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Kylie Fox Strikes a Balance Between Nostalgia and Moving On with Her Double-A-Sided Single “Confetti/Alberta”

Eric Alper
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Kylie Fox Strikes a Balance Between Nostalgia and Moving On with Her Double-A-Sided Single “Confetti/Alberta”

There are two ways you can approach nostalgia: You can either reject it as a seductive illusion, or you can concede that it may have a point. Fredericton, NB, alt-rocker Kylie Fox opts for a little of both on her new double-A-sided single, “Confetti/Alberta,” which offers a pair of distinct yet complementary visions of yesterday.

A jaunty, jocular “no” to the specters of the past, “Confetti” finds Fox fielding the sudden, unexpected entreaties of an old boyfriend who had dropped her like a hot potato after deciding there might be more opportunities for “glitter on [his] sleeve” without her around—but who is now having second thoughts:

There is no alternate universe for us, babe
I’m not your Scorpio, you aren’t my twin flame
So don’t waste my time with elegies of you and me
I was there too
I remember it clearly
The rose and the rust, and the end of the story

“It’s a bright and brooding alternative rock ballad that speaks to the nostalgia of novelty,” Fox explains. “I was thinking about how the newness of romance can fall and simply be swept away—like confetti.”

For many East Coasters, heading west to work as tree planters is a quintessential part of the Canadian experience—exchanging the warmth of home for the endless expanse of Alberta’s straight roads and BC’s winding hills. Like Fox’s reflection in “Alberta,” this journey often brings a mix of longing and resilience, as they navigate the vast, unfamiliar landscapes while yearning for the comfort of the life they left behind, pining for a more familiar and comforting life in “the winding hills of British Columbia.” In her mind’s eye at least, that’s highly preferable to her current environment, where “the roads are long and the roads are straight” and there are “no gas stations or corner stores/ Just trees on trees on trees on trees on billboards.” In retrospect, the life she used to know was far more livable:

Though the work it was hard
And the mountains they were cold
Still I had arms to hold around me
I’m worried about Alberta

The music is somewhat slower and more somber than “Confetti’s,” yet every bit as captivating. What we have here are two instant earworms that are the perfect commercial conduits for Fox’s alternately homey and obscure lyrical sentiments.

The videos for the two tracks likewise represent opposite sides of the same thematic coin. On paper, both focus on the performing charisma of singer/guitarist/pianist Fox and her band (lead guitarist Sean Hutchins, bassist Camilo Villamizar, keyboardist Kelly Waterhouse and drummer Ryan Barrie). But the “Confetti” clip adds a layer of thrift-shop glamour to a group rehearsal, whereas “Alberta” is a more naturalistic, video-verité montage of life on the road.

Both songs are from Fox’s new album, Sequoia, and each in its way buttresses the album’s central philosophical motif: acknowledging those moments in life when we don’t realize what we have, while simultaneously uplifting love and life as blessings to treasure.
Even the title of the record was no arbitrary choice. Sequoia is a nod to the summer vacations of Fox’s past, several of which she spent planting trees in British Columbia. More directly, it references a recent news story she had read about firefighters who worked throughout the night to save a Sequoia tree from a forest fire.

“It resonated with me how severely nature and time have been taken for granted,” she says.

Produced by by six-time ECMA-winning producer Daniel Ledwell (Jenn Grant, Fortunate Ones, The Good Lovelies) and funded with the help of ArtsNB, Music New Brunswick and the Canada Council for the Arts, the new album is deeply rooted in the folk-Canadiana elements Fox is known for, while also dipping its toe into folk-rock and jazz-pop fusion.

The artist herself describes the overall effect of the record as “‘70s Sesame Street meets Sharon Van Etten.” Divine Magazine is a little more straightforward—and effusive—in its assessment: “Get ready to be transported to a world of lush soundscapes and poignant storytelling with Sequoia, an album that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your musical palate.”

Then again, Fox has been turning heads and pricking up ears ever since she dropped her debut EP, Balcony, in 2017, then followed it up with her first full-length album, Green, in 2020. Those releases laid the foundation for an extensive tour of Canada, in which she shared stages with the likes of Bahamas, The Strumbellas and Joel Plaskett. She’s also showcased at the East Coast Music Awards, Folk Alliance International and the Canadian Song Conference (all in 2021). In 2020, she participated in the Banff Centre for the Arts International Songwriting Residency, and she’s been featured on lineups for festivals like the Cavendish Beach Music Festival (2022) and Area506 (2021). Fox was named “Breakthrough Artist of the Year” at the 2020 PrixNB Awards and “Innovator of the Year” at the 2023 PrixNB Awards.

Next up for her is celebrating the launch of the new album with a Saturday, September 14 gig at the Harvest Festival in Fredericton. Just over a month later, on Thursday, October 24, Fox will be opening for Matt Minglewood at the Imperial Theatre in Saint John. It’s going to be a busy sprint indeed until the end of 2024, capping a year of major growth spearheaded by her new manager, Joe Bamford (The Kings, Glass Tiger, The Headstones, Leslie Spit Treeo). And just about everybody in the industry is sitting up and taking notice.

“Her lens is finely focused,” says Rob Pinnock of Bounce 105.3. “It’s quite clear Kylie Fox is poised to become an important East Coast artist.”
She sure is. As long as she keeps one eye set squarely on the future and one foot planted firmly in the past.

KYLIE FOX ONTARIO DATES:
September 25, 2024 Early Bird Coffee, Woodstock
September 26, 2024 Parkwood, Owen Sound
September 27, 2024 Midnight Run Café, Waterloo
September 30, 2024 Rainbow Bistro, Ottawa
October 2, 2024 Moonshine Café, Oakville
October 3, 2024 Cameron House, Toronto
October 4, 2024 The Bunker, Stratford
October 5, 2024 Casbah, Hamilton
October 6, 2024 Homegrown Hideaway, Norfolk County

Power Pop Outfit Dany Laj And The Looks Release “Meet Me On The Floor” And Announce North American Tour

Eric Alper
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Power Pop Outfit Dany Laj And The Looks Release “Meet Me On The Floor” And Announce North American Tour

After their last single, ‘You Should Know’ (I-94 Recordings, 2022) The Looks are back with a brand new track, ‘Meet Me On the Floor,’ out now.

The band hasn’t been able to do their usual brand of extensive touring since 2019, and was getting restless. “Honestly, we were sick of not touring,” says Laj. “We miss it and the road is where we belong.”

That all changed when Laj received a message one late night in March, culminating in a conversation leading to the beginnings of a good old fashioned tour – Laj decided at that moment to dust off the van and get the band back together, as they say. Things were starting to line up and shows were getting booked, and as the reality set in, excitement was sparking within the ranks of The Looks. “In 2021 we made what we thought was a great record, ‘Ten Easy Pieces’,” continued Laj. “But we haven’t had a chance to tour it yet. Every time we tried to go out on the road, the world just kept stopping.”

In the intervening years, The Looks kept busy by releasing albums such as ‘Ten Easy Pieces’ (We Are Busybodies), RetroSpectacle (KOTJ/Snap Records), and singles like ‘Annie/Mâ Tête’ (KOTJ/Snap Records), and the aforementioned ‘You Should Know’.

Once the wheels were set in motion, Dany Laj and the Looks needed a party anthem – there’s no better cure for a bad day than a good party, after all. Laj put his songwriting skills to work, and set out writing what would become ‘Meet Me On the Floor’.

Recorded at the band’s own Montreal studio, La La Pop Shoppe, ‘Meet Me On the Floor’ is the band at its power poppiest, garage rockiest best. Featuring alongside Laj’s lead vocals and guitar is longtime bassist/vocalist Jeanette Dowling, as well as new Looks David Laplante on guitar and drummer Alex Pauzé keeping your feet on the dance floor (with a guest cameo from Stacey Case [Tijuana Bibles, Weirdies] on tambourine).

The Looks will (finally!) be hitting the road once again this fall, journeying from Northern Ontario to BC with K-Man & The 45s starting in Sept through mid-October, and then heading out on their own until the end of October in the US, from the Midwest to the Northeast. They’ll pick it back up again in November, playing Canadian dates with Paul Collins’ Beat.

Dany Laj and the Looks is a vibrant power pop band hailing from Montreal, known for their infectious melodies, high-energy performances, and a distinctive sound that blends garage rock sensibilities with modern flair. Led by the charismatic Dany Laj, whose songwriting prowess and distinctive vocals drive the band’s creative vision, they’ve earned a reputation for their electrifying live shows and compelling studio recordings.

Formed in 2010, the band quickly made a name for themselves with their constant touring, showcasing their knack for crafting catchy hooks and singalong choruses. Their music draws inspiration from the golden era of power pop, as well as punk and garage rock, resulting in a sound that is both nostalgic and fresh.

Laj, originally from the small Northern Ontario mining town of Kirkland Lake, has been honing his skills in songwriting and guitar in various bands since his teen years, culminating in the razor sharp, edge-of-your-seat songs the Looks are known for.

The Looks—featuring Jeanette Dowling on bass, David Laplante on guitar, and Alex Pauzé on drums—complement Laj’s vision with tight rhythms, quirky guitar riffs, and an undeniable sense of fun. Over the years, they’ve released a series of well-received albums and singles, each marked by their signature blend of upbeat tempos, heartfelt lyrics, and an unrelenting passion for their craft.

With a growing fanbase and critical acclaim, Dany Laj and the Looks continue to push the boundaries of power pop, making their mark as one of Canada’s most exciting and innovative bands. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to their sound, their music promises an exhilarating experience that celebrates the joy of pure rock and roll.

LIVE AND IN PERSON:
September 26th – Lou Dawg’s – North Bay ON w/ Smooth Brains
September 27th – Townhouse Tavern – Sudbury ON
September 28th – Eagles Hall – Sault Ste Marie ON
October 1st Thunder Bay ON @ Black Pirate’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 2nd Winnipeg MB @ Bulldog’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 3rd Regina SK @ Cure Kitchen w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 4th Calgary AB @ Palomino’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 5th Edmonton AB @ The Aviary w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 6th Jasper AB @ The Whistle Stop w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 7th Banff AB @ Rose & Crown w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 8th Kelowna BC @ Jackknife Brewery w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 9th Penticton BC @ Clancy’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 10th Victoria BC @ Lucky Bar w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 11th Vancouver BC @ Lana Lou’s w/ K-man & The 45’s
October 17th Minneapolis MN @ Uptown VFM
October 19th Green Bay WI @ UFO Museum
October 20th Rockford IL @ Mary’s Place
October 21st Dayton OH @ Blind Bob’s
October 22nd Detroit MI @ Outer Limits Lounge
October 24th New York NY @ Berlin under A w/ Movie Movie
October 25th Rochester NY @ Lux Lounge w/ Sweet Pete
November 7th Montreal QC @ Le Ritz w/ Paul Collins’ Beat
November 8th Burnstown ON @ The Neat Cafe w/ Paul Collins’ Beat
November 8th – Neat Coffee Shop – Burnstown ON w/ Paul Collins’ Beat
November 9th – Paddy’s Underground – Tillsonburg ON w/ Paul Collins’ Beat
November 10th – The Garisson – Toronto ON w/ Paul Collins’ Beat

ANOXIA Bleeds the Agony of Betrayal in Their Haunting Anthem ‘Tears, I Bleed’

Eric Alper
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ANOXIA Bleeds the Agony of Betrayal in Their Haunting Anthem ‘Tears, I Bleed’

Everybody needs a good cry once in a while. And if you’re really hardcore, you cry blood.

Anoxia are very hardcore. On their “Tears, I Bleed,” powerhouse vocalist Chrystal James and her crew don’t just shed a few drops of type O negative from their ducts: They rain down a torrent of eye plasma that proves why they’re the pride of Baltimore’s post-industrial metal scene.

The song rams home its aggressively wounded sentiments with a piledriving, mechanistic feel that’s elevated by immaculate orchestration and arrangement. The key is James’ astounding voice, which segues effortlessly from a throaty moan to an operatic soar as she takes stock of a love affair that’s left nothing but devastation in its wake:

Can’t you see
Look what you’ve done to me
I can’t explain it
But I can’t breathe
And I hope it hurts when you think of me
Drown in the tears I’ve bleed
I hope I drown in my tears I bleed

It’s an intense, emotionally charged odyssey the band wrote to convey “the agony of betrayal and the powerful emotions that follow.” James’ impassioned delivery symbolizes the internal struggle between holding onto love and acknowledging that it’s been tainted beyond repair—albeit with cleansing catharsis, not pointless self-flagellation, as the intended outcome.

Call ‘em drama queens and they’ll probably thank you. “I’ve always been extremely theatrical,” James told Laura Williams of the website Vinyl Lollipops, explaining her approach to both musical performance and the band’s concept in general. The gist of the Anoxia mythology is that the musicians—guitarists Relic and Dust, bassist Ash and drummer/programmer Void—are “guardians” summoned by a spell and appearing before the audience in the form of undead animals. Their masked anonymity is totally in keeping with the modern-day Ghost/ Slipknot school of presentation that’s become a subgenre unto itself. And it’s showed off to appropriately eerie effect in the “Tears, I Bleed” video, which alternates starkly backlit performance footage with shots of James kneeling on a concrete floor and marking it with chalk. What she’s drawing is the Norse vegvisir, also known as the Viking Compass, a magic stave that’s said to help the bearer find their way through rough weather.

James has had to brave some storms of her own. She founded Anoxia all the way back in 2004, only to have its momentum stalled by an eight-year hiatus she pointedly describes as involuntary—a case of being “silenced.” (“A hiatus is never something ANY artist wants to experience,” she says, somewhat cryptically, “but sometimes the universe makes you sit down for a while.”) Having re-emerged in 2022 with a new configuration and focus, the group has been on a real roll ever since, including the release of their first ever full-length album, Relinquish the Quiet, in 2023. They’ve also established themselves as vital and energetic collaborators on the Baltimore scene: James performed a duet with Carbonstone’s Corey James on that band’s 2022 song “Pins & Needles” and in its accompanying video.

Not surprisingly for an outfit with such a visual orientation, Anoxia is in heavy demand as a live act. Next up for them is a high-profile appearance set for October 19 at Baltimore’s Zen West. Needless to say, it behooves you to materialize. Don’t wait to be summoned.

David Gogo Says “Yeah” to the Rock on Electrifying New Album

Eric Alper
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David Gogo Says “Yeah” to the Rock on Electrifying New Album

Even if a guy has given his life to the blues, there are times when he just can’t resist the primal urge to rock out. Especially when his friends are there to egg him on. That’s where David Gogo finds himself on his new album, YEAH!—a dizzying compendium of career bests that pulses with the kind of energy that only comes from just the right combination of commitment and camaraderie.

Song like “One More Day” and “Moose Hall Brawl” have the raw, zealous abandon of a boys’ night out. And that’s the kind of prospect that gets all the more inviting when your boys happen to be some of the greatest players on the Canadian blues scene. Leadoff track “Diamond In The Rough” sets the tone in no uncertain terms, absolutely storming out of the gate with a fiery declaration of passion both musical and lyrical:

She’s my sugar, she’s my spice
I still love her when she’s not playing nice
She’s my diamond in the rough
And I can’t get enough of that stuff
She really perks me up
She’s my diamond in the rough

“I wanted a good, solid rock and roll song to kick this album off, and I believe that this one delivers,” Gogo says. “I love the fantastic ’70s rock bands like Bad Company and T-Rex, and we had a gas laying this track down!”

It sure sounds like it. The track has all the guitar bite of classic FM, with some insanely catchy chants to push it over the finish line into “crowd favorite” territory. Close your eyes, and you can practically see the band’s own heads nodding and their fists pumping between riffs.

“I have recorded many albums, worked with many talented people and had a lot of fun, but this album is my favourite to date,” Gogo enthuses. For that, the Nanaimo, BC-based singer/guitarist can thank his decision to leave his comfort zone and travel to snowy Ontario to work at The Ganaraska Recording Co., under the trusted production guidance of fellow Canadian blues great Steve Marriner. Gogo even restricted himself to bringing one guitar of his own, recording the rest of the album on the studio’s collection of vintage axes. With Marriner and fellow blues mainstays Jimmy Bowskill and Gary Craig forming his backup ensemble, Gogo had all the ammo he needed to create something truly special.

“This group was a pleasure to create with—top-notch performers and super cool to hang with,” he says. “I feel that the new songs are very strong, and there was such a great vibe in the studio. Though it was a relaxed and supportive environment, we worked at a quick rate and utilized plenty of first or second takes to keep the live energy happening.”

The result is 10 tunes that positively quake with power, Gogo’s guitar reaching levels of string-bending expressiveness that need to be heard to be believed on the nine originals and one cover (a shimmying rendition of Shuggie Otis’ “Hurricane” you could absolutely frug to).

The whole project is a more-than-worthy addition to a CV that’s already seen its share of highlights. Over the course of his illustrious career, Gogo has been nominated for six JUNO Awards, won Guitarist Of The Year three times at the Maple Blues Awards, been named Musician Of The Year at the West Coast Music Awards, won Blues Recording Of The Year at the Western Canadian Music Awards and received the Great Canadian Blues Award (as voted by the listeners of CBC’s Saturday Night Blues) for his lifetime contribution to the blues in Canada. Whew! And even if you don’t own one of his records, you’ve probably heard his songs in films and on TV, or heard them covered by a panoply of fellow artists like Buddy Guy.

Perpetually in demand as a live performer, Gogo has played alongside the likes of BB King, Johnny Winter, Albert Collins, Bo Diddley and Otis Rush. And he’s opened shows for ZZ Top, George Thorogood, The Tragically Hip, Little Feat, Jimmie Vaughan, Robert Cray, Robin Trower and Wishbone Ash.

Now that the new album is out, that proud tradition of tearing joints down is free to continue. You can catch Gogo’s act at one of the shows he has coming this summer to a stage near you:

Sept. 27: Knox United Church, Parksville BC
Oct. 11/12: The 98, Whitehorse, Yukon
Oct. 19: Duncan Showroom, Duncan BC
Nov. 23: Char’s Landing, Port Alberni BC

One thing’s for sure: These shows are going to be a pure shot of musical adrenaline. Come on out, and bring your friends. You’ll never regret saying “yes” to the YEAH!

Tencent Music Entertainment Group Launches Global Music Outreach Initiative

Eric Alper
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Tencent Music Entertainment Group Launches Global Music Outreach Initiative

On September 11, 2024, Tencent Music Entertainment Group (TME) announced the launch of its Global Music Outreach Initiative, which will bring together talented Chinese music artists and their works to be showcased on prominent stages worldwide. The initiative will kickstart in Singapore from September 13 to 17, beginning a broader series of music and industry exchange activities around the world, including overseas performances, international music creation exchanges, and discussions on future industry development. As Chinese culture continues to capture global attention, TME aims to leverage its platform and technological strengths to open up new international markets for Chinese artists, enhancing their global presence and creating fresh opportunities for industry growth.

The Singapore leg of TME’s Global Music Outreach Initiative marks a major step in introducing Chinese music to the world. Set against the Singapore Grand Prix Season (GPSS), TME will present live performances by prominent Chinese acts—Liu Lian, Liu Binhao, Lu Zhengting, Qian Runyu, and the band Sir Deer—while also hosting music sessions, campus visits, and industry forums. These high-profile events are designed to highlight the distinct and compelling qualities of Chinese music to a global audience.

In conjunction with these activities, TME will also take part in the Asia-Pacific music forum, Music Matters, demonstrating its commitment to exploring new opportunities and driving conversations about global music trends. Additionally, Chinese musicians will engage with students and faculty at local universities, fostering meaningful cultural exchanges. This broader engagement underscores the initiative’s aim to expand the reach and influence of Chinese music.

As part of its groundbreaking Global Music Outreach Initiative, TME has teamed up with People’s Daily, a prominent voice in Chinese media, to create the theme song “Hear It,” featuring the first-ever collaboration between Chinese singer-songwriter Tia Ray and Additionally, a special version of “So This Is the Sea” will be released the same day on TME’s platforms, including QQ Music, Kugou Music, and Kuwo Music, celebrating the spirit of cultural exchange through music.

Underscoring TME’s dedication to elevating Chinese music on the global stage and redefining its international presence, the Global Music Outreach Initiative is committed to showcasing the talents of Chinese artists while fostering cultural exchange between China and the world. After its debut in Singapore, the initiative will expand to other countries and regions, furthering TME’s mission to share the vibrant and multifaceted nature of Chinese music with audiences worldwide.

Award-Winning Jewish Studio Unveils 2024 Slate of Projects Backed by Spielberg Foundation

Eric Alper
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Award-Winning Jewish Studio Unveils 2024 Slate of Projects Backed by Spielberg Foundation

Reboot Studios, which empowers artists, storytellers and innovators to transform society with diverse, inspirational and provocative new Jewish content, announced the recipients of its 2024 Creator Fund, providing financing support for four cross-platform Jewish media productions. Launched in 2022, Reboot Studios’ investments in new Jewish projects have now surpassed half a million dollars.

“Reboot Studios is proud to support this year’s Creator Fund recipients, who are expanding the Jewish narrative by bringing to light underrepresented stories from across the diaspora,” said Reboot Studios Managing Director Noam Dromi. “From the Sephardic experience in Sangre Sucio to the cultural celebration of Erev Yalda, confronting modern antisemitism in How To Rule The World, and redefining Jewish life through AlefBet Audio, these projects reflect our commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive understanding of Jewish identity.”

Reboot Studios is the production arm of the acclaimed Jewish arts and culture nonprofit Reboot. Founded by Steven Spielberg and Kate Capshaw’s Righteous Persons Foundation and the Andrea and Charles Bronfman Philanthropies, Reboot has spent over 20 years building a network of world-class creatives and leaders.

The announcement comes as Reboot Studios was recognized by the Television Academy as a leading authority on Jewish representation in its Expert Index for Storytellers.

Recipients of the Reboot Studios 2024 Creator Fund:

Sangre Sucio/Tainted Blood from writer/director Jeremy Xido and producer Noam Dromi, is a Ladino language cowboy movie featuring a family of Crypto-Jews on the borderlands between Coahuila, Mexico, and south Texas at the end of the American Civil War.

Erev Yalda from entrepreneur Rachel Sumekh and food writer Tannaz Sassooni is an original Iranian-Jewish take on Yalda, the ancient Persian celebration marking the winter solstice by staying up late into the night, reciting poetry, eating traditional foods, and being in community.

How To Rule The World from British filmmaker Tim Samuels, is a provocative theatrical documentary confronting the deep-seated roots and alarming resurgence of antisemitism.

AlefBet Audio from Rabbi Amichai Lau-Lavie, co-founder and senior spiritual leader of Lab/Shul, is a podcast series that offers the basic building blocks of post-patriarchal Jewish life for the 21st century.

See the full list of Reboot Studio Projects here.

Scotch & Soda unveils Fall-Winter’24 Campaign and Capsule Collection with first global ambassador Joe Jonas

Eric Alper
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0
Scotch & Soda unveils Fall-Winter’24 Campaign and Capsule Collection with first global ambassador Joe Jonas

Scotch & Soda, the Amsterdam-based fashion brand, proudly unveils its highly anticipated Fall-Winter 2024 campaign and collaboration with international pop star, songwriter, actor  and brand ambassador Joe Jonas. The Fall 2024 campaign marks the start of a bold new era for Scotch & Soda, infusing an exciting energy, while elevating and expanding the core collections and best-selling silhouettes that have long represented the globally-recognized Scotch & Soda brand.

As ambassador for the brand, and part of the seasonal campaign, Jonas models both his exclusive capsule collection, as well as the mainline Scotch & Soda range. The exclusive collection, co-designed with Jonas, seamlessly blends Scotch & Soda’s signature style with the artist’s vibrant, playful fashion sense. Expect bold colors, striking prints, rich textures, and tailoring crafted from premium fabrics—a perfect fusion of creativity and craftsmanship, with Jonas deeply involved in every step of the process.

Originally founded in 1985, the Scotch & Soda brand is now managed by Bluestar Alliance, a New York-based brand management company. Scotch & Soda was founded upon its dedication to the free spirit of Amsterdam, offering original designs rooted in endless optimism, individuality and the power of self-expression. After acquiring Scotch & Soda just last year, Bluestar Alliance set to reinvigorate the long-adored brand, famously lauded for its unconventional, artistic view on fashion. With its first global ambassador and Fall-Winter 2024 brand campaign, Scotch & Soda continues its sartorial journey of discovery through energetic collections that champion creative freedom and inclusivity.

For Scotch & Soda, the partnership with Joe Jonas offered an opportunity to collaborate with one of the most dynamic artists of his generation. Joe Jonas, an adored singer, songwriter, actor and photographer, has also become well-known for his original and expressive sense of style, creatively pairing rich colors, denim, knitwear, tailored, vintage pieces and bold accessories that inspire curiosity and conversation. With a strong point of view and global trend-setting influence, Jonas was the perfect choice to represent the optimism of the Scotch & Soda brand.

As a complement to the core Fall-Winter 2024 collection, inspired by the theme “Free Your Mind,” and the journey of the free spirit through the world’s greatest cities, the design team delved into artistic motifs, architecture, landmarks, and the Beat Generation Writers.

Joe Jonas has crafted a capsule collection that invites fans around the globe to embark on a reflective and forward thinking journey with him. The Scotch & Soda x Joe Jonas capsule collection includes a mix of men’s and unisex clothing and accessories that capture Joe’s confident approach to style and his unique vision for the brand within its primary categories. With total creative control, Jonas curated every detail, from the capsule collection’s range of styles, silhouettes, fabrications, prints, trims, to the campaign imagery he is featured in. Jonas approached the process similarly to how he creates music. With a journey that included a deepdive into his wider creative process, Jonas thought about the story he wanted to tell and utilized ‘Cup of Joe,’ his personal diary of photography, as the foundation for his creative vision, drawing inspiration from his vintage-inspired aesthetic to customized artwork that reflects his creative style and distinct artistic expression.

“Our aim with this collaboration was to create a dynamic capsule that felt elevated and authentic while keeping the core spirit of the brand intact, and I believe we achieved just that,” says Eran Kaim, Chief Product Officer. “Joe’s unique creative eye and distinct sense of style, married with the expert design in the core categories that Scotch & Soda is known for, which includes denim, knitwear and tee’s, which has proven to be just the perfect combination and we’re very honored to bring his vision to life.”

Inspired by the American West, vintage Americana, the seventies and Joe’s personal photography and writings, the capsule offers a dynamic wardrobe that feels personal, lived-in and built to last. Key pieces include tailored utility and workwear jackets, ringer tees with custom graphics, two piece sets, sport-inspired polos and on-trend accessories including trucker hats and versatile printed scarves.

“As a longtime fan of Scotch & Soda I am excited to share the collaboration we have created with the world. The creative freedom that I was given made this such a fun and rewarding experience, so I’m really looking forward to launching the collection,” says Joe Jonas.

Offering a refined color palette of muted pastel blues, ecrus, charcoal greys, and pinks, seamlessly integrating with Scotch & Soda core offerings, the capsule collection is composed of versatile and wearable pieces that embody Joe’s vision of crafting contemporary designs with a sartorial point of view, that resonate with the brand’s identity and perfectly compliment the broader fall collection.

Joey Gabbay, CEO of Bluestar Alliance, the parent company that acquired Scotch & Soda last year, shared “Joe Jonas is one of the most dynamic, creative voices of his generation. The launch of this partnership is a fundamental component of Scotch & Soda’s growth; and allows us to celebrate incredible artistic talent, while exposing new consumers to the brand in the U.S. and around the globe. We’re honored to be in partnership with such a creative and well-regarded artist such as Joe.”

The Scotch & Soda x Joe Jonas collection is now available globally at scotchandsoda.com, Scotch & Soda stores and select retailers. Price ranges include accessories $48–$68.00, tops and sweatshirts $58-178, bottoms $128-188 and jackets $268-788. Scotch & Soda is available at premium retailers and specialty boutiques worldwide.

Country Cannabis Partners with Grammy-Award Winning Producer Shooter Jennings to Launch “Snake Mountain” Blend for Music Lovers

Eric Alper
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Country Cannabis Partners with Grammy-Award Winning Producer Shooter Jennings to Launch “Snake Mountain” Blend for Music Lovers

Country Cannabis, the pioneer of “Light Cannabis” and award-winning cannabis lifestyle brand, proudly announces its new partnership with three-time Grammy Award-winning producer and music icon Shooter Jennings.

As the newest member of the Country family, Shooter joins industry pioneers Kraig Fox, Gary Vaynerchuk, Jamie Feaster, and Rama Mayo to lend his eye to the brand’s product development and to take a leadership role in the company’s burgeoning artist ambassador program. Born into country music royalty as the son of Waylon Jennings and Jessi Colter, Shooter Jennings has carved an illustrious career spanning three decades and multiple genres, producing music for widely acclaimed artists like Brandi Carlisle, Duff McKagan from Guns N’ Roses, Marilyn Manson, Yelawolf, Tanya Tucker, and The Turnpike Troubadours. Jennings is also a resident at the famous Sunset Sound Studio 3, which has been home to the birth of over 200 Gold records, including hit albums for Elton John, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen, Prince, the Rolling Stones, and Guns N’ Roses.

“Shooter’s legendary career enables us to connect with some of the most recognizable talent in the world,” says Country CEO & Co-Founder Jamie Feaster. “Together, we aim to put music, art, and soul at the center of our brand and help inspire the next generation of artists.”

Reflecting on his lifelong passion for cannabis, Shooter Jennings expressed excitement with the opportunities presented by the Country partnership. “After decades as a cannabis connoisseur, I’m thrilled to join the Country band,” remarked Shooter. “I know I’ve experienced Country sparking creativity in my own process over the last six months.”

The proprietary strain, Snake Mountain, was developed through a close collaboration between Country’s cannabis experts and Shooter Jennings to build a preroll blend that inspires creativity and “unleashes your wild side.”

The new blend is available now at select retailers including MMD, The Woods, Erba and The Plant. Country’s full line of products can be found at dispensaries across California. For locations, visit Country Cannabis Store Locator.

Country is an award-winning lifestyle cannabis brand and a pioneer of “Light Cannabis.” Known for introducing the market’s first smokable light cannabis, Country has rapidly established itself as a leader in crafting accessible and reliable experiences for consumers of all experience levels. Country’s mission is simple: create great tasting cannabis products that help folks win the day. Learn more at countryranch.com.

Shooter Jennings has been a dynamic force in the music industry for nearly twenty-five years, blending country, rock, and beyond while consistently pushing the boundaries of genre and creativity. He has carved his own path with an extensive and diverse body of work, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to artistic innovation.

Jennings’ debut album, “Put The O Back In Country,” released with Universal Music Group and produced by Dave Cobb, set the stage for his groundbreaking career. His concept album “Black Ribbons,” featuring Stephen King, delved into a dystopian narrative with a compelling mix of rock and electronic music. In 2016, he paid homage to electronic music pioneer Giorgio Moroder with the meticulously crafted “Countach (For Giorgio).”

Jennings hosts the widely acclaimed Electric Rodeo on Sirius XM’s Outlaw 62 channel and runs his own influential label, Black Country Rock. His prowess as a producer is evident in his Grammy-winning collaborations with Brandi Carlile and Tanya Tucker, and his work with artists like Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses, Yelawolf, and the Turnpike Troubadours.

His contributions extend to prestigious soundtracks and scores, including Netflix’s “The Punisher,” “The Ranch,” and “Chasing Whiskey: The Untold Story of Jack Daniel’s.” Jennings’ work has also featured in high-profile projects such as Jaguar commercials & other major projects.

As “Put The O Back In Country” approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, Shooter Jennings continues to be a versatile and influential figure in the music industry, celebrated for his relentless pursuit of creative excellence.

Brisk Iced Tea Transforms Doja Cat into its Newest Claymation Icon

Eric Alper
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Brisk Iced Tea Transforms Doja Cat into its Newest Claymation Icon

Fans who think they’ve seen it all from Doja Cat – get ready to take another look. The GRAMMY award-winning global superstar and queen of inspiring and trailblazing transformation, Doja Cat, is bringing her unabashed, fearless energy to an entirely new form: clay. Brisk Iced Tea, known for its bold flavors and even bolder style, is teaming up with the show-stopping artist to revive its signature claymation ads, while encouraging fans to put themselves first.

“I’m known for pushing boundaries and making the impossible a reality, so I was honored to collaborate with Brisk Iced Tea and bring our creative energy to life in a way that fans have never seen me before. As a Brisk fan, and someone who personally loves to express my art both visually and sonically, seeing myself transformed into the iconic claymation style was like stepping into a wild, animated dream,” Doja Cat said.

Just like Doja Cat and Brisk fans, the powerhouse iced tea brand isn’t afraid to stand out. With Doja Cat bringing her otherworldly vibe, an unmatched love for Brisk, and even a few bars from her hit “Demons,” the animated content doesn’t just lean into the nostalgia; it takes it to the next level for a new generation. The brand is proving that nothing can get between Brisk lovers and their thirst-quenching iced tea.

“Brisk has always been about celebrating bold creativity and self-expression, and with Doja Cat bringing that energy to life, we’re giving fans permission to prioritize themselves. We’re so excited to have her leading the charge in our return to claymation, reigniting the nostalgia for longtime fans while engaging a whole new generation,” said Julie Raheja-Perera, General Manager/VP – Pepsi Lipton Partnership North America.

The first female artist to be rendered in clay for Brisk, Doja Cat joins the ranks of legendary artists, actors, and characters immortalized in the classic stop motion animation style popularized by the brand’s classic ’90s and ’00s ads.

To mark the return of claymation, Brisk is launching an exclusive Snapchat filter that lets fans transform into clay versions of themselves, inspired by Doja Cat’s clay likeness. Fans also have a chance to win the one-of-a-kind clay head Doja Cat was spotted carrying around in London as well as signed figurines of the singer, commemorating the brand’s first ever female claymation star, by following @Brisk on Instagram and tagging a friend in the comments with #ThatsColdSweepsEntry.

SiriusXM Kicks off New Phase as an Independent Public Company

Eric Alper
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SiriusXM Kicks off New Phase as an Independent Public Company

Sirius XM Holdings Inc.  today kicked off a new chapter as an independent public company with a simplified capital structure and strategy for continued success following the closing of its transaction with Liberty Media.

“Today SiriusXM embarks on a new phase in our journey as an independent public company, building on our leading position in audio entertainment,” said Jennifer Witz, Chief Executive Officer of SiriusXM. “We’ve created a strong and profitable business, anchored by a subscription service that fosters deep and loyal connections with our listeners and a growing digital audio advertising platform which extends our reach to fans around the world, and we are excited about the future as we look to expand and strengthen both platforms.”

“As we look ahead, we remain committed to three key objectives: enhancing subscriber value with a focus on content, technology and pricing; growing our advertising offerings to both engage new listeners and deliver effective results for advertisers; and driving efficiency across the organization to continue our strong track record of financial performance. We look forward to building upon SiriusXM’s twenty-year history as the audio platform of choice for millions of North Americans in their vehicles, at home, and on the go, with the goal of creating long-term value for our stockholders.”

Financial Update
SiriusXM reiterated its full-year 2024 revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance. As the company has stated in past earnings releases, the company planned to update its free cash flow guidance for transaction impacts. The company estimates these costs to be approximately $200 million and include transaction costs, incremental interest expense related to the debt assumed and incurred in connection with the Liberty Media transaction, and cash outflows at Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Inc. prior to the closing.

“As we enter our next phase as an independent company, we expect SiriusXM to continue delivering solid, profitable results,” said Thomas Barry, Chief Financial Officer of SiriusXM. “After completing the transaction, which had the effect of reducing our outstanding common stock by approximately 12% before giving effect to the 1 for 10 adjustment, our capital allocation priorities are consistent: investing in our business, focusing in the near- to mid-term on reducing debt to return to our long-term target leverage, and continuing our capital return posture. In connection with our first day as an independent company, we have reiterated our revenue and adjusted EBITDA guidance and incorporated the impact of the transaction in our updated free cash flow guidance.”

The company’s 2024 financial guidance is as follows:

  • Total revenue of approximately $8.75 billion,
  • Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $2.7 billion, and
  • Free cash flow of approximately $1.0 billion.

The company’s $200 million change to its free cash flow guidance reflects approximately $70 million associated with closing costs and go-forward incremental interest and approximately $130 million associated with historical, year-to-date cash outflows at Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Inc. prior to the closing of the transaction.

Adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow are non-GAAP financial measures. The company has not provided a reconciliation of adjusted EBITDA to projected net income (loss) or free cash flow to net cash provided by operating activities because full-year net income (loss) and net cash provided by operating activities will include special items that have not occurred and are difficult to predict with reasonable certainty prior to year-end. Due to this uncertainty, the company cannot reconcile adjusted EBITDA and free cash flow to their comparable GAAP measures without unreasonable effort.

Capital Return Program
SiriusXM plans to continue its recurring dividend, which adjusted for the 1 for 10 change in the Liberty Media transaction exchange ratio would be approximately 27 cents per quarter.

Upon completion of the Liberty Media transaction, the Board of SiriusXM authorized a $1.166 billion common stock repurchase program. The $1.166 billion common stock repurchase program is a continuation of the stock repurchase program of the former SiriusXM.

This newly authorized amount represents the amount that remained available under former SiriusXM’s $18 billion stock repurchase program that began in December 2012. Shares of common stock may be purchased from time to time on the open market and in privately negotiated transactions, including in accelerated stock repurchase transactions. SiriusXM expects to fund any repurchases through cash on hand, future cash flow from operations and borrowings under its revolving credit facility.

The timing and amount of any shares repurchased will be determined based on SiriusXM’s evaluation of market conditions and other factors and the program may be discontinued or suspended at any time.  Repurchases will be made in compliance with all SEC rules and other legal requirements and may be made in part under a Rule 10b5-1 plan, which permits stock repurchases when SiriusXM might otherwise be precluded from doing so.

Target Leverage Ratio
The company also reiterated its long-term target leverage ratio of mid-to-low three times adjusted EBITDA. After appropriate investments in the business and its continuing regular dividend, SiriusXM expects to focus excess cash flows on debt reduction until it reaches this long-term leverage target while continuing to be mindful of strategic investment and capital return opportunities.

SiriusXM Evaluating Non-Cash Goodwill and other Intangible Assets 
SiriusXM also announced that, with the completion of the Liberty Media transaction, the company will perform an evaluation of its goodwill and other intangible assets, particularly the goodwill and other intangible assets attributed from the Liberty Media transaction. The company has regularly assessed any asset impairments or impairment indicators of its legacy assets, and, as a result, any such post-transaction charges would primarily relate to goodwill and intangible assets associated with the Liberty Media transaction. The company expects to complete its analysis of this goodwill and the other intangible assets in the third quarter of 2024.

Such impairment charge, if any, would represent a non-cash charge to earnings, and it would not affect the company’s liquidity, cash flows from operating activities or debt covenants, or have any impact on future operations.

Transaction Closing Details
On September 9, 2024, at 4:05 p.m., New York City time, Liberty Media completed its previously announced split-off (the “Split-Off”) of its former wholly owned subsidiary, Liberty Sirius XM Holdings Inc. (“New Sirius”).  The Split-Off was accomplished by Liberty Media redeeming each outstanding share of Liberty Media’s Series A, Series B and Series C Liberty SiriusXM common stock, par value $0.01 per share, in exchange for 0.8375 of a share of New Sirius common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Redemption”), with cash being paid to entitled record holders of Liberty SiriusXM common stock in lieu of any fractional shares of common stock of New Sirius.

Following the Split-Off, on September 9, 2024 at 6:00 p.m., New York City time, a wholly owned subsidiary of New Sirius merged with and into Sirius XM Holdings Inc. (“Old Sirius XM”), with Old Sirius XM surviving the merger as a wholly owned subsidiary of New Sirius (the “Merger” and together with the Split-Off, the “Transactions”). Upon consummation of the Merger, each share of common stock of Old Sirius XM, par value $0.001 per share, issued and outstanding immediately prior to the merger effective time (other than shares owned by New Sirius and its subsidiaries) was converted into one-tenth (0.1) of a share of New Sirius common stock, with cash being paid to entitled record holders of Old Sirius XM common stock in lieu of any fractional shares of common stock of New Sirius. Concurrently with the merger effective time, Old Sirius XM was renamed “Sirius XM Inc.” and New Sirius was renamed “Sirius XM Holdings Inc.”

As a result of the Transactions, Sirius XM Holdings Inc. is an independent, publicly traded company. Sirius XM Holdings Inc. common stock begins trading on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “SIRI” on September 10, 2024.

Additional information regarding the Transactions is available in a Current Report on Form 8-K that the company filed yesterday with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

1 for 10 Adjustment
Upon consummation of the Liberty Media transaction, each share of common stock of Sirius XM issued and outstanding immediately prior to closing and held by the former minority stockholders of the company was converted into one-tenth (0.1) of a share of SiriusXM common stock. As a result, a holder of 100 shares of SiriusXM common stock, which closed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market at $2.67 prior to the transaction closing, received in exchange for such 100 shares 10 shares of SiriusXM common stock.

Share Reduction
Following the closing of the Liberty Media transaction, Sirius XM had approximately 339.1 million shares of common stock outstanding. The former holders of Liberty SiriusXM common stock own approximately 81% of Sirius XM and former Sirius XM minority stockholders own the remaining 19% of the new company.

The Liberty Media transaction resulted in the net reduction of approximately 12% of the company’s outstanding shares before giving effect to the 1 for 10 adjustment. The former holders of Liberty SiriusXM common stock surrendered a portion of their shares in the calculation of the exchange ratio in the new company in exchange for the assumption of certain net liabilities by the new company in the transaction.

About Sirius XM Holdings Inc.
SiriusXM is the leading audio entertainment company in North America with a portfolio of audio businesses including its flagship subscription entertainment service SiriusXM; the ad-supported and premium music streaming services of Pandora; an expansive podcast network; and a suite of business and advertising solutions. Reaching a combined monthly audience of approximately 150 million listeners, SiriusXM offers a broad range of content for listeners everywhere they tune in with a diverse mix of live, on-demand, and curated programming across music, talk, news, and sports. For more about SiriusXM, please go to: www.siriusxm.com.

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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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