto,” “Man In The Wilderness,” “Miss America,” “Radio Silence,” and “Renegade.” It’s available worldwide on all digital platforms. The seven men comprising STYX have committed to rocking the Paradise together with audiences far and wide by entering their second decade of averaging over 100 shows a year, and each one of them is committed to making the next show better than the last. Styx draws from over four decades of barn burning chart hits, joyous singalongs, and hard-driving deep cuts. Like a symphony that builds to a satisfying crescendo, a STYX set covers a wide range of stylistic cornerstones. From the progressively sweeping splendor that is “The Grand Illusion” to the hunker-down fortitude of all that is the “Blue Collar Man,” from the majestic spiritual love for a special “Lady” to the seething indictment of preening, primping pageantry for pageantry’s sake of “Miss America,” from an individual yearning for true connection as a “Man in the Wilderness,” to a soul-deep quest to achieve what’s at the heart of one’s personal vision in “Crystal Ball,” from the regal reach-for-the-stars bravado of “Come Sail Away” to the grainy all-in gallop of that rugged “Renegade” who had it made, the band draws on an unlimited cache of ways to immerse one’s mind and body in their signature sound. STYX hit its stride with guitarist/vocalist Tommy Shaw’s first LP with the band, 1976’s CRYSTAL BALL, and then they become the first group to score four triple-Platinum albums in a row: THE GRAND ILLUSION (1977), PIECES OF EIGHT (1978), CORNERSTONE (1979), and PARADISE THEATER (1981).

John Waite has been touring the U.S. for the past years, performing his catalog of hits from his 40-year career as a solo artist, with The Babys and Bad English. Those hits include some of the most loved songs of the ‘80s and ‘90s. The #1 worldwide hit “Missing You,” The Babys’ “Isn’t It Time” and Bad English’s “When I See You Smile” rank amongst some of his biggest international hits and are still heard on radio today. Others include “Tears,” “Change” and “These Times Are Hard For Lovers,” while “Every Step Of The Way” and “If Anybody Had A Heart” appeared on the soundtrack to the 1986 Demi Moore film About Last Night, and “Deal for Life”–penned by Martin Page and Bernie Taupin–was featured in the Days Of Thunder soundtrack. He even reached top country charts with his duet of “Missing You” with country singer, Alison Krauss. As a solo artist and as the lead singer of The Babys and Bad English, John Waite has been a fixture of album-oriented rock radio stations throughout the decades with his talent for power ballads and driving arena rock. His latest music, WOODEN HEART ACOUSTIC ANTHOLOGY THE COMPLETE RECORDINGS VOLUMES 1 2 3, was released in 2021 In December 2022, his documentary, John Waite — The Hard Way, was released on streaming and as a DVD and Blu-ray on Amazon and features candid interviews with Waite, which were shot during the COVID-19 shutdown. It looks at his whole career, from his years fronting The Babys, to his successful solo career, to his work with Bad English and beyond. And it includes rare archival footage and photos, as well as interviews with award-winning songwriter Diane Warren, guitarist Neil Giraldo and many others. The movie also features footage of Waite touring with Ringo Starr’s All Starr Band.

