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Bren Holmes Returns With New Album ‘A Rush To The Start Line’ And Single “Ordinary World”

Eric Alper
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Bren Holmes Returns With New Album ‘A Rush To The Start Line’ And Single “Ordinary World”

Bren Holmes officially returns to the spotlight with his second solo album ‘A Rush To The Start Line’ available on CD starting February 6. This new collection of music marks a significant shift for the Los Angeles based singer and songwriter as he moves toward a diverse palette of indie rock and alt-pop. The lead single “Ordinary World (For Sinéad)” serves as a propulsive and melancholic tribute to the late Irish icon Sinéad O’Connor. Co-produced by Bryan Dobbs, the track features a heavy bass and drum foundation inspired by the brooding atmosphere of The National.

The ten track album demonstrates a matured approach to songwriting that draws from the punk, ska, and pop influences of the artist’s youth in Ireland. Tracks like the anthemic “Gloria” tell heart wrenching stories of resilience while “Don’t Say You Will” offers a high energy pop vibe paired with a narrative of heartbreak. The record features an impressive roster of guest musicians including bassist Paul Bushnell and guitarist Bob Boulding. This project highlights a creator who prioritizes strong melodic hooks and authentic storytelling above specific genre boundaries.

Every arrangement on the record feels incredibly cohesive and underscores a major leap in vocal confidence. The transition from the Irish rock sound of The Young Dubliners to this more personal indie pop territory is a triumph of artistic evolution. Listeners encounter a wide range of emotions from the celebratory “Shine” to the festive and reflective album closer “Song for Christmas.” The production quality remains crisp and allows the intricate guitar layers and sincere lyrical delivery to remain at the forefront of the mix.

The track listing for ‘A Rush To The Start Line’ includes:

  1. Gloria
  2. Don’t Say You Will
  3. Ordinary World (For Sinéad)
  4. Need Some Time
  5. Shine
  6. Dreamin’
  7. The Way
  8. Satisfied
  9. This One
  10. Song For Christmas

David Lee Roth Details Massive 2026 North American Tour

Eric Alper
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David Lee Roth Details Massive 2026 North American Tour

Iconic vocalist David Lee Roth officially detailed a substantial 2026 North American tour titled “A Night With David Lee Roth” following his high energy return to the stage last year. This thirty date excursion begins on April 16 in Airway Heights and stretches across major theaters and arenas through August. The upcoming performances feature an eight piece band including a powerhouse four piece group of backing vocalists to recreate the massive sound of his legendary catalog. Roth maintained a strict focus on Van Halen classics during his recent festival appearances and this trend remains a central expectation for the new year.

The tour route hits historic venues such as the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and The Capitol Theatre in Port Chester before concluding at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. Fans in cities like Austin, Memphis, and Washington DC gain access to a setlist packed with the high octane anthems that defined the hard rock era. This run of shows represents the first extensive touring schedule for the singer since his brief retirement hiatus earlier this decade. The sheer charisma and vocal swagger on display during his 2025 performances prove that the “Diamond Dave” persona is as vibrant and electric as ever.

Tour Dates:

Apr 16 – Airway Heights, WA @ Spokane Live
Apr 18 – Grand Ronde, OR @ Spirit Mountain Casino
Apr 20 – Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
Apr 22 – Tucson, AZ @ The Rialto Theatre
Apr 25 – Albuquerque, NM @ Revel
Apr 27 – Lubbock, TX @ Buddy Holly Hall
Apr 29 – Austin, TX @ ACL Live at The Moody Theater
May 1 – Memphis, TN @ Graceland Soundstage
May 3 – Orlando, FL @ Hard Rock Live Orlando
May 6 – Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
May 9 – Virginia Beach, VA @ The Dome
May 12 – Wilmington, NC @ CCFC’s Wilson Center
May 14 – Greensboro, NC @ Tanger Center
May 16 – Washington, DC @ Warner Theatre
May 19 – Glenside, PA @ Keswick Theatre
May 21 – Niagara Falls, ON @ OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino
May 24 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues
May 26 – Schenectady, NY @ Proctors Theatre
May 29 – Hampton Beach, NH @ Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
May 31 – Wallingford, CT @ Toyota Oakdale Theatre
June 3 – Port Chester, NY @ The Capitol Theatre
June 5 – Asbury Park, NJ @ Stone Pony Summer Stage
June 7 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount
June 9 – Huber Heights, OH @ Rose Music Center at The Heights
June 11 – Fort Wayne, IN @ Foellinger Theatre
June 13 – Battle Creek, MI @ FireKeepers Casino Hotel
June 15 – Sioux Falls, SD @ The Monument
June 17 – Moorhead, MN @ Bluestem Amphitheater
June 20 – Milwaukee, WI @ Summerfest
Aug 7 – Sturgis, SD @ Sturgis Buffalo Chip

King Mala And Audrey Nuna Reimagine “Toxic” For New Valorant Season Cinematic “Why We Fight Back”

Eric Alper
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King Mala And Audrey Nuna Reimagine “Toxic” For New Valorant Season Cinematic “Why We Fight Back”

Riot Games launched the 2026 Valorant season with a seductive and dark reimagining of the Britney Spears classic “Toxic.” This collaboration features rising alt-pop artist King Mala alongside Audrey Nuna to transform the early-2000s hit into a brooding electronic-pop anthem. The release coincides with the debut of the “Why We Fight Back” cinematic which explores themes of vengeance and ambition through the perspective of the game’s Agents. This version of the track utilizes haunting vocals and moody production to create a soundscape specifically tailored for high stakes competitive play.

The project follows the anniversary cinematic “Why We Fight” and signals a transition into a darker narrative era for the franchise. Lead Music Supervisor Jonny Altepeter curated this version to reflect a raw intensity that aligns with the current season of content. King Mala and Audrey Nuna deliver a performance that prioritizes emotional weight over the upbeat tempo of the original recording. The track is currently available on all major streaming platforms as players begin their journey through the latest patch updates. This moody interpretation of a pop staple provides a perfect backdrop for the gritty imagery found in the new season kickoff.

Nerve Star Unleash Hard Rock Fury On New Album ‘White Hot’ Featuring Tony Bourge

Eric Alper
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Nerve Star Unleash Hard Rock Fury On New Album ‘White Hot’ Featuring Tony Bourge

Hard rock and heavy metal powerhouse Nerve Star officially released their comprehensive new album ‘White Hot’ on February 27. The record serves as a high energy fusion of seventies hard rock, NWOBHM, and eighties metal influences. This project features the solidified lineup of Joss Thorley on bass, Chris Billinghurst and Janne Stark on dual lead guitars, Matt Oakman on vocals, and Peter Svensson on drums. The album spans thirteen tracks on digital and CD formats with a curated eight track selection available on vinyl via RSK Entertainment and Proper Distribution.

The recording process for ‘White Hot’ involved international collaboration across studios in Sweden and Raw Studios in England. Janne Stark brought decades of production experience to the sessions to ensure a sonic profile reminiscent of the dual lead guitar harmonies found in Thin Lizzy. A major highlight arrives with the final track “Richard III” which features a guest appearance by legendary Budgie riff master Tony Bourge. This closing anthem showcases all three lead guitarists and connects the band to the historic lineage of Welsh rock and heavy metal.

Every track on this release delivers unrelenting riffs and thumping bass lines designed for maximum volume. The band successfully transitioned from home demos in 2021 to a fully realized studio production through years of meticulous tracking. The addition of Matt Oakman in 2023 provided the vocal power necessary to elevate the arrangements into a professional league. This record stands as a definitive document of the group’s technical ability and dedication to the classic rock aesthetic.

The arrival of the album precedes a schedule of upcoming UK gigs and European festival appearances set for later this year. The band honed these thirteen compositions through multiple sessions to ensure every drum fill and guitar solo hits with precise impact. This collection of music reinforces the enduring relevance of loud guitars and big drums in the modern era. The collaborative spirit between the UK and Swedish members results in a cohesive and explosive listening experience.

Sébastien Tellier Unveils “Parfum Diamant” And COLORS SHOW From Upcoming Album ‘Kiss The Beast’

Eric Alper
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Sébastien Tellier Unveils “Parfum Diamant” And COLORS SHOW From Upcoming Album ‘Kiss The Beast’

French Touch icon Sébastien Tellier officially reveals his newest track “Parfum Diamant” alongside a striking and minimalist COLORS SHOW performance filmed in Berlin. This single offers a glimpse into his ambitious forthcoming album ‘Kiss The Beast’ which arrives on January 30 through Because Music. The track explores adolescent memories and naive emotions through a sophisticated pop lens. Tellier works with an elite group of collaborators on the new record including Oscar Holter and SebastiAn to craft an intimate yet universal sonic mosaic.

