Home Blog Page 14

Quinn McGraw Risks Everything On PARIAH Debut EP ‘Swansong’ Featuring The Single “Infinite Hologram”

0

Vocalist and songwriter Quinn McGraw has released the debut PARIAH EP ‘Swansong’ as a raw chronicle of his tenure in the music industry. This project follows years of participation in various bands and projects that stalled before reaching a wider audience. The EP includes the emotionally focused title track “Swansong” alongside previous singles “Pendulum,” “Wanderer,” and “Infinite Hologram.” McGraw documented his personal breaking point throughout these sessions, opting to record his experiences rather than walking away from his creative pursuits in silence.

The recording process for ‘Swansong’ centered on a radical clarity regarding the costs of creative persistence. The track “Infinite Hologram” specifically explores the realization of life as a finite and sacred experience, while “Swansong” addresses the quiet grief associated with long-term ambition. Since launching in August, the project has seen significant growth, reaching over 24,000 followers on social media and gaining international attention from listeners in Italy, Indonesia, and Brazil. Media outlets like REVOLVER Magazine and HUNNYPOT have highlighted the release for its unguarded and factual approach to songwriting.

The assertive delivery and heavy instrumental textures provide a concrete foundation for McGraw’s vocal performance. This record stands as a firm testament to the resilience required to maintain an independent musical career.

Cenk Gursoy Joins Zoe Kypri For “Kaleidoscope” On New AudioWave Records Release

0

International electronic artist Cenk Gursoy teamed up with vocalist Zoe Kypri for the single “Kaleidoscope” arriving January 30, 2026, on AudioWave Records. This collaboration follows an eight-year career during which Gursoy has accumulated over 9 million streams and performed at global venues including NYX London and Armani Privé Dubai. The production process for this track spanned two months in the studio to balance cinematic tension with a hypnotic melodic house flow. Built around Kypri’s expressive lyricism, the song utilizes textured synths and deep rhythmic energy to document a specific shift from childhood nostalgia to emotional tension.

The arrangement serves as a factual exploration of melodic techno and atmospheric sound design. Gursoy previously shared stages with artists such as WhoMadeWho and Bob Moses, and his catalog includes notable tracks like “Good Life” and “Just Goes On.” This latest work features haunting melodies that occupy the space between light and shadow. The recording captures a sense of constant motion through evolving patterns and deliberate rhythmic restraint. Every sound choice reflects the technical evolution of a producer focused on immersive club music.

The seamless integration of the delicate vocal layers with the heavy low-end frequencies creates a sophisticated and high-energy listening environment. This track stands as a firm representation of the current melodic house landscape. The structural growth of the composition provides a clear look at the craftsmanship involved in modern electronic production.

Amy Grant Returns With Reflective New Single “The 6th Of January (Yasgur’s Farm)”

0

Amy Grant released her latest single “The 6th of January (Yasgur’s Farm)” on January 6, 2026, marking her first original output in over ten years. This track serves as the lead introduction to an upcoming full-length album arriving later this year via Thirty Tigers. Ten-time CMA winner Mac McAnally produced the song, which explores specific themes of spiritual connection and collective healing. The lyrics reference historical and cultural touchstones including Woodstock, Harper’s Ferry, and John Lennon to document a journey through societal unrest.

The musical arrangement features a timeless quality that mirrors the classic singer-songwriter style of the early seventies. Grant utilizes her platform to observe the power of individual choices in shaping a shared reality. This release adds to a career that includes six Grammy Awards and over 30 million albums sold worldwide. The technical execution of the vocal performance highlights the same brilliance that established her as a trailblazer in contemporary music decades ago.

Grant receives the Woman of Courage Award at the American Heart Association Gala in New York City later this month. Following this honor, she begins a headlining tour on February 20 at The Crown Theater in Fayetteville. The schedule continues through several Florida venues before moving into the Carolinas and Georgia. These live dates provide a concrete opportunity to hear the new material in a professional concert setting.