Check out “Renegades & Juke Box Heroes” at any of the following stops:
DATE CITY VENUE CLOSER
Tue 6/11 Grand Rapids, MI Van Andel Arena Styx
Wed 6/12 Cuyahoga Falls, OH Blossom Music Center Foreigner
Fri 6/14 Toronto, ONT. Budweiser Stage Styx
Sat 6/15 Clarkston, MI Pine Knob Music Theatre Foreigner
Tue 6/18 Maryland Heights, MO Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre – STL Styx
Wed 6/19 Rogers, AR Walmart AMP Foreigner
Fri 6/21 Dallas, TX Dos Equis Pavilion Foreigner
Sat 6/22 Woodlands, TX The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion Styx
Tue 6/25 Denver, CO Ball Arena Foreigner
Wed 6/26 West Valley City, UT USANA Amphitheatre Styx
Fri 6/28 Anaheim, CA Honda Center Foreigner
Sat 6/29 Concord, CA Toyota Pavilion at Concord Styx
Sun 6/30 Bend, OR Hayden Homes Amphitheater Foreigner
Fri 7/12 Nashville, TN Ascend Amphitheater Styx
Sat 7/13 Charlotte, NC PNC Music Pavilion Foreigner
Mon 7/15 Charleston, SC Credit One Stadium Foreigner
Wed 7/17 Alpharetta, GA Ameris Bank Amphitheatre Styx
Fri 7/19 West Palm Beach, FL iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre Foreigner
Sat 7/20 Tampa, FL MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre Styx
Tue 7/23 Holmdel, NJ PNC Bank Arts Center Foreigner
Wed 7/24 Bristow, VA Jiffy Lube Live Styx
Fri 7/26 Noblesville, IN Ruoff Music Center Styx
Sun 7/28 Camden, NJ Freedom Mortgage Pavilion Foreigner
Tue 7/30 Saratoga Springs, NY Broadview Stage at SPAC Foreigner
Wed 7/31 Burgettstown, PA The Pavilion at Star Lake Styx
Fri 8/2 Mansfield, MA Xfinity Center Styx
Sat 8/3 Bangor, ME Maine Savings Amphitheater Foreigner
Sun 8/4 Gilford, NH BankNH Pavilion Styx
Fri 8/16 Orange Beach, AL The Wharf Amphitheater Foreigner
Sat 8/17 Huntsville, AL Orion Amphitheater Styx
Tue 8/20 Virginia Beach, VA Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at VB Foreigner
Wed 8/21 Raleigh, NC Coastal Credit Union Music Park Styx
Fri 8/23 Cincinnati, OH Riverbend Music Center Foreigner
Sat 8/24 Tinley Park, IL Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre Styx
Mon 8/26 Omaha, NE CHI Health Center Omaha Foreigner
Wed 8/28 Sioux Falls, SD Denny Sanford PREMIER Center Styx

Set It Off Announces ‘The Deathless’ Tour

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Today, rock band Set It Off announced The Deathless Tour. Produced by Live Nation, the 32-date run kicks off on Wednesday, March 13 in Lake Buena Vista, FL at the House of Blues, with stops across North America in Charlotte, New York, Toronto, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Nashville and more before wrapping up on Sunday, April 30 in Columbus at The Bluestone. Special guests Crown The Empire, DeathbyRomy, and Caskets will join Set It Off across all dates on the tour.

The three members of Set It Off are embracing their newfound status as an independent band by breaking the chains that once held them back. That is, letting go of the disillusionment, societal pressure, and online criticism that torments artists in the 21st century. Social media is pulling the strings, and the expectation to satisfy everyone else’s expectations is a heavy cross to bear. But the trio is done with the puppetry and entering a new era of prioritizing freedom over the fear of failure.

Blending a vast spectrum of sonic influences, writing music is a means of catharsis for Set It Off. And their most recent singles prove that the genre-bending band is here to stay. From the unapologetically theatrical “Evil People” to the nu-metal charged “Punching Bag,” their latest catalog additions are nothing short of vibrant. Independence has reinvigorated Cody Carson (singer/lyricist), Zach DeWall (guitarist), and Maxx Danziger (drummer) to create a world that’s entirely new yet reminiscent of the sparks they felt during the release cycle of their debut record, Cinematics (2012). Emphasizing breaking the dopamine loop and finding true fulfillment means making music and visuals from the heart. And over a decade later, the trio’s sincerity continues to resonate with fans. It is this unvarnished honesty that has landed the rock act rotation on radio stations like Sirius XM’s Octane, a milestone that the guys take pride in.

“We feel like we’re a new band again,” drummer Maxx Danziger says. “This is the most fun we’ve ever had, and we’re going to keep chasing that feeling. We want to take over the world.”

So what’s next for Set It Off? Expect a slew of new singles in 2024 and an elevated live show. But most importantly, prepare for the continued evolution of one of the hardest-working rock bands. Only this time, they’re the ones calling the shots.

THE DEATHLESS TOUR 2024 DATES:
Wed Mar 13 – Orlando, FL – House of Blues
Sat Mar 16 – Atlanta, GA – The Masquerade*
Mon Mar 18 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore Charlotte
Tue Mar 19 – Norfolk, VA – The Norva
Wed Mar 20 – McKees Rocks, PA – Roxian Theatre
Fri Mar 22 – Boston, MA – Big Night Live
Sat Mar 23 – New York, NY – Irving Plaza
Sun Mar 24 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore Philadelphia
Tue Mar 26 – Baltimore, MD – Baltimore Soundstage
Wed Mar 27 – Rochester, NY – Water Street Music Hall
Thu Mar 28 – Toronto, ON – Phoenix Concert Theatre
Sat Mar 30 – Cleveland, OH – House of Blues
Sun Mar 31 – Detroit, MI – St Andrew’s Hall
Mon Apr 01 – Chicago, IL – House of Blues
Wed Apr 03 – Minneapolis, MN – The Fillmore Minneapolis
Fri Apr 05 – St. Louis, MO – The Pageant
Sat Apr 06 – Kansas City, MO – The Truman
Sun Apr 07 – Denver, CO – Summit
Tue Apr 09 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Depot
Wed Apr 10 – Garden City, ID – Revolution Concert House and Event Center
Mon Apr 13 – Spokane, WA – Knitting Factory
Sun Apr 14 – Vancouver, BC – Commodore Ballroom
Tue Apr 16 – Portland, OR – Crystal Ballroom
Thu Apr 18 – Sacramento, CA – Ace of Spades
Fri Apr 19 – Riverside, CA – Riverside Municipal Auditorium
Mon Apr 22 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren
Tue Apr 23 – Las Vegas, NV – House of Blues
Thu Apr 25 – Dallas, TX – House of Blues
Fri Apr 26 – Austin, TX – Emo’s
Sat Apr 27 – Houston, TX – House of Blues
Mon Apr 29 – Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl
Sun Apr 30 – Columbus, OH – The Bluestone

Hombres G Announces Their “40 Aniversario Tour,” An Epic Celebration Of Their Legendary Music Career

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Hombres G, the iconic Spanish rock band adored by millions, is embarking on a momentous journey as they launch their highly anticipated U.S. tour. With a career spanning 40 remarkable years, Hombres G has left an indelible mark on the music industry, having sold nearly six million tickets and graced over 4,000 stages around the world.

Produced by Live Nation and Frias Entertainment, the 14-city tour kicks off on March 6th at the Payne Arena in Hidalgo, TX making stops across North America in Miami, Chicago, Los Angeles and more, before wrapping up in El Paso, TX at the UTEP Don Haskins Center on July 13th.

Hombres G formed in 1982 in Madrid, Spain and debuted with the single “Devuelveme A Mi Chica”, which became an immediate hit and eventually, an anthem for many generations of music fans.

This tour not only commemorates Hombres G’s rich musical history but also promises fans an unforgettable experience featuring the band’s greatest hits and a showcase of the musical genius that has defined their legacy. With a repertoire that transcends generations, Hombres G continues to be a musical force, captivating audiences with their timeless sound and dynamic stage presence.

Don’t miss the opportunity to witness Hombres G in action as they bring their 40th-anniversary celebration to the United States. Join us for an evening of nostalgia, energy, and pure rock ‘n’ roll.

Often called the Latin Beatles, rock quartet Hombres G mixed raucous musical influences, boyish charm, and energetic concerts to become one of Spain’s most popular acts. With almost 40 years of hits, 2 movies, and tours all over Europe and America, Hombres G has collaborated with some of the biggest names in Latin music such as Luz Casal, Juanes and Miguel Bosé. Hombres G are seen as pioneers of Spanish pop rock music and have influenced many artists throughout Latin America. Their songs remain popular to this day and their legacy lives on through their music.

TOUR DATES:
Wed Mar 06 Hidalgo, TX Payne Arena
Fri Mar 08 Houston, TX Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land
Sat Mar 09 Irving, TX The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory
Thu Mar 14 Orlando, FL Addition Financial Arena
Fri Mar 15 Miami, FL Kaseya Center
Fri Jun 21 New York, NY Radio City Music Hall
Sat Jun 22 Rosemont, IL Allstate Arena
Thu Jun 27 Portland, OR Alaska Airlines’ Theater of the Clouds
Sat Jun 29 San Jose, CA SAP Center
Wed Jul 03 Las Vegas, NV The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan
Sat Jul 06 Los Angeles, CA Crypto.com Arena
Fri Jul 12 Phoenix, AZ Arizona Financial Theatre
Sat Jul 13 El Paso, TX UTEP Don Haskins Center

