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Iron Maiden and Lagunitas Brewing Unite for a Bold West Coast IPA Under the Trooper Beer Banner

Eric Alper
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Iron Maiden and Lagunitas Brewing Unite for a Bold West Coast IPA Under the Trooper Beer Banner

Iron Maiden and Lagunitas Brewing Company have joined forces, and the result is exactly as bold as you’d expect. The legendary heavy metal icons are extending their award-winning Trooper Beer series with a West Coast IPA, brewed in collaboration with one of America’s most adventurous craft breweries. Two institutions, one shared commitment to craft, and zero interest in doing anything halfway.

The beer itself is built for impact. Crafted with Krush, the newest hop variety making serious waves in the brewing world, the IPA delivers a pungent, resinous West Coast profile at 6.6 percent ABV, hitting that precise balance between intensity and drinkability. This is not a novelty release. It’s a serious beer built by serious brewers with serious taste.

Bruce Dickinson was direct about the appeal: “Lagunitas are a watchword for west coast brewing excellence, and it has been a real highlight working with them on a Trooper taste for both coasts and all states in between.” Lagunitas CMO Hannah Dray framed it equally well, noting that “music drives us, and craft defines us.” The creative spark between Dickinson and Lagunitas Brewmaster Jeremy Marshall was immediate, and the beer reflects it.

The Trooper West Coast IPA lands this summer at select bars, taprooms, and participating retailers in six-packs while supplies last. Iron Maiden also brings their “Run For Your Lives Tour” to the United States in September. Great beer, great metal, and a live show to match. This summer has a lot going for it.

Chris Janson Releases Charming New Single “Easy to Love, Harder to Hold”

Eric Alper
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Chris Janson Releases Charming New Single “Easy to Love, Harder to Hold”

Chris Janson has a gift for finding the personal story inside a universal feeling, and “Easy to Love, Harder to Hold” is a prime example. Released via Harpeth 60 Records/Warner Records Nashville, the track was written by Janson alongside Pat Bunch and Kelly Roland, with production from Janson and Michael Wayne Wilkes. It’s a warm, charismatic portrait of a free-spirited woman who captures hearts without ever slowing down.

The inspiration is as genuine as it gets. “This is exactly how I felt the moment I met my wife, Kelly,” Janson shares. “We actually wrote this together with the late Pat Bunch.” That kind of personal grounding gives the song real emotional texture, and it comes through in every turn of the lyric.

The release lands while Janson is deep into his “Wild Horses Untamed Tour,” bringing chart-topping hits and new material to fans across the country. His current radio single “Me & A Beer” is climbing steadily, approaching the Top 20 at country radio. On a recent tour stop in Tucson, AZ, a young fan made his way from VIP to center stage and danced alongside Janson, to the delight of the entire crowd.

Janson also performed his patriotic anthem “This Flag” that same night, a fitting moment as America marks 250 years in 2026. This is an artist fully locked in, on record and on the road.

Multi-Platinum Country Star Dustin Lynch Returns to Wynn Las Vegas for Second Club Residency

Eric Alper
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Multi-Platinum Country Star Dustin Lynch Returns to Wynn Las Vegas for Second Club Residency

Dustin Lynch is heading back to Las Vegas, and this time he’s bringing even more of the party with him. The multi-platinum country star returns to Wynn Nightlife for his second club residency, continuing his history-making run as the first country artist to hold a club set residency at the iconic Wynn Las Vegas.

Lynch takes over XS Nightclub on May 1st alongside Diplo, then moves to Encore Beach Club on June 26th for a full daylife takeover. The expansion from nightclub to beach club signals a residency growing in both scope and ambition, blending his hit-driven country catalog with open-format club energy on two of Las Vegas’ most influential stages.

The residency builds on Lynch’s recent genre-stretching work. His ‘Club Set Remixes EP’ features high-energy dance reworks of his biggest hits by top DJs including Moonlight and MC4D. His first EDM original, “Home To You” with MC4D, carries his unmistakable country undertone directly into the global dance scene, and has already become a fixture in DJ booths across Las Vegas and Miami Beach.

Ten number one hits. A decade of Las Vegas pool parties. A sound that keeps moving forward. More dates and announcements are expected soon.

