The acclaimed Japanese rock band RADWIMPS are excited to release their first entirely brand-new studio album in 4 years, “Anew” alongside the new music video “World End Girl Friend” out now worldwide! Directed by Takeshi Maruyama, the music video vividly captures the expressions and moments of a girl falling in love in a foreign land accompanied by a stunning nostalgic evoking but entirely fresh love song.
“Anew” is a 12 song masterpiece, featuring 10 newly recorded tracks along with the previously released “Tamamono” (the theme song of NHK Drama Serial “Anpan” ) and “Meidai” (theme song for a Japanese news program NTV “news zero”). The physical version of the album comes with “Tamamono (Orchestra Version)” and the digital album comes with re-recorded ”DAI-DAN-EN feat. ZORN (Anew Version)” as bonus tracks. This incredibly special body of work, and the band’s first studio album in 4 years is an absolute highlight of their 20th major debut anniversary year.
Accompanying the release is 20th Anniversary Special Box of the album which comes with footage from the special studio performance they did June 29th on YouTube, behind-the-scenes footage, never before seen interviews as well as rare performance footage from the very first arena show they did at Yokohama Arena in Aug 2007. As if that wasn’t enough, the band is excited to also include 4 songs from the FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL ’25 performance from July, 2025! From their very first arena show to their latest summer festival, fans can experience the band’s history within this special box set.
Also, an original pouch with special anniversary merch will be included in the physical box set. Inside the pouch, there are 3 items that were designed to commemorate the 20th anniversary. The special box is now available for preorder for international fans at Official RADWIMPS Overseas Store so make sure to secure your copy while the stock last!
While the band haven’t announced any international dates yet, RADWIMPS will be heading out on the road in Japan for RADWIMPS 20th ANNIVERSARY LIVE TOUR to support the new album “Anew” and to celebrate the anniversary. They’ll be hitting 9 major cities in Japan for a total of 17 arena shows. With their 20th anniversary coming up on Nov. 23rd, this arena tour sure will be an unforgettable experience for everyone and is sure to sell out.
RADWIMPS Release New Album ‘Anew’ and Stunning Video “World End Girl Friend”
Rush’s Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson Announce 2026 ‘50 Something Tour’ Honoring Neil Peart
After more than a decade, Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson are reuniting for Rush’s 50 Something Tour—a heartfelt tribute to their music, their brotherhood, and the legendary Neil Peart. The 2026 run marks their first tour together since 2015, celebrating both their 50-year legacy and the spirit of one of rock’s greatest drummers.
Musicians Perform on the Only Playable Stradivarius Guitar in the World
In a mesmerizing performance filmed for classical music lovers, Rolf Lislevand, Krishnasol Jiménez, and Ugo Nastrucci each showcased delicate, fingerstyle mastery on the Sabionari guitar — a 1679 creation by Antonio Stradivari. One of only five Stradivarius guitars known to exist, it’s the sole instrument still fully playable today, its tone a direct echo from the 17th century.
How to Choose the Best PDF Editor Program: Comparison and Recommendations
By Mitch Rice
Editing PDF files has become an integral part of office work, study, and everyday life for many of us. However, it’s not always easy , especially when it comes to finding the right software that meets our needs. Choosing the right tool can significantly streamline working with PDF documents, so it’s important to wisely decide which program best suits our needs. In this article, we’ll explore the various options available on the market and offer advice on how to choose the most suitable PDF editing tool.
The best PDF editing software is one that provides a full range of features, such as editing, conversion, integration, and security, while staying within your budget.
Key Features of PDF Editing Software
Every PDF editing program offers various features that can prove extremely useful in everyday work. One of the most important features is the ability to edit text within a PDF document, allowing you to easily make changes without having to convert the file. File conversion is another important aspect, allowing you to convert PDFs to a more manageable format, such as Word or Excel.
In addition to editing and conversion, it’s worth considering additional features such as document signing, online collaboration tools, and security features that protect documents from unauthorized access. These solutions allow us to work more efficiently and securely with files, share them with other users, and ensure the security of the data contained within the document.
Comparison of popular PDF editing apps
There are many programs on the market that offer a variety of PDF editing options. Adobe Acrobat DC is one of the most well-known programs , offering a full range of features, such as editing, converting, signing, and online collaboration. It’s available on a subscription model, which may be a drawback for those who prefer a one-time software purchase.
Another popular app is SwifDoo PDF, which offers both a one-time purchase and a subscription. Its features include editing, security, and collaboration tools.
Nitro Pro is an alternative for users looking for a one-time payment. It offers features such as creating, editing, converting, and collaborating PDFs.
PDF-XChange Editor is a popular choice thanks to its free version with basic editing and annotation features. The paid version allows for full file conversion and editing.
Sejda PDF Editor offers both free and paid online solutions, allowing you to edit text, merge and split PDF files.
The best free PDF editing programs
You don’t have to spend a fortune to edit PDF files. Free tools also have a lot to offer, especially if you don’t need advanced features. Smallpdf is one of the most popular free solutions that allows for basic editing, compression, and conversion of PDF files.
Another free program worth considering is JOPDF, which offers basic editing, and annotation. While the free version has some limitations, many users may find it sufficient for everyday tasks.
How to choose the right PDF editing tool?
Choosing a PDF editing program depends on many factors worth considering before making a decision. The most important factor is determining your budget, as not everyone can afford monthly subscriptions or expensive one-time purchases.
Next, it’s worth defining your needs by asking yourself which features you’ll need most. Some users will prioritize text editing, while others prioritize conversion capabilities or advanced collaboration and security tools.
- Check operating system compatibility. Make sure the program you choose works on your system – Windows, macOS, or Linux.
- Rate the ease of use. The software’s intuitiveness significantly impacts its comfort and work efficiency.
- Consider additional integrations. If you use an office suite or other tools, it’s worth making sure your PDF editing program integrates easily with them.
- Pay attention to the security of your documents by choosing a tool that offers file encryption and security options.
In summary
When it comes to editing PDF files, there’s a wide range of tools to choose from, from free to advanced paid solutions. Adobe Acrobat DC, SwifDoo PDF, Nitro, and PDF-XChange are among the most comprehensive options, offering a full range of features. For users looking for free solutions, Smallpdf or JOPDF editor may be good choices. The final choice should be based on individual needs, budget, and the functionalities necessary for everyday tasks.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
Scotty McCreery Scores First Canadian #1 with “Bottle Rockets” Featuring Hootie & The Blowfish
Scotty McCreery has reached the No. 1 spot on the Canadian Mediabase Country Chart for his summertime anthem, “Bottle Rockets,” featuring Hootie & The Blowfish. This marks the first No. 1 single for McCreery in Canada and his seventh in the U.S. The track is the fastest chart-topping song of his career to date, averaging six million streams per week.
“I’m thrilled to see ‘Bottle Rockets’ become my first No. 1 in Canada and happy to share that with one of my favorite bands ever, Hootie & The Blowfish,” McCreery says. “Thank you to the fans, Canadian country radio, Sony Music Canada, and The Orchard for all the support, not only on this song but throughout my career.”
“Bottle Rockets” was written by McCreery, Brent Anderson, Derek George, Jeremy Bussey, Monty Criswell, Frank Rogers, Bobby Hamrick, Darius Rucker, Mark Bryan, Dean Felber, and Jim Sonefeld, and produced by Rogers. Hootie & The Blowfish re-recorded their beloved “Hold My Hand” specifically for “Bottle Rockets.”
The music video for “Bottle Rockets” was released on September 19th, premiering on Paramount/CMT’s New York City Times Square billboard. Filmed outside Charleston, South Carolina, on the Isle of Palms, the laid-back, oceanside video encapsulates the universal feeling of summer and creating lifetimes of memories with friends and family. The video was directed by McCreery’s frequent collaborator, filmmaker Jeff Ray, and produced by Kelsey Pribilski-Ray.
“Bottle Rockets” is featured on McCreery’s recently released EP, Scooter & Friends, as the perfect soundtrack to summer. The five-song collection also includes McCreery’s collaborations with one of his greatest musical heroes, R&B icon Charlie Wilson (“Once Upon a Bottle of Wine”) and with Country music hitmaker Lee Brice (“Whiskey Said”).
Recently, McCreery and his wife Gabi welcomed their second son, Olivier Cooke, on September 18th. Big brother Avery will turn three in October.
