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Warner Music Group & TikTok Announce First-Of-Its-Kind Expanded Agreement

Eric Alper
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Warner Music Group & TikTok Announce First-Of-Its-Kind Expanded Agreement

Warner Music Group and TikTok today announced a wide-ranging, first-of-its-kind partnership that will benefit WMG’s artists and songwriters, and TikTok’s billion-plus users around the world. The multi-year, multi-product deal licenses the repertoire of Warner Recorded Music and Warner Chappell Music to TikTok, TikTok Music, CapCut, and TikTok’s Commercial Music Library.

The deal will expand the level of partnership, collaboration, and innovation between the two companies. It will create new revenue, marketing, and insights opportunities for WMG’s artists and songwriters, while deepening the engagement with TikTok’s huge audience of passionate music fans.

As part of the deal, WMG and TikTok will find new ways to harness TikTok’s revenue generation and promotional capabilities, as well as a wealth of insights. In addition, artists and songwriters will have access to new ways of working with TikTok’s vibrant brand partners, as well as to new fandom development and monetization features, like merchandise, ticketing, and digital goods and services, among other opportunities. Further, the deal will see the joint development of additional and alternative economic models.

Additionally, the companies have agreed to a licensing deal for TikTok Music, the premium subscription streaming service that recently launched in Indonesia and Brazil, with plans for further growth in other markets.

The deal also paves the way for WMG artists and songwriters to leverage the unique promotional capabilities and engage with the growing community of users on TikTok’s sister video-editing app, CapCut.

Robert Kyncl, CEO, WMG said: “We are happy and excited for our next chapter together with TikTok. Through this expanded and significantly improved partnership for both companies, we can jointly deliver greater value to WMG’s artists and songwriters and TikTok’s users.”

Shou Chew, CEO of TikTok, said: “We are very excited to partner with Warner Music Group to create a shared vision for the future in which artists, songwriters, music fans, and the industry can all benefit from the power of discovery on TikTok platforms.”

Doug MacNaughton Releases Compelling and Funky Third New Single ‘Nous’- This Time In French

Eric Alper
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Doug MacNaughton Releases Compelling and Funky Third New Single ‘Nous’- This Time In French

Multi-instrumentalist and indie singer-songwriter Doug MacNaughton released his third single (and first in French!), “Nous,” out now. Following on the heels of previous releases “So Lost Without You” and “The Well of Friendship,” these songs and more will all be available on his upcoming album Old Enough To Know Better.

“The start of this piece came from a news article from RAD.CA, a Radio-Canada show on contemporary issues,” MacNaughton recalls. “The article was talking about how the biggest obstacle to tackling Climate Change was not technological but rather social and political . . . That started me thinking about the false binaries that surround us, and from there, the lyrics just came out.”

Building on the lyrical legacy of juxtaposition a la John Lennon’s “Imagine” and Prince’s “Controversy,” the (translated) lyrics include–

There’s no me, there’s no you
There’s no left, there’s no right
There’s no predator, there’s no prey
There’s only us

There’s no peace, there’s no war
There’s no Heaven, there’s no Hell
There’s no father, there’s no mother
There’s only us

Through his clever presentation of contrasting ideas and concepts, MacNaughton invites listeners to reflect on the arbitrary divisions that often separate us and highlights the urgent need to overcome these differences for the greater good. By presenting these opposing elements side by side, MacNaughton emphasizes the interconnectedness of humanity and the shared responsibility we have in addressing global challenges like climate change.

“Ultimately,” says MacNaughton, “I want the overall message to be one of hope – I really do believe that if we can work together toward the common goal of saving the planet and halting Climate Change, we can do it! Convincing people to pull together in the same direction is the hardest part!”

Musically, “Nous” draws influence from various Quebecois artists, including Beau Dommage, Mitsou, Les Cowboys Fringants, and Corcoran, while incorporating a touch of Steely Dan’s eclectic sound. The results are nearly two and a half minutes of pure funk, grooving along the foundation set by MacNaughton’s fierce stylings on the jazz guitar.

Doug MacNaughton’s upcoming album, Old Enough To Know Better, slated for release in the Fall of 2023, showcases his artistic growth and diverse influences. Drawing from his extensive experience singing a Frank Zappa tribute concert with a Montréal-based electronic music ensemble, his time in Les Misérables, and his contributions to various stage productions, MacNaughton brings a wealth of musical expertise and storytelling prowess to his songwriting.