Alt-Metal Heavyweights From Ashes to New Release Brooding New Single “Villain” Ahead of ‘Reflections’

Eric Alper
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Alt-Metal Heavyweights From Ashes to New Release Brooding New Single “Villain” Ahead of ‘Reflections’

From Ashes to New have released “Villain,” the third single from their upcoming album ‘Reflections,’ due April 17th via Better Noise Music. The track flips a familiar dynamic on its head, with vocalist Matt Brandyberry stepping into the perspective of the so-called bad influence rather than the person drawn to them.

The result is a brooding, tension-filled track that leans hard into psychological complexity. Brandyberry describes it as “the moment when desire outweighs consequences, when you choose the chaos you swear you shouldn’t want.” That energy translates directly into the music, dark, intoxicating, and built on the kind of alt-metal momentum the band has been sharpening since ‘Blackout.’

‘Reflections’ follows ‘Blackout,’ which hit No. 1 on multiple iTunes and Spotify Rock and Metal charts globally. Two singles preceded “Villain”: “New Disease” and the radio-bound “Drag Me,” currently climbing the charts. The band scrapped 16 demos before rebuilding the album from scratch, keeping only two songs and pushing their sound further into alt-metal territory. That kind of creative discipline shows.

‘Reflections’ arrives as a 12-track record with seven distinct physical configurations, including multiple vinyl variants exclusive to the band’s webstore, indie retailers, Gimme Metal, Revolver, and Spotify Fans First. It’s a full commitment to the format, and to the fans who show up for it.

BNYX and Kid Cudi Team Up for Irresistible New Single “Everywhere I Go (Remind Me)”

Eric Alper
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BNYX and Kid Cudi Team Up for Irresistible New Single “Everywhere I Go (Remind Me)”

BNYX and Kid Cudi have linked up, and “Everywhere I Go (Remind Me)” is exactly the kind of single that reminds you why both artists operate on their own frequency. Released via Lyfestyle Corporation/Field Trip/Capitol Records, the track builds on the electronic and dance DNA of BNYX’s debut EP ‘Loading…,’ pushing further into dark alt-pop and synth-drenched soul with results that are genuinely hard to categorize and impossible to put down.

The production is immersive and kinetic, humming keys, rubbery bass, snapping percussion, and choral vocals locking into a driving swirl that pulls the listener forward. Cudi moves between wistful warmth and robotic vocoder, delivering lines that cut straight to the bone: “At night when he sleeps, the demons they haunt / They want the boy to be weak, I will defeat them.” It’s a meeting of two minds that refuse to be boxed in, and the chemistry lands.

BNYX has spent the last few years becoming one of the most essential producers working anywhere in music. Named “Best Hip-Hop Producer Alive” by Complex, his credits span Yeat, Travis Scott, Drake, Nicki Minaj, Lil Uzi Vert, Playboy Carti, and NBA YoungBoy. He helmed Drake’s No. 2 Hot 100 hit “Search & Rescue,” co-produced the No. 1 smash “Slime You Out” with SZA, and spent seven weeks atop Billboard’s Top Rap Producers chart.

‘Loading…’ is out now, a six-song shape-shifter featuring Yeat, Earl Sweatshirt, George Clanton, and Clara La San. “Everywhere I Go (Remind Me)” extends that chapter with purpose and momentum. More is coming.

Indie Rockers Frieda Star Make Their Case with Debut Single “Mothers and Sisters”

Eric Alper
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Indie Rockers Frieda Star Make Their Case with Debut Single “Mothers and Sisters”

Frieda Star have made their entrance, and “Mothers and Sisters” is a debut single with real weight behind it. The Black Country four-piece, built around Xavier Al-Naqib’s life-affirming basslines, James Knott’s sharp guitar work, Scarlett Churchill’s textured drumming, and Garran Hickman’s idiosyncratic songwriting, arrives fully formed and with something genuine to say.

The track is fuzzy, direct, and loaded with indie energy that feels lived-in rather than assembled. “Mothers and Sisters” was sparked by a real incident, an up-skirting attack on Hickman’s girlfriend during a train ride home from Birmingham. The band addressed it head-on: “Aggressively, and rightly so, Garran took his pen to paper to release frustrations and angst that his girlfriend fell victim to a complete stranger. Hopefully, it demands the attention this injustice deserves.”

