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Hip-Hop Artist D Smoke Announces New Album ‘Wake Up Supa’ Featuring Snoop Dogg, Lucky Daye & More

Eric Alper
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Hip-Hop Artist D Smoke Announces New Album ‘Wake Up Supa’ Featuring Snoop Dogg, Lucky Daye & More

 D Smoke, 3x-GRAMMY-nominated artist, announces his third studio album “Wake Up Supa,” via WoodWorks Record & Death Row Records available August 26, 2025, on all streaming platforms. The album takes fans on an introspective journey blending dreamstate and reality, featuring singles like “No Passes,” “Na Na Na,” and “Frequency,” which capture themes of awakening and introspection.

Known for layered rhymes in English and Spanish, Inglewood native D Smoke delivers heartfelt narratives. “Wake Up Supa” acts as a window into his perspective and self-awareness, offering 14 tracks with distinctive cultural reflections through features from Snoop Dogg, Lucky Daye, Tiffany Gouché, JANE HANDCOCK, PJ Morton, and others.

D Smoke embarks on an 18-city North America Tour in October – just as he reprises his role as “Raphael” on season 4 of Mayor of Kingstown – showcasing his continued evolution since winning Netflix’s Rhythm + Flow. 

“Wake Up Supa” is a cultural exploration, solidifying D Smoke’s vital voice as a pivotal music industry figure.

Country Music Hall of Fame Launches ‘The Grandest Stage: The Opry at 100’ Exhibition Celebrating a Century of the Grand Ole Opry

Eric Alper
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Country Music Hall of Fame Launches ‘The Grandest Stage: The Opry at 100’ Exhibition Celebrating a Century of the Grand Ole Opry

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum will mark the centennial anniversary of the Grand Ole Opry — the longest-running radio show in the world and one of the most important radio programs in broadcasting history — in a new exhibition, The Grandest Stage: The Opry at 100. It will examine notable performers and key moments in the history of the show that has entertained and enthralled millions. The exhibit, which is included with museum admission, opens on Thursday, Sept. 18, and runs until March 2027.

“The Opry’s status as America’s leading country music radio show, from the 1940s into the 1960s, made possible Nashville’s emergence as the undisputed center of the country music industry,” said Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. “This exhibit will survey the enduring history of the program, which has survived a century of evolutions in country music and popular culture, major challenges from new media and sources of entertainment, a catastrophic flood and a crippling pandemic.”

“As country music continues to expand globally, the Opry has stood as its heart for a century,” said Patrick Moore, CEO of Opry Entertainment Group. “It’s the birthplace of traditions and stories that define Nashville’s unique imprint on the genre. We’re honored to be the subject of this exhibition at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, showcasing why the Opry is not only a Nashville landmark but also a cherished touchstone for fans worldwide.”

Over its long history, the Opry has become synonymous with country music and has featured country’s biggest stars among its cast, including Luke Combs, Ashley McBryde, Scotty McCreery, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Carrie Underwood, Lainey Wilson, Country Music Hall of Fame members DeFord Bailey, Garth Brooks, Johnny Cash, Patsy Cline, Vince Gill, Bill Monroe, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, Hank Williams and many others.

The Opry began on Nov. 28, 1925, when Nashville radio station WSM aired a performance by 78-year-old fiddler Uncle Jimmy Thompson. Inspired by the public’s enthusiastic response, the station’s program director, George D. Hay, created a weekly barn dance featuring local folk performers, which tapped into America’s deep vein of folk music and set the stage for what would become country music’s most beloved and enduring institution.

“The Prince Albert Show,” a half-hour segment of the Opry that debuted over the NBC radio network in October 1939, expanded the Opry’s reach and created a national audience of millions. By the 1940s, the Opry became famous for its singing stars and comedians, helping launch the careers of Country Music Hall of Fame members Roy Acuff, Eddy Arnold, Minnie Pearl, Bill Monroe, Ernest Tubb and others. Many artists relocated to Nashville for regular Opry appearances, which led to the city becoming a permanent home for the business of country music.

In the world of country music, membership in the Grand Ole Opry is a coveted honor. When the Opry began weekly TV broadcasts on The Nashville Network in 1985, an official induction into the show’s cast became an established practice. Notable inductees in recent years include Country Music Hall of Fame member Don Schlitz, the first songwriter to join the Opry, and Henry Cho, both the first Asian American and the first comedian in fifty years to become a member.

The Opry has endured despite many challenges, including from new media and sources of entertainment; damage from a catastrophic flood in 2010, which required months of repair and renovation to the Opry House; and the COVID-19 pandemic. It became the most-watched live music program during the pandemic, continuing its broadcasts from an empty auditorium for seven months.