Alt.Rockers AROUND JOSHUA Celebrates Love In “Baby Stardust”

Eric Alper
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Alt.Rockers AROUND JOSHUA Celebrates Love In “Baby Stardust”

New love can come in many forms, whether it be a new romantic relationship, a new friendship, or a newborn child. When this happens, everything feels like a fresh start filled with promise. Trois Rivières alt.rock band Around Joshua celebrate this newfound hope in their new single, “Baby Stardust”.

The song opens with upbeat guitar riffs from guitarist and vocalist David Talbo as well as a steady drumbeat from Jean François Houde and keyboardist Marie Claude Chateauneuf and David Leclerc on bass guitar that makes the listener want to get up and dance. Then the song’s first verse comes in as Talbo sings of the bliss of waking up and starting the day with someone he loves. The words “I’m ready to begin” serve as the hook that leads into the song’s jubilant chorus.

“Baby, baby stardust
Tears falling down
You choosing us”

The next verses discuss the physical and emotional intimacy of being with someone they love and using that love to create a family. The anticipation associated with the latter is enhanced with the words “Soon you’re coming” before the chorus comes in again.

In fact, the band confirms that the song is about having a new family, stating, “Baby Stardust” was written in Trois Rivières, my hometown, I wrote it after meeting my girlfriend and it was kind of a message about starting a family, having kids and the spiritual journey it would be.”

Enhancing the song’s emotions is a music video that shows the band playing as kids play around in a bedroom and outdoors. Although shot in black and white, the song’s joy and anticipation make it colorful. Furthermore, the music video’s lack of color gives it a classic rock vibe reminiscent of The Beatles or The Rolling Stones.

Around Joshua displays a strong influence from the Britpop movement that is showcased through the band’s melodies that fuse alternative rock and pop rock. Their sound is often compared to the bands Muse, Placebo and Snow Patrol.

Their debut album, “”Cassiopeiae Noks”, was produced by Jordon Zadorozny and featured the single, “Same Star” which was included on the soundtrack of the American film “Rehab”, produced by David Caruso (C.S.I Miami). Following this, the RDS sports network decided to play the singles “Eternally”, “Hold On” and “Sometime” before every Montreal Canadiens field hockey game.

In 2019, their second album “The Trees Are Singing” was released. It was produced by Mike Fraser, who is known for his work with the bands AC/DC, Aerosmith, and Franz Ferndinand. It was named one of the best Canadian rock albums of 2019 by Canadian Music Blog.

After taking 2020 and 2021 to regroup with a new lineup and joining the label The Noise Shack.

Classical Guitarist EMMA RUSH Releases New Album “A Dream Of Colour” Inspired By Painter William Blair Bruce

Eric Alper
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Classical Guitarist EMMA RUSH Releases New Album “A Dream Of Colour” Inspired By Painter William Blair Bruce

Highly renowned Canadian classical guitarist Emma Rush is set to captivate audiences with the release of her latest album, “A Dream of Colour” is inspired by the life and works of impressionist painter, William Blair Bruce. Collaborating once again with her long-time producer Kirk Starkey, Rush recorded the album in her hometown of Hamilton, Ontario.

The well-travelled classical artist’s new record features daring new music by esteemed Canadian composers, all beautifully capturing the essence of Bruce’s artwork. While growing up, she developed a deep connection to fellow Hamiltonian William Blair Bruce’s paintings, which decorated her family’s homes and the Art Gallery of Hamilton. Motivated by family ties to the celebrated artist, she embarked on a musical journey, inviting composers to interpret Bruce’s work through sound.

“All the music on this album is brand new and written by Canadians,” says Rush. “It was an incredible opportunity to collaborate with these amazing composers, bringing their works to life and exploring the profound connection between music and visual art.”

The album opens with Christine Donkin’s “Moonlight in Canada,” inspired by one of Rush’s favourite painting housed in the permanent collection of the Art Gallery of Hamilton. Another standout composition is Christina Volpini’s “The Walker of the Snow,” a haunting piece that mirrors the iconic painting “The Phantom Hunter” with innovative use of the guitar. One of the album’s highlights is a piece by acclaimed composer Dale Kavanagh, “Reflections on Afterglow.” Rush, who studied with Kavanagh in Germany, always admired her library of enchanting original pieces and dreamed of having one written specifically for her.

The three-time Hamilton Arts award winner emphasizes the significance of presenting new music to the guitar world. “With every album, I strive to offer something different. I’m thrilled to present seven exciting pieces that have never been heard before,” she says.

Emma Rush has established herself as one of Canada’s top classical guitarists, commanding worldwide recognition with recent tours to China, Mexico, Sweden, and Germany. The Hamiltonian has released several albums, including “Wake the Sigh,” a rare collection of music written for guitar by women in the 19th century. She has received support from prestigious organizations such as the Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council, Arts Nova Scotia, and FACTOR. Emma is also a highly in-demand guest lecturer and Co-Director of GuitarFest West in Calgary and the Collegiate Peaks Guitar Retreat in Colorado.

Redpath Traffic Proves Starting a Band Has No Age Limits

Eric Alper
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Redpath Traffic Proves Starting a Band Has No Age Limits

Starting a band is generally associated with young people, but Toronto progressive rock trio Redpath Traffic, whose members range in age from the mid-50s to early-70s, is proving that you’re never too old to start something new.

“There are many pros and cons to starting a new group at our age,” says Richard Todd, the band’s vocalist and guitarist. “But the positive aspects of doing it outweigh any negatives. And we’re having a whole lot of fun.”

Richard and his bandmate Mark Fernley (bass) first met in 2016 through a Meetup Rock Band group. Along with then-drummer Kerem Balci, they began getting together regularly to practice their favourite cover songs.

“Being older guys,” Rick says. “Our musical roots went back decades instead of just a few years. We had a diverse set of songs comprising everything from Elvis Presley and The Beatles to Nirvana and The Black Keys.”

However, their days as a cover band didn’t last long when Richard started introducing his originals to the group. Quickly, Redpath Traffic abandoned playing other people’s songs to focus exclusively on their own.

“I had about 12 songs in total,” Rick says. “We all brought our skills to arrange what turned out to be a great set of genre-agnostic tunes ready to take into the studio. Most of the band hadn’t ever set foot in a recording studio, so the experience for them was exhilarating.”

Teaming up with music industry legend Chris Birkett, the band recorded eight songs for their upcoming LP, Under the Crimson Sun. To date, they’ve released five singles that have accumulated almost 50,000 streams on Spotify.

“One of the bigger challenges of releasing music as older guys are having to learn about streaming,” Rick says. “Mark and I came from the world of vinyl records, cassettes, and later CDs. Navigating this new musical landscape was daunting at first, but we’re really getting the hang of it.”

In June 2023, Redpath Traffic welcomed new drummer Jim Medley, another music veteran with blues roots going back to the 1970s. Finding a new member presented a new set of challenges in a youth-oriented pastime, but the band knew the right person was out there.

“We faced some ageism when looking for new members,” Rick says. “A lot of musicians younger than us were turned off by our ages. We qualified everyone early on by being upfront about how old we were – and most never wrote back after that! A few drummers still came out to play, but we’re really happy to have found Jim.”

Rick also claims that being older means fewer obstacles stand in the way of making music.

“I’ve played in many bands since high school,” he says. “When you’re younger, you have all sorts of commitments, such as homework and part-time jobs. Later on, careers, family, and other activities take priority over music. And that’s okay – we’ve all been there. Now though, we have much more free time and less day-to-day stress to deal with so we can enjoy creating and playing music.”

What words of advice would Rick give other older people thinking of starting a band?

“Just do it, even if you’ve just learned how to play an instrument!” he says. “At first, I felt a little awkward getting out there with my guitar. But so many people – almost all of them much younger – told me to forget about age and just do what I love. I’m really happy I listened to them!”

Women In Music Honour Roll 2023 Recipient, Shumaila Hemani, Ph.D. Releases “Primordial Covenant” Dedicated To Peace And Justice

Eric Alper
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Women In Music Honour Roll 2023 Recipient, Shumaila Hemani, Ph.D. Releases “Primordial Covenant” Dedicated To Peace And Justice

Recent Women in Music Canada Honour Roll recipient and Cultural Diversity Award Winner, Shumaila Hemani, Ph.D., releases a non-western art song: “Primordial Covenant” from her upcoming second album: Kashf (unveiling).

“Primordial Covenant” is based on Hemani’s poem that was published in Alberta’s literary feminist magazine: New Forum (2021) and nominated for the Alberta Magazine Awards in Poetry (2022).

“Primordial Covenant is an anthem for trans-Cultural Canada, as it strives for greater equity, diversity, and inclusion while integrating the multiple beliefs and faith practices in its cultural life,” says Hemani.