The composition captures a sense of genuine hope through its steady rhythmic pulse and thoughtful melodic structure. This song stands as a factual testament to the endurance of an artist who continues to evolve. Every lyrical turn reflects a deliberate effort to find common ground in a complex world.

Amy Grant 2026 Tour Dates:

2/20 – The Crown Theater – Fayetteville, NC

2/21 – Ponte Vedra Concert Hall – Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

2/22 – Bilheimer Capitol Theatre – Clearwater, FL

2/24 – Lillian S. Wells Hall – Ft Lauderdale, FL

2/25 – The Plaza Live – Orlando, FL

2/27 – Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort – Cherokee, NC

2/28 – The Carolina Opry – Myrtle Beach, SC

3/01 – Miller Theater – Augusta, GA

Jake Shimabukuro Connects Nature And Music On ‘Calm Seas’ Featuring New Song “Sounds Of Hakalau”

0

Jake Shimabukuro released his acoustic ambient album ‘Calm Seas’ on January 30, 2026, marking a reflective shift in his creative output. This project consists of 13 original compositions recorded in Hawai’i with an additional 12 versions available on the digital release. Unlike previous recording methods, Shimabukuro captured the sounds of nature first and composed the music to fit the natural melodies of birds and ocean waves. This reversal of the traditional scoring process results in minimalist arrangements that emphasize the raw expressiveness of the ‘ukulele.

The track “Sounds of Hakalau” serves as a serene tribute to the Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge by incorporating the calls of endangered native Hawaiian bird species. Another standout piece, “The Passing Storm,” utilizes resonant ‘ukulele tones to build a sonic journey from quiet unease to a cathartic resolution. The album documentation highlights how the pacing of the tracks follows the rhythmic tempo of the environment rather than standard studio metronomes. These recordings provide a concrete connection between the geography of the islands and the technical mastery of the instrument.

The clarity of the acoustic recording and the organic integration of the rainforest environment result in a sophisticated and textured listening experience. This record stands as a factual documentation of the intersection between wildlife and human composition. Every arrangement reflects a deliberate alignment with the natural key centers found in the Hawaiian landscape.

Hannah Schneider Explores Sonic Space With “In This Room” From Upcoming Album ‘In This Room’

0

Hannah Schneider prioritizes physical craftsmanship and human intuition on her new single “In This Room” from the album ‘In This Room’ released February 27, 2026, on Midnight Confessions. This record is the result of a creative residency at Thorvaldsens Museum in Copenhagen where Schneider gathered musicians to record within the historic halls. The production process utilized acoustic instruments as the primary starting point for modern electronic compositions. Longtime collaborator Christian Balvig and Efterklang frontman Caspar Clausen contribute to the project which emphasizes manual artistry.

The title track “In This Room” features active piano figures and precise drumming by labelmate Øyunn to create a compelling sonic meditation. This release follows significant recognition for Schneider including the Carl Prisen award for her work with the duo Kaleiido and international airplay on BBC 6 Music. Her previous experience with the electronic duo AyOwA and the performance duo Philip | Schneider informs the immersive production found throughout this new material. The music serves as a factual exploration of the relationship between architecture and sound through specific spatial compositions.

Steve Aoki Announces “Dim Mak 30th Anniversary Tour”

0

Steve Aoki launched the “Dim Mak 30th Anniversary Tour” to commemorate three decades of his influential record label. This milestone trek follows a journey that began in a college dorm room at UC Santa Barbara in 1996. The phase one schedule features special guests Audien and Timmy Trumpet joining the lineup for these high-profile performances. The tour highlights a catalog that famously helped launch acts like Bloc Party and The Kills before the label became a premier destination for electronic dance music.

Steve Aoki “Dim Mak 30th Anniversary Tour” dates
2/07 – Harbour ECC – Vancouver, BC
2/14 – Igloofest – Gatineau, QC
2/15 – Rebel – Toronto, ON
2/20 – Bill Graham Civic Auditorium – San Francisco, CA
2/27 – The Armory – Minneapolis, MN
2/28 – Big Night Live – Boston, MA
3/13 – Skydeck – Nashville, TN
3/27 – Ultra Music Festival – Miami, FL

Grand Ole Opry Celebrates Dolly Parton’s 80th Birthday With “Opry Goes Dolly” On January 17

0

The Grand Ole Opry continues its century of country music excellence by honoring the legendary Dolly Parton for her 80th birthday. This fourth annual “Opry Goes Dolly” event takes over the Grand Ole Opry House on January 17 with a focused spotlight on her massive hits from the 1980s. Fans can witness an incredible lineup of stars including Vince Gill, Lainey Wilson, and Rhonda Vincent as they deliver powerful versions of classics from her peerless catalog. The evening also marks a significant milestone for hit songwriter Trannie Anderson who makes her official Opry debut during this high-energy celebration.

The festivities extend well beyond the stage performances with immersive experiences throughout the historic venue. Guests attending the Opry House tours on the day of the show can enjoy special birthday treats baked using Duncan Hines Dolly Parton’s mixes. A massive birthday card sits ready for fans to sign at the Opry House, and a Dolly Parton impersonator will visit the Opry Plaza for commemorative photos with attendees. The Opry Shop also introduces the limited ’80 Years of Song’ collection which includes exclusive music and merchandise for pre-order and on-site purchase.

Community impact remains a central theme for this milestone birthday bash through a generous charitable initiative. The Grand Ole Opry is donating $5 from every ticket sold for the January 17 performance to Parton’s Imagination Library. This program provides free books to children from birth to age five to encourage early literacy across all backgrounds. Supporting such a vital cause while hearing world-class musicians honor a global icon creates a truly meaningful concert experience.

The vocal performances and instrumental arrangements planned for the night highlight the enduring brilliance of these timeless compositions. The musicianship on display captures the vibrant spirit of the ’80s era that defined so much of the country music landscape. This tribute stands as a magnificent testament to a songwriter who has shaped the genre for decades.

GUV (ex-F**ked Up) Share “Chasin’ Luv” Ahead Of Album ‘Warmer Than Gold’ Out January 30

0

GUV, the long-running project of guitar pop extraordinaire Ben Cook (ex-F**ked Up), kicks off the new year with “Chasin’ Luv,” a cut of perfect indie pop ahead of his album ‘Warmer Than Gold’ arriving January 30 via Run For Cover Records. Cook explains, “‘Chasin Luv’ was the last song written for the record. We wanted something immediate, an instant hit in the vein of early Primal Scream, and to bring the jangle that was missing from the record, but always present in the older GUV stuff.”

Cook continues, “Noah, Gavel, Matt, and I wrote and tracked it in about 20 minutes. Corey Rose from Color Green came by and laid down her drums in a single take. After everyone left, I worked out the vocals just as quickly. Everything on the song is one take, and from start to finish it was written and recorded in under an hour. It’s my favorite and the best GUV song ever made.”

‘Warmer Than Gold’ was made with an all-star cast including contributions from James Matthew Seven, Darcy Baylis, Hatchie, Meg Mills of Turnstile, and recording and production from Tony Price, Noah Kohll, Max Epstein aka Photographic Memory, Jimmy Dixon, Johnny Bell, Joey Oaxaca, Walter Sedriks, and Remghost. The record blends Britpop, baggy, classic indie pop, and first wave shoegaze through Cook’s unique lens, defined by unstoppable musical motion and breakbeat-driven tracks drawing from turn-of-the-90s British rave and rock music.

Cook, who grew up moving between Toronto and England and played in hardcore band No Warning and punk experimentalists F**ked Up from 2007 to 2021, says, “Warmer Than Gold is about slipping through two worlds. One ruled by luxury and the worship of status, and another that feels like an escape, a dream you can almost touch. It’s about buses, trains, planes, about big dreams in solitude, finding something real despite everything trying to erase it.”

Lily Löwe Release “Love Like This” Ahead Of Album ‘Beautiful Disaster’ On February 6

0

Norwegian melodic hard-rock band Lily Löwe unveil “Love Like This,” the final single before the release of their sophomore album ‘Beautiful Disaster’ on February 6, 2026, closing the record with intensity, vulnerability, and an unforgettable hook. The band says, “Love Like This is the end. It’s a strong power ballad that sticks to your head for a long time.” The soaring, emotional power ballad arrives as the ninth and final track on ‘Beautiful Disaster,’ a record built on contrasts of strength and fragility, chaos and clarity, darkness and release, showcasing Lily Löwe’s signature blend of big riffs, emotional storytelling, and commanding vocals with a more cinematic, heartfelt edge. The band adds, “This album is all killer, no filler, every track hits different. We want to give fans a real experience, that feeling of power, emotion, and release you get when music truly hits. Each single represents a different side of who we are as a band.”

‘Beautiful Disaster’ explores the tension between vulnerability and power both lyrically and musically, moving between raw emotion and high energy while blending modern production with the heart of classic hard rock across nine tracks that take listeners through dark atmospheres, heavy guitars, and dramatic storytelling. The album spans from the haunting introspection of “Haunted House” to the glam-punk chaos of “Glitter & Gore,” the explosive rebellion of “Wild,” and the emotional storm of the title track “Beautiful Disaster,” with the writing process beginning with vocalist Lily crafting toplines, hooks, and lyrics before the rest of the band builds the songs into full-scale rock anthems. The band explains, “It starts with Lily’s ideas, but we build everything together; it’s 100% a team effort.” Formed after Lily’s solo debut at Melodi Grand Prix 2022, Lily Löwe quickly grew into a full band featuring some of Norway’s top heavy rock talent including Adrian Sunde Bjerketvedt from Jorn, Patrik Svendsen from Tonic Breed, Stian Hansen from Suicide Bombers, and Eiliv Sagrusten from Invasion, with their debut album ‘LÖWE’ earning critical acclaim and this upcoming release promising to push boundaries even further as they gear up for a year of new music, live shows, and expanding their international footprint.

Indie Week 2026 Tickets On Sale Now For June 8-11 At InterContinental New York Times Square

0

The Foundation Of Independent Music announces tickets are on sale now for Indie Week 2026, the 18th annual conference held June 8-11 at the InterContinental New York Times Square, supported by A2IM and featuring a keynote address from Merlin CEO Charlie Lexton. Each year, Indie Week welcomes attendees from around the world to an environment where conversations turn into collaborations and relationships evolve into long-term partnerships, with this year featuring an expanded slate of panels and networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful connections and real-world exchange.

Charlie Lexton was recently appointed CEO of Merlin, the digital music licensing organization representing independent labels and distributors worldwide, with his keynote drawing on his global perspective to examine the evolving position of independent music companies within the digital economy. A2IM CEO Ian Harrison says, “We are thrilled to have Charlie Lexton deliver his first U.S. keynote address since taking the helm as Merlin CEO. Indie Week has evolved into the place where the future of our industry is written and where the most dynamic music companies and entrepreneurs come to connect.” Lisa Hresko, President of the Foundation of Independent Music and COO of A2IM, adds, “Indie Week continues to be a vital gathering point for the global independent community where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are formed, and the next chapter of independent music takes shape.”

The Foundation for Independent Music is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing the growth, sustainability, and innovation of the independent music community, producing Indie Week as the world’s largest international gathering of independent music professionals and presenting the annual Libera Awards, the premier independent awards ceremony recognizing artistic and commercial excellence in independent music. A2IM is a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit trade organization headquartered in New York City that exists to support and strengthen the independent recorded music sector, with membership currently including a broad coalition of over 700 independently-owned American music labels representing 37.32 percent of the music industry’s U.S. recorded music sales market based on copyright ownership, making independent labels collectively the largest recorded music industry sector, and in 2025, A2IM was named a Best Place To Work by the non-profit Women In Music.