The exhibit will include historic instruments, clothing, photographs, video clips and other artifacts. Examples of items to be displayed include:

  • A wooden steamboat whistle used by the Opry’s founder and longtime announcer, George D. Hay.
  • A Hohner Marine Band chromatic harmonica that belonged to Dr. Humphrey Bate, whose string band, the Possum Hunters, was the first to play country music over WSM.
  • The hand-built hammered dulcimer Kitty Cora Cline of Westmoreland, Tennessee, played when she became the first female solo performer on the Opry in 1928.
  • The 1927 Martin 00-42 played at the Opry by Paul Warmack, a mechanic by trade who led the Gully Jumpers, a hoedown band whose members all came from rural communities around Nashville. The group joined the Opry in 1927 and continued with various lineups until the 1970s.
  • A 16-inch, metal-based acetate disc containing the first performance of “The Prince Albert Show,” the segment of the Opry broadcast over the NBC radio network in October 1939.
  • Country Music Hall of Fame member Minnie Pearl’s straw hat, decorated with cloth flowers and dangling $1.98 price tag, worn at her Opry debut in 1940.
  • A letter from Opry manager E. W. “Bud” Wendell, now a Country Music Hall of Fame member, inviting Country Music Hall of Fame member Charley Pride to become a regular Opry member in December 1968.
  • Country Music Hall of Fame member Reba McEntire’s custom-made boots, modeled after a pair worn by Country Music Hall of Fame member Patsy Cline, which McEntire wore when making her Opry debut in September 1977.
  • The suit worn by Ella Langley at her debut performance at the Opry in February 2023. Langley customized the suit with beads and embroidery in the style of her grandmother’s handwriting.

Opening program
To mark the opening of the exhibition, the museum will host a panel discussion on Thursday, Sept. 18. Participants will include Country Music Hall of Fame member Vince Gill, Grammy-winning country artist Carly Pearce and Dan Rogers, senior vice president and executive producer of the Grand Ole Opry. Paul Kingsbury, the museum’s senior director of editorial and interpretation, will moderate the discussion. The program will take place at 2 p.m. in the museum’s Ford Theater. Tickets will be available on the museum’s website on Friday, Aug. 22.

Family programming
The museum will hold a variety of related programs throughout the life of the exhibit, including arts and crafts programming for families in the Taylor Swift Education Center:

  • Wednesday, Oct. 1 – Friday, Oct. 31 – Grand Ole Opry Letter Writing
    • Museum visitors can write a letter to their favorite Opry member. Letter-writing materials will be provided, and guests can put their completed letters in a mailbox for direct delivery to the Opry.
  • Friday, Oct. 17 and Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to Noon – Family Program: Adorn a Microphone
    • In partnership with Ryman Hospitality Properties and in recognition and celebration of the Grand Ole Opry, museum visitors can channel their inner country music star to create an inventive microphone using color, gems, sequins and their own creativity. Then, participants can snap a photo behind the iconic Grand Ole Opry microphone stand.
  • Sunday, Nov. 2, 10 a.m. to Noon – Family Program: Bedazzled Buttons
    • Music fans often wear buttons, bracelets and other accessories to show support for their favorite artists. During this program, museum visitors can make their own button celebrating 100 years of the Grand Ole Opry.

Indie-Folk Artist Peter McPoland Announces Intimate New Album ‘Big Lucky’ Out September 26

Eric Alper
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Indie-Folk Artist Peter McPoland Announces Intimate New Album ‘Big Lucky’ Out September 26

Today Peter McPoland announces the release of his brand new album, Big Lucky, to be released September 26th. His newest and fourth full-length album, Big Lucky hums with intimacy, homespun details, and emotional clarity. Pre-Order the album HERE.

Following a viral run of hits and over 450 million streams on Spotify alone that began with breakout single “Romeo + Juliet,” and albums Slow Down, Piggy, and Friend, Peter McPoland has opted for a stripped down, foundational reorientation with this latest album. Recently cutting himself off from social media and arming himself with a flip phone and an iPod full of Beatles songs, McPoland set out to create Big Lucky. 

“This is the album I wanted to make when I was 17. It’s very me,” he says. That sense of self reverberates through every inch of Big Lucky, named after a small token that’s followed him from studio to studio: a four-leaf clover, carried since his teenage years which is seen featured in the album artwork painted by McPoland. “It brings me back to the roots of everything,” he says. This latest offering is the project he’s always wanted to make: raw, uncontrived, and singularly him.

Preceded by the release of advance track “Last Looks,” Big Lucky was written, produced, engineered, and performed entirely by McPoland, captured on a reel-to-reel tape machine resurrected from his uncle’s basement. Always fascinated by gear and analog imperfections, McPoland recorded Big Lucky alone in his room with his instruments and a handheld drill. McPoland’s discography is a mixture of unfeigned emotional serenades and confident thundering tracks – a skill that he has showcased over the first four years of his career – finding balance between the sincere and the irreverent. His blend of folk, indie-rock, and what at times feel like hymns, melds into an impressive repertoire.

In a world of TikTok sensations, McPoland stands apart — bucking the industry standard of the one-hit-wonder, single-charting poster child — and carving out something far more lasting. Big Lucky touches on themes of life after death, a sudden rise to recognition, love, fear, nuanced heartbreak, childhood, and a varied array of the human experience. Peter has a knack for honing in on and exploring a moment, a feeling, and unraveling it all the way to the end. Sometimes even feeling like folk tales or parables – maybe an echo of his religious upbringing – the existential never detracts from the fun that also remains. Crafted with equal measures of intention and playfulness, this latest record is steeped in DIY spirit. McPoland equates his process to playtime: a kid with their toys and imagination. “I had fun and I played. It was the most fun I’ve had in a really long time. This album is just me having fun,” he says of the process. Big Lucky is Peter McPoland getting back to himself and the pure writing that began his career, captivating millions – inviting listeners into the room with him.