Premiered at Arts Commons in early June as part of TD Incubator Cabaret, Calgary with James Watson accompanying on violin, this piece was again performed for the legendary international band, Sun Ra Arkestra at the United Church (2023) in Calgary in late June with Sujeev Chohan on tabla. Sled Island described her performing as taking the room “into a state of trance.”

This boundary-pushing musical composition is inspired by the Quranic story of the creation and the famous phrase, “Allastu bi Rabbikum” refers to the primordial covenant that the human soul made with the Creator before entering the human body. This Arabic phrase is referenced in Sufi poetry of South Asia, particularly in the Sindhi verses of the 18th-century poet, Shah Abdul Latif Bhitai, whose book of poetry, Shah jo Risalo is considered Quran in Sindhi by the Muslims and Gita by the Hindus just as Rumi’s Masnavi is considered Quran in Pahlavi in Persia.

“I invite choirs and symphony orchestras across Europe and North America to perform this piece in solidarity with the Muslims and with the understanding that Quran and its enriched history have a central value for the Muslims and also have a sanctified place in a multi-cultural society.

Pushing boundaries of genres and traditions by drawing from Hindustani art music of khayal, the Middle Eastern melodic maqam: Hijaz and Western tradition for its chromatic chord structure, this art song is a response to the cataclysmic times of today that beg for a new language for composing art song to reinstate the role of music as a catalyst for social change.

Hemani was nominated in the Government of Alberta’s Artist Ambassador short-list and serves as an Artist in Residence at the International Center of Arts for Social Change (ICASC) and Trico Changemakers Studio (Mount Royal University). She is also an alumnus in Creative Climate Leadership (2023) and delivered the keynote address at the University of Hawaii’s Climate Change and South Asia conference (2023), a speaker at the first-ever Music Climate summit in Toronto (2022) by Music Declares Emergency and featured in CBC’s What on Earth and National Observer. Hemani is scheduled to perform for the Canadian oath-taking ceremony by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, Canada in the Fall and for New Music Edmonton.

Eclectic Revival’s Celtic Fusion Delivers a Soul-Stirring Anthem In ‘Cry Havoc!’

Eric Alper
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Eclectic Revival’s Celtic Fusion Delivers a Soul-Stirring Anthem In ‘Cry Havoc!’

Eclectic Revival, the quartet Celtic fusion band, is pleased to announce the release of their highly anticipated new single, ‘Cry Havoc!’ from their upcoming album ‘Weight of the World.’ This bluesy, soulful lament serves as a poignant reflection on the burdens of existence while evolving into a powerful call to action, encouraging listeners to lend a helping hand and truly listen to one another.

Since its birth in 2005, Eclectic Revival has captivated audiences with its unique blend of east coast traditional, original rock and blues with a twist of Celtic tradition. The band’s diverse backgrounds in acting, stand-up comedy, and music infuse their performances with an engaging and participatory atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression on all who attend.

Eclectic Revival’s four-piece lineup from Brampton and Hamilton, Ontario, consists of Nick Brodie on vocals, Chris Kerba laying down Guitar, Matt Morgan on the low-end bass, and Derek Kelley dropping the beats on drums. A party of exceptionally talented musicians who draw inspiration from a wide range of musical influences, including Great Big Sea, Barenaked Ladies, Moxy Fruvous, and Mumford & Sons, among others. Their dynamic stage presence and undeniable chemistry have led them to perform at various venues, including local pubs, Renaissance Festivals, music festivals, and private events right across Canada.

The new single ‘Cry Havoc!’ represents a departure from Eclectic Revival’s usual lighthearted fare, showcasing their growth both on and off the stage. The upcoming album, ‘Weight of the World,’ encapsulates their maturation as a band that has navigated the trials and tribulations of life together. It serves as a raw and gritty exploration of a world that did not align with their youthful aspirations.

With ‘Cry Havoc!’ as the lead single, Eclectic Revival invites listeners into a sonic journey that merges the likes of Oasis and Smashing Pumpkins, Tears for Fears with an acoustic guitar, and a hypothetical collaboration between Eagles and Roger Waters at a cozy coffee bar.

Drawing inspiration from the weight of existence, “Cry Havoc!” lyrically navigates through the depths of the human psyche, capturing the toll it takes on individuals. The song progressively builds into a passionate rallying cry, urging everyone to rise above their struggles and extend a helping hand to those in need.

