Page 343 – That Eric Alper

EarFun Unveils AI Translation And Next Gen Audio Across 2026 Headphone Line

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

EarFun Unveils AI Translation And Next Gen Audio Across 2026 Headphone Line

For 2026, EarFun outlines a major leap forward across its wireless earbuds and ANC headphone lineup, introducing world first upgrades that focus on audio quality, connectivity, and intelligent features. The year brings the Air Pro 4+ with a new White Edition, the flagship Wave Pro X over ear headphones, and the open ear Clip 2, each built around new driver designs, Bluetooth 6.0, and top tier audio certifications. Together, the lineup positions EarFun squarely at the intersection of performance and everyday practicality.

The Air Pro 4+ marks EarFun’s debut of live AI powered translation, designed for real time cross language communication during travel, meetings, and conferences. The true wireless ANC earbuds pair this new capability with hybrid noise cancellation up to 50dB, a hybrid driver system combining a balanced armature and 10mm dynamic driver, and support for aptX Lossless, LDAC, and Hi Res Audio. Offered in Black and a premium White Edition, the Air Pro 4+ balances professional functionality with refined sound tuning and is now available through EarFun’s direct and Amazon stores.

Wave Pro X serves as EarFun’s most ambitious over ear release to date, introducing the world’s first dual driver Qualcomm ANC headphones with Auracast. Powered by the QCC3095 chip, Wave Pro X supports Bluetooth 6.0, enhanced security standards, and up to 100 hours of total battery life through LE Audio efficiency. An eight microphone hybrid call system, hybrid ANC that functions both wirelessly and via AUX, and support for LDAC and lossless playback anchor its feature set. Dual 40mm DLC and 10mm LCP drivers deliver wide range dynamics, with Theater Mode and ultra low latency gaming options expanding its versatility. Wave Pro X is set for release in June 2026.

EarFun Clip 2 expands the brand’s open ear category with the world’s first Hi Res ear clip earbuds featuring built in AI translation. Designed for comfort and long wear, the Clip 2 pairs an ergonomic, lightweight frame with redesigned acoustic architecture and upgraded 12mm dynamic drivers. Hi Res Audio and LDAC certification sit alongside 3D Surround Sound modes, while a fully adjustable EQ through the EarFun Audio App allows precise control over the listening experience.

Built for everyday durability, Clip 2 features quad mic ENC powered by advanced processing architecture, Bluetooth 6.0 with multipoint connectivity, Google Fast Pair, and an IP55 rated chassis. Wireless charging and up to 40 hours of total playback round out the design. With its March 2026 release, Clip 2 completes a lineup that shows EarFun committing fully to innovation across AI, sound quality, and real world usability.

Bywater Call Tap ’60s And ’70s Soul With Smoky Slow Burner “Only”

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

0

Bywater Call Tap ’60s And ’70s Soul With Smoky Slow Burner “Only”

Bywater Call step into classic soul territory with “Only,” a slow burning ballad rooted in the emotional directness of 1960s and 1970s soul anthems. Led by Meghan Parnell’s smoky, controlled vocal, the song moves at an unhurried pace, letting space and melody carry its weight. Lyrically, it centers on the quiet imbalance of loving more than being loved, delivered with restraint rather than dramatics. Harmonies from Joanna Mohammed and Claire Davis add warmth and depth, reinforcing the song’s emotional pull.

Co written by guitarist Dave Barnes, “Only” blends classic soul phrasing with modern touches associated with artists like Adele and Amy Winehouse. The track was recorded at Palace Studios, captured and mixed by Patric McGroarty, and mastered by Kristian Montano of Montano Mastering. The result highlights a softer, more intimate side of Bywater Call’s sound, built on patience, tone, and emotional clarity rather than volume or excess.

Brighton Alt Folk Outfit The Family Grave Rework “Daylight” From ‘Old Songs For Kids’

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

0

Brighton Alt Folk Outfit The Family Grave Rework “Daylight” From ‘Old Songs For Kids’

Brighton alt folk outfit The Family Grave share “Daylight,” a dance driven remix drawn from their album ‘Old Songs For Kids,’ out now. The release pairs the original lyric version with a new rhythmic rework that leans into the song’s Latin rooted groove, layering steady beats beneath a reflective vocal performance. Jazz trumpet lines from Matt Ellis Devitt add lift and motion, giving the track a late night pulse without losing its emotional core.

Alongside the audio release, the band has unveiled a visual reel featuring dancers from Ava Choreo, expanding the song’s energy into movement and color. “Daylight” arrives digitally with a limited edition 12-inch single and CD available exclusively via Elasticstage, with Bandcamp downloads and physical editions including the original acoustic demo as a bonus. ‘Old Songs For Kids’ remains available on Bandcamp and on vinyl and CD, anchoring this release in the thoughtful songwriting and melodic warmth that defines The Family Grave’s work.

Hugh Jackman And Kate Hudson Launch ‘Song Sung Blue’ On Digital And Blu Ray

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

0

Hugh Jackman And Kate Hudson Launch ‘Song Sung Blue’ On Digital And Blu Ray

Song Sung Blue launches for home viewing on January 13, available to buy or rent on digital platforms, followed by a Blu-ray and DVD release on February 17 from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. The film stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, bringing warmth and emotional openness to a music driven love story inspired by the songs and legacy of Neil Diamond. Written and directed by Craig Brewer, the feature is based on the award winning 2008 documentary by Greg Kohs.

Jackman and Hudson portray Mike and Claire, two musicians who form a Neil Diamond tribute band called Lightning and Thunder, building momentum from garage rehearsals to dive bar stages and hometown attention. Their performances lean into chemistry and shared history, with musical moments carrying the story forward through rhythm, melody, and emotional clarity. There is a grounded confidence in how the film lets the songs and performances do the talking.

The release includes exclusive bonus content from participating retailers, featuring extended musical performances of “Crunchy Granola Suite” and “Sweet Caroline,” alongside behind the scenes featurettes. The ensemble cast also includes Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, King Princess, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley, Fisher Stevens, and Jim Belushi. Both Jackman and Hudson also appear on the soundtrack ‘Song Sung Blue (Music from the Motion Picture),’ released alongside the film.

Swedish Hard Rock Trio The Gems Ignite “Firebird” Ahead Of ‘Year Of The Snake’

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

0

Swedish Hard Rock Trio The Gems Ignite “Firebird” Ahead Of ‘Year Of The Snake’

Swedish hard rock trio The Gems push forward with “Firebird,” a blazing new single that continues the mythic thread introduced on their debut ‘Phoenix.’ The track channels classic hard rock force through sharp riffs, driving drums, and a commanding vocal performance, leaning into a sound rooted in tradition while hitting with modern precision. There is an undeniable rush to how “Firebird” moves, turning tension and reflection into momentum.

Formed by Guernica Mancini, Mona Lindgren, and Emlee Johansson, The Gems lock in as a powerful unit, built on chemistry and relentless energy. ‘Year Of The Snake’ stands tall as a confident statement, driven by heavy grooves, big hooks, and a live wire spirit that turns volume, sweat, and melody into something immediate and gripping.

Anderson Paak Steps Behind The Camera With ‘K-Pops!’ Musical Comedy Feature

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

0

Anderson Paak Steps Behind The Camera With ‘K-Pops!’ Musical Comedy Feature

Anderson Paak makes his feature film directorial debut with K-Pops!, now out nationwide in AMC theaters via Stampede Ventures. Written, directed, and led by Paak, the film centers on BJ, a worn down musician who heads to Seoul and lands in the house band of a K pop competition show. What starts as a career reset quickly turns personal when BJ discovers his long lost son is one of the contestants chasing global stardom.

Paak stars opposite his real life son Soul Rasheed, who plays Tae Young, grounding the story in lived experience and family chemistry. The film moves through comedy and music while focusing on connection, reconciliation, and creative growth across cultures. There is a warmth and openness running through the performances that gives the story momentum and emotional clarity without drifting from its playful tone.

The cast also includes Jee Young Han, Jon Dumbfoundead Park, Yvette Nicole Brown, Cathy Shim, and Kevin Woo. Original music for the film was created with Dem Jointz, drawing from his deep roots in the K pop world. The soundtrack also features collaborations with artists including Suga, Vernon, Crush, The Rose, Jessi, and G Dragon, expanding the film’s musical world with precision and color.

Behind the camera, Paak builds on his experience directing music videos and steps confidently into long form storytelling, supported by teams at Live Nation Productions, Big Dummie, and EST Studios. ‘K-Pops!’ presents a vivid blend of performance, humor, and heart, shaped by collaboration and anchored in music, family, and movement between worlds, leaving a strong first mark in Paak’s film career.

