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Toronto’s INNR CIRCLE Meshes R&B with Dream Pop in Sultry New Single, “Uncut Gems”

Eric Alper
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Toronto’s INNR CIRCLE Meshes R&B with Dream Pop in Sultry New Single, “Uncut Gems”

Toronto’s INNR CIRCLE delivers a rewarding new wave dream pop encounter with invigorating 808 rumbles and driving punches in his newest single, “Uncut Gems.”

Featured on the 2022 five-track EP, HAZED + AMUSED, INNR CIRCLE traverses a sea of emotion across “Uncut Gems”, exploring romantic desolation and loneliness — packaged into a sultry yet commanding vocal performance.

Influenced by the open-ended freedom that the B-Side of a record offers to musicians, the song is a collision of genre-bending dream pop with elements of neo-soul infused throughout — giving the whole production an otherworldly, ethereal soundscape. So expansive, in fact, is the production, that the Toronto-based artist gives audiences plenty of room to come to their own reflections, all while experiencing INNR CIRCLE’s own inner dialogues.

It’s all par for the course for the breakthrough alternative-pop and R&B solo artist with a profound passion for music production, composition, and exploring vulnerable and illuminating concepts in his catalog. Drawing inspiration through life experiences and his own self-reflections, INNR CIRCLE uses music as a catalyst for both self-healing and communicating with his listeners.

“A lot of my music is inspired by what has occurred in my life — from relationships, trials, and tribulations with my introspection about who I think I am and past events that have either affected me positively or negatively.

“My ideas behind my music vary from depressing things to things that make me elated to meditate over. I try my best to be as honest and real as possible. I find being open with my words helps me connect with more people and shows that I’m just as human as they are.”

The emotional journey INNR CIRCLE has been through is a metamorphosis that many people can relate to. Often productions like “Uncut Gems” are beneficial to those looking to overcome their inner struggles and get over a burdensome hump in their lives. The vulnerability put forth throughout the entirety of “Uncut Gems” and HAZED + AMUSED is commendable.

Not to mention, the song is an absolute stomper.

A boundary-pushing dream-pop composer with a knack for sultry storytelling, INNR CIRCLE has garnered a solid international following debuting his music on Valentine’s Day in 2020. Since then, he has been committed to composing hard-hitting productions that resonate within his growing fan base while creating a personal outlet for himself.

INNR CIRCLE’s newest project, HAZED + AMUSED, is a five-song collection exploring his take of contact highs people experience when meeting new people and falling in love.

“This EP was inspired by a few things. My veneration for marijuana, falling in and out of love, and the concepts and or ideology of love. What it feels like, how it can hurt, how it can heal, how it can last, and how it can all end as fast as it started.

“Music is a cathartic experience for me — like therapy. I’m not a very social individual, so getting my thoughts on paper helps me see more of who I am and who I can become.

“Pain can either drown you in sorrow or give you some of the best art you will ever create; fortunately for me, I didn’t drown. Anything you want in life can be achieved if you work hard enough on it.”

Howard Jones Releases First Track From Forthcoming Album “I Believe In You”

Eric Alper
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Howard Jones Releases First Track From Forthcoming Album “I Believe In You”

New wave icon/synth pioneer Howard Jones has just released the first track from his forthcoming studio album; “I Believe In You” is available now via streaming services. Click here to access. Of the inspirational new song, Jones commented, “’I Believe In You’ was the first song I wrote in lockdown. I noticed that a lot of people were losing confidence and suffering from a lack of contact and support from each other and I wanted to put out a message of encouragement. I believe in you and your amazing potential! I recorded a nightingale singing his little heart out from my studio window and it felt like he was sending me a message…keep your spirits up! That’s what you hear on the outro of the track…let those bad weather clouds go shimmering by!”

Jones’ forthcoming album, DIALOGUE, is set for release this summer. DIALOGUE is the third album in a trilogy of electronic releases from Jones with multi-media project ENGAGE coming out in 2015 and studio album TRANSFORM out in 2019. In support of DIALOGUE, Jones will hit the road in June for a headlining tour with his full band/electronic set-up. Along with Howard, the four-piece band is Robin Boult (guitar), Nick Beggs (bass/chapman stick), Robbie Bronnimann (keyboards/electronic wizardry) and Dan Burton (keyboards/drum pads). The DIALOGUE tour features special guest alternative music legend Midge Ure.

Electronic music pioneer Howard Jones has been a constant presence on the international touring scene for the past three decades, playing live in a number of different configurations including intimate solo shows and dates with his full high-tech band set-up. His most recent album is TRANSFORM. Released in 2019 to critical acclaim, TRANSFORM features several collaborations with electronica luminary BT (half of All Hail The Silence). Of the album, Paste avowed, “TRANSFORM is remarkably consistent to Jones’ lush brand of synthpop…a balance of what is familiar and what is innovative, new magic from old spells” while Pop Matters declared the album to contain “dazzling synth sounds, catchy melodies and introspective and life-affirming lyrics – but with a contemporary feel”.

Howard Jones first burst upon the contemporary music scene in 1983, with his very English songwriting and pioneering synthesizers. His first two albums HUMAN’S LIB and DREAM INTO ACTION were worldwide hits. HUMAN’S LIB reached #1 in 1984 in the UK and featured the hits “New Song,” and “What Is Love?” In 1985, Jones released the follow-up, DREAM INTO ACTION, which quickly became a Top Ten Platinum album in the United States and featured the smashes: “Things Can Only Get Better,” “Life In One Day,” “No One Is To Blame,” and “Like To Get To Know You Well.” Howard Jones has sold over 8 million albums worldwide and continues to make new music and tour the world. Jones recently performed on NBC’s top-rated morning and nighttime shows respectively, Today and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. His ubiquitous hits can be heard in such high-profile television series and films such as “Stranger Things,” “Breaking Bad,” “Watchmen,” “The Carrie Diaries”, “Superstore” and “Bumblebee”.

Susan Aglukark to receive the Humanitarian Award Presented by Music Canada at the 2022 JUNO Awards

Eric Alper
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Susan Aglukark to receive the Humanitarian Award Presented by Music Canada at the 2022 JUNO Awards

The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) announced today that acclaimed Inuk singer-songwriter, and three-time JUNO Award winner, Susan Aglukark, will be recognized with the 2022 Humanitarian Award Presented by Music Canada. Renowned for her unique blend of Inuit folk, country and pop music, Aglukark is being honoured for her long-standing dedication to improving the lives of children and youth in Northern Indigenous communities. In 2012, she started the Arctic Rose Project, which received charitable status in 2016 and became the Arctic Rose Foundation. The organization supports Northern Inuit, First Nations and Metis youth through the creation of Indigenous-led, arts-based after school programs, as well as other engaging cultural and creative projects. Today, the Arctic Rose Foundation operates in three communities across Nunavut.

Presented annually, the Humanitarian Award recognizes philanthropic efforts from Canadian artists and industry pioneers who have made a meaningful impact on social welfare around the world. Past recipients include Bryan Adams, Neil Young, Sarah McLachlan, and The Tragically Hip. Aglukark will receive this year’s award at the JUNO Opening Night Awards Presented by Ontario Creates on May 14, live-streamed via CBCMusic.ca/junos.

“It is an honour to receive this award, and a privilege to have had the opportunity to help create safe spaces for Northern Inuit and Indigenous youth to explore their own potential and forge cultural connections through Indigenous-led programs,” said Aglukark. “I am proud of the work our team at the Arctic Rose Foundation has achieved so far, and look forward to expanding our footprint across the North to bring more culturally-grounded, adaptable programming to young people and help engage, support and inspire them in all aspects of their lives.”

“Susan’s unwavering passion and dedication to the Arctic Rose Foundation is truly inspirational,” said Allan Reid, President & CEO, CARAS/The JUNO Awards. “From improving food security to decreasing gaps in education, Susan has dedicated her life to tackling some of the most pressing issues faced by Northern Indigenous communities. We are so delighted to commemorate all of her philanthropic achievements at this year’s JUNOS.”

Born in Arviat, Nunavut, Aglukark grew up with no musical influences to draw from and her early years in Ontario were spent learning the ropes while performing on local stages. Her early writing was a series of songs drawn from the one thing she knew: a life of uncertainty. Twenty-five years and nine albums later, she is now right where she belongs: singing, songwriting and falling in love with the creative process. Aglukark’s 10th album, The Crossing, is set for release on April 29.

In 1995, Aglukark became Nunavut’s first ever JUNO Award winning Inuk singer-songwriter, taking home two awards including ‘Best New Solo Artist’ and ‘Best Music of Aboriginal Canada Recording’ for her album Arctic Rose. That same year, she released her second album This Child, and its first single “O Siem” became a Top 10 hit in Canada. Her impressive list of accolades includes several honorary Doctorate degrees, receiving The Order of Canada in 2005 and the Governor General’s Lifetime Artistic Achievement Award in 2016. She has also performed in front of some of the world’s most influential people including Queen Elizabeth II, Jean Chrétien, Brian Mulroney, Nelson Mandela, Billy Graham and The Countess of Wessex.

For Aglukark, art has played a significant role in her healing journey and in the rewriting of her narrative. She believes it plays an important role for Indigenous youth dealing with identity issues. She is founder and program developer of the Arctic Rose Foundation, and also sits on the Board of Directors for the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards Foundation and the Hnatyshyn Foundation.

The goal of the Arctic Rose Foundation is to support Northern Inuit, First Nations and Metis youth, promote emotional and mental wellness, and connect them with their culture through intentional and adaptable arts-based programming. Through these programs and partnerships, youth are given a safe space, an emotional outlet, and access to Indigenous leaders, role models, employment opportunities and mentorship to help them deal with the existing structural inequities and barriers that are faced in the North. When a need is identified and a program does not exist, the Arctic Rose Foundation will develop one with the assistance and participation of respective communities.

The 51st annual JUNO Awards and JUNO Week will be hosted in Toronto from May 9 through May 15, culminating in The JUNO Awards Broadcast, produced by Insight Productions, on Sunday, May 15 at Budweiser Stage, live at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT on CBC TV, CBC Gem, CBC Radio One, CBC Music, CBC Listen, and globally on CBCMusic.ca/junos.

CF JUNO Fan Fare lands at CF Toronto Eaton Centre on May 14

Eric Alper
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CF JUNO Fan Fare lands at CF Toronto Eaton Centre on May 14

TORONTO — Music fans across the Greater Toronto Area will have the once-in-a-lifetime chance for some face time with their favourite Canadian artists at this year’s CF JUNO Fan Fare, taking place at CF Toronto Eaton Centre (220 Yonge St.) on Saturday, May 14. The interactive and exciting afternoon, hosted by iHeartRadio correspondent and Virgin Radio host Shannon Burns, features meet and greet opportunities with JUNO nominees, past and present, alongside riveting live performances from JP Saxe and others and live on stage interviews with Faouzia, Savannah Ré, Valley and more.

The fan-centric event will feature photo sessions with treasured Canadian artists including: 347aidan, Elijah Woods, Emanuel, Faouzia, JP Saxe, Lauren Spencer-Smith, Savannah Ré, Tesher, TOBi and Valley. With over 160 million likes and 8 million followers combined on TikTok, this year’s CF JUNO Fan Fare is sure to have more than a few Instagrammable and viral moments.