“It’s what I was when people started paying attention to me. It’s back to me.”

Experimental Electronic Pioneers Kreidler to Release Archival Collection ‘Early Recordings 1994–95’ on Bureau B

Eric Alper
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Experimental Electronic Pioneers Kreidler to Release Archival Collection ‘Early Recordings 1994–95’ on Bureau B

KBureau B announces the forthcoming release of Kreidler’s Early Recordings 1994-95, to be issued on Bureau B (CD/LP/digital) on October 17th, with “Anti—Car” seeing a digital release on September 10. Kreidler recorded “Anti—Car” in Summer 1995 with Matthias Arfmann in his studio in Hamburg-St. Pauli. These new releases document the band‘s beginnings, with threads that can be followed all the way through to their current work.

During the recording of their upcoming album – scheduled for release in May 2026 on Bureau B – Kreidler found also time to dig deep into the vaults of their Düsseldorf and Berlin archives. 30 years ago, the band’s eponymous mini-album was released on Cologne-based label Finlayson; and for RIVA, their first release was 31 years ago (on cassette tape). Both were released in limited physical formats and are long since unavailable.

Kreidler was formed from the encounter between Deux Baleines Blanches (Thomas Klein, Andreas Reihse and Stefan Schneider) and DJ Sport (Detlef Weinrich) and eventually morphed into a fluid form that was able to equally accommodate the various strengths and interests of its members. This ability has remained intact up to the present lineup of Thomas Klein, Alex Paulick and Andreas Reihse.

In the summer of 1994, Kreidler recorded RIVA on Stefan‘s 4-track tape recorder in their rehearsal room, a converted former bakery. They completed overdubs and mixing at Friedrich Sitterle‘s Frosch-Studio. The tape was self-released, and then A Contresens, a Paris-based label, picked it up. Months later, at a show in Cologne, the label managers of Finlayson offered Kreidler a release. The band had already sent the RIVA cassette to Matthias Arfmann (of Kastrierte Philosophen fame) to see if he was interested in producing their upcoming album — and he was. So off to Hamburg Kreidler went.

Despite several obstacles, the recording and mixing were successfully completed, and Finlayson released the untitled mini-album to great critical and popular acclaim. Oliver Tepel wrote in 1995 in Spex magazine: “On the basis of calm grooves from andante to moderato —comparable to the dissolution of object and background in analytical cubism — the contours of the instruments disappear in favour of mysteriously meandering waves of sound,” and Jörg Heiser: “This has arrived in a whooshing root tone, in the very center (and not in any next room).”

There’s a frayed intensity to both albums, a clarity, a skeletal radiance. 1994, RIVA, the beginning: circuitous somehow, a spatial presence in the restraint, strangely physical in its beauty. Mounting with Das Wilde Heinefeld, with voice and bass clarinet by Fritz Sitterle. Finally, Angst, voice by Julia Friedrich; a song written by Fehlfarben. Produced for an unreleased Monarchie und Alltag cover version album, conceived by Joerg “Zappo” Zboralski as a follow-up to his Brücke Kaufen album (covering the Rough Trade compilation Wanna Buy A Bridge?). The journey ends in a heated but once again taut textual space, familiar ground for Kreidler, after various gigs with spoken word artists.

Is 1995 groovier? It is definitely not beige; it is decisive and shimmering. One wonders how all the obstacles and a drummer-in-pain could result in such a no-nonsense, clear, funky vision of radical openness. Recorded, mixed and co-produced with Souldier Niceprice at Knochenhaus Tonraum Hamburg. Nothing is flat or predictable here, and the album closes with a track that feels like a ride (in a car? Or on a bike, late at night, sitting on the rack, holding on to a potential?) — a journey, beginning anew.

While so many acts need to excuse past sins, Kreidler’s work has always sprung from a place of artistic independence; testing non-didactic possibilities of conversation within music, text, art, and interventions within political conditions, with a trans-disciplinary and inclusive ethic, highly contextual and collective: ideas formed socially — after day jobs, in casual settings, art school parties, late-night talks, notes on beer coasters — then refined through hands-on studio work. These elements seem also crucial to understanding the scene in Düsseldorf where these recordings emerged.

Revisiting earlier work can serve different purposes. Such artefacts are either capsules, holding memories, people, names, stories, emotions and ruins; invaluable as traces of a period, of a mood, a genre, as archival material. Or they might be alive—timeless pieces, made available in new formats for wider audiences to enjoy. Luckily, with Kreidler, we don’t have to choose.


Nick Jonas and FOSSIL Launch Nostalgic ‘Machine Luxe’ Collection of Watches and Accessories

Eric Alper
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Nick Jonas and FOSSIL Launch Nostalgic ‘Machine Luxe’ Collection of Watches and Accessories

Global superstar, actor, and philanthropist Nick Jonas has teamed up with leading watch and accessories brand FOSSIL for a bold and nostalgic new collection, launching August 20, 2025. Each limited-edition timepiece blends Jonas’ passion for watch collecting, his distinct personal style and Fossil’s decades-long design heritage to deliver styles that are both timeless and distinctly modern—all while reinvigorating our customers’ love for and personal connection to the brand.