The result is a track that carries genuine urgency, melodically engaging and emotionally grounded in equal measure. Frieda Star aren’t chasing a sound, they’re building one, and “Mothers and Sisters” makes that foundation impossible to ignore.

More new material and an extensive live set are on the way. This is a strong opening move from a group worth watching closely.

Garrett Anthony Rice Drops Stunning Double Single Previewing the Ambitious Double LP ‘Equinox’

Eric Alper
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Garrett Anthony Rice Drops Stunning Double Single Previewing the Ambitious Double LP ‘Equinox’

Two tracks. One clear statement. Garrett Anthony Rice has released the double single “In the Night Time We Shone” and “Purple Man (For Jimi),” a pairing that works as both a standalone listen and a preview of ‘Equinox,’ his forthcoming double LP.

“In the Night Time We Shone” builds on atmosphere and controlled momentum. Dark contours, a hypnotic rhythm, and a chorus that opens without overreaching, it’s a track that earns its space quietly and confidently. The outro drifts into subtle rhythmic experimentation, leaving an impression that lingers well after the song ends.

“Purple Man (For Jimi)” is the bolder of the two. The Hendrix reference in the title is deliberate, but Rice sidesteps imitation entirely. The cycling riff keeps the track locked in a steady forward push, with a roughened energy that recalls Foo Fighters filtered through something more reflective and personal. It’s a tribute built on absorption, not recreation.

Together, these two tracks point directly toward ‘Equinox,’ the double LP Rice has been building with serious care and precision. The writing here is rooted and deliberate, the work of a songwriter who knows the tradition he’s drawing from and has something distinct to add to it.

Willie Nelson Anchors All-Star ‘The Gray House’ Soundtrack With Heartfelt New Single

Eric Alper
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Willie Nelson Anchors All-Star ‘The Gray House’ Soundtrack With Heartfelt New Single

MCA has officially unveiled the high-profile musical companion to the Amazon limited series ‘The Gray House’, a project that unites a generational cross-section of American musical titans. The soundtrack is currently being previewed by the lead single “Heart of America” from the legendary Willie Nelson. Executive producer Kevin Costner describes the performance as a profound exploration of a nation divided against itself, marking a significant addition to Nelson’s storied discography. The track sets a somber and resilient tone for the series, which chronicles the true story of four women operating an espionage network during the American Civil War.

The collection serves as a sonic tapestry of gospel, country, Americana, and rock, reflecting the historical weight of the Civil War era through a modern lens. Contributions from Lainey Wilson, Shania Twain, and The War And Treaty ensure the project carries both prestige and contemporary relevance. Producers Morgan Freeman and Lori McCreary have noted that the music functions as a new kind of anthem, intended to resonate with the American public as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. This is a rare instance where the soundtrack is as much a centerpiece of the storytelling as the on-screen performances.

The technical depth of the tracklist is bolstered by an elite roster of songwriters and performers, including Jon Bon Jovi, Scott Stapp, and Killer Mike. From the soulful “Blood In the River” to the defiant “Dead End Red Dirt Road,” each entry is meticulously placed to underscore the themes of courage and resistance within the Underground Railroad. The series itself features a powerhouse cast led by Mary-Louise Parker and Ben Vereen, with all eight episodes directed by Roland Joffé. This alignment of high-level talent across all disciplines suggests a project of immense cultural and historical importance.

The album is out now, having arrived alongside the series premiere on Prime Video in late February. It acts as a definitive document of the resilience that has shaped the United States since its founding. The release highlights the bravery of unsung women who risked their freedom to safeguard the future of the Union. Through these powerful vocal performances, the project manages to bridge the gap between 19th-century history and 21st-century art. This is a must-listen for anyone invested in the intersection of American history and masterfully crafted songcraft.