Guitar Market size to grow by USD 1.29 billion from 2021 to 2026, North America is estimated to account for 42%

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The guitar market is estimated to grow by USD 1.29 billion from 2021 to 2026. The market is estimated to be growing at a CAGR of 5.63% during the forecast period. North America is estimated to account for 42% of the global market growth during the forecast period. Factors such as the growing use of online platforms to shop for guitars, the launch of innovative products, and the surging demand for designer guitars facilitate the guitar market growth in North America over the forecast period. The market in this region will grow faster than the growth of the market in the European regions. Hence, such factors drive the regional market growth during the forecast period.

A major factor driving growth of the guitar market is the growing popularity of music-related leisure activities. Globally, people opt for various leisure activities, such as music, traveling, and sports. Such activities offer a break from their hectic and monotonous lifestyles and one of the leisure activities gaining popularity across the globe is learning to play musical instruments. The rising disposable income of people supports the adoption of different musical instruments and their enrollment in music classes. Furthermore, the number of live music shows and those attending such shows is growing rapidly across the world. Hence, such factors drive the growth of the guitar market during the forecast period.

The long replacement cycle will be a major challenge hindering the guitar market during the forecast period. Given their reliability and quality, consumers prefer branded guitars. Since the lifespan of guitars depends on several factors including the environment and the type and ways of playing music, vendors design guitars to withstand extreme operational conditions. These days, vendors manufacture guitars made of high-grade wood and other raw materials, making them lightweight and durable. They also carry out in-depth R&D to introduce innovative and durable materials to extend the lifespan of guitars. Generally, the average lifespan of acoustic guitars is ten years, whereas the average lifespan of electric guitars is almost 20-30 years. But the long lifespan of guitars reduces the frequency of product replacements, which adversely affects the year-over-year growth of the market. hence, such challenges impede market growth during the forecast period.

XL Syndicate Unleashes a Fusion of Cultural Vibes in Starfall Sonata EP and Latest Single ‘Fantasy’

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XL Syndicate is a group of creatives that produce diverse music from lots of different genres. The artists grew up in Caribbean households, playing lots of Soca, Reggae, R&B, and Hip-Hop.

The artists chose their name XL Syndicate to play on the word’s meaning, a group of individuals joined together to promote a common interest.

With an impressive 20 thousand followers across their social media, the group is looking forward to their upcoming releases. “Every day is a new chance to create, enjoy ourselves doing this and collaborate with cool people,” they said. “That’s all that matters at the end of the day.”

Their new Starfall Sonata EP, out now and single “Fantasy,” was all about capturing “raw energy,” say the group of the collaborative effort featuring Canadian artists Leonardo and Raeya The Munro, and listeners can hear vibes and sounds from diverse cultures and of course that infectious energy XL Syndicate spoke of.

“Our instruments became bridges, and teaming up with like-minded talents added a whole new flavor to the project,” they said. “We’ve got stories from random sparks of genius to those late-night debates about a track’s soul.”

“Fantasy” and its sultry melodies and vocals make for a magical musical experience. As XL Syndicate unveiled the creation, they wanted to offer more than “just a track.” They wanted “the desire to provide a passage to a space where emotions intertwine, where love is a journey, not a destination.”

Fredericton’s Run The River Unleashes Groundbreaking ‘Punch The Dark’ Music Video, Powered by AI Innovation

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In a groundbreaking move at the intersection of music and technology, Run The River has harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to create their latest music video “Punch The Dark.”

The innovative band, known for pushing the boundaries of rock and roll, collaborated with cutting-edge AI algorithms to generate visually stunning and conceptually rich visuals that complement their unique sound. By leveraging AI in the video production process, Run The River has not only demonstrated a commitment to embracing emerging technologies but has also pioneered a new era in the music industry – to lean into AI, not run (pardon the pun) away from it. The result is a mesmerizing and unprecedented audio-visual experience that seamlessly blends the band’s musical prowess with the limitless possibilities offered by artificial intelligence, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of music and visual storytelling.
Get ready to groove with another timeless rock & roll track brought to life by Run The River, featuring Joel Manchester on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Chris Furlotte on drums, Rick Couture on bass with fantastic backup vocals, Ed Legge on lead guitar and excellent backup vocals, and Ross Kinney on keys.

Out now, ‘Punch The Dark’ stands as an anthem for bad days. The track commences with a dramatic opening driven by piano and guitars, giving you that span of a second to wonder what the next instrumental twist will be – exactly where the cheerful melody with classic rock & roll elements gets all your attention.

With a chorus that screams “No, I’m not giving up this time”, ‘Punch the Dark’ is close to the heart for frontman Joel Manchester. “It is an anthem for bad days, difficult experiences, and insurmountable odds when you just need to sing out that things aren’t over yet”, explains the singer and songwriter.

Joel penned this song as a response to his own struggles with mental health, specifically battling through periods of depression and the weight of negative thoughts. He aimed to create a chorus that could serve as a remedy for those poisonous, pessimistic mindsets. The song’s theme contrasts with its overall feel—upbeat, positive, and bright.

‘Sometimes I can feel the earth spin
It’s like I’m barely holding on
I’m heading off into some kind of chaos
Any plans I had are dead and gone
It might be my last time around
But I’m not giving up without a fight
Sometimes you gotta show em what your made of
Punch the dark until you see the light’

It’s crafted in an energetic pop-rock style, featuring powerful guitar work and a determined, rhythmic heartbeat that underscores the message of resilience – a Run The River formula. Drawing inspiration from a diverse array of musical influences, their sources of inspiration span the enduring legacy of Canadian rock icons The Tragically Hip, the timeless rock of Queen and The Beatles, and the rebellious spirit of 90s pop punk exemplified by bands like Blink 182 and Green Day.

Never shying away from experimenting with genres and letting that influence shine through, the band confesses to being obsessed with the writing process and rarely gets together without several new tunes in the works.

Emphasizing contagious melodies, an unwavering commitment to excellence, and commanding vocal prowess, Run The River emerges as a dynamic force in the realm of Canadian rock bands. Their essence is rooted in a profound passion for sharing music and a collective desire to harmonize through the beautiful journey of life by pouring their hearts into their songs.

Les Moontunes présentent leur album conceptuel interstellaire avec le single Elephant Wizard, inspiré par le métal des années 70.

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Les choses peuvent être bizarres dans l’isolement… ajoutez le chômage au mélange et vous obtenez une recette pour une musique sauvage et psychédélique. Ces conditions ont conduit à la création du nouveau single sombre, strident et détonnant des Moontunes, Elephant Wizard – disponible dès maintenant – extrait de leur prochain album conceptuel du même nom.

Pendant la pandémie, Miguel Dumaine, le leader du groupe Les Moontunes, a été licencié et ses journées ont commencé à s’enchaîner et se ressembler, formant une longue ligne floue vers le néant. Il a alors puisé dans son imagination et créé un personnage fictif qu’il a baptisé le Elephant Wizard.

L’histoire de cet éléphant, qui est à la fois magicien, a commencé à prendre forme durant une résidence à Sussex, au Nouveau-Brunswick. En passant du temps parmi les collines et les rivières inspirantes de la campagne néo-brunswickoise, l’imagination des membres du groupe s’est épanouie et l’histoire de la créature mythique a pris vie. Avec leur single Elephant Wizard aux accents de pédale fuzz, nous découvrons rapidement que l’Elephant Wizard est un dur à cuire qui s’apprête à se rendre dans le futur pour combattre le mal et vivre vie meilleure sur la planète métal.

Au début de la création des Moontunes, le groupe jouait régulièrement dans un sous-sol sombre, éclairé uniquement par une boule mini-disco en plastique bon marché. La lumière éclairait la pièce avec des couleurs psychédéliques qui créaient une atmosphère particulière et inspiraient leur style de musique unique. Une partie de cette inspiration se retrouve dans la vidéo atmosphérique des paroles d’Elephant Wizard, dans le style des années 70.

En ce qui concerne l’album lui-même, Elephant Wizard emprunte un chemin différent du premier album éponyme des Moontunes. Ayant été influencés par une musique plus graves tout au long de leur vie, les membres du groupe ont voulu peindre l’histoire d’Elephant Wizard avec des sonorités lourdes et percutantes qui rendent hommage aux sons de certains de leurs groupes préférés des années 60 et 70, tout en insufflant à l’album l’esthétique jazz/soul moderne qu’ils ont affichée dans leurs précédents travaux.