“It’s the use of materials that give this collection a distinct personality. They’re exceptionally personal pieces that elevate any look,” says Nick Jonas. “I’m excited to share my love of watches and this collection with the world.”

A lifelong watch enthusiast whose first watch was a FOSSIL, Jonas has partnered with the brand to mark the full-circle moment with a global campaign, captured in Jonas’ native New Jersey. Shot by renowned creative director and photographer Anthony Mandler, and styled by celebrity image maker, Sydney Lopez, the campaign sees Jonas in iconic styles, participating in activities that marked his childhood like visiting local diners and going to the bowling alley. This nod to Jonas’ childhood era will reignite the same nostalgic memories in customers and brand fans, reminding them of small and monumental moments alike throughout their lives.

“Collaborating with the FOSSIL design team has been a dream come true. They were receptive and open to my ideas throughout the entire process,” said Nick Jonas. “I still remember the excitement and pure joy I felt when I purchased my first FOSSIL watch shortly after one of my early performances. I wanted to capture that feeling for today’s customers and give them styles that feel elevated and luxurious, but still embody the nostalgia synonymous with FOSSIL.”

The “Machine Luxe” collection is a reimagined take on our bold and bestselling Machine platform, consisting of seven new watches and two new watch rings. Each style features a statement shaped case and signature knurling, characteristic of the Machine series at large.

The Machine Luxe Sunray Dial watches are available in Blue Vignette and Gold-Toned, featuring finely etched lines that fan out from the center of the dial to create a radiant sunray texture. The Blue Vignette paired with a brown croc-embossed leather strap was a personal request by Jonas, echoing a treasured piece from his own collection.

The Machine Luxe Automatic models elevate the offering with a skeletonized dial that reveals a premium Japanese automatic movement and hand-assembled parts. Available in Gunmetal and Gold-Toned.

Showcasing rich natural materials, the Machine Luxe Stone Dial watches arrive in genuine Malachite, Aventurine, and Marble. The signature knurling extends onto the bracelet, adding a bold twist to the classic dress watch silhouette.

Completing the capsule are the Machine Luxe Watch Rings in Gunmetal and Green Vignette. The rings mirror the timepieces’ aesthetic, bringing signature FOSSIL design details into the brand’s distinct, best-selling watch ring.

“Nick Jonas has a genuine love for watches and an authentic connection with FOSSIL brand, it having been his first watch,” said Melissa Lowenkron, Chief Brand Officer of Fossil. “There’s a sense of nostalgia and personal style he brings to the design—rooted in his own journey—that we know will resonate with fans and collectors alike.”

The Nick Jonas x FOSSIL Collection will be available at FOSSIL.com, all FOSSIL stores beginning August 20, 2025, and premium global retailers beginning September 2025.

Sony Expands INZONE Gaming Gear Lineup with New Headsets, In-Ears, Keyboard, Mouse, and Mats

Eric Alper
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Sony Expands INZONE Gaming Gear Lineup with New Headsets, In-Ears, Keyboard, Mouse, and Mats

 Sony Electronics Inc. today announced they are expanding their INZONE gaming gear range with a full suite of products aimed at PC gamers and designed to win.

The INZONE H9 II wireless noise canceling gaming headset joins the range alongside the new INZONE E9 in-ear monitors for gaming. Rounding out the lineup is the INZONE KBD-H75 gaming keyboard, the INZONE Mouse-A gaming mouse and the INZONE Mat-D and Mat-F mousepads.

These new models were developed with the leading esports team Fnatic. By combining Fnatic’s insights into gaming gear with Sony’s long-standing expertise in hardware technology, the collaboration has produced a lineup designed to elevate the FPS gameplay experience.

Additionally, the INZONE E9 in-ear headphones have been approved for use at the Apex Legends Global Series Year 5 Championship, helping professional players concentrate on their competition with comfortable gameplay, FPS optimized sound, and superior noise isolation.

INZONE H9 II Noise Canceling Wireless Gaming Headset– built for the best, with the best

The INZONE H9 II is INZONE’s flagship wireless gaming headset offering high-quality sound and noise cancellation in a lightweight design with a detachable microphone. Built around the driver unit in Sony’s new critically acclaimed WH-1000XM6 wireless noise canceling headphones, the H9 II delivers full-spectrum clarity, for in game footsteps or unsettling deep rumbles.

The INZONE H9 II also features a directional cardioid boom microphone that picks up voices clearly while cutting ambient noise. Its long and adjustable boom mic stays exactly where it is placed. In addition, surrounding noise gets filtered out with AI-optimised precision, so teammates hear more of the user’s voice, loud and clear.

Plus, with a Super Wide Band (SWB) mic, the INZONE H9 II can deliver clear, more natural sound than ever before, to ensure every callout sounds crisp and competition ready.  

The H9 II weighs just about 260g and features a redesigned headband structure that evenly distributes weight, so the headset stays comfortable through long sessions.

For intense gaming, the supplied USB-C dongle offers a dedicated ultra-low-latency 2.4GHz connection. LE Audio and Bluetooth pairing maintains a simultaneous connection for players to enjoy low-latency gameplay while maintaining connection to their smartphone for calls and notifications. All with up to 30 hours battery life between charges. A soft pouch is included to easily carry and transport the headset.