Track Listing:

“Blood In the River” – The War And Treaty

“Unholy Water” – Adrienne Warren

“Love Will Rescue Me” – Yolanda Adams

“If This Day” – The War And Treaty

“Red, White, & Blue” – Scott Stapp

“Dead End Red Dirt Road” – Lainey Wilson

“The Devil’s Boat” – Larkin Poe

“Smiling Eyes (Smiling Faces)” – Killer Mike Featuring Lena Byrd Miles

“I’ll Be Here With You” – Shania Twain and Drake Milligan

“Heart Of America” – Willie Nelson

Atreyu Deliver A Brutal Moment Of Catharsis On New Single “Ego Death”

Eric Alper
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Atreyu Deliver A Brutal Moment Of Catharsis On New Single “Ego Death”

Atreyu is currently operating with a level of sonic aggression that feels both revitalized and deeply intentional. Their latest single “Ego Death” arrives as a bruising follow-up to “Dead,” further cementing their reputation for balancing high-velocity riffs with massive melodic payoffs. The track functions as a visceral exploration of personal shedding, leaning into the idea that a piece of the past must perish to make room for a new identity. It is a heavy, rhythmic entry that manages to land with significant emotional weight without sacrificing any of the band’s trademark grit.

The production on the new track utilizes a surging groove that anchors the more chaotic elements of the arrangement. By pairing crushing instrumental layers with one of their most resonant choruses to date, the group has crafted a song that feels specifically designed for a large-scale live environment. This is not a band content to repeat a familiar blueprint. Instead, they are pushing the boundaries of their own catalog to find a more sophisticated brand of catharsis. The accompanying music video, released via Spinefarm, provides a stark visual counterpart to the song’s themes of internal reinvention.

The timing of this release coincides with a significant return to the road. Atreyu is hitting the touring circuit this spring as the primary support for Sevendust, a pairing that promises a high-impact experience for fans of the genre. The run begins in April and will see the group navigating a series of major markets across the continent. Performing “Ego Death” in these rooms will likely be a highlight of the set, offering a moment of collective release that mirrors the song’s lyrical focus. This is the sound of a band that knows exactly who they are in 2026.

“Ego Death” is available now on all digital platforms. It serves as a definitive statement of intent, proving that Atreyu remains a formidable force in the heavy rock landscape. By embracing a more vulnerable thematic core while maintaining their technical edge, they have created something that feels both urgent and timeless. The single is a masterclass in modern rock dynamics, shifting seamlessly between raw power and melodic clarity. It is a necessary addition to the playlist of anyone following the evolution of the genre.

2026 Tour Dates:

April 20 Indianapolis, IN

May 20 Knoxville, TN

Country Hitmaker Ernest Heads Out To Sea With Tropical New Single “Lorelei”

Eric Alper
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Country Hitmaker Ernest Heads Out To Sea With Tropical New Single “Lorelei”

Ernest is currently trading the traditional Nashville skyline for the sun-drenched horizon of the U.S. Virgin Islands. His latest single “Lorelei” arrives as a calculated stylistic pivot, offering a breezy, two-minute narrative that leans heavily into a maritime aesthetic. This is not a casual experiment. It is a deliberate return to the tropical foundations of his early career, executed with the technical precision of a songwriter who has spent the last seven years dominating the country charts. The track is built on elegant, plucked guitar tones that create an immediate sense of place.

The production, handled by Ernest and Jacob Durrett, prioritizes an airy, organic atmosphere that allows the central hook to breathe. “Lorelei” functions as the lead entry for his upcoming third studio album, ‘Deep Blue’, which seeks to capture the specific emotional frequency of a Caribbean escape. Ernest describes the project as a “deep blue world,” inviting listeners to abandon the cold of the mainland for something more visceral and nostalgic. This new material showcases a refined maturity, moving beyond the lightheartedness of his debut toward a more sentimental and layered sound.

The songwriting remains the undeniable core of the project. Collaborating with heavyweights like Rhett Akins and Ben Hayslip, Ernest utilizes a razor-sharp pen to craft a sailor’s tale about an elusive, evocative woman. His ability to blend unique turns-of-phrase with addictive melodic structures has already earned him significant industry accolades, and this track continues that trajectory. There is a specific confidence in the vocal delivery that suggests an artist who is fully aligned with his creative environment. The music feels authentically tied to the islands that shaped his personal history.

‘Deep Blue’ is scheduled for release later this year via Big Loud Records, marking a new chapter in one of country music’s most consistent success stories. By revisiting the themes of his 2019 project ‘Locals Only’, Ernest is effectively closing a creative circle while looking toward a more expansive future. The track is available now, serving as a beach-ready anthem for those seeking a temporary exit from reality. This is high-impact country music that successfully bridges the gap between Tennessee craftsmanship and island spirit. It is a refreshing, high-fidelity glimpse into what remains his most ambitious work to date.

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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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