CF JUNO Fan Fare begins at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 14. Tickets are FREE and available for all ages through junofanfare.ca. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

“We are thrilled to welcome back JUNO Fan Fare in person to showcase incredible Canadian artists,” said Sheila Jennings, General Manager, CF Toronto Eaton Centre. “CF Toronto Eaton Centre is no stranger to hosting memorable community events. This year’s performance allows us to safely welcome fans and music enthusiasts alike to connect with and support our amazing homegrown talent in a meaningful way that’s been greatly missed over the past two years.”

‘Relaxin’ with the Miles Davis Quintet’ announced as next edition from Craft Recordings’ ‘Small Batch’ series

Eric Alper
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‘Relaxin’ with the Miles Davis Quintet’ announced as next edition from Craft Recordings’ ‘Small Batch’ series

Craft Recordings is proud to announce Relaxin’ with the Miles Davis Quintet as the latest release in its acclaimed Small Batch audiophile series. A pivotal title in Miles Davis’ incomparable catalog, this 1956 recording features a who’s who of jazz greats, including John Coltrane on tenor saxophone, Red Garland on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Philly Joe Jones on drums.

Carefully curated from Craft’s vast catalog of titles, each release in the Small Batch series offers discerning listeners the highest-quality, authentic sound—distilled to its purest form. Since launching in early 2020—debuting with John Coltrane’s Lush Life, followed by Yusef Lateef’s Eastern Sounds—the series has drawn praise from critics far and wide. Absolute Sound raved, “the sound is exceptionally detailed, present, and airy, with gorgeously rich instrumental tones and textures, excellent dynamic scaling, and a notable lack of groove noise that brings these performances to goosebump-raising life,” adding, “the deluxe packaging and accompanying notes are likewise top-tier…Don’t hesitate.” UK’s Record Collector declared, “Craft [has] done a superlative job; the packaging is elegant, and the sound is flawless…there’s a depth and vivacity that brings out the best in these sessions.” Hi-Fi Choice added, “there’s no denying the beauty of this impeccable pressing.”

As with previous Small Batch albums, Relaxin’ with the Miles Davis Quintet was mastered from its original analog tapes by Bernie Grundman and pressed on 180-gram vinyl at RTI using Neotech’s VR900 compound and a one-step lacquer process—as opposed to the standard three-step process—allowing for the utmost level of musical detail, clarity, and dynamics while reducing the amount of surface noise on the record. The limited nature of these pressings guarantees that each record is a true representation of the original lacquer and is as close as the listener can get to the original recording.

Each pressing of Relaxin’ is individually numbered and encased in a foil-stamped, linen-wrapped slipcase featuring an acrylic inset of the original artwork. The vinyl disc—extractable through a unique, frictionless ribbon pull tab—is housed in a reproduction of the album’s original tip-on jacket from Prestige Records and protected by an archival-quality, anti-static, non-scratching inner sleeve. New liner notes from the GRAMMY Award-winning music historian, journalist, and producer, Ashley Kahn complete the package.

Relaxin’ finds Miles Davis and his legendary sidemen at the top of their game. First assembled in 1955, the trumpeter’s “First Great Quintet” became the dominant small jazz group of the era and was essential in defining the hard-bop genre. Between November 1955 and October 1956, the quintet recorded three exceptionally productive sessions with the celebrated engineer Rudy Van Gelder, who simulated the group’s nightclub sets at his Hackensack, NJ studio. The resulting 32 tracks would make up six significant albums: 1956’s Miles: The New Miles Davis Quintet, 1957’s Cookin’, 1958’s Relaxin’, 1959’s Workin’, and 1961’s Steamin’.

What is most notable in these sessions—and particularly in Relaxin’—is the deft interplay between the supremely talented musicians. “The sidemen [Davis] had chosen emphasized rhythmic dexterity and strong, individual styles that sometimes complemented and—to some ears—seemed discordant and contradictory,” writes Kahn in his liner notes. “The lineup was a study in contrast—Miles’ languid, sparse phrasing next to Coltrane’s explosive, hard-edged verbosity, Garland’s sophisticated voicings and Chamber’s penchant for arco solos, alongside Jones’ rootsy rhythmic propulsion.”

Kahn continues, “When melodic lines were smartly shared or handed off between different players, disparate ideas would suddenly lock in together…. It was about delicacy and muscle. It was about drops and shifts and surprises. Often the group reimagined song structures more as sectional exercises, one feel or groove morphing into another.”

Those deft collaborative moments can be heard throughout the six selections on Relaxin’, which are split between bebop standards (Dizzy Gillespie’s “Woody’n You,” Sonny Rollins’ “Oleo”) and Broadway balladry (“I Could Write a Book,” “You’re My Everything,” “It Could Happen to You,” and “If I Were a Bell”). The latter tune, from the musical Guys and Dolls, was released as a single alongside the album and has long been considered a standout track. Kahn argues that this rendition made “If I Were a Bell” a jazz standard, while Garland’s work on the song “cannot be overstated…His piano solo—replete with a block-chord sequence that reminds all of the song’s lyric and lilt—is among his most masterful at Miles’ side.”

While Relaxin’ and its sister albums have long been celebrated in the jazz canon, it’s interesting to note that they were initially recorded as a contractual obligation to Prestige, Davis’ label during the early ’50s. Davis’ star was rising, and he wanted to take advantage of more lucrative opportunities. Betting on himself, Davis knew it would be a win-win situation for all parties involved. Indeed, by the time that Prestige released Relaxin’ in 1958, Davis had soared to new heights, both commercially and creatively, and was just months away from recording his best-selling masterpiece, Kind of Blue.

Today, Relaxin’ remains an enduring classic and a perfect encapsulation of the hard-bop era. “From one generation to the next, Relaxin’ fast becomes familiar territory, and deservedly so,” asserts Kahn. “It remains a must-listen for those who would know or play modern jazz or improvisational music. It stands both as a historic statement and one of the brightest assets in the Prestige Records catalogue.”

Tracklist – Relaxin’ with the Miles Davis Quintet:
Side A
1. If I Were a Bell
2. You’re My Everything
3. I Could Write a Book
Side B
1. Oleo
2. It Could Happen to You
3. Woody’n You

Light in the Attic announces first-ever reissue for Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood’s ‘Nancy & Lee’

Eric Alper
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Light in the Attic announces first-ever reissue for Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood’s ‘Nancy & Lee’

Celebrated archival label Light in the Attic is thrilled to announce the first official reissue of Nancy & Lee: the highly-influential 1968 duet album from Nancy Sinatra and Lee Hazlewood. Set for release on May 20th, this definitive edition of Nancy & Lee features newly-remastered audio by the GRAMMY-nominated engineer John Baldwin and includes an array of exclusive content, including a new interview with Nancy, never-before-seen photos, and two bonus tracks from the album sessions: an ethereal cover of The Kinks’ “Tired of Waiting for You” and an up-tempo version of “Love Is Strange” (first made famous by Mickey & Sylvia in 1956). While the recordings – both captured in January 1968 – will make their official debut on vinyl in May, “Love Is Strange” is currently available now to stream across all digital platforms.

Nancy & Lee can be found in a variety of formats, including vinyl, cassette tape, CD, 8-track, and digital. The vinyl LP, pressed at Record Technology, Inc. (RTI), is presented in an expanded gatefold jacket and features the iconic, original cover photo by Ron Joy. Inside, a 20-page booklet offers an array of photos from the legendary singer, actress, and activist’s personal collection, as well as an in-depth Q&A with Sinatra, conducted by the reissue’s GRAMMY-nominated co-producer, Hunter Lea (also available in the CD package). In addition to the classic black vinyl pressing, a selection of colorful variants can be found exclusively at NancySinatra.com, LightInTheAttic.net, independent record stores and select online retailers.

In celebration of the release, Nancy and fellow musician and longtime friend Don Randi (The Wrecking Crew) visited Record Technology, Inc. in Camarillo, CA to take a tour of the plant and get a sneak peek at the Bootique-exclusive pressing of Nancy and Lee. A short video piece documenting the day, including new interviews with Sinatra, Randi, and RTI plant manager, Rick Hashimoto, is available here.

Additionally, a limited-edition merchandise capsule including album art apparel, accessories, and more will accompany the release at Nancy’s Bootique at NancySinatra.com.

When Nancy – the eldest daughter of Frank Sinatra – first met Lee Hazlewood in 1965, she was a demure, 25-year-old divorcée, who was struggling to find her place as an artist amid the changing musical landscape. At the urging of her label, she was introduced to the Oklahoma-born songwriter, Lee Hazlewood, who had found success working with guitarist Duane Eddy. While Sinatra and Hazlewood hailed from vastly different worlds, they were about to embark on a partnership that would change the course of their lives. Just months after meeting, Sinatra scored her first No.1 hit with “These Boots Are Made For Walkin’.” Written and produced by Hazlewood, the song became Sinatra’s signature tune – transforming her into a confident and commanding feminist icon.

Initially, Hazlewood maintained a behind-the-scenes role with Sinatra, enlisting arranger and composer Billy Strange, as well as other members of The Wrecking Crew (the famed Los Angeles session musicians) for the singer’s best-selling 1966 debut LP, Boots. But when they returned to the studio later that year for Sinatra’s sophomore effort, How Does That Grab You?, Hazlewood joined the singer for a duet of his song, “Sand.” Over the next year, as Sinatra’s star rose, the artists continued to collaborate in the vocal booth, finding success with “Summer Wine,” “Lady Bird,” and the cinematic “Some Velvet Morning” (all penned by Hazlewood). In 1967, just months after Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash scored a country hit with “Jackson,” Sinatra and Hazlewood released a pop version of the offbeat song, landing in the Top Ten across Europe and peaking at No.14 in the US.

Recalling her duets with Hazlewood, Sinatra laughs, “We use to call it beauty and the beast!” Voices with no blend.” Indeed, no one could have predicted that these two contrasting voices (and personalities) would work together quite so well. Praising the duo’s “sonic alchemy,” Hunter Lea writes, “rarely in music has there been such an unlikely collaboration: Nancy, the sassy and sweet songstress contrasted by Lee, the gruff, psychedelic cowboy. A harmonic partnership that defies conventional logic yet yields so much beauty.”

Before long, it seemed only natural for the artists to release an entire album together. In addition to compiling their recent duets (many of which appeared on Sinatra’s solo LPs), the duo recorded several new covers and Hazlewood originals. Billy Strange and The Wrecking Crew provided lush orchestral arrangements, as the two artists performed a range of material, including folk, pop, and country songs, with a twist of psychedelia.

Throughout the album, a palpable chemistry can be heard between Sinatra and Hazlewood – from the frisky banter on “Greenwich Village Folk Song Salesman” to the tongue-in-cheek delivery of “I’ve Been Down So Long (It Looks Up To Me).” But the artists also reveal their softer sides – particularly in the romantic balladry of “Sand.” Their languid rendition of “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling,” meanwhile, is downright erotic, despite the lyrics. But, as Sinatra asserts, her decades-long relationship with Hazlewood was always platonic. “We had sort of a love/hate relationship,” she explains. “Maybe it was a sexual tension because we never had any kind of affair. I don’t know exactly what it was, but it worked.”

That je ne sais quoi certainly did work. Upon its release in the spring of 1968, Nancy & Lee became a critical and commercial hit on both sides of the Atlantic, peaking at No.13 on the Billboard 200 and No.17 in the UK. By 1970, the album was certified Gold by the RIAA. Over the decades, however, the appeal of Nancy & Lee has only grown, while the album has amassed an enduring cult status that few titles achieve. Multiple generations of artists, including Sonic Youth, Lana Del Rey, and the Jesus & Mary Chain, have cited Nancy & Lee as an influence.

