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Aurora Roots Rocker Pat James Delivers Authentic Storytelling On New Album ‘I’d Like To Leave’

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Aurora singer-songwriter Pat James introduces a grounded blend of roots-rock and Americana with his latest album, ‘I’d Like To Leave.’ Recorded at Union Sound in Toronto with producer Dan Brodbeck, the twelve-track collection highlights a career focused on narrative depth. The project follows his time leading several bands, most notably The Road Heavy, and represents a shift toward complete creative independence. This new work allows the artist to move beyond the constraints of a traditional band dynamic to explore his own musical identity.

The album title originated from a candid observation made by his manager during a social gathering. “The title was born of an observation made by my band manager, she took a candid photo of me at a social gathering and said my expression screamed “I’d Like To Leave” and so it was born,” James explains. He notes that the project was born because he had a collection of half-finished songs that never fit the vibe of past projects. James shares that he likes to tell stories in his music and does not want to fit a genre or a sound. “What I find amazing about this album is that it feels cohesive even though some of the songs were completed over 10 years ago and others as recently as the year we recorded the album,” the songwriter adds.

James developed his craft while growing up above his family’s pizza restaurant, eventually touring with acts like The Tea Party and opening for the Headstones. The concept for his current ensemble, Pat James and the Whole Truth, materialized during a 2023 concert in Detroit. The recording process at Union Sound took place over a six-day period, capturing the raw energy of the new arrangements. James brings his lyrics to his drummer to give them a different life than he initially imagined. “I am always amazed at how exciting it can be to bring songs to life,” James describes regarding the process of creating the record.

The release of ‘I’d Like To Leave’ serves as a definitive statement of artistic freedom and resilience. Following a year marked by personal loss and professional growth, the album stands as a reflection of the artist’s real-life experiences. From his first childhood attempt at songwriting to his years on the road with rock legends, James has refined a sound that is both personal and universal. The record is currently available for streaming across all major digital platforms. It serves as an invitation for listeners to join the songwriter on a journey through his life, musically.

BBC Introducing Favorites Triers Release The Towering New Indie Anthem “Home”

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Shropshire based outfit Triers return with their latest single, “Home,” a production that captures the band’s signature mountain of sound. Produced by Gavin Monaghan at Magic Garden Studios, the track features thick layers of guitars and driving rhythms that support a candid narrative. The group arrives at this release following their recognition as the BBC Introducing Artist of the Week and airplay on BBC Radio 6 Music. This new music serves as a defiant roar from the underdogs of British indie, turning industry frustration into a moment of catharsis.

Frontman Nick Taylor explains that “Home” is not about a place but about chasing a dream and getting told you are not good enough. The songwriter notes that the lyric “put me back on the shelf” came from how it feels to be part of an industry that celebrates you one minute and forgets you the next. “But we’re still here, and this song is our way of saying that’s where we belong — in the noise,” Taylor adds. The band continues to build a reputation for emotionally charged live shows and an expansive sound that has already echoed through Molineux Stadium.

Grammy Nominee HAYLA Joins Forces With Nelly Furtado On The Cinematic Single “FADED”

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Grammy nominated vocalist HAYLA teams up with multi-platinum icon Nelly Furtado for the release of their haunting new single, “FADED.” The track combines an electronic atmosphere with emotional storytelling, opening with an ethereal vocal performance that leads into a raw and infectious chorus. This collaboration captures the heartbreak of a fading connection through the palpable chemistry between both artists. HAYLA explains that the song focuses on the weight of unrequited love and the feeling of being under a self-imposed love spell. The record highlights a blend of soaring vocals and signature warmth, creating a cinematic experience for the listener.

HAYLA shares that the song is about when you have started to become infatuated with someone. She explains that the feelings take over as if under a love spell, but it is a spell you have cast on yourself. “They were the spark that lit the match. When the other person’s gone you still feel the weight of their presence. It’s infatuation and unrequited love,” HAYLA adds. Nelly Furtado shares that HAYLA is one of her favorite singers and that she has literally covered her tracks live because she finds her vocals and her songwriting so authentic, passionate, inspiring, and otherworldly. “When she invited me on this track I jumped at the opportunity because it has that classic HAYLA aura,” Furtado shares.