The track listing for ‘Kiss The Beast’ features high profile contributions such as Nile Rodgers on guitar and guest appearances from Kid Cudi and Slayyyter. Listeners can dive into the full sequence starting with the title track “Kiss the Beast” followed by “Naïf de Coeur” and the electronic disco energy of “Thrill of the Night”. The album also includes “Refresh”, “Mouton”, “Romantic”, “Parfum Diamant”, “Copycat”, “Animale”, “Amnesia”, “Loup”, and “Un Dimanche en Famille”. This body of work marks a grand return for the multi-instrumentalist whose career spans cult classics like “La Ritournelle” and a memorable performance at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

The intricate arrangements benefit from the lush strings of Owen Pallett and the precise production found throughout the twelve songs. Every melody on this record pulses with a refined and untamed elegance that defines the artist signature style. A major European tour supports the release beginning in February with multiple dates at L’Olympia in Paris already reaching sold out status.

Sébastien Tellier – Kiss The Beast Tracklisting:
1. Kiss the Beast
2. Naïf de Coeur 
3. Refresh 
4. Mouton
5. Thrill of the Night (feat. Slayyyter & Nile Rodgers) 
6. Romantic
7. Parfum Diamant
8. Copycat
9. Animale
10. Amnesia (feat. Kid Cudi)
11. Loup
12. Un Dimanche en Famille

Sébastien Tellier on tour:

  • 2.26 – Rouen, FR @ Le 106
  • 2.28 – Geneve, FR @ L’Alhambra
  • 3.5 – Nancy, FR @ L’Autre Canal
  • 3.6 – Lille, FR @ L’Aéronef
  • 3.10 – Bruxelles, BE @ Cirque Royal
  • 3.12 – Marseille, FR @ Le Cepac Silo
  • 3.13 – Nimes, FR @ Paloma
  • 3.14 – Toulouse, FR @ Le Bikini
  • 3.16 – Paris, FR @ L’Olympia (sold out)
  • 3.17 – Paris, FR @ L’Olympia (sold out)
  • 3.19 – Reims, FR @ La Cartonnerie
  • 3.20 – Dijon, FR @ La Vapeur
  • 3.21 – Strasbourg, FR @ La Briqueterie
  • 3.23 – London, UK @ Koko
  • 3.25 – Bordeaux, FR @ Le Rocher De Palmer
  • 3.26 – Rennes, FR @ Le Mem
  • 3.27 – Nantes, FR @ Stereolux (sold out)
  • 3.30 – Berlin, DE @ Theater Des Westens

Terror Garden Unleash Crushing Riffs On Brand New Self Titled EP

Eric Alper
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0
Terror Garden Unleash Crushing Riffs On Brand New Self Titled EP

Long Island hard rock mainstays Terror Garden officially returned to the spotlight with the release of their self titled EP ‘Terror Garden’. This new collection of songs captures a ferocious sound that bridges the gap between classic seventies grit and the intensity of the modern metal landscape. Founding members Paul Terror and Gee lead the charge with raw energy and unapologetic attitude across every track. Fans of heavy hitting legends like Alice In Chains find plenty to admire in the crushing riffs and dark textures present throughout this record.

The production handled by Billy Pfister at Westfall Recording Company in Farmingdale ensures that the instrumentation carries a polished and professional edge without losing its inherent bite. Since their formation in 2010, the band has consistently refined their sonic identity to deliver a more focused and aggressive experience. This EP follows the legacy of their 2015 debut album ‘Specimen Cup’ while demonstrating a significant evolution in their songwriting and technical execution. The transition from their early material to this current era highlights a group that remains deeply committed to the heavy metal tradition.

The sheer power of the delivery on these new recordings serves as a testament to the longevity and persistence of the band. Every song on the EP operates as a statement of resilience for the Long Island music scene. Listeners experience a dense wall of sound that prioritizes heavy grooves and soaring vocal performances. This release pushes the boundaries of regional hard rock and brings a sharpened metal edge to a global audience. The intensity of the performances on this record is a victory for the entire genre.

One Time Mountain Unleash Hard Hitting Rock Single “Understand”

Eric Alper
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0
One Time Mountain Unleash Hard Hitting Rock Single “Understand”

Boston rockers One Time Mountain kick off the year with the release of their high octane single “Understand” to satisfy fans of classic and modern heavy sounds. Brian Murphy, Ethan Garman, Zach Rizzo, and Alec Smith channel the raw power of 1970s legends while injecting a youthful surge into the current rock scene. The track features loud guitars and commanding vocals that capture the specific grit of a packed venue performance. This release serves as the fresh blood pumping through the veins of the genre to keep the spirit of rock alive and well.

The band accompanied the song with a new music video filmed during a chaotic and celebratory weekend in New Hampshire. Despite the hurdles of travel delays and late nights, the group captured the authentic energy that defines their identity as a live powerhouse. Lyrically, the song explores the balance of seeking connection while maintaining personal independence. This single acts as a massive precursor to a busy 2026 schedule involving an upcoming EP, a first ever vinyl release, and a full length album. The relentless drive of the instrumentation on this track proves that the band is hitting a brand new peak in their career.