Ce deuxième album met également en scène les deux batteurs du groupe qui, depuis 2019, sont la force motrice du son unique des Moontunes. La section rythmique (batterie, clavier et basse) a été enregistrée en direct, ce qui a joué un rôle majeur pour rendre l’album plus vivant.

L’utilisation par le producteur Mike Trask de bandes analogiques pour l’enregistrement correspond aux sonorités que le groupe recherchait pour cet album. Contrairement à leur premier album, où toute la musique avait été écrite avant d’entrer en studio, Elephant Wizard contient de nombreuses sections qui ont été écrites pendant le processus d’enregistrement, rendant la musique plus spontanée.

Gagnants des prix 2021 Music NB pour l’artiste émergent de l’année et la vidéo de l’année pour leur single “Paper Boat”, les sept membres du groupe Les Moontunes ont lancé un premier album éponyme en 2021, qui leur permet de rayonner en tant qu’artistes émergents sur la scène musicale canadienne.

Les sept membres du groupe Les Moontunes sont tous Acadiens. Les Acadiens sont connus pour leurs fêtes de cuisine et leurs contes musicaux, et le travail des Moontunes est principalement le fruit de longues nuits passées à improviser ensemble. Ils font partie d’un groupe d’artistes de la côte-est qui réinvente le son d’un groupe acadien, partageant leur culture avec le monde à travers leur art électrisant. Les amateurs de soul, de jazz, de hip-hop et de métal seront captivés par ce groupe de cosmonautes groovy, qui mélange des grooves accrocheurs avec des jams interstellaires ambiantes.

Leur single Elephant Wizard est disponible dès maintenant.

Dive into the Eclectic Soundscape of Toronto’s XOCÔ’s ‘Capoeira Blues’ Celebrating Brazil’s North East Rich Heritage

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Experience the innovative Fusion of Psychedelic Rock, Blues, and Funk with Traditional Percussion and MPB Música Popular Brasileira of “Capoeira Blues,” the second single from the self-titled album by the internationally acclaimed artist Mestre Sérgio Xocolate, also known as XOCÔ, out now on Lulaworld Records, This musical odyssey transcends boundaries, weaving together the rich heritage of the Brazilian people.

From Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, XOCÔ embarks on a mission with the XOCÔ project to bridge cultural and musical gaps. Initiated in South America and on the shores of Turtle Island South and flourishing in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, “XOCÔ” is not just an album but a cultural exchange, a musical journey, and an homage to XOCÔ’s Afro Indigenous heritage.

As a master teacher of Traditional Capoeira, XOCÔ invites listeners on a transformative experience, urging respect for Indigenous cultures, honouring Black heritage, preserving Mother Earth, and fostering unity. “Capoeira Blues” promises an auditory adventure that merges Afro Indigenous Brazilian rhythms with soulful and electric arrangements.

Known for crafting his compositions on the streetcars of Toronto, XOCÔ injects his original pieces with a unique blend of poetry, politics, and spirituality. In “Capoeira Blues,” he channels new life into powerful inherited rhythms, offering an expressive and electric testament to his inventiveness.

The roots of “Capoeira Blues” lie in the Ladainha-style song, penned when just 18, inspired by the crashing waves atop a coração de nego tree. This dynamic composition, sung in Capoeira Rodas worldwide, now undergoes a remarkable rebirth, enriched by a haunting Berimbau paying homage to Afro Indigenous ancestors.

Internationally recognized for his music, culture, and education contributions, XOCÔ embodies the spirit of preserving Afro Indigenous Brazilian heritage while forging new musical frontiers. The accompanying music video for “Capoeira Blues” pays tribute to XOCÔ’s mother, “Lulua,” with the added generational connection of featuring XOCÔ’s first child.

Immerse yourself in the blend of traditional and contemporary sounds, celebrating “Capoeira Blues” as an enthralling chapter within the “XOCÔ” album.