Nothing but the game with the INZONE E9 In-Ear Monitor for Gaming

New to the INZONE line up is the INZONE E9 compact wired in-ear gaming earbuds tuned for FPS games, delivering precise sound and competitive audio performance.

With sound tuning developed through feedback from Fnatic, the INZONE E9 ensures players can hear footstep, reloads, and distant threats before getting caught.

The INZONE E9 has a compact design for a snug fit with pressure-free wear. There is an option to swap between noise-isolation foam tips or silicone hybrid tips in multiple sizes for all-day comfort.

The INZONE E9 hosts Sony’s first fully enclosed structure, and combined with the noise isolation ear tips, they achieve superior passive noise isolation for more focused sound. These in-ear monitors are designed to reduce sounds from a pro tournament crowd or get rid of simple background distraction in everyday play.

The INZONE Hub for PC gaming lets players adjust their audio profile and EQ settings with virtual 7.1ch audio and 360 spatial sound to adjust to their preferences with the USB-C audio box.

Built for Speed: The INZONE KBD-H75 Gaming Keyboard

The INZONE KBD-H75 is Sony’s first gaming keyboard. The rapid trigger feature allows players to toggle the input on/off without requiring keys to return to the reset position. Fully customize the actuation point and reset points on a per-key The polling rate is up to 8000Hz for lightning-fast and accurate signal delivery.

The KBD-H75 keyboard utilizes a gasket mount that cushions each press by sandwiching the plate with soft gaskets, reducing vibration, and improving feedback for a smoother, more satisfying keystroke and a clean, precise typing sound—delivering comfort that lasts through long gaming sessions.

Incorporating professional feedback from Fnatic, the INZONE KBD-H75 gaming keyboard adopts a compact 75% layout to give pro FPS players more mouse space without sacrificing essential keys for daily use. The space-efficient dial allows for customizable assignments, such as volume control which frees up space for fast, clean mouse flicks. With a CNC-machined aluminum chassis, this keyboard blends lasting durability with a polished edge that looks as sharp as it feels.

Move effortlessly with the wireless INZONE Mouse-A gaming mouse

Optimized at 48.4g (approx.) based on feedback from Fnatic’s top players, the INZONE Mouse-A is the sweet spot where speed meets stamina. The internal polyamide frame, made lighter with the addition of hollow glass microspheres, keeps weight down while maintaining structural stability. The mouse holds strong under pressure and plays with purpose all session long with up to 90 hours of battery life.

The mouse is also equipped with a high-performance custom sensor exclusive to INZONE, with up to 30K DPI acceleration up to 70G, and a maximum speed of 750 IPS giving users pinpoint accuracy at pro-level speed.

At a polling rate up to 8000Hz, INZONE Mouse-A delivers smoother tracking and near-zero lag. Custom signal tuning keeps it stable, even under max polling load.

The optical switch uses light to transmit signals, resulting in no physical contact, which significantly increases response speed. This allows for quicker actions during gameplay.

Prioritize performance with INZONE Mat-F and INZONE Mat-D

Two new mousepads joined the INZONE lineup– the INZONE Mat-F and INZONE Mat-D.

The INZONE Mat-F is a control-type mousepad that has a 6mm thickness and a SlimFlex base to support sharper aiming and smoother braking, ideal for low sens players. The textured fabric allows easy micro-corrections with enough friction to support hard stops making it ideal for players needing both finesse and control.

The INZONE Mat-D has a 4mm thickness and is designed for speed featuring a smooth glide and high-speed response in any Battle Royale style game. The low friction supports light, fast flicks and effortless tracking, ideal for high sens players who rely on constant motion.

Designed in collaboration with Fnatic, INZONE Mat-F and INZONE Mat-D have a low edge and anti-fray stitching that allows the stitch line to sit below the surface. As a result, it stays out of the way during gameplay and is built for consistent use. 

Both mats have been developed with core gamers in mind. Every surface detail was shaped through co-creation with Fnatic pros for speed, precision, and stability at top-level play.

INZONE H3 new color option

The INZONE H3 Wired Gaming Headset will be available in a new black color option early fall, in addition to the existing white model.

Pricing and availability

  • INZONE H9 II wireless headset comes in the color options black and white are available now for pre-order from Sony, Amazon, Best Buy, and later availability in Micro Center at an MSRP of $349.99 USD/ $399.99 CAD
  • INZONE E9 In-Ear Monitor for Gaming comes in the color options black and white and is available now for pre-order from Sony, Amazon, Best Buy, and later availability in Micro Center at an MSRP of $149.99 USD/ $199.99 CAD
  • INZONE KBD-H75 gaming keyboard will be available for pre-order from Sony, Amazon, Best Buy, and later availability in Micro Center at an MSRP of $299.99 USD/ $399.99 CAD
  • INZONE Mouse-A gaming mouse will be available for pre-order from Sony, Amazon, Best Buy, and later availability in Micro Center at an MSRP of $149.99 USD/ $199.99 CAD
  • INZONE Mat-F gaming mousepad will be available for pre-order from Sony, Amazon, and Best Buy with an MSRP of $59.99 USD/ $79.99 CAD
  • INZONE Mat-D gaming mousepad will be available for pre-order from Sony, Amazon, Best Buy, and later availability in Micro Center at an MSRP of $34.99 USD/ $49.99 CAD

For more information about the models can be found here: https://electronics.sony.com/t/inzone-gaming-gear

Dove and Ciara Remix “The Hokey Pokey” into a Bold Anthem to Help Women Drop Their Skin-hibitions

Eric Alper
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Dove and Ciara Remix “The Hokey Pokey” into a Bold Anthem to Help Women Drop Their Skin-hibitions

Today, beauty brand Dove announced its partnership with GRAMMY award-winning global music icon and skin realist Ciara to help reduce skin-related insecurities so women feel they have nothing to hide. With 76% of women avoiding clothes that reveal uneven skin, women often make everyday choices shaped by what they assume should be covered up – from avoiding the beach to adding layers. To flip this outdated narrative, the brand partnered with Ciara to remix the childhood classic “The Hokey Pokey,” and empower women to show off their skin with confidence.

“The Hokey Pokey” is a song and dance where you move your body in and out — the same way women often hide areas of themselves they feel most self-conscious about. Inspired by real stories of skin insecurities, this modernized version of “The Hokey Pokey” is flipping the script. It was written as an anthem for women to reclaim confidence in their skin and to put it all out there — no hesitation, no apologies. This isn’t just a remix of “The Hokey Pokey,” it’s a bold and joyful celebration to help remove the skin-hibitions women face daily.

“I’ve always believed in owning your story, skin marks and all, so partnering with Dove to remix ‘The Hokey Pokey’ in such a meaningful way has been powerful — not just as an artist, but as a woman and a mom. Having been in the spotlight for most of my career, I’ve felt the pressure to hide things like stretch marks or uneven skin. But over time, I’ve learned confidence is about embracing, loving and caring for your skin,” said Ciara. “This version of ‘The Hokey Pokey’ encourages us to love the skin we’re in and do what makes us happiest without fear or filter, because we all deserve to feel seen, celebrated and supported — not covered up.”

This campaign celebrates the first anniversary of the launch of the Dove Cream Serum line, which marked the brand’s new launch into the dermo-cosmetic body lotion category, which has seen success across geographic markets to date. Dove saw a gap in the market for accessible, quality options that help alleviate frustrating skin damage concerns that can cause women to feel insecure, such as uneven tone, rough texture or extra dry, flaky skin. Developed with dermatologists, the Dove Cream Serums are designed to deliver 72-hour moisture and visibly improve skin texture, and help even skin tone. They work by supporting the skin’s natural regenerative process to care for each person’s unique skin. Available in options tailored to women’s top skin concerns, these clinically proven, lightweight body serums offer solutions to minimize possible sources of insecurity on their personal skin confidence journeys.

“Dove’s mission has always been to turn beauty into a source of happiness and confidence, not anxiety. With our remixed version of ‘The Hokey Pokey’ in partnership with Ciara, we hope to inspire women to let go of their skin-hibitions,” said Bérengère Loubatier, Senior Global Brand Vice President, Hair and Skin Care at Dove. “Our research shows that while some women view their skin marks as a positive reflection of their journey, others may carry insecurities. That’s why, with Dove Cream Serums and this new joyful anthem, we want every woman to feel empowered to sing, dance and embrace their skin with confidence.”

Douglas Lake Celebrity Pro-Am Brings Country Stars and Pro Anglers Together to Advance Tinnitus Awareness

Eric Alper
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Douglas Lake Celebrity Pro-Am Brings Country Stars and Pro Anglers Together to Advance Tinnitus Awareness

Music and fishing fans are in for a unique and unforgettable event as the Douglas Lake Celebrity Pro-Am Fishing Tournament returns for its third year, blending the talents of country music stars and legendary professional anglers to raise awareness of tinnitus and funds for the American Tinnitus Association (ATA).

Event organizer Texas Roadhouse Pro Angler Mike DelVisco, a long-time professional bass angler based in Dandridge, Tenn., launched the event in 2023 to pay tribute to Texas Roadhouse founder Kent Taylor who struggled with tinnitus, an auditory disorder affecting 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. population, with symptoms ranging from mild to profoundly disruptive to daily life.

“Kent was a long-time friend who put community first in everything that he did. It’s in that spirit—dedication to others, helping where there’s a need, and having a good time while making a difference—that we’re here for our third year,” DelVisco said. For DelVisco, the event is about hope, healing, and community, which reflects the mission of ATA, the nation’s only nonprofit dedicated to supporting individuals affected by tinnitus and funding critical research to advance better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

“We are incredibly grateful for Mike DelVisco’s continued dedication to raising awareness about tinnitus and funds for ATA through this fantastic event,” said ATA CEO Patrick A. Lynch, Esq., MBA. “Events like the Douglas Lake Celebrity Pro-Am not only help fund vital research and patient support but also generate important conversations about a condition that affects millions of Americans. The support from the country music and professional fishing communities helps us reach new audiences and remind people that they’re not alone in their tinnitus journey.”

The auction phase of the Pro-Am fishing tournament concluded, with amateur anglers having successfully bid for the opportunity to join a professional angler and celebrity team on a 3-person boat. Though unable to participate in the fishing tournament, multi-platinum country music star Darryl Worley, known for his number one hits “I Miss My Friend,” “Awful Beautiful Life,” and “Have You Forgotten,” also supported the cause by offering an exclusive Grand Ole Opry backstage experience for auction.

In conjunction with the August 28th fishing tournament, a kickoff party will be held the evening before with celebrities, pro anglers, winning bidders, and sponsors. The evening offers a fun meet-and-greet among participants, complete with live country music, legendary food from Texas Roadhouse, vendor booths, and opportunities to win exciting raffle prizes, including an overnight stay at a Whiskey Retreats cabin, Turtle Box Audio speaker, Bass Pro Shops grill, and a Coca-Cola bicycle. Raffle tickets can be purchased online, with winners drawn on August 27th. The event is open to the community to attend without charge.

Star-Studded Lineup of Pro Anglers

  • Mark Rose, one of the most decorated anglers in Major League Fishing (MLF) history, returns to defend his title. The General Tire/Midway USA pro was the 2018 Fishing League Worldwide (FLW) Tour Angler of the Year and is one of only three anglers to win back-to-back FLW Tour events.
  • Paul Elias, a true icon in bass fishing, holds the record for the heaviest total weight in a four-day/five-fish-limit tournament—an astounding 132 pounds, 8 ounces on Falcon Lake in 2008. With eight career wins and 56 Top 10 finishes, he was inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame in 2012.
  • John Murray, a western fishing powerhouse, has won fully rigged bass boats on every major western waterway from New Mexico to Washington. A two-time U.S. Open Champion and seven-time Bassmaster Classic qualifier, he also took home the trophy at the Bassmaster Elite Series event on Toledo Bend.

Country Artists Lending Their Voices and Casting a Reel

  • Andy Griggs, whose debut album You Won’t Ever Be Lonely went gold and included multiple Top 10 hits, will bring his signature Louisiana charm to the tournament.
  • Noah Thompson, winner of American Idol Season 20 (2022), is not only known for his hit “One Day Tonight,” but also as the songwriter behind Luke Combs’s “Front Door Famous.”

Event Details
August 27th: Kickoff Party & Concert
5:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Field of Dreams Activity Center
1145 Treadway Dr.
Dandridge, TN 37725
August 28th: Celebrity Pro-Am Fishing Tournament
7:00 am to 12:00 pm
Dandridge Boat Dock
122 Boat Dock Dr.
Dandridge, TN 37725
Raffle tickets available online
Drawing held August 27th
More Info: https://www.ata.org/douglas-lake-fishing-tournament

Cracker Barrel Launches New Fall Menu and Campaign with Country Star Jordan Davis

Eric Alper
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Cracker Barrel Launches New Fall Menu and Campaign with Country Star Jordan Davis

Cracker Barrel, the beloved restaurant and retail brand known for serving up more than a meal, today launched a new fall menu creative campaign that celebrates more than 55 years of country hospitality and positions the iconic American brand for the future.

Cracker Barrel Teams up with Country Music Star Jordan Davis to Invite Guests to Discover “All the More” this Fall
Cracker Barrel Teams up with Country Music Star Jordan Davis to Invite Guests to Discover “All the More” this Fall
Cracker Barrel Teams up with Country Music Star Jordan Davis to Invite Guests to Discover “All the More” this Fall
Cracker Barrel Teams up with Country Music Star Jordan Davis to Invite Guests to Discover “All the More” this Fall
Cracker Barrel Teams up with Country Music Star Jordan Davis to Invite Guests to Discover “All the More” this Fall
Cracker Barrel Teams up with Country Music Star Jordan Davis to Invite Guests to Discover “All the More” this Fall
Cracker Barrel Teams up with Country Music Star Jordan Davis to Invite Guests to Discover “All the More” this Fall
Cracker Barrel Teams up with Country Music Star Jordan Davis to Invite Guests to Discover “All the More” this Fall

The campaign spotlights “All the More” that today’s guests – both current and soon-to-be – can discover and love at Cracker Barrel, including crave-worthy new and returning menu items, refreshed restaurant remodels, an enhanced brand look and feel, a limited-time offer and, of course, music from celebrated country music artist Jordan Davis himself, who helps bring it all to life – and to the table for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

“We believe in the goodness of country hospitality, a spirit that has always defined us. Our story hasn’t changed. Our values haven’t changed. With ‘All the More,’ we’re honoring our legacy while bringing fresh energy, thoughtful craftsmanship and heartfelt hospitality to our guests this fall,” said Sarah Moore, Chief Marketing Officer of Cracker Barrel.

Since 1969, Cracker Barrel has delivered heartfelt service, homestyle food and an unmatched dining experience. With nearly 660 locations nationwide, the brand remains a go-to for guests seeking community, comfort and special moments they can carry with them long after they leave. Its more popular menu offerings like farm fresh scrambled eggs and buttermilk biscuits even serve as inspiration behind the hues of a refreshed color palette featured in the new campaign. Anchored in Cracker Barrel’s signature gold and brown tones, the updated visuals will appear across menus and marketing collateral, including the fifth evolution of the brand’s logo, which is now rooted even more closely to the iconic barrel shape and word mark that started it all.

Like Cracker Barrel, Davis draws from his country roots that shape his music and taste buds. With a U.S. concert tour currently underway, Davis turns to Cracker Barrel for a hot and delicious meal and the kind of country hospitality that feels like home – wherever he is.

“Cracker Barrel has always felt like home to me. It’s where the food hits just right, the people treat you like family, and the pace lets you slow down and take a breath,” said Davis. “That’s something I try to bring into my music too; real moments that feel good and bring people together. I’m proud to be part of this next chapter and to celebrate what makes Cracker Barrel so special to so many.”

To kick-off the partnership, Cracker Barrel and Jordan Davis will host “A Taste of Country, Anytime” event on Thursday, Aug. 21 in New York City. The event will bring the full Cracker Barrel country hospitality experience to the big city, complete with entertainment on the front porch, rocking chairs, classic Cracker Barrel games and crave-worthy food.

In addition, just following the event, Cracker Barrel will spread even more country hospitality coast to coast by treating everyone across America to a complimentary Classic Side with any purchase* from August 23 – 24, just for being part of the family.

With “All the More” to see, taste and experience at Cracker Barrel, a new seasonal menu inspired by fall flavors – and fan favorites – is also available nationwide starting today that includes:

BREAKFAST

  • Uncle Herschel’s Favorite– Back by popular demand, this beloved, fan-favorite includes two eggs cooked to order with your choice of Sugar Cured Ham, Country Ham, Grilled or Fried Catfish Fillet, Crispy Tender Dippers or – for the first time ever – a premium New York Strip Steak available for an upgrade, served with Hashbrown Casserole or Fried Apples, Buttermilk Biscuits, Sawmill Gravy and Grits.
  • Sausage & Egg Hashbrown Casserole – A double portion of our signature Hashbrown Casserole is layered with Colby cheese, served over Sawmill Gravy with scrambled eggs and a flavorful blend of crumbled smoked sausage, onions, red peppers, and green chiles, topped with crispy fried onions, diced tomatoes, and green onions, with a side of Buttermilk Biscuits.
  • Bacon & Egg Hashbrown Casserole – Scratch-made Hashbrown Casserole hot off the grill is layered with pieces of crispy bacon, farm-fresh scrambled eggs, melted Colby cheese, fried onions, diced tomatoes, and green onions, with Buttermilk Biscuits on the side.
  • Butter Pecan French Toast Bake – Thick-cut country bread is soaked in vanilla custard, topped with cheesecake filling, baked ’til golden, with your choice of bacon or sausage. Praline pecan streusel and butter pecan syrup available as an upgrade.

LUNCH & DINNER

  • Herb Roasted Chicken – A half chicken, seasoned and slow-roasted in the oven until golden, crispy perfection and topped with a lemon herb butter sauce. Served with mashed potatoes, choice of classic side, and Buttermilk Biscuits or Corn Muffins.
  • Hashbrown Casserole Shepherd’s Pie – Slow-braised pot roast and gravy with carrots, peas, onions, celery, and mashed potatoes, topped with a crispy griddled Hashbrown Casserole crust, sour cream, diced tomatoes, and green onions, and hand-rolled Buttermilk Biscuits on the side.
  • Slow-Braised Pot Roast – A family classic featuring slow-roasted rib roast, carrots, onions, and celery in a savory, homestyle gravy with mashed potatoes, choice of classic side, and Buttermilk Biscuits or Corn Muffins.

SIPS & SWEETS

  • Butter Pecan Sticky Buns – Warm, tender sweet dough in our butter pecan sauce and baked with a gooey praline pecan topping.
  • Cinnamon Roll Skillet – Freshly baked mini cinnamon rolls with a gooey cinnamon filling and topped with cream cheese icing.
  • Brown Sugar Latte – A seasonal take on the classic latte with sweet brown sugar sauce, espresso, and steamed milk, topped with whipped cream and drizzled with butter pecan syrup (served hot or cold).
  • Wild Berry Tea – A blend of freshly brewed iced tea bursting with flavors of juicy wild berries.

Yogurtland and Laufey Team Up Again for ‘A Very Laufey Day’ Flavor Swirl and Album Celebration

Eric Alper
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Yogurtland and Laufey Team Up Again for ‘A Very Laufey Day’ Flavor Swirl and Album Celebration

Yogurtland, the leading self-serve frozen yogurt brand, announces its second collaboration with the GRAMM-winning Icelandic-Chinese artist, composer, producer and multi-instrumentalist Laufey to celebrate “A Very Laufey Day” on August 24, in honor of her third album, A Matter of Time, launching August 22. This partnership serves as a charming ode to music and flavor, serenading fans with notes of emotional elegance and delicious swirls of the exclusive flavor swirl, “A Berry Laufey Day.”

Yogurtland invites guests to experience its dreamy flavor swirl: “A Berry Laufey Day,” an enchanting harmony of chocolate and strawberry frozen yogurt swirl topped with “Laufberries” (fresh strawberries), inspired by the popular TikTok jazz sensation. The flavor swirl will be available from August 18 to August 31 at participating locations nationwide.

Alongside the limited-time flavor swirl, fans can collect a special-edