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Minus the Bear Celebrate 20 Years of ‘Menos el Oso’ with Demos, Memories, and a Full-Circle Reunion

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The twentieth anniversary deluxe reissue of Minus the Bear’s seminal 2005 album Menos el Oso is out now via Suicide Squeeze Records, and today they’re excited to share for the first time “The Pig War (Demo),” an early version of what would become one of the most emotionally evocative, nostalgia-tinged cuts on the record.

Speaking on the song, the band’s vocalist Jake Snider says “The music for the song had a melancholy, rolling feel leading me to nostalgic memories of being on Wescott Bay on San Juan Island, a few hours trip north of Seattle. The lyrics are more an impression of the place than a narrative; a longing for the simplicity of being there. It’s cool to hear the contrast between the rougher edges of the demo against the album track’s more polished flow.”

This unreleased version follows on the heels of the recently released demo of fan-favorite album cut “Hooray.” Last week, the band revealed the supporting acts for their fall tour celebrating twenty years of the album.

The 2xLP release includes a remastered version of the original album on one 12″ and 5 unreleased original demos on the second 12″, including the demo versions of “The Pig War” and “Hooray,” available to stream now for the first time. Side B of disc two features an etching by bassist Cory Murchy. The reissue also includes Los Archivos Del Oso, a 24-page archive photo journal from the band’s personal collection.

Speaking on the reissue, Snider says “…Oso is a band and fan favorite. We came into our sound on this record. I’m excited for fans to hear these demos for the first time! Revisiting demos and hearing the evolution of some of these tracks puts me right back in our early 2000s practice space. And now we’re literally back in that same practice space for rehearsals. It’s wild!”

Halestorm Unleash Power and Purpose with Fiery New Anthem “Rain Your Blood On Me”

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On the heels of their show-stopping performance of Ozzy Osbourne’s “Perry Mason” at his final show over the weekend, Halestorm today dropped “Rain Your Blood On Me,” a heavy siren call starting with a thumping dirge beat and erupting into Arejay Hale’s explosive drum fills, guitarist Joe Hottinger’s lightning fast guitar riffs, and Lzzy Hale’s astronomical vocal harmonies, all tethered to earth by Josh Smith’s dark bass grooves.

“Rain Your Blood On Me” follows “Darkness Always Wins” and title track “Everest” as the third song revealed from the GRAMMY Award winning hard rock band’s album out now via Atlantic Records. “Darkness Always Wins” is steadily climbing the Active Rock chart, now entering the top 15.

“‘Rain Your Blood On Me’ is our ode to women,” said Lzzy Hale, the sole female performer on the bill at “Back To The Beginning,” Osbourne and Black Sabbath’s farewell show where the band debuted the new song live. “The crawl, the climb, the clenching of fists, the screaming of sirens, the breaking of glass – this is our war cry. As a woman, surrounded by my allies, Arejay, Joe and Josh, we put everything we’ve fought for up until this moment into this opus. The music started with the stomping of feet at 3 in the morning, with a chant of ‘Rain Your Blood On Me.’ We weren’t even sure what that title meant in the moment as we watched the sky crack through the eerie Spanish moss in Savannah, Georgia. But we knew it was right. By 11:30 AM the poem I had written had seemed to form itself like a story waiting to be told.

“We may not win the war in our lifetime, but we can pass the torch to our daughters so that they may light the way.”

Homixide Gang Ignite Chaos with Smashing Pumpkins Sample and Fincher Flair on “5G”

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Today marks the release of “5G,” the explosive new single from Opium’s dynamic rap duo, Homixide Gang. Powered by a blazing sample of Smashing Pumpkins’ 1993 classic “Cherub Rock,” the track builds with searing guitars, escalating tension, and a heavy drop as Homixide Meechie and Homixide Beno! Trade their signature share bars with unrelenting intensity.

Accompanying the track is a striking visual inspired by David Fincher’s cult classic film Fight Club (1999), mirroring the anarchic energy and chaos that runs through the track.

Alongside the track, earlier this week, they unveiled the official cover for their highly anticipated new album, Homixide Lifestyle 2. The follow-up to their 2022 debut mixtape, Homixide Lifestyle 2 sees Meechie and Beno! return to the chaotic, menacing rage-rap sound that first put them on the map, only now, they’re sharper, louder, and more locked in than ever. They’ve been teasing the project for months, previewing unreleased tracks during a wild set at Rolling Loud California and most recently at Summer Smash Festival in Chicago. Rumors of features, including collaborations with other Opium signees, have only heightened anticipation.

In a full-circle moment, the duo recreated their original cover three years later, once again shot by renowned photographer Gunner Stahl (Playboi Carti, Metro Boomin, Rae Sremmurd), who also captured the first Homixide Lifestyle artwork. This next chapter signals sonic development with the duo drawing from southern hip-hop influences while continuing to push the boundaries of rage rap.

Earlier this year they shared their long-awaited track, “Free Agents.” They first unveiled the music video on YouTube late last year, and it has since racked nearly 1 million views. Directed by YungTacc the video offers a laid back, behind-the-scenes look at the raw, authentic world of Homixide Gang, capturing them on the road alongside friends and labelmates.

Ian Flanigan Finds Peace and Parenthood in His Ambient Project ‘Earth and Airwaves’

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Acclaimed singer-songwriter and The Voice finalist Ian Flanigan is excited to announce his latest project, Earth and Airwaves, a deeply personal new age ambient project inspired by his first year of fatherhood to twin daughters, is out now.

During countless late nights, Flanigan found that the gentle strum of his guitar had a calming effect on his newborns, helping to soothe them to sleep. Moved by those quiet, intimate moments, he created, recorded, and produced Earth and Airwaves, an instrumental EP that blends natural field recordings with peaceful, melodic compositions, without the use of any AI.

Designed as a sonic sanctuary for meditation, relaxation, and mindful reflection, the first track, “So Long,” available today, invites listeners to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the rhythms of the world around them.

“A year ago, I became a father to two beautiful twin girls, and music has been part of their lives since day one,” shares Flanigan. “We’d play with keyboards, synths, singing bowls, and whatever instruments were around the house. Over time, I started creating ambient meditation tracks for them to fall asleep to and unwind. I decided to gather these sounds into a project called Earth and Airwaves-a blend of nature recordings and organic ambient music. I hope these songs bring calm to your days, just as they have to ours.”

10 Albums That Could Be Novels

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Some albums tell stories as vividly as any novel — full of characters, emotion, and settings that live in your imagination long after the last track fades. These ten could easily be hardcover bestsellers, written in melody and feeling.

‘American Idiot’ – Green Day
A punk rock coming-of-age saga about youth, chaos, and finding yourself in a loud world. Its cast of misfits and dreamers could fill an entire bookshelf.

‘Back to Black’ – Amy Winehouse
A smoky, soulful story of love, loss, and self-reflection. Each song unfolds like a late-night journal entry, raw and unforgettable.

‘Born to Run’ – Bruce Springsteen
An American road novel in album form, filled with dreams, highways, and escape. You can almost feel the wind through the windows and the pull of something bigger.

‘DAMN.’ – Kendrick Lamar
A deep, poetic exploration of fate, family, and faith. Each track feels like a chapter in a Pulitzer-worthy narrative of modern identity.

‘Hounds of Love’ – Kate Bush
Part romance, part myth, part fever dream. Its lush storytelling and surreal imagery would make for an unforgettable fantasy novel.

‘Jagged Little Pill’ – Alanis Morissette
A fearless emotional journey through heartbreak, healing, and self-discovery. The heroine’s voice leaps off the page with every lyric.

‘Melodrama’ – Lorde
A glittering house party where every song is a scene — heartbreak, laughter, and growing up under neon lights. A coming-of-age classic waiting to be bound in hardcover.

‘Purple Rain’ – Prince
A story of passion, power, and transformation. Equal parts romance and rock gospel, it would make a dazzling, cinematic novel.

‘Rumours’ – Fleetwood Mac
A web of relationships, secrets, and longing told through harmonies and heartbreak. It reads like a perfectly tangled love story you can’t put down.

‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’ – Lauryn Hill
A soulful novel-in-song about growth, motherhood, and truth. Every track turns the page toward self-love and wisdom.

Role Model and Laufey Bring Vintage Romance to Life in “The Longest Goodbye”

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Role Model (Tucker Pillsbury) shared the official video for “The Longest Goodbye” (feat. Laufey). Directed by Neema Sadeghi, the black and white video leans into the song’s nostalgic vibe while reimagining it as a duet.

Tucker trades verses with GRAMMY winner Laufey, accompanied by a band playing vintage instruments. “The Longest Goodbye” video made its global broadcast premiere on MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Biggest Pop and across MTV’s global network of channels, as well as on the Paramount Times Square billboards.

Tucker’s original solo version of the song appeared on Kansas Anymore (The Longest Goodbye), the deluxe edition of his new album, which was released earlier this year by Interscope Records.

Moissanite Ring Care 101: How to Keep Your Sparkle for a Lifetime

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By Mitch Rice

There is something undeniably magical about the way a moissanite ring catches the light. Its fire, brilliance, and clarity rival even the most expensive diamonds, making it a favorite among couples who value beauty, ethics, and affordability. But like any treasured piece of jewelry, a moissanite ring deserves thoughtful care. Whether it is your everyday accessory or a symbol of lifelong commitment, keeping that sparkle alive requires more than just admiration.

Understanding Moissanite’s Unique Qualities

Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone known for its exceptional hardness and dazzling brilliance. It ranks 9.25 on the Mohs scale, just below diamond, which means it is highly resistant to scratches and chips. However, resistance does not mean invincibility. Over time, exposure to oils, lotions, and household chemicals can dull its surface and affect its light performance.

Unlike softer stones, moissanite does not cloud or discolor easily, but it can accumulate residue that masks its natural sparkle. Understanding this helps you approach cleaning and maintenance with the right mindset. You are not just preserving a look. You are protecting a story.

Daily Habits That Make a Difference

The way you wear your ring day to day has a big impact on its longevity. One of the simplest habits you can adopt is removing your ring during activities that involve dirt, chemicals, or impact. Gardening, cooking, swimming, and even applying hand cream can leave behind residues that build up over time.

It is also wise to store your ring in a soft pouch or a separate compartment in your jewelry box. Moissanite is tough, but it can scratch softer metals or stones nearby. Keeping it isolated prevents unnecessary wear and tear and ensures it remains the star of your collection.

Cleaning Techniques That Actually Work

Forget harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners. Moissanite responds best to gentle, consistent care. A simple soak in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap can work wonders. Use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the stone and setting, paying close attention to crevices where grime tends to hide.

Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth. Avoid paper towels, which can leave fibers or cause micro-abrasions. For a deeper clean, consider a jewelry-safe steam cleaner once every few months, but always check with your jeweler first to ensure your setting can handle it.

Professional Maintenance Matters

Even with the best at-home care, your ring will benefit from occasional professional attention. A jeweler can inspect the setting, tighten any loose prongs, and polish the metal to restore its original luster. This is especially important for engagement rings, which are worn daily and exposed to more wear.

If you purchased your ring from a reputable source, they may offer complimentary cleanings or inspections. Take advantage of these services. They are not just about aesthetics. They are about preserving the integrity of your ring for years to come.

Protecting Your Investment

Moissanite may be more affordable than diamonds, but that does not make it any less valuable. It represents love, commitment, and personal style. Consider insuring your ring, especially if it features a custom design or holds sentimental value. Insurance provides peace of mind in case of loss, theft, or damage.

For those exploring moissanite engagement rings in the UK, many jewelers offer care packages and warranties that include regular maintenance. These extras are worth considering, especially if you want your ring to remain as radiant as the day you said yes.

A Lifetime of Sparkle Starts with Intention

Caring for your moissanite ring is not a chore. It is a ritual. Each time you clean it, store it properly, or take it in for a checkup, you are honoring the moment it represents. You are choosing to protect something beautiful, not just for today but for every tomorrow that follows.

So let your ring shine. Let it reflect your story, your values, and your love. With the right care, that sparkle will never fade.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

FLO and Kaytranada Set the Vibe Just Right with Seductive New Collab “The Mood”

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London-based girl group FLO and Kaytranada have teamed up to release their new song “The Mood” today. “The Mood” is a sultry summer track that flips the script, capturing sexual confidence as their smooth vocals glide Kaytranada’s slick production.

Speaking about “The Mood,” FLO says: “The Mood is a fun and fresh take on sex. Sometimes you’re not in the mood! We made this song two years ago and it still feels brand new to us. We are so honored to have been able to work with Kaytranada and so happy that the world can enjoy it with us!!! #permissionissexy”

The track follows an incredible year for FLO, who released their debut album Access All Areas this past November. The album became the highest charting album for a British R&B girl group in 23 years, with The New York Times hailing them a “girl group for the new generation.” Alongside a Top 3 chart position in the UK, the trio debuted on Billboard Top 200, and achieved over 605 million all-time global streams under their belt. The well-received debut album saw Pitchfork give the album an 8/10 rating stating, “The UK trio’s debut delivers a confident vision of what a modern girl group can be: tender, headstrong, and unified, with a clear point of view and harmonies for days.” The Times and NME gave the album stellar 4* ratings, with NME labelling it as “a front row seat to the next big thing” whilst their cover story for Dazed called Access All Areas “a debut…that delivers on the promise of their hype.”

Moe Bandy Tips His Hat to 50 Years of “Bandy the Rodeo Clown” and Keeps the Honky-Tonk Spirit Alive

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CMA and ACM award-winning country music legend Moe Bandy celebrates the 50th anniversary of his hit single “Bandy The Rodeo Clown.” Written by legendary songwriters Whitey Shafer and Country Music Hall of Famer Lefty Frizzell, the song is the title track and was the second of three singles released for the album “Bandy the Rodeo Clown.” The song reached # 7 on Billboard’s Country Chart and climbed to #4 on the Canadian Country Tracks chart.

“Bandy The Rodeo Clown” is still one of my most requested songs everywhere I play,” shares Bandy. “It’s always been funny how people think I was a true rodeo clown when I wasn’t. I was a bull rider for several years on the weekends, but was never a rodeo clown. It was such an honor to get a call from Lefty Frizzell and Whitey Shaffer letting me know they had written this song for me to record. It was an honor then and will always be one of the biggest thrills of my life.”

Bandy’s highly anticipated new album ‘Songs I Missed’ is available now in partnership with StarVista Music. Staying true to his traditional country roots, Bandy delivers a heartfelt collection of classic hits-some he once passed on, others he wished he’d had the chance to record. The album features iconic songs like “Heartaches By The Number,” “Six Days On The Road,” “He Stopped Loving Her Today,” “Amarillo By Morning,” “Pure Love,” and more. With his signature honky-tonk sound and soulful vocals, Bandy pays tribute to country music’s golden era while adding his own timeless style. Tracks from the album have been featured by Cowboys & Indians, Country Evolution, RFD-TV, The Tennessee Star, and more.

Fans can catch up with Moe on tour in the coming weeks:
NOV 06 – Dosey Doe / The Woodlands, Texas (with Janie Fricke)
NOV 07 – Riley’s Tavern / New Braunfels, Texas
NOV 08 – The Oaks Event Center / Vidor, Texas (with Joe Stampley)
JAN 25 – FEB 01 – Country Music Cruise / Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Rita Wilson Finds Full-Circle Magic with Her Reimagining of Carole King’s “It’s Too Late”

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Rita Wilson has shared her new single, “It’s Too Late”. Rita’s reimagining of the iconic Carole King classic was by produced by Jenn Decilveo (Miley Cyrus, Hozier) and Rita, mixed and mastered by Nick “Squids” Squillante (Hozier, FLETCHER) and features guitarist David Levita (Lionel Richie, Alanis Morissette).

Rita was inspired to record this new interpretation of “It’s Too Late” after filming an episode of the new Netflix series Too Much where she can be seen singing the song. Too Much is Lena Dunham’s triumphant return to television, marking the second time she and Rita worked together since the hit series Girls.

“Too Much tells the story of a heartbroken New Yorker who moves to London hoping for a love story and falls for an indie musician who’s anything but the typical romantic hero. Rita plays Lois, a New York Times-reading, intense-feelings mother. A former ’70s wild child, she ultimately settled into a suburban life but still surprises her family. Watch the trailer for Too Much here.

Rita explains; “I covered Carole King’s classic ‘Will You Love Me Tomorrow’ on my debut album. She is one of the greatest songwriters there is…. It felt fitting to cover ‘It’s Too Late’ following my time on set filming Too Much. There’s a scene where my character is driving her daughters back from the city and I’m singing along to the song. I remember being a teenager when it was released and driving around Hollywood praying it would come on the radio. This was definitely a full circle moment for me!”