Lost 1977 Blue Eyed Soul Classic David Forman Unveils ‘Who You Been Talking To’

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

0

Lost 1977 Blue Eyed Soul Classic David Forman Unveils ‘Who You Been Talking To’

High Moon Records releases ‘Who You Been Talking To,’ the long unheard 1977 album by David Forman, recorded in Los Angeles for Arista Records and shelved until now. Produced by Jack Nitzsche, the record captures Forman at a creative peak, surrounded by an extraordinary group of L.A. musicians including Ry Cooder, Jim Keltner, David Lindley, Fred Tackett, Tim Drummond, and Flaco Jimenez. Blending blue eyed soul, doo wop, Brill Building craft, and sharp street level writing, the album opens with the smoldering title track and moves through vivid highlights like “Let It Go Now,” “A-Train Lady,” and “Little Asia.” There is a rare thrill in hearing a record this confident, this textured, and this emotionally present finally step into the light.

The release arrives with deluxe packaging and liner notes by Joe Hagan, drawing from new interviews and rare archival material, including photographs by Peter Hujar. The album’s journey spans decades, from its original sessions at the Sound Factory in Hollywood to its rediscovery through a small circle of friends who tracked Forman down and heard the music firsthand. Restored from rough mixes sequenced by Nitzsche and mastered by Steve Addabbo, ‘Who You Been Talking To’ stands as a fully realized portrait of a singular songwriter, rich with character, wit, and soul, and finally available on CD and LP as it was always meant to be heard.

Portland Alt Rock Outfit Rayon Capture Tape Echo Tension On “Running” Single

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

0

Portland Alt Rock Outfit Rayon Capture Tape Echo Tension On “Running” Single

Portland alt rock and post punk outfit Rayon return with “Running,” a tightly wound single driven by nervous momentum and tape soaked urgency. Built around a relentless bass and drum groove, the track channels anxiety into motion, threading guitars and vocals through a barely hanging on Dynacord tape echo that bends pitch and speed in real time. The result is a tense, pulsing recording that moves fast, sweats hard, and hums with unstable electricity. It stands as a striking document of sound shaped by friction, mechanics, and instinct.

“Running” appears on the flip side of the ‘Shopping / Running’ single, available now digitally and as a 7-inch release via Little Cloud Records. Founded by long time North Portland resident and Detroit area native Eric Sabatino, Rayon also features members of Sun Atoms, Yuvees, Pastilla, and Martha Stax. The accompanying Handycam shot video follows the band through lo fi capers in a meticulously restored Citroen wagon, ending on grainy freeway signs rolling toward Seattle. There is something thrilling about how this record locks tension, movement, and texture into a compact, replay ready statement that stays loud in the mind long after it ends.

Wizkid and Asake Share New Joint Single “Jogodo”

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

0

Wizkid and Asake Share New Joint Single “Jogodo”

Wizkid and Asake reunite on “Jogodo,” a silky, swagger-filled new single that arrives as the first taste of their forthcoming joint EP REAL, Vol. 1. Effortlessly smooth and rhythm-forward, the track leans on pulsing percussion and bold brass arrangements, creating a soulful groove that highlights the chemistry between two of Afrobeats’ most influential voices.

Performed in Nigerian Pidgin, “Jogodo” plays with themes of intoxication, freedom, and late-night release, with Wizkid and Asake trading verses in a relaxed, conversational flow. Their vocal interplay feels natural and unforced, reflecting a collaboration rooted in shared culture and mutual respect. Wizkid describes the process as instinctive, noting that they “speak the same musical language,” while Asake adds that the record comes from a place of genuine friendship and creative alignment.

The release follows the duo’s Grammy-nominated hit “MMS” and continues a run of landmark moments for both artists, each of whom has helped push Afrobeats to the center of global music culture. “Jogodo” also marks Asake’s first new release since his historic Red Bull Symphonic performance in the United States. As anticipation builds for REAL, Vol. 1, the single sets a confident, celebratory tone for what promises to be one of the most talked-about collaborations in contemporary African music.

Athens Punk Lifers The Overjoyed Double Down On DIY Grit With New Album

Music

Eric Alper

-

Jan 15, 2026

0

Athens Punk Lifers The Overjoyed Double Down On DIY Grit With New Album

The Overjoyed return with their third studio album, arriving February 20, 2026, and it stands as their most confrontational and clear-eyed statement yet. Built on years of relentless European touring and sweat-soaked live shows, the record channels the band’s uncompromising DIY ethic and the urgency that’s made them a staple of the underground punk circuit.

For the first time, the band wrote the album entirely as a collective, sharpening both the sound and the emotional weight. Self-produced once again, with support from Athens-based engineer and mixer Marios Adamopoulos, the album confronts mental health, addiction, identity, and burnout without soft edges. Songs like “Can’t Write Music” and “Sleep” document moments of collapse and recovery, while tracks such as “Spark” reconnect with the defiant, forward-driving energy that’s always defined the band. Rooted in classic punk spirit but unmistakably their own, this new release is raw, personal, and unapologetic, with extensive European touring set to follow.