Synthetik Blonde Ignites Nostalgic Power Anthem ‘Dreams of You’ – Lead Single From Concept Album ‘PIECES’

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Rising Canadian pop-rock duo Synthetik Blonde returns with a fresh new track “Dreams of You,” an 80s-esque power anthem characterized by strong synths, slick electric guitar riffs, and heartfelt lyricism. The track is the first single from the pair’s recently released acclaimed sophomore LP PIECES, a concept album that takes a deep look at the complexities of the human condition while simultaneously rejecting conventional societal norms.

Loved by listeners and critics worldwide, PIECES was featured in the likes of The Vancouver Sun, Record World International, Regina Leader Post, Tinnitist, Cashbox Canada, and Canadian Beats, among others. Driven home by raw female vocals, “Dreams of You” is a track that dives headfirst into the dangerous, thrilling appeal of obsessive love — and the emotional fallout that stems from it.

“There are times in our lives when we fall in love and the thoughts, feelings, and desires for that person invade and occupy the entirety of the mind, even through sleep,” the duo says of the track. “And it can’t be turned off. When you’re falling in love, this is a welcomed experience for most, though for some it can be painful at times to love this deep.”

Synthetik Blonde first exploded onto the scene in 2021 and haven’t slowed down since. The past two years have seen a jam-packed schedule for the duo, who’ve been working around the clock and hitting the studio hard. The time put in has paid off: they’ve since released two full-length projects stacked with radio-ready alt-pop jams and are already gearing up in preparation for the release of their third album, Dark Side of Your Love, due out in 2024. Their work ethic and artistry has caught the attention of listeners and tastemakers alike — Synthetik Blonde were recently awarded Creative Saskatchewan’s Market & Export Development Grant, allowing them to film their first ever music video for “Dreams of You” with renown Saskatchewan filmmaker Aaron Sinclair.

Working alongside Sinclair, the duo put together a visual concept that captures the pure, unadulterated melodrama of classic 80s music videos and movies. Inspired by pop royalty Micheal Jackson, Bonnie Tyler, and Madonna, the resulting music video is both dreamy and kinetic, perfectly capturing the spirit of the song.

“Dreams of You” is a riveting, electric track from a charismatic new duo that speaks to the universal experience of the complex push-and-pull of romantic love.

Valentina Cherico’s Latest Single ‘Dance Until The Sunrise’: A Unifying Anthem Blending Disco and Modern Pop-Funk

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Cross-genre sensation Valentina Cherico unites everyone through the power of dance and music. Her latest single of the year, “Dance Until The Sunrise” is a formidable anthem that resonates with the masses on a widespread level. Unlocked now, Valentina continues to bloom within the pop/R&B genre.

This track was written and produced from the comfort of her home- with help from her father, Mickey Cherico. “Dance Until The Sunrise” embodies an integration of Disco with a modern Pop Funky feel. It is evident in the additional lead and backup vocals from the family band, Casanova, and solid production by The Vault Recording Studio in Pittsburgh.

Valentina elevates the fun record with a music video that, “shows a crowd of people dancing and having fun in a Studio 54 and Soul Train party setting.” She explains in detail, “At which point, Aliens from space CRASH the party. Everyone is terrified, and then the Aliens feel the Beat of the music and start to dance, signaling to everyone that, MUSIC IS A UNIVERSAL LANGUAGE!!!”

The new single’s core message is coming together, connecting, and healing through the music. Valentina Cherico acclaims, “My hope is that my song will connect with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds… to all come together through the power and love of music and dance.”

With family roots planted in music, Valentina’s musical progression throughout the years has been motivating. The singer has worked with reputable producers in Pittsburgh and New York. To her big break at 16, when she wrote an original song alongside a Grammy-nominated music producer Roy Hamilton, III.

From that moment, Valentina’s musical career has never looked back. Currently, she is being streamed in over 89 countries through the US and Europe continents. Her single prior “Dance Until the Sunrise” – a ballad titled “Teach Me How To Love Again” gained over 20,000 across Spotify and other DSPs.

From the early years of her life, Valentina Cherico has been modifying her natural flair for acting by pursuing a career in musical theatre– where she was able to combine her musical talent with her passion for acting. Valentina’s music signature style draws influence from Selena Quintanilla, Whitney Houston, and Christina Aguilera.

Valentina’s primary music objective is “to create music that “moves, heals and lifts” people, the young entertainer’s ability to connect with her audience through her music is a God given gift.” In this new release, she asks the listener to “Get Up” and dance.