The Molotovs Ignite Punk Fury With New Single “Get A Life” From ‘Wasted On Youth’

Eric Alper
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0
The Molotovs Ignite Punk Fury With New Single “Get A Life” From ‘Wasted On Youth’

The Molotovs officially unleashed their latest single “Get A Life” today to signal the final countdown toward the arrival of their debut album ‘Wasted On Youth’. Teenage siblings Matt and Issey Cartlidge deliver a frenetic ball of punk fury that clocks in at under two minutes. This track serves as the high energy opener for the upcoming record and establishes a blistering pace defined by sharp riffs and pointed lyrics. Following the success of top ten hits “More More More”, “Today’s Gonna Be Our Day”, and “Rhythm Of Yourself”, this new release reinforces the band as a dominant force in the modern indie scene.

The duo brings a wealth of experience to this recording after performing more than 600 shows across London and international stages. Their resume includes notable support slots for icons like Blondie and Iggy Pop along with a special fundraising appearance at Bush Hall alongside Paul Cook of the Sex Pistols. This dedication to the grassroots circuit shines through in the raw and authentic sound of the new material. The sheer velocity of the instrumentation combined with the biting vocal delivery creates a sonic landscape that keeps listeners gripped from the first chord. This record is a definitive statement of intent from a band that lives and breathes the stage.

Universal Music Group And NVIDIA Partner For Responsible AI Using ‘Music Flamingo’ Model

Eric Alper
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0
Universal Music Group And NVIDIA Partner For Responsible AI Using ‘Music Flamingo’ Model

Universal Music Group and NVIDIA officially launched a massive collaboration to pioneer responsible AI through the advanced ‘Music Flamingo’ model. This partnership utilizes NVIDIA AI infrastructure and the world leading UMG music catalog to transform how fans find and listen to their favorite tracks. The ‘Music Flamingo’ technology moves past simple tags to understand the harmony, timbre, and cultural context of full length songs. It uses chain of thought reasoning to interpret emotional arcs and complex chord progressions with human like precision.

This new technology allows the exploration of a music catalog like an intelligent and interactive universe. Artists and fans gain access to tools that surface music based on emotional narrative and deep resonance rather than just genre. Emerging artists benefit from increased visibility as the system connects them with listeners most likely to become dedicated followers. UMG remains committed to protecting the work of creators by ensuring proper attribution and copyright respect across all new platforms.

The establishment of a dedicated artist incubator brings songwriters and producers directly into the development process. These creative laboratories operate out of iconic locations including Abbey Road Studios and Capitol Studios to test tools in real world workflows. This hands on approach ensures that AI serves as a boost to authenticity and human originality. The partnership prioritizes the interests of the creative community by focusing on high quality outcomes over generic outputs.

The industry now has a clear path forward for integrating sophisticated machine learning with legendary musical legacies. This initiative sets a firm standard for innovation that places the artist at the center of every technological leap. Every track in the UMG library becomes a doorway to a deeper understanding of musical history and future trends. Modern music discovery is officially smarter and more respectful of the people who create the sounds we love.

The sheer depth of this technical integration provides a massive win for everyone who values musical integrity.

Live Nation Acquires Europe’s Largest Indoor Venue Paris La Défense Arena From Ovalto

Eric Alper
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0
Live Nation Acquires Europe’s Largest Indoor Venue Paris La Défense Arena From Ovalto

Live Nation has signed an agreement to acquire Paris La Défense Arena – Europe’s largest indoor venue – from Ovalto. This landmark deal will bring more shows, upgraded facilities and major benefits to Paris, Île-de-France and the wider French live entertainment industry.

Live Nation will launch a major upgrade programme, once the deal completes, that will enable the Arena to host significantly more productions year-round; attracting leading French and international artists and reinforcing Paris’ position as a global live entertainment destination.

Since opening in 2017, Paris La Défense Arena has hosted some of the world’s biggest events – from the Olympic Games and the Tour de France to the Rolex Paris Masters – as well as performances by global superstars including Bruce Springsteen, The Rolling Stones, Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, Hans Zimmer and Dua Lipa.

With Paris La Défense Arena, Live Nation joins the existing network of major French venue operators alongside LDLC Arena, Accor Arena and Stade de France. Live Nation will continue to promote shows across all venues and welcome all promoters to Paris La Défense Arena. The increased capacity will create more opportunities for event producers, artists and fans, enriching the region’s cultural landscape. Completion of the transaction is subject to approval by the French Competition Authority.

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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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