Eclectic Revival’s unique blend of musical styles and heartfelt lyrics creates an unforgettable listening experience that transcends genres. With a simple chorus, lead singer Nick Brodie repeats the trials and tribulations of life.

“When your hair’s less red And your eyes less blue
And your hands don’t work like they used to do
And your constant narci-cynicism’s
Got you feeling blue?”

“Listen to me.”

“Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war!
Because hard scars leave no feeling anymore.”

The band also called upon a pair of special guests to play on ‘Cry Havoc!’. Emily Yarascavich contributes the fiddle, while Steve Sinnicks delivers additional percussion and a low-end performance on baritone guitar. This additional talent adds an extra layer.

Eclectic Revival began their single journey at Studio A Audio Recording & Production, where production maestro Chris Colvin recorded their entire album.

As anticipation builds for the release of Eclectic Revival’s new album, ‘Weight of the World,’ ‘Cry Havoc!” is a testament to the band’s artistic evolution and commitment to authentic storytelling. This single will resonate with old and new fans with its profound message and captivating sound.

Gideon Foster’s Haunting Single ‘Prophecy’ Takes Listeners On A Journey Through a Cliffside Lighthouse Dream

Eric Alper
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Gideon Foster’s Haunting Single ‘Prophecy’ Takes Listeners On A Journey Through a Cliffside Lighthouse Dream

As if waiting atop a lighthouse towering along cliffside shores, Halifax, UK-based singer/songwriter Gideon Foster transports us to his black-and-white fever dream with the melancholy new single, “Prophecy.”

Foster’s new song is the title track from his genre-defying album “Prophecy,” a musical journey sparred from an epiphany that fell upon Foster. “I’ve always had a love of music and played guitar a bit, but until I had a spiritual awakening nine years ago, none of it made sense,” says Foster. “As my life changed as a result of this event, I started to look for meaning in my life, and songwriting became that meaning.”

Spellbinding vocal harmonies tell a tale that Foster has been waiting most of his life to tell, with a harrowing origin. “53 years in the making to create the title track “Prophecy.” “It’s a dream I have had all my life about being on a cliff looking down at the sea with an open-air theatre and a black and white floor below,” says Foster. “As I was growing up, I used to think where is this place? what’s the meaning?”

“Prophecy” is a contemplative song accentuated by haunting melodies that flow in tandem with lyrics that read like a long-lost manuscript, or an ancient parable recently unearthed.

“Dance if you want to be free
Cause all roads end meant to be
Meant to be
Soaks up the morning sun but never knew why happiness comes”

The album “Prophecy” is an introspective journey that was recorded with the help of producer-extraordinaire, Si who was as much of an inspiration to Foster as he was a musical guide. “it’s really a journey from the past to the present,” says Foster.

Gideon Foster is a singer/songwriter that has been blending a philosophical outlook on life with a unique sound of his own. His love of music has led him down many different roads and genres but not to be constrained by them.

Gideon arrived on the music scene a little later than most, not producing a song until his mid 40’s. Releasing many singles, an EP, and most recently his debut album “Prophecy,” there is no sign of slowing down this eclectic artist.

His songs have been featured in numerous online publications, with the track “Up on the Hill” featured in Rolling Stone Brazil. He has received some radio play and regularly performs live at gigs and local festivals around his native Yorkshire/Manchester lineage.

Vintage Pop Soulster JEFF EAGER Releases Song For The Ages – Literally – In “I Don’t Care For What’s Out There”

Eric Alper
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Vintage Pop Soulster JEFF EAGER Releases Song For The Ages – Literally – In “I Don’t Care For What’s Out There”

For his new album 2070, Jeff Eager strove to create a collapsing of the eras – the sounds he loves, inspired by the classic songwriting of the late 70s and early 80s, but for the future – say, the year 2070. His first single “I Don’t Care For What’s Out There” – available now – perfectly encapsulates this blurring of time as Eager, against an energetic, summer-fun groove, addresses the juxtaposition of the musician lifestyle and fatherhood.

A mix of vintage pop, rock, and soul, “I Don’t Care For What’s Out There” blends synth and acoustic sounds (think Raspberry Beret) and a clever, heartwarming message: all of the successes (and more importantly, the failures!) of a music career don’t matter to a small child:

You don’t care where I’m going when I back my bags
You don’t care where the gig is at
You don’t care about the tours played around the world
You just care that I’m coming back

“This album is for my kids in the future … when they reach middle age and they start thinking about what their old dad did when he wasn’t making lunches and cleaning the house,” Eager explains. “This was the motivation that kept me working through this album at such a high level.”

What spurred this concept was Eager thinking about his own parents once he became a dad, what their lives were like when he was little, outside of his memories.

“You don’t really know what your parents do, outside of feeding and clothing you and generally just being around,” Eager muses. “Their lives outside of their relationship with you doesn’t matter much to you, and it shouldn’t; you’re a kid with your own path and life to build.”

Eager didn’t want to pander to a current 2023 sound, he just wanted to make a record he absolutely loved, and the sound he came up with was inspired by his favorite music from a bygone era. “This album is not done as a gimmick, it’s not an intentional throwback, it’s not trying to capture an era-specific sound,” he said. “I simply wrote the music that I enjoy most, and when I was done, I inadvertently made a record from 1980.”

The album is for two audiences: listeners today who will enjoy the pure fun of 2070, and the tiny, tightknit group of people who will find special significance and intimacy in it decades down the line. “There’s tons of hidden gems, references and easter eggs in this record for my kids to find later,” Eager says. “It’s for an Audience of Three in 2070.”

Smoke Ring Days’ Captivating Anthem ‘Peace In My Soul’ Radiates Indie Rock Americana Bliss

Eric Alper
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Smoke Ring Days’ Captivating Anthem ‘Peace In My Soul’ Radiates Indie Rock Americana Bliss

Sometimes, you need music that will serve as a slice of soul salvation. It doesn’t matter what genre, as long as it lifts your spirits and gets you through another day. This summer, ‘Peace In My Soul,’ from New York-based indie rock Americana band Smoke Ring Days, just could be that song.

The song opens with a distinctive Thin Lizzy-style dual harmony guitar riff from multi-instrumentalist Rick Eppedio, paving a path for vocalist Cindy Keyser-Posner to come in with the first verse, describing isolation and alienation in an everyday, easily relatable way, before offering a mantra to soothe the solitude:

“Some days you doubt whether he cares
And if you need would she be there
Wondering as you keep on
What would it be like to be gone
So desperate to find direction
One that you pray leads the way home

If you cry ’cause life hurts
Close your eyes and just try these words

‘Well, there are few things in life I really need
To make me feel free and whole
Just bring some hope to my heart, joy to the world
And give me peace, peace in my soul’”

The feel-good vibe of the sing-along chorus is instantly accessible, and the entire song is driven by an infectious modern boogie groove and brightly colored tonality. However, the lyrics to ‘Peace In My Soul,’ while perfectly suited to summer radio play, are also introspective, with a hint of social awareness.

Smoke Ring Days says the song was inspired by simply living in the world around them. “On any given day, there’s a lot to wrap your head around!” They go on to add they’re influenced by “the environment…one of social consciousness and fomenting change, finding your own ‘place on this planet’ from which to be of service – and simply be.”

An all-too-rare long-standing partnership in the music industry, Rick and Cindy began writing together as Barbarian Lovers, independently producing demos on a four-track in Rick’s childhood basement. Their very first co-write, the catchy electro-folk ’Round and Round,’ caught the ear of Blondie/Go-Gos producer Richard Gottehrer and resulted in an indie label offer.

Opting to take their act abroad, the band soon released their music in Europe on vinyl and, after an enthusiastic reception on the radio, formed their own independent record label in New York, Blue City Productions.

Putting out their first full length album, ‘Fatal Embrace,’ on the Blue City imprint that same year, the duo were lauded by Billboard’s Music & Media and scored substantial radio play and press throughout western Europe and Asia. The indie album was soon after released more widely in Europe by London-based Aura Records, where labelmates included Alex Chilton, Steve Marriott, Allan Clarke, and Nico.

Following two subsequent CDs, ‘Faith in a Desperate Place’ and ‘Dancing in Dreams,’ and a successful promo tour of Scandinavia, the band – compared by critics to acts ranging from Tears for Fears to Eurythmics – went on extended hiatus, eventually resurfacing as the harder-edged Smoke Ring Days.

Today, the duo continues to embrace an ethos which seeks to elevate awareness and create community through music they love, to share with others they hope will, too. And, as always, amidst the grit and grief shine layers of hope and optimism, the ‘perfect in our imperfection,’ as exemplified by their latest single/video, ‘Peace In My Soul.’

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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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