Up next, he will be co-headlining the Two for the Road Tour with fellow country star, Dustin Lynch. The run kicks off this November.
It was recently announced that next year, McCreery will be performing at C2C UK in London, Belfast, and Glasgow on March 13-15, 2026. He will also headline C2C Berlin one night between March 6-8.
Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Pigs Bring Thunderous Energy to KEXP Live Session
Filmed August 20, 2025, in the KEXP Gathering Space, this fiery five-song set captures the U.K. heavy psych legends at their rawest and most magnetic. From “The Wyrm” to “Collider,” the band unleashes unrelenting riffs, ritualistic grooves, and molten intensity that turns the room into a volcanic trance.
Andy James Blends Jazz, Country, and Blues on New Album ‘The Architect of My Blues’
Le Coq Records announces the release of jazz vocalist Andy James’ new 8-track album, The Architect Of My Blues, to be available on all major digital streaming platforms on November 14. CD and vinyl editions will be available exclusively through the Le Coq Bandcamp store, and worldwide physical distribution begins December 12.
Produced by Piero Pata and Jon Cowherd, the new collection blends James’ signature jazz vocals with another longtime passion of hers, country music, and a touch of blues.
For THE ARCHITECT OF MY BLUES, James’ ninth studio album, she draws on the enduring inspiration of Ray Charles, who had a significant impact on country music with his blending of soul, R&B and jazz to classic country songs on his 1962 album Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music. The songwriting sessions with Andy and her all-star jazz band ultimately blossomed into an intimate and high-spirited mood swinging journey in Nashville, in collaboration with top Music City songwriters (Johnny Cooper, Collective Soul, Rebecca Lynn Howard).
Legendary musicians on the album include Jon Cowherd (piano); Vinnie Colaiuta (drums); John Patitucci (bass); James Genus (bass); Nicolas Payton (trumpet); Michael Dease (trombone); Joel Frahm (saxophone); Bob Sheppard (saxophone); Alex Acu-a (percussion); Steve Cardenas (guitar); Greg Leisz (pedal steel); Ronnie Foster (organ); Clarence Penn (drums) and Charlie Bisharat (violin).
The album is the latest in Andy’s ever-evolving discography, as Andy, husband Piero Pata and Jon Cowherd took raw demos of the Nashville-penned songs and recorded them on the West Coast at United Recording, Sunset Marquis, Nightbird Studios and NRG Recording Studios in L.A.; and at StudioA in Las Vegas.
Says James, “We went into the experience not knowing what would happen, but loving how it ended up. We all sat around in a room with Jon on the keyboard and everyone chatting, coming up with ideas and taking notes during the day for a week. Then at night we would all go out and hang at some good country bars with good Southern food. As we developed more songs, I tried out a few of them live.” She continues, “I twice sang the title track, ‘Architect of the Blues,’ which I call a ‘group brainwave’ because it was created by five songwriters, and also ‘Sleeping Heart,’ a lovely ballad that I love about the hope a great friend can give you.”
Adds Pata: “Creating The Architect of My Blues with Andy, Jon, and the Nashville writers was pure creative alchemy. Ideas flowed effortlessly, and the songs felt destined to exist. Bringing those sketches to life with such incredible musicians was a dream and a reminder of the magic that happens when you trust collaboration and let the music lead.”
Says Cowherd: “It was amazing to write these songs “Nashville style”. Which is to sit in a circle and throw out ideas and make compositional decisions democratically. We put together a very accomplished group of songwriters. Some who are great recording artists themselves and it rendered fantastic results.”
Seven of the tunes are co-writes by Cowherd and different mixes and matches of the team that included Nicole Atkins, Tre Burt, Aaron Lee Tasjan, Emily Levy and Ryan Scott. The only exceptions to the full on collabs are Cowherd’s instrumental ballad, “Wilson’s Gospel” (featuring violinist Charlie Bisharat) and the final track, the charming, uplifting romantic ballad “Our Favorite Little Street,” composed by Ryan Scott.
Hardy Announces 2026 ‘Country! Country!’ Tour Across North America
Hardy will embark on the Country! Country! Tour in 2026. The tour presented by Live Nation kicks off in February in Ontario and continues through August with arenas and amphitheaters across North America. Genre standouts Cameron Whitcomb, Tucker Wetmore, Mitchell Tenpenny, Muscadine Bloodline, Jake Worthington, and McCoy Moore will join the tour for select dates.
Presales start today (Tues, Oct 7th) at noon local time, ahead of the general sale on Friday, October 10th at 10 am local time. VIP Packages include premium tickets, exclusive meet and greet and individual photo with Hardy, VIP-exclusive merchandise and more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected.
Hardy’s new album Country! Country! is a return to his roots. The album and tour take their name literally with songs ranging from celebrations of his youth in the Mississippi mud — “Bottomland” being named for a specific camo pattern Hardy favors for hunting — to commentary on the state of country music at large. In sum, it’s a celebration of what makes Hardy Hardy.
The new collection of songs was released as Country! Country! Country!, featuring “Good Ole Boy,” solo penned fan-favorite “Dog Years,” collaborations with Ernest (“Bro Country”) and Stephen Wilson Jr. (“Bedrooms In The Sky”), and surging radio single “Favorite Country Song.”
Wrapping his coast-to-coast rocking Jim Bob World Tour last month, Hardy will round out the year with Country vs. Cancer, a special show benefiting the American Cancer Society – headlining alongside Miranda Lambert, Dierks Bentley, Lanie Gardner and McCoy Moore at the Pinnacle in Nashville. The charitable show is presented by ACS, his recently launched charity endeavor The Hardy Fund and Whiskey Jam.
Hardy 2026 The Country! Country! Tour Dates:
Feb 5 – Oshawa, ON @ Tribute Communities Centre
Feb 6 – Hamilton, ON @ TD Coliseum
Feb 7 – London, ON @ Canada Life Place
Feb 11 – Winnipeg, MB @ Canada Life Center
Feb 12 – Saskatoon, SK @ SaskTel Centre
Feb 13 – Edmonton, AB @ Rogers Place
Feb 19 – Calgary, AB @ Scotiabank Saddledome
Feb 20 – Penticton, BC @ South Okanagan Events Centre
Feb 21 – Abbottsford, BC @ Abbottsford Centre
Mar 19 – Green Bay, WI @ Resch Center
Mar 20 – Moline, IL @ Vibrant Arena at The MARK
Mar 21 – Omaha, NE @ CHI Health Center
Mar 26 – Allentown, PA @ PPL Center
Mar 27 – Charleston, WV @ Charleston Coliseum
Mar 28 – Evansville, IN @ Ford Center
Apr 9 – Knoxville, TN @ Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center
Apr 10 – Tupelo, MS @ Cadence Bank Arena
Apr 17 – Durant, OK @ Choctaw Grand Theatre
Apr 18 – Durant, OK @ Choctaw Grand Theatre
Apr 23 – Jacksonville, FL @ VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
Apr 24 – Charleston, SC @ Credit One Stadium
Apr 25 – Orlando, FL @ Kia Center
May 21 – Cincinnati, OH @ Riverbend Music Center
May 22 – Huntsville, AL @ Orion Amphitheater
May 23 – Orange Beach, AL @ The Wharf Amphitheater
May 28 – Cuyahoga Falls, OH @ Blossom Music Center
May 29 – Buffalo, NY @ Darien Lake Amphitheatre
May 30 – Bethel, NY @ Bethel Woods Center for the Arts
June 4 – Rogers, AR @ Walmart AMP
June 5 – St. Louis, MO @ Hollywood Casino Amphitheater
June 6 – Noblesville, IN @ Ruoff Music Center
June 11 – Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
June 12 – Virginia Beach, VA @ Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater at Virginia Beach
June 13 – Raleigh, NC @ Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek
June 25 – Gilford, NH @ BankNH Pavilion
June 26 – Mansfield, MA @ Xfinity Center
June 27 – Camden, NJ @ Freedom Mortgage Pavilion
Aug 20 – Lubbock, TX @ Cooks Garage
Aug 21 – New Braunfels, TX @ Whitewater Amphitheater
‘All You Need Is George’ Tour Celebrates the Music and Spirit of George Harrison in 2026
For the first time in over fifty years, the music of George Harrison will tour North America in an extraordinary new project titled All You Need Is George. An ensemble of world-class musicians will honor Harrison’s legacy across his groundbreaking work with The Beatles, the lush brilliance of All Things Must Pass, his solo treasures, and the joyful magic of The Traveling Wilburys.