G. Love And Special Sauce Celebrate Twenty Years Of ‘Lemonade’ With Global Anniversary Tour

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G. Love & Special Sauce hit the road this year for a celebratory tour honoring the twentieth anniversary of their landmark album, ‘Lemonade.’ Originally released in 2006, the record is known for its blend of blues, hip-hop, and melodic songwriting. The anniversary run features special guest Makua Rothman, a world-class big-wave champion and musician. This tour highlights the enduring legacy of a creative peak that included collaborations with Jack Johnson and Ben Harper. Audiences can also hear new material from the latest project, ‘Ode to R.L.’

The new album ‘Ode to R.L.’ serves as a tribute to the late Hill Country blues legend R.L. Boyce. G. Love describes the recording process as a conversation between the old guard of the blues and a new generation of storytellers. Producer Logan Tichnor mined session tapes from a jam at Zebra Ranch Studios to create the tracks. G. Love shares that the loss of R.L. Boyce gave the project new weight and urgency. The band finished the album as a living continuation of the late musician’s spirit and sound.

The extensive tour schedule includes stops across the United States throughout the early months of 2026. The band performs at the Blueberry Hill Duck Room in St. Louis on January 7 and the Ludlow Garage in Cincinnati on January 14. East Coast dates include the Bearsville Theater in Woodstock on January 23 and two nights at Rams Head On Stage in Annapolis on February 3 and 4. The tour also visits Florida for multiple shows in Fort Myers and Key West. West Coast performances feature stops in Solana Beach and San Luis Obispo toward the end of February.

The live show captures the soulful ease and community spirit that defines the career of G. Love & Special Sauce. By blending the classic sounds of ‘Lemonade’ with the raw blues of ‘Ode to R.L.’, the group remains focused on musical evolution. Makua Rothman adds a global pulse to the lineup with a sound that incorporates reggae, rock, and soul. This gathering of eras celebrates the people who shaped the music while looking toward the next chapter. The tour concludes with a series of amphitheater performances across the West Coast in September and October.

Tour Dates:

2/3 – Annapolis, MD – Rams Head On Stage **
2/4 – Annapolis, MD – Rams Head On Stage **
2/5 – Roanoke, VA – Grandin Theatre **
2/6 – Southern Pines, NC – The Sunrise Theatre **
2/7 – Greenville, SC – Coach Music Factory**
2/10 – Fort Myers, FL – Point Ybel Brewing
2/11 – Fort Myers, FL – Point Ybel Brewing
2/12 – Key West, FL – American Legion
2/13 – New Smyrna Beach, FL – Beachside Tavern
2/26 – Solana Beach, CA – Belly Up Solana Beach **
2/27 – San Luis Obispo, CA – SLO Brew Rocks **
2/28 – TBA – TBA
3/1 – TBA – TBA **
3/4 – Chico, CA – The Big Room at Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. **
3/5 – Medford, OR – Holly Theatre **
3/6 – TBA – TBA **
3/7 – Bellingham, WA – Wild Buffalo **
3/8 – TBA – TBA **
3/11 – Park City, UT – The Maquis Park City **
3/12 – Teton Village, WY – Mangy Moose **
3/13 – Fort Collins, CO – Aggie Theatre **
3/15 – St. Petersburg, FL – Reggae Rise Up
4/10 – 12 – Fort Lauderdale, FL – Tortuga Music Festival
9/6 – Stateline, NV – Lake Tahoe Amphitheater !!
9/26 – George, WA – The George Amphitheater !!
9/27 – Bend, OR – Hayden Home Amphitheater !!
9/28 – Troutdale, OR – Edgefield Concerts on the Lawn !!
9/30 – Berkeley, CA – The Greek Theatre !!
10/1 – Berkeley, CA – The Greek Theatre !!
10/3 – Santa Barbara, CA – Santa Barbara Bowl !!
10/4 – Santa Barbara, CA – Santa Barbara Bowl !!

** w/ MAKUA
!! w/ Jack Johnson

HNTR Teams Up With Phantogram For The Driving New Single “Fall In Love Again”

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Rising tech house producer HNTR joins forces with the celebrated electronic duo Phantogram for their new single, “Fall In Love Again.” The track serves as a reimagined take on the 2014 hit “Fall In Love” from the duo’s album ‘Voices.’ HNTR provides a driving and cinematic edge to the original composition, transforming the piece into a late night anthem. The collaboration has already earned support from prominent tastemakers including Dom Dolla, Disco Lines, and Danny Avila. This release bridges the gap between the duo’s established sound and the energy of modern electronic dance floors.

The partnership between the artists dates back to a 2010 meeting at the Toronto venue Wrongbar. HNTR remembers finding their music on a blog and convincing a club owner to let him meet the band during their first local appearance. He recalls asking the duo for a remix over a decade ago and describes the current project as a full circle moment. Phantogram notes that the song carries a specific soul that continues to connect people across time. They mention that hearing the song reimagined for new spaces feels special.

Phantogram consists of lifelong friends Josh Carter and Sarah Barthel, who have collaborated with artists such as Big Boi, Miley Cyrus, and Deftones. Their original version of the song surpassed 123 million global streams and contributed to the high chart positions of their second studio album. The duo continues to push boundaries within the alternative and electronic genres through diverse partnerships. HNTR arrives at this collaboration following a successful year, ranking among the top producers of 2025 on 1001Tracklists. The producer has achieved multiple number one positions on the Beatport charts.

HNTR will bring the new single to live audiences throughout the current season with several high profile performances. The artist performs in Riyadh on February 6 and holds a residency at XS in Las Vegas with dates on February 27, March 29, and April 19. He also appears at 99 Scott in Brooklyn on February 28 and at Drumsheds in London on March 7. These shows follow a year of sold out stages across North America, Asia, and Australia. The collaboration reinforces his position as a dynamic voice in the electronic music community.

Brian May And Roger Taylor Celebrate Fifty Years Of The Iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody”

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Queen continues the fiftieth anniversary celebrations of ‘A Night At The Opera’ with a new installment of the Queen The Greatest series. This week, Brian May and Roger Taylor reflect on the creative evolution that led to their landmark 1975 album. The band recorded the project at the famous Rockfield Studios in South Wales, where they rejected traditional rock constraints regarding genre and runtime. To mark the anniversary, a special limited edition crystal clear vinyl reissue of the album is available now.

The recording sessions tested the resolve of the group as they moved toward an eclectic sound. Roger Taylor notes that the band wanted different styles, including the fun atmosphere of “Seaside Rendezvous” alongside the monumentally long “The Prophet’s Song.” Brian May shares that he initially struggled to tame that eight minute opus and describes wrestling with the different pieces of the arrangement. He recalls the challenge of getting Freddie Mercury to perform the vocal canon sections. May describes the late singer as very supportive during those complex studio experiments.

The band maintained total creative control when discussing the release schedule for the project. Roger Taylor explains that Queen never thought of themselves as a singles band and preferred the eclectic approach of classic albums like ‘Dark Side of the Moon.’ The group viewed a single as a flag for the album rather than the primary goal of the recording process. Despite pressure from management and the record company, the band insisted on releasing “Bohemian Rhapsody” in its entirety. This decision came at a time when industry experts suggested the six minute song would fail.

“Bohemian Rhapsody” topped the UK charts for nine weeks upon its release and remains a vital part of rock history. Brian May observes that the song continues to resonate and feels fresh when performed with a full orchestra and choir. He describes the track as truly immortal and notes the amazing reaction it still receives from audiences. The Queen The Greatest series continues to air weekly throughout November to document these historical milestones. This retrospective highlights the band’s commitment to following their muse without compromise.

The Runarounds Release New Indie Anthem “Chasing The Good Times” Produced By Brad Shultz

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The Runarounds release their new single “Chasing The Good Times” today via AWAL. This track features a collaboration with Brad Shultz, founding member of Cage The Elephant, who handled co-writing and production duties. Mixing was completed by Rich Costey, who is known for his work with the Foo Fighters and Muse. The song delivers anthemic indie rock energy with the raw spirit of a small-town garage band. The accompanying music video showcases footage captured during their recent sold-out tour dates across the country.