In recent years, Nancy & Lee has also inspired a groundswell of recognition from such outlets as Rolling Stone, which ranked the pair at No.9 on their 20 Greatest Duos of All Time list. Pitchfork included Nancy & Lee in their “Best Albums of the 1960s” roundup, hailing the record as “a document of a flawless collaboration.” The UK’s Far Out Magazine declared Nancy & Lee to be “a masterpiece that still ripples in the sonic waves today.” NPR, meanwhile, noted that “Sinatra and Hazlewood masterfully marry sunshiny orchestral elements with lyrics that dig at something darker about the human condition.” They went on to praise Sinatra’s work on Nancy & Lee as “some of the best that she’s ever recorded…it proved that she would hardly allow herself to be pigeonholed into one-hit wonder territory. Here, she made it clear that she was capable of so much more.”

Today, Sinatra reflects fondly on her time with Hazlewood. “The most fun was when there were two mics in the studio, and Lee was on one and I was on one,” she recalls. When asked about the lasting appeal of Nancy & Lee, the artist credits much of its success to her partner. “Lee has a following that continues to this day. He’s beloved; people love him all over the world.”

Sinatra’s legacy, meanwhile, continues to grow, as new generations discover her impressive catalog (which boasts nearly 20 studio albums – her duets with Hazlewood among them – and dozens of charting singles, including the theme song to the 1967 James Bond film, You Only Live Twice). In 2020, Sinatra was recognized by her peers when “These Boots Are Made For Walkin’” was inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame. That same year, Sinatra partnered with Light in the Attic for Nancy Sinatra: Start Walkin’ 1965-1976, a definitive survey of her most prolific period. At the end of 2021, LITA reissued Sinatra’s classic debut, Boots, while the label will continue to celebrate Sinatra with a variety of special releases, exclusive merch, and more.

Tracklist – Nancy & Lee:
1. You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling
2. Elusive Dreams
3. Greenwich Village Folk Song Salesman
4. Summer Wine
5. Storybook Children
6. Sundown, Sundown
7. Jackson
8. Some Velvet Morning
9. Sand
10. Lady Bird
11. I’ve Been Down So Long (It Looks Like Up to Me)
12. Tired Of Waiting for You*
13. Love Is Strange*
* Bonus tracks

Randy Bachman Reveals How He Reunited With His Long-Lost Stolen Guitar

Eric Alper
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Randy Bachman Reveals How He Reunited With His Long-Lost Stolen Guitar

Randy Bachman tells a story about his stolen orange Gretsch guitar and why this guitar was so special to him.

Indigenous Pop-Rock Trio Low Budget Rock Star Unveil Cozy & Anthemic “Sunglasses”

Eric Alper
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Indigenous Pop-Rock Trio Low Budget Rock Star Unveil Cozy & Anthemic “Sunglasses”

Powerful Indigenous pop-rock trio from Opaskwayak Cree Nation, Manitoba-based Low Budget Rock Star deliver a fresh and invigorating power-rock single, “Sunglasses.”

Checking all the group’s self-designated boxes, “Sunglasses” is a bold new arena-rock sound smothered in a blanket of intimate yet catchy lyrical storytelling. Packed with feel-good lyrics and light-hearted chord progression, the song is teeming with plenty of lifts to pick spirits up and keep them high.

It’s not just high voltage sounds and riveting rolls through chords. This high-spirited anthem also holds a powerful message that Low Budget Rock Star holds close to their hearts.

“It’s important to acknowledge the insecurities we carry,” frontman Kennie Henderson shares. “And it is equally important that we do not allow them to consume the life we have.”

It’s always something bigger with this band.

It’s not just a song… It’s not just a band…

It’s life.

Low Budget Rock Star is a three-piece band comprised of Kennie Henderson (singer/guitarist), Harley Whitehead (bass), and Richie Cudmore (drums). This small band harnesses a mighty power that fights endlessly to breathe new life into a warry form of art – Rock N’ Roll.

Debuting in 2019, the band released their anthemic self-titled debut single cataloging the group’s humble upbringing. Because, never forget, naming a song after your band is VERY cool.

Henderson formed the band not just for fun, but for survival. “Growing up on the reservation, I used music as an outlet to help overcome the struggles of poverty, alcoholism, drug abuse, domestic family violence…” he shares.

Next to Henderson is Cudmore, a self-proclaimed 21st-century artistic poetic prophet whose experience and expertise help set the foundation and ultimate rise of Low Budget Rock Star. Cudmore is also lending his talents to Henderson when writing songs, although primarily focuses on drumming for the group.

Whitehead completes the trio, delivering love and nurturing through his prowess on bass. Harley’s love for music and songwriting contributes to Low Budget Rock Star’s overall identity.

When these guys get together to play, it’s seamless — almost like it’s one person doing multiple takes.

But alas, the reality is these are musicians who have effortless chemistry and training leading to smooth and passionate collaboration with each other.

It becomes a spiritual and intellectual encounter — which is also exactly how Low Budget Rock Star’s new single feels.

The Beach Boys Announce Yearlong 60th Anniversary Global Celebration

Eric Alper
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The Beach Boys Announce Yearlong 60th Anniversary Global Celebration

Upon signing to Capitol Records in 1962 and releasing their first album, Surfin’ Safari, that same year, the three young brothers, cousin, and friend from Hawthorne, Calif., known simply as The Beach Boys, soared to popularity with their ebullient sound that embodied the Southern California beach lifestyle with sunshiny vocal harmonies, twangy guitars, upbeat songs about surf culture, and their youthful exuberance. Propelled by the hits “Surfin’” and “Surfin’ Safari,” the album, which uncommon for its day, featured mostly original songs, spent 37 weeks on the Billboard chart and set the course for one of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful bands of all time, who have gone on to sell more than 100 million records worldwide. With each album, The Beach Boys refined their songwriting and production skills, rapidly evolving from their early surf beginnings to create some of the most sonically exquisite and most important and beloved music ever made.

Sixty years after first transmitting their good vibrations around the globe, The Beach Boys, the first American pop band to reach the 60-year milestone, remain one of the most legendary and influential groups to date, with their timeless music reverberating through modern culture today as strong as ever. In celebration of their 60th anniversary, the group has released of some of the major initiatives planned to celebrate “America’s Band” throughout 2022-23.

The Beach Boys said: “It’s hard to believe it’s been 60 years since we signed to Capitol Records and released our first album, Surfin’ Safari. We were just kids in 1962 and could have never dreamed about where our music would take us, that it would have such a big impact on the world, still be loved, and continue to be discovered by generation after generation. This is a huge milestone that we’re all very honoured to have achieved. And to our incredible fans, forever and new, we look forward to sharing even more throughout the year.”

To kick off the yearlong celebration and provide the perfect summer soundtrack, Capitol Records, UMe, and Universal Music Canada will release a newly remastered and expanded edition of The Beach Boys career-spanning greatest hits collection, Sounds Of Summer: The Very Best Of The Beach Boys, on June 17. Originally released in 2003, the album soared to no. 16 in the US and stayed on the chart for 104 weeks. Now certified 4x platinum for sales of nearly four and a half million albums, the collection has been updated in both number of songs and audio quality, expanding the original 30-track best of with 50 more of the band’s most beloved songs for a total of 80 tracks that span their earliest hits to deeper fan-favourite cuts and from their 1962 debut album, Surfin’ Safari through to 1989’s Still Cruisin’.

Assembled by Mark Linett and Alan Boyd, the team behind 2013’s GRAMMY Award-winning SMiLE Sessions and last year’s acclaimed boxed set, Feel Flows – The Sunflower and Surf’s Up Sessions 1969-1971, Sounds Of Summer features nearly every US Top 40 hit of The Beach Boys’ incredible career, including “California Girls,” “I Get Around,” “Surfer Girl,” “Surfin’ U.S.A.,” “Fun, Fun, Fun,” “God Only Knows,” “Good Vibrations,” “Be True To Your School,” “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” “Kokomo,” “Barbara Ann,” “Help Me, Rhonda,” “In My Room,” and many others. Fifty additional tracks showcase a broad mix of songs from across their wide-ranging catalog with some of the many highlights including “All Summer Long,” “Disney Girls,” “Forever,” “Feel Flows,” “Friends,” “Roll Plymouth Rock,” “Sail on Sailor,” “Surf’s Up,” and “Wind Chimes.”

The collection boasts 24 new mixes including two first-time stereo mixes, plus 22 new-and-improved stereo mixes, which in some cases feature the latest in digital stereo extraction technology, allowing for the team to separate the original mono backing tracks for the first time.

The expanded edition of Sounds Of Summer will be available in a variety of formats, including digitally, a 3CD softpack, and as a Super Deluxe Edition 6LP vinyl boxed set on 180-gram black vinyl in two options – a standard set or a numbered, limited edition version featuring a rainbow foil slipcase and four collectible lithographs. Both versions will feature colour printed sleeves that replicate the original “Capitol Catalog” sleeves that highlight the entire Beach Boys discography, and all formats will include a booklet with new liner notes and updated photos. The original 30-track version will also be available in its newly remastered and upgraded form on single CD or double gatefold LP on standard weight vinyl or as a higher-end limited edition numbered version pressed on 180-gram vinyl with a tip-on jacket and a lithograph.

Pre-order for Sounds Of Summer: The Very Best Of The Beach Boys is available now, and the set is being previewed with the new stereo mix of “Good Vibrations” which is now streaming and available for immediate download. Pre-order and listen now HERE.

Additionally, all 30 tracks on disc 1 of Sounds Of Summer have been mixed in immersive Dolby Atmos, joining the group’s Christmas Album which was mixed in spatial audio and released this past holiday season, and continuing the initiative to present the group’s catalog in the enveloping and exciting new audio format.

The timeless music of The Beach Boys will also be featured in several innovative official new music videos that are in the works along with a slate of lyric videos and visualizers to present these classic songs in the modern video era.

Following the release of Sounds of Summer, this fall Capitol/UMe/Universal Music Canada will release the next chapter in The Beach Boys’ archival releases, which will explore the bands often overlooked but pivotal albums, 1972’s Carl and the Passions – “So Tough” and 1973’s Holland. The deluxe multi-disc set follows last year’s acclaimed boxed set Feel Flows – The Sunflower and Surf’s Up Sessions 1969-1971 that topped many critic’s year-end lists and chronicled and explored the metamorphic and highly influential 1969-1971 period of the band’s career through tons of unreleased tracks, live recordings, radio promos, alternate versions, alternate mixes, isolated backing tracks and a cappella versions, culled from the album sessions. More details will be revealed at a later date.

Besides the new music releases from Capitol/UMe/Universal Music Canada, The Beach Boys are also catching new waves by participating in a feature length documentary currently in the works, a tribute special, prestigious exhibitions and events, unique brand partnerships, and much more to celebrate their 60th anniversary.

For six decades, The Beach Boys’ music has been an indelible part of American history. Their brilliant harmonies conveyed simple truths through sophisticated, pioneering musical arrangements. The Beach Boys transcended their music and have come to represent California culture. They provided fans around the world with a passport to experience love, youthful exuberance, and surf culture. Founded in Hawthorne, California in 1961, The Beach Boys were originally comprised of the three teenaged Wilson brothers: Brian, Carl, and Dennis, their cousin Mike Love, and school friend Al Jardine. In 1962, neighbour David Marks joined the group for their first wave of hits with Capitol Records, leaving in late 1963, and in 1965, Bruce Johnston joined the band when Brian Wilson retired from touring to focus on writing and producing for the group.

The Beach Boys signed with Capitol Records in July 1962 and released their first album, Surfin’ Safari, that same year. The band’s initial surf rock focus was soon broadened to include other styles and such themes as spirituality, meditation, and environmentalism, making The Beach Boys America’s preeminent band of the 1960s. The Wilson/Love collaboration resulted in many huge international chart hits.

The Beach Boys are one of the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful bands of all time, with over 100 million records sold worldwide. Between the 1960s and today, the group had over 80 songs chart worldwide, 36 of them in the US Top 40 and four topping the Billboard Hot 100. Their influence on other artists spans musical genres and movements. Countless artists have cited Pet Sounds as their inspiration for creating their own musical masterpieces. Rolling Stone ranked Pet Sounds No. 2 on its list of the “500 Greatest Albums of All Time,” and the Beach Boys No. 12 on its list of the “100 Greatest Artists of All Time.”

Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 and recipients of The Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement GRAMMY Award, The Beach Boys are a beloved American institution that remains iconic around the world.

Sounds Of Summer: The Very Best Of The Beach Boys – Expanded Edition
3CD/Digital Tracklisting

Disc 1
1. California Girls (1965)
2. I Get Around (1964)
3. Surfin’ Safari (1962)
4. Surfin’ U.S.A. (1963)
5. Fun, Fun, Fun (1964)
6. Surfer Girl (1963)
7. Don’t Worry Baby (1964)
8. Little Deuce Coupe (1963)
9. Shut Down (1963)
10. Help Me, Rhonda (1965)
11. Be True To Your School (Single Version) (1963)
12. When I Grow Up (To Be A Man) (1964)
13. In My Room (1963)
14. God Only Knows (1966)
15. Sloop John B (1966)
16. Wouldn’t It Be Nice (1966)
17. Getcha Back (1985)
18. Come Go With Me (1978)
19. Rock and Roll Music (1976)
20. Dance, Dance, Dance (1964)
21. Barbara Ann (1965)
22. Do You Wanna Dance? (1965)
23. Heroes And Villains (1967)
24. Good Timin’ (1979)
25. Kokomo (1988)
26. Do It Again (1968)
27. Wild Honey (1967)
28. Darlin’ (1967)
29. I Can Hear Music (1969)
30. Good Vibrations (1966)

Disc 2
1. All Summer Long (1964)
2. Good To My Baby (1965)
3. This Whole World (1970)
4. All I Wanna Do (1970)
5. Disney Girls (1971)
6. Kiss Me Baby (1965)
7. Let The Wind Blow (1967)
8. Forever (1970)
9. Sail On Sailor (1973)
10. Long Promised Road (1971)
11. Cotton Fields (1970)
12. Pom Pom Play Girl (1964)
13. Wind Chimes (Smile) (1966/1993)
14. I Went To Sleep (1968)
15. Farmer’s Daughter (1963)
16. Let Us Go On This Way (1977)
17. You Need A Mess Of Help To Stand Alone (1972)
18. The Night Was So Young (1977)
19. Marcella (1972)
20. You’re So Good To Me (1965)
21. Aren’t You Glad (1967)
22. Baby Blue (1979)
23. It’s About Time (1970)
24. Roll Plymouth Rock (1966/1993)
25. Surf’s Up (1971)

Disc 3
1. Add Some Music To Your Day (1970)
2. It’s Ok (1976)
3. Goin’ On (1980)
4. San Miguel (1969)
5. The Warmth Of The Sun (1964)
6. Everyone’s In Love With You (1976)
7. All This Is That (1972)
8. California Saga (1973)
9. Feel Flows (1971)
10. Wendy (1964)
11. Girl Don’t Tell Me (1965)
12. Let Him Run Wild (1965)
13. All I Want To Do (1968)
14. Susie Cincinnati (1970)
15. Vegetables (1967)
16. Time To Get Alone (1969)
17. Where I Belong (1985)
18. I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times (1966)
19. Little Bird (1968)
20. Til I Die (1971)
21. (Wouldn’t It Be Nice To) Live Again (1971)
22. Friends (1968)
23. Devoted To You (1965)
24. Can’t Wait Too Long (1968)
25. California Feelin’ (1978)

Sounds Of Summer: The Very Best Of The Beach Boys – Expanded Edition
6LP/Tracklisting

LP1
SIDE A
1. California Girls (1965)
2. I Get Around (1964)
3. Surfin’ Safari (1962)
4. Surfin’ U.S.A. (1963)
5. Fun, Fun, Fun (1964)
6. Surfer Girl (1963)
7. Don’t Worry Baby (1964)
8. Little Deuce Coupe (1963)

SIDE B
1. Shut Down (1963)
2. Help Me, Rhonda (1965)
3. Be True To Your School (Single Version) (1963)
4. When I Grow Up (To Be A Man) (1964)
5. In My Room (1963)
6. God Only Knows (1966)
7. Sloop John B (1966)
8. Wouldn’t It Be Nice (1966)

LP2
SIDE C
1. Getcha Back (1985)
2. Rock and Roll Music (1978)
3. Rock and Roll Music (1976)
4. Dance, Dance, Dance (1964)
5. Barbara Ann (1965)
6. Do You Wanna Dance? (1965)
7. Heroes And Villains (1967)
8. Good Timin’ (1979)

SIDE D
1. Kokomo (1988)
2. Do It Again (1968)
3. Wild Honey (1967)
4. Darlin’ (1967)
5. I Can Hear Music (1969)
6. Good Vibration (1966)

SIDE E
1. All Summer Long (1964)
2. Good To My Baby (1965)
3. This Whole World (1970)
4. All I Wanna Do (1970)
5. Disney Girls (1971)
6. Kiss Me Baby (1965)
7. Let The Wind Blow (1967)
8. Forever (1970)

SIDE F
1. Sail On Sailor (1973)
2. Long Promised Road (1971)
3. Cotton Fields (1970)
4. Pom Pom Play Girl (1964)
5. Wind Chimes (Smile) (1966/1993)
6. I Went To Sleep (1968)
7. Farmer’s Daughter (1963)

SIDE G
1. Let Us Go On This Way (1977)
2. You Need A Mess Of Help To Stand Alone (1972)
3. The Night Was So Young (1977)
4. Marcella (1972)
5. You’re So Good To Me (1965)
6. Aren’t You Glad (1967)
7. Baby Blue (1979)

SIDE H
1. It’s About Time (1970)
2. Roll Plymouth Rock (1966/1993)
3. Surf’s Up (1971)
4. Add Some Music To Your Day (1970)
5. It’s Ok (1976)
6. Goin’ On (1980)
7. San Miguel (1969)

SIDE I
1. The Warmth Of The Sun (1964)
2. Everyone’s In Love With You (1976)
3. All This Is That (1972)
4. California Saga (1973)
5. Feel Flows (1971)
6. Wendy (1964)
7. Girl Don’t Tell Me (1965)

SIDE J
1. Let Him Run Wild (1965)
2. All I Want To Do (1968)
3. Susie Cincinnati (1970)
4. Vegetables (1967)
5. Time To Get Alone (1969)
6. Where I Belong (1985)
7. I Just Wasn’t Made For These Times (1966)

SIDE K
1. Little Bird (1968)
2. Til I Die (1971)
3. (Wouldn’t It Be Nice To) Live Again (1971)
4. Friends (1968)
5. Devoted To You (1965)
6. Can’t Wait Too Long (1968)
7. California Feelin’ (1978)

Sounds Of Summer: The Very Best Of The Beach Boys
1CD Tracklisting

1. California Girls (1965)
2. I Get Around (1964)
3. Surfin’ Safari (1962)
4. Surfin’ U.S.A. (1963)
5. Fun, Fun, Fun (1964)
6. Surfer Girl (1963)
7. Don’t Worry Baby (1964)
8. Little Deuce Coupe (1963)
9. Shut Down (1963)
10. Help Me, Rhonda (1965)
11. Be True To Your School (Single Version) (1963)
12. When I Grow Up (To Be A Man) (1964)
13. In My Room (1963)
14. God Only Knows (1966)
15. Sloop John B (1966)
16. Wouldn’t It Be Nice (1966)
17. Getcha Back (1985)
18. Come Go With Me (1978)
19. Rock and Roll Music (1976)
20. Dance, Dance, Dance (1964)
21. Barbara Ann (1965)
22. Do You Wanna Dance? (1965)
23. Heroes And Villains (1967)
24. Good Timin’ (1979)
25. Kokomo (1988)
26. Do It Again (1968)
27. Wild Honey (1967)
28. Darlin’ (1967)
29. I Can Hear Music (1969)
30. Good Vibrations (1966)

 

Neneh Cherry’s New Album ‘The Versions’ Gets Released June 10

Eric Alper
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0
Neneh Cherry’s New Album ‘The Versions’ Gets Released June 10

Neneh Cherry announces a new project titled The Versions out June 10th, a collaboration album of covers from her expansive catalogue by an all female lineup of some of the most exciting and revered artists of our time. Listen to superstar songwriter Sia’s version of Neneh’s hit “Manchild” out today.

The Versions is a 10-track album featuring Neneh Cherry reworks from artists that have a personal connection to the artist and her music. Sia expresses her love for Neneh and her family saying, “Neneh was my favorite artist when she hit the scene. I saved my pocket money for red filas and dreamt one day we would meet. When I was struggling with my mental health in my early twenties, I somehow ended up in their house being taken care of as if I was one of their own children. I called her husband during a suicide attempt, who had been mentoring me as an incredible music producer, and they gave me all the love I could have dreamt of. I owe them a huge thanks and would sing ‘a-b-c’ for them if they asked.

Neneh, my very first queen, Cameron my bonus dad, I love you forever amen!”

Other artists involved include long-time friend, one of pop’s treasured musical geniuses and woman behind some of the most memorable songs of recent decade, Robyn who teamed up with Mapei to re-imagine the seminal track “Buffalo Stance” into a slinky, scandipop song with the help of Dev Hynes on production. Pop provocateur, ANOHNI lends her haunting vocals to “Woman”, delivering an arresting remake of the empowering track and south London nomad Greentea Peng transforms “Buddy X” into a garage infused number. Singer-songwriter and poet Jamila Woods adds her soulful touch on “Kootchi” with artist and violinist Sudan Archives completely reconstructing “Heart” into a sparse and delicate offering. Seinabo Sey adds Scandinavian soul to “Kisses On The Wind”, Kelsey Lu’s ethereal vocals on her version of “Manchild” transports the track into unworldly heights with Neneh’s daughter TYSON bringing her own sensual attitude to “Sassy” before Honey Dijon wraps things up, taking things to the dancefloor with her house remix of “Buddy X”.

Neneh Cherry has continued to define and redefine culture, style and music, releasing five studio albums, including 2018’s Broken Politics, produced by Four Tet, which was met with critical acclaim by the likes of The Guardian, Rolling Stone, The Times, Q and Pitchfork. 2020 saw her reissue her radically influential debut album Raw Like Sushi to celebrate its 30th anniversary and recently received the honorary Icon Award at the NME Awards 2022.

Tracklisting:
Buffalo Stance (Robyn feat. Mapei)
Manchild (feat. Sia)
Woman (feat. ANOHNI)
Buddy X (feat. Greentea Peng)
Kootchi (feat. Jamila Woods)
Sassy (feat. TYSON)
Heart (feat. Sudan Archives)
Kisses On The Wind (feat. Seinabo Sey)
Manchild (feat. Kelsey Lu)
Buddy X (Honey Dijon Remix)

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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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