This once-in-a-lifetime celebration brings together jam legends Jackie Greene, Steve Kimock, Pete Lavezzoli, Reed Mathis, Berry Duane Oakley, and Gil Assayas. Their deep camaraderie and shared reverence for Harrison’s timeless artistry promise a show filled with heart, spirit, and the enduring genius of one of music’s most soulful figures.
The tour launches February 19, 2026, at Sony Hall in New York City and travels through historic venues across the Northeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic, before wrapping March 15 at the Tarrytown Music Hall in New York.
Tour Dates:
2/19 – New York, NY – Sony Hall
2/20 – Glenside, PA – The Keswick Theatre
2/21 – Patchogue, NY – Patchogue Theatre
2/24 – Munhall, PA – Carnegie of Munhall
2/25 – Rochester, NY – Temple Theatre
2/26 – Detroit, MI – Royal Oak Theatre
2/27 – St. Charles, IL – The Arcada Theatre
2/28 – Des Plaines, IL – Historic Theatre
3/1 – Cincinnati, OH – Memorial Hall
3/4 – Cleveland, OH – Agora Theatre
3/5 – Buffalo, NY – Asbury Hall
3/6 – Albany, NY – Lark Hall
3/7 – Bethel, NY – Event Gallery at Bethel Woods
3/8 – East Greenwich, RI – Greenwich Odeum
3/11 – Medford, MA – Chevalier Theatre
3/12 – Newton, NJ – Newton Theatre
3/13 – Jim Thorpe, PA – Penn’s Peak
3/14 – Washington, DC – The Hamilton
3/15 – Tarrytown, NY – Tarrytown Music Hall
11 Songs That Changed Genres Forever
Every so often, a song arrives that flips the switch, turning familiar sounds into something entirely new. These 11 tracks reshaped music history and gave birth to fresh genres, movements, and moods.
“…Baby One More Time” – Britney Spears
Pop got a new heartbeat when Britney hit play in 1998. With its mix of R&B rhythms, Swedish production magic, and unstoppable hooks, it set the standard for the next wave of millennium pop.
“Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson
A moonwalk, a bassline, and a beat that defined an era. Michael’s groove blurred the line between pop, funk, and soul, launching modern dance-pop into orbit.
“Blue Monday” – New Order
With its pulsing synths and drum machine precision, this 1983 anthem built the bridge between post-punk and electronic dance music. Club culture found its soundtrack.
“Crazy in Love” – Beyoncé feat. Jay-Z
That horn riff, that strut, that swagger. Beyoncé’s solo breakout blended R&B, hip-hop, and funk with stadium-sized confidence, lighting up a new era of pop empowerment.
“Creep” – Radiohead
Grunge met vulnerability, and alternative rock gained a new emotional core. Radiohead’s 1992 track became the anthem for introspection wrapped in distortion.
“Cross Road Blues” – Robert Johnson
The myth, the man, the guitar. Recorded in 1936, this song carved the foundation for blues and, by extension, rock itself—haunting, raw, and endlessly studied.
“I Want to Hold Your Hand” – The Beatles
Pure electricity in two minutes and twenty-four seconds. The Beatles’ harmonies and youthful charm catapulted rock ‘n’ roll into global pop culture forever.
“Planet Rock” – Afrika Bambaataa & The Soulsonic Force
Synths met turntables, and hip-hop met electro. This 1982 track turned the Bronx’s street rhythms into a futuristic movement that inspired techno and EDM.
“Smells Like Teen Spirit” – Nirvana
A loud, catchy spark from Seattle that sent shockwaves through radio and rewrote rock’s DNA. The energy of garage, punk, and melody all collided here.
“Superstition” – Stevie Wonder
Funk crystallized around that clavinet riff. Stevie’s mastery of rhythm and groove shaped the direction of soul and pop for decades to come.
“Take Me Out” – Franz Ferdinand
The early 2000s indie scene found its dancefloor. With sharp guitar lines and a rhythmic twist, this hit made rock cool, stylish, and infectious all over again.