The band established their reputation through a weekly beach bar residency in Wilmington, North Carolina, before transitioning to festival stages and club venues. This journey recently culminated in a sold-out performance at the storied Troubadour in Los Angeles. The group gained significant attention through their Amazon Prime series and the associated soundtrack, which was recorded live on set. During their fall tour, dedicated fans frequently waited in lines starting at 9 am to secure tickets. This momentum has led to a massive extension of their current live schedule.

Due to unprecedented demand, the band added 32 new dates to the 2026 leg of the “Minivan Tour.” Over 40,000 tickets are already sold, prompting many venues to upgrade to larger rooms to accommodate the audience. Upcoming performances include a stop at The Fonda in Los Angeles on January 23 and the Riviera Theatre in Chicago on February 10. The tour continues with two nights at Irving Plaza in New York on February 18 and 19, followed by the 9:30 Club in D.C. on February 20. The run concludes with a two-night stand at Brooklyn Bowl in Nashville on February 28 and March 1.

The musical history of the band includes an initial EP, ‘The Runarounds Live at USC,’ which was produced by Jerry Harrison of the Talking Heads. Their debut full-length project, ‘The Runarounds (Original Soundtrack),’ features original singles like “Senior Year” and “Funny How The Universe Works” alongside the fan favorite “Ghosts.” The band frequently covers “Kilby Girl” by Back Seat Lovers and draws inspiration from The Beatles and Rolling Stones. Their latest work reinforces their transition from a fictional television ensemble to a legitimate powerhouse in the indie rock scene.

Circle Jerks Unleash The Deluxe Reissue Of ‘Golden Shower Of Hits’ And Announce 2026 Tour

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Circle Jerks release the deluxe reissue of ‘Golden Shower of Hits’ today through Trust Records. This edition marks the first time the original analog tapes have been touched in forty years. The audio underwent remastering by Pete Lyman at Infrasonic Sound and restoration by Dan Johnson at Audio Archiving Services. This vibrant collection of tracks highlights the band’s punk chops and penchant for anti-authoritarianism. The release features updated artwork by Bryan Ray Turcotte and previously unseen photographs from the legendary Glen E. Friedman.

The original 1983 lineup of Keith Morris, Greg Hetson, and Roger Rogerson created this landmark hardcore punk release following their celebrated albums ‘Group Sex’ and ‘Wild in the Streets.’ Initially issued via LAX Records, the project includes eleven original tracks alongside the infamous medley title track. This medley completely reinvents AM radio pop favorites into twisted punk versions. Songs like “Coup d’État” and “When the Sh*t Hits the Fan” remain cemented in culture through their inclusion on the ‘Repo Man’ movie soundtrack.

To celebrate the arrival of the reissue, Circle Jerks perform at the historic Gardena Cinema followed by a screening of the cult classic film ‘Repo Man.’ The band will then embark on a co-headlining tour with Gorilla Biscuits across Japan and the United States. International dates begin on February 25 at Club Quattro in Tokyo, with additional stops at O-East and Osaka. The domestic run starts on March 27 in Columbus at Newport Music Hall and continues through major cities including Cincinnati, Philadelphia, and Boston.

This meticulously crafted reissue extends the long legacy of a band established as a crucial force in the worldwide hardcore scene. The improved sound quality and physical variants offer a modern touch to the 1983 classic. By revisiting the original recordings, Trust Records preserves a pivotal moment in the Los Angeles punk movement. The release is currently in stores and available across all digital retailers. This project underscores the enduring importance of the LP within the cultural zeitgeist and punk history.

To celebrate the release, Circle Jerks will cross Japan and select US cities for a co-headlining run with Gorilla Biscuits.

Circle Jerks 2026 Tour Dates:

Feb 25 – Tokyo, JP @ Club Quattro
Feb 26 – Tokyo, JP @ O-East
Feb 27 – Osaka, JP @ Club Quattro
Mar 27 – Columbus, OH @ Newport Music Hall
Mar 28 – Cincinnati, OH @ Bogart’s
Mar 29 – McKees Rocks, PA @ Roxian Theatre
Mar 31 – Allentown, PA @ Archer Music Hall
Apr 1 – Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage
Apr 3 – Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre of Living Arts
Apr 4 – Philadelphia, PA @ Theatre of Living Arts
Apr 6 – Albany, NY @ Empire Live
Apr 7 – New Haven, CT @ College Street Music Hall
Apr 9 – Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Apr 10 – Boston, MA @ Paradise Rock Club
Apr 11 – Portland, ME @ State Theatre

Carly Pearce Shares Vulnerable New Single “Dream Come True” Ahead Of Fifth Studio Album

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Carly Pearce faces the reality of professional success with her new single, “Dream Come True,” out today on Big Machine Records. Written by Pearce with Lauren Hungate, Tofer Brown, and Emily Weisband, the track examines the sacrifices required to reach career milestones. The song features stripped-back production co-produced by Pearce and Ben West. This arrangement places her vocals at the center of a striking reflection on the price of ambition. It is an unapologetically honest look at the personal moments missed while climbing the ladder of the country music industry.

“I wrote ‘Dream Come True’ about the sacrifices we make when chasing our dreams,” Pearce says. She explains that writing the song allowed her to reconnect with her roots and the reasons she first fell in love with singing country music. The artist suggests that anyone feeling a similar push and pull is not alone in that experience. This release follows the conclusion of her ‘Hummingbird’ era, which included the Grammy-nominated collaboration “We Don’t Fight Anymore” with Chris Stapleton. The new music marks the first step toward her upcoming fifth studio album.

The official music video, directed by Natalie Sakstrup, arrives alongside the single. The visual shows Pearce at a backstage vanity mirror, surrounded by photographs of loved ones while a production team prepares for a performance. Much of the moving video was captured in a single take to emphasize the bittersweet nature of the narrative. This perspective gives a glimpse into the internal life of an artist during the bustle of a major tour. The imagery reinforces the lyrical themes of introspection and the emotional weight of a dedicated career.

Pearce continues her momentum after completing a headlining world tour of over 40 dates and a main stage appearance at Stagecoach. “Dream Come True” signals a shift toward a more contemplative and personal style of storytelling. The track stops the listener in their tracks with its palpable emotional weight and sincerity. By focusing on the human cost of a lifelong goal, the song adds a new layer of depth to her established catalog. This release establishes a grounded tone for her next chapter in country music.

David Ellefson Brings The Acclaimed “Basstory: Performance, Stories & Legacy” Tour To Latin America

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Grammy winning bassist David Ellefson brings his “Basstory: Performance, Stories & Legacy” tour to Latin America this February. This series of events offers a powerful blend of live performance and storytelling regarding the music that shaped his life. Joining Ellefson on this run are vocalist Andrew Freeman, guitarists Andy Martongelli and Emanuel López, and drummer Adrián Esposito. The tour provides an inside look at iconic riffs and moments from his career on and off the stage. This intimate and high energy format allows fans to experience the musician up close.

The upcoming dates follow successful installments of the tour across Europe, the USA, and Australia. The setlist is packed with metal classics and features the personal stories behind the songs. “Basstory lets me connect with fans on a deeper level,” David Ellefson shares. The bassist mentions that the audience gets the riffs and the stories behind them, plus a badass live performance of fan favorites by talented musicians. This experience functions as a behind the music look at his creative process and professional history.

The tour kicks off on February 7 in Santiago de Chile before moving through several key locations. David Ellefson will perform in Mendoza on February 9 and Neuquén on February 10. The schedule continues with a stop in Las Grutas on February 13. A special show remains pending for February 14, followed by a performance at Cosquín Rock on February 15. These dates represent a significant expansion of the global tour as it enters the Latin American market.

This run of shows highlights the legacy of one of the most recognizable figures in metal history. The combination of storytelling and live music creates a unique environment for the audience. The presence of Last in Line vocalist Andrew Freeman adds a powerful vocal element to the established band lineup. By sharing the accounts of real life experiences, the tour bridges the gap between the artist and his community. Each performance serves as a celebration of the enduring impact of these iconic bass lines.

Basstory 2026 Tour Dates:

Feb 7 – Santiago de Chile
Feb 9 – Mendoza
Feb 10 – Neuquén
Feb 13 – Las Grutas
Feb 14 – Special Show Coming Soon
Feb 15 – Cosquín Rock