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Jethro Tull Guitar Legend Martin Barre Releases Candid Autobiography ‘A Trick Of Memory’

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Legendary guitarist Martin Barre shares his definitive story with the release of his autobiography, ‘A Trick of Memory.’ The book, published by McNidder & Grace, chronicles his journey from a childhood in Birmingham to becoming the backbone of Jethro Tull’s sound for over four decades. Barre explores his transition from the flute and saxophone to the guitar, a move that eventually led to the creation of the iconic “Aqualung” riff. The guitarist provides an honest look at the creative sessions behind landmark albums such as ‘Stand Up’ and ‘Crest of a Knave.’

In the memoir, Barre provides candid reflections on life on the road and the internal dynamics of one of rock’s most enduring bands. “As reluctant as I am to try and pretend that my story’s important, I want it on record,” Barre shares regarding his decision to write the book. He notes that the text is biased toward his formative years in the fifties, sixties, and seventies, which he describes as “dear to me.” The author emphasizes that he does not live a rock-star life and remains focused on delivering the highest standard of music today. “My personality isn’t rooted in who I was and what I did; it’s rooted in who I am today,” the guitarist adds.

The autobiography features unique sidebars titled “A Tull Tale,” providing insider anecdotes that are not found in official band histories. Barre discusses the “personal shock” of the band’s 2011 dissolution and his subsequent journey as a solo artist and bandleader. Peers such as Iron Maiden’s Steve Harris have already noted the significant influence Barre’s melodic and precise playing had on the progression of rock and metal. To celebrate the publication, Barre is currently touring his “A Brief History of Tull” electric show across Europe.

With over 200 pages including a color photograph section, ‘A Trick of Memory’ is available in hardcover starting February 5, 2026. The book offers gear enthusiasts a deep dive into “Instruments of Torture” and the evolution of his signature tone. Barre remains a vital force in the music industry, continuing to mentor younger musicians while maintaining a demanding international tour schedule. This memoir serves as an essential guide for fans of progressive rock and the untold history of British music. It marks a significant milestone in the career of a musician who helped define an entire generation.

Hard Rock Icons Warrant Celebrate Thirty Years Of ‘Belly To Belly’ With Special Vinyl Reissue

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Warrant was formed in 1984 in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, and experienced success from 1989 to 1996 with five albums reaching international sales of over 10 million. The band first came into the national spotlight with their double platinum debut album Dirty Rotten Filthy Stinking Rich (1989) and one of its singles, “Heaven”, which reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The band’s success continued in the early 1990s with the double platinum album Cherry Pie (1990), which provided the hit song of the same name.

In 1992, Warrant released their third album, the critically acclaimed Dog Eat Dog. The record achieved only moderate commercial success compared with the first two albums but still sold over 500,000 copies reaching Gold status and charting at No. 25 on the US Billboard charts. The band’s fourth album Ultraphobic produced by a returning Beau Hill (Alice Cooper, Ratt, etc…) was released in March 1995 and featured “Family Picnic”.

Now to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of their fifth album which was released in October of 1996 and the last with Jani Lane. Belly To Belly Vol. 1 has been remastered and repackaged and is available for the first time on vinyl along with an accompanying CD. As founding member Erik Turner looks back, “Belly to Belly shows Warrant holding onto our melodic musical identity while exploring a heavier, alternative sound. We had a blast writing, recording and self-producing the album at Jerry Dixon’s Dreamstate recording studio in Van Nuys, California. If you are a fan of Warrant & early 90’s style hard rock, you will probably love listening to this rare gem.”

It will be out in April, and the vinyl will be 180g in both Splatter and Black. There will be a limited amount of CD/LP bundles with a signed print by original members Erik Turner and Jerry Dixon while supplies last.

Pre-order Belly To Belly Vol. 1 on CD and LP here.

Tracklist:

In the End (There’s Nothing) 

Feels Good 

Letter to a Friend 

A.Y.M. (Angry Young Man) 

Indian Giver 

Falling Down 

Interlude # 1 

Solid 

All 4 U 

Coffee House 

Interlude # 2 

Vertigo 

Room With a View  Nobody Else

The Most Popular Songs on Instagram

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By Mitch Rice

Instagram has got a bit of a weakness when it comes to making people engaged, and audio is one heck of a way to get the conversation going. When you hear a catchy tune that stirs something up inside you or makes you go “oh yeah, I know this one!”, you’re a lot more likely to save it, try to remix it, or jump on whatever trend is happening. It’s all part of a big feedback loop that sends some tracks right off the roof.

Here’s how it all goes down:

  • Getting a song to speak to the moment: Pairing a song that says something to people with a user-created moment, and you’ve got yourself a pretty compelling story.
  • The algorithm kicks in: Instagram’s algorithm spots when a song is being used all over the place in Reels, and suddenly it’s right at the front of the “Trending Audio” carousel. This makes the right sound choice even more crucial.
  • When trends overlap: Trends that tie in with holidays, nostalgia, or meme formats are just super popular – think throwback vids, for example, or seasonal vibes in January to keep the good times going.

To stay on top of all these changes, pros and marketers use tools like Inflact’s managing tools for Instagram, like analytics and trend tracking, to spot the next big sound before it gets too mainstream. These tools give you a bit of an edge on the likes of hashtag performance, song usage, and posting patterns – so you never miss a breakthrough audio trend. And once you find a sound you want to save, Inflact Downloader lets you stash away those viral Reels (minus the annoying watermarks) for inspiration or remixing later.

The Most Popular Instagram Songs Right Now

Here are some of the most popular Instagram tracks in 2026 – at least according to some recent trend analyses and music insights across the platform. These viral tracks are lighting up Reels feeds and sparking all sorts of creative videos at the moment.

1. “Lush Life” by Zara Larsson

  • Why it’s trending: This upbeat tune is an absolute fave for lifestyle, fashion, and travel Reels – people just love it.
  • How creators use it: You see people like @chiaraferragni and fan communities using it in glow-ups, daily routines, and outfit montages all the time – it’s super popular.
  • Trend tip: It’s great for feel-good aspirational content – try pairing it with some quick cuts for a bit of extra zing, and it’ll be perfect.

2. “All The Things She Said” by t.A.T.u

  • Why it’s trending: This one’s a classic early-00s throwback that’s suddenly resurfaced in dramatic edits and comedic storytelling on Instagram.
  • How creators use it: Dramatic transitions, storyline Reels, and meme formats that play up irony or intense moments are all scoring big with this track – it’s perfect for dramatic stuff.
  • Trend tip: It’s great for story-driven content with a lot of visuals – really makes it pop.

3. “Purple Rain” by Prince & The Revolution

  • Why it’s trending: Timeless classics always resurface as nostalgic or cinematic backdrops – and Purple Rain is having its moment right now.
  • How creators use it: CIRLCE: Year-in-review montages, reflective posts, or slow-motion highlights all get a lot of mileage out of this one – people love the cinematic feel of it.
  • Trend tip: It’s perfect for emotional, cinematic storytelling in Reels – really gets people feeling something.

4. “Internet Girl” by KATSEYE

  • Why it’s trending: This fresh, empowering track is tailor-made for identity content – people are really responding to it.
  • How creators use it: Empowerment vibes, about me clips, confidence boosts – especially from creatives and lifestyle accounts – it’s a great fit for anyone wanting to showcase their personality.
  • Trend tip: It’s ideal for brand personality highlights – really helps to bring out the personality.

5. “January” (Instrumental) by Various Artists

  • Why it’s trending: Seasonal music always resonates with reflective January themes – fresh starts, cozy moments, or morning routines, for example.
  • How creators use it: Chill aesthetic content – think coffee shots or journaling Reels – it’s a perfect fit.
  • Trend tip: It’s great for calm, aspirational content – really helps to create that vibe.

6. “Let the New Begin” by CHPTRS

  • Why it’s trending: This hopeful, emotional track is dominating Reels that reflect new beginnings and self-improvement journeys – people are really using it.
  • How creators use it: Vision board reveals, routine resets, or career update Reels are all a hit with this one – it’s perfect for inspirational content.
  • Trend tip: It’s great for content that’s all about growth and new beginnings – people love it. 

7. “Vaada Nibhaungi” – (That 2005 Bollywood hit that’s still getting us all fired up)

  • Why it’s trending: Sometimes, an oldie but a goodie just suddenly becomes irresistible again – and right now this 2005 classic is being remixed and danced to all over Instagram, especially in global communities – it just seems to connect with people on a different level.
  • How it’s used: To get the party started, to capture the spirit of cultural festivals and traditions, or to share fun dance trends with friends and family – it’s a real crowd-pleaser.
  • Trend tip: Use it for cultural content that wants to really resonate with global communities – it’s going to be a hit.

How to Use These Tracks in Your Content to Really Get Noticed

There’s only one thing I can say about the right track: it makes all the difference – whether you’re making an Instagram Reel, a video story, or whatever else comes out of your creative brain. Can you really have an okay video when you’ve got an amazing soundtrack? So here are a few tips on how to use these tracks to kick things up a notch:

  1. Get inside your audience’s heads: Knowing who you’re trying to reach is the key to making things work – what vibe do you want to give off, and what kind of people will connect with what you’re doing?
  2. Don’t be afraid to take the road less travelled: Experiment with different tracks – it’s only when you try new things that you’ll really find what gets your audience going.
  3. Have fun with it: Music is all about feeling good, so don’t overthink it – get the right vibe and let it shine.

Right now, you’ve got a bunch of hit songs that are totally dominating Instagram. Let’s get real for a second, though. Getting your content to go viral on Reel or Story isn’t just about choosing a catchy tune – it’s about finding a song that really speaks to your audience.

The Lowdown on Using Trending Songs to Your Advantage

  • Choose a song that speaks to your style: A song sets the mood – for you and your viewers. Using Lush Life to boost confidence and style is a good idea, but grabbing Purple Rain if you’re going for a more emotional or cinematic vibe.
  • Put your own spin on the trend: Even when using a super popular song, add your own twist and a bit of your personality or some creative editing to really stand out from the crowd.
  • Keep it short and sweet: Reels under 15-20 seconds do way better with trending sounds – they get more views and shares because people just love them.
  • Don’t wait until it’s too late: Keep an eye on analytics to see which songs are starting to heat up – use that information to plan your posts and get ahead of the game.

Tools to Help You Stay One Step Ahead

  • Inflact Analytics: Get an inside look at how often a song is used, track when it gets super popular, and plan your posts around it.
  • Inflact Downloader: Save trending Reels without all the watermarks so you can see what works and make it shine in your own content.

By using these tools, you can get a handle on engagement metrics and spot viral opportunities before they slip away – and give yourself a real edge over the competition

The Final Word: Don’t Be Left Behind

If you want to really stand out on Instagram and be the first to get noticed, knowing what songs are blowing up right now is a must. Things change fast, but with the right strategy and the right tools, you can be right at the forefront of the next big thing.

From throwbacks like ‘Purple Rain’ to bold anthems like ‘Internet Girl’, each viral track tells a story – and you’ve got the chance to take that story to the next level and really break through.

Don’t get left in the dust – get ahead of the game. Use insights to post at the right time, download some inspiration from other successful Reels, and let Inflact help you grow your Instagram presence like a pro. Because the right song at the right moment can be the thing that gets your content stuck in people’s heads.

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

Beans On Toast Shares A Real Rock ’n’ Roller Celebrating Icon Loriane Burgon

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Singer songwriter Beans on Toast releases the new single “A Real Rock ’n’ Roller,” a heartfelt tribute to sixties counterculture icon and friend Loriane Burgon. The track explores her early life and wild spirit, illustrating how art and music shape both individuals and entire generations. This song belongs to the wider ‘Wild Folk’ project, which encompasses a chapter in the upcoming book ‘Wild Folk People’ and a dedicated episode of the ‘Wild Folk Podcast.’ The project serves as a celebration of the enduring influence of 1960s culture and the revolutionary energy that continues to inspire modern art.

The accompanying music video utilizes Midjourney AI to blend historical photographs with Loriane’s own paintings, creating a dreamlike portrait of her life. Beans on Toast and Loriane first connected through their shared passion for visual art, and the video reflects that creative spark by embracing modern technology. “I feel very lucky to have met Loraine, such an inspiration, and I hope I’ve done her incredible story some justice. Long live Rock n Roll!” shares the artist. This release stands as a personal nod to a lifelong connection to music and the ideas that echo through culture today.

Electronicore Heavyweights Cabin Boy Jumped Ship Return With The High Octane Single “Chemicals”

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UK electronicore outfit Cabin Boy Jumped Ship returns to the heavy music scene with the release of their brand-new single, “Chemicals.” Ending a three-year hiatus, the Leicestershire-born band delivers a track that blends metalcore intensity with the rhythmic pulse of EDM. The production features crushing riffs and enormous vocals, signaling a bold new chapter that aligns with the modern sounds of artists like Spiritbox and Bad Omens. This comeback follows their previous full-length album, ‘Sentiments,’ and was co-written, mixed, and mastered by producer Ben Gaines.

The band describes the new track as an exploration of the natural chemistry in the brain that drives emotions and connections. “Chemicals is our first release since Sentiments (2022), exploring the natural chemistry in our brains that drives our emotions and connections,” the band shares. They explain that the song is about the rush, the comedown, and the overwhelming feeling of a mind pulling the strings. “Energetic and introspective, it reflects the intensity of feeling everything all at once,” the group adds regarding the thematic depth of the music.

Cabin Boy Jumped Ship has established a global reputation for high-octane live shows and genre-fluid songwriting since forming in 2013. Their history includes extensive touring across Europe, Russia, and the Philippines, sharing stages with prominent acts such as Electric Callboy and We Came As Romans. The group has also performed at major international events, including Download Festival and Impericon Fest. This experience has solidified their position as a significant export in the electronicore scene, known for bringing a party atmosphere to massive crowds worldwide.

The new era for the band builds upon a discography that includes the albums ‘The Heartless’ and ‘Sentiments.’ Previous collaborations with metal heavyweights like James Harrison of Oceans Ate Alaska and Richard Sjunnesson of The Unguided have further cemented their international standing. Now refreshed and recharged, the quartet is prepared to make their biggest impact yet with this latest release. “Chemicals” is currently available for streaming and download on all major digital platforms. The track marks the beginning of a relentless schedule as the band prepares for future live assaults.

Ukrainian Powerhouse Katana Explores Loss And Resilience On The Emotional New Single “Memories”

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Ukrainian band Katana enters new musical territory with the release of their single “Memories.” Moving from the fire of heavy riffs toward a period of reflection, the track captures the sensation of looking back at moments of pure happiness. The song serves as a tribute to the past and is specifically dedicated to the memory of a fallen friend. This release follows the momentum of previous singles “Flame of Life” and “Move On” as the band prepares for their upcoming ‘Alius’ EP. The record is currently available on all digital platforms for listeners to add to their playlists.

The band formed in 2019 in Khmelnytskyi under the direction of guitarist Vitalii Bodnar and vocalist Vladyslav Byvalin. Despite early challenges and the impact of the Russo-Ukrainian war, the group maintains a creative and charitable mission through their music. Katana provides an electrifying blend of Nu Metal and Hardcore, featuring crushing breakdowns and intense vocal performances. Their previous English EP ‘Destruction’ delved into themes of chaos and human imperfection. This new single reinforces their reputation for creating a widescreen sound that balances aggression with deep emotional resonance.

“Memories” highlights the importance of the people who walk beside us during our most meaningful years. The band notes that even when we lose everything, memories remain. Between 2022 and 2024, the group performed numerous charity shows to support displaced people and soldiers. Their latest work, including the tracks “Stand Up” and “Scars,” continues to explore themes of self-growth and the pursuit of happiness. By blending Rapcore and Alternative influences, the band stays true to their name by delivering music that they describe as blowing your head off.

This latest single provides a moment of silence and reflection within an otherwise high-energy catalog. The storytelling focuses on a soul whose light still burns through every chord and word of the composition. Katana remains a powerhouse in the international metal scene, navigating intense personal and national experiences through their art. The upcoming ‘Alius’ EP marks the next phase of their evolution as they continue to reach global audiences. With “Memories,” the band ensures that the light of the past remains a vital part of their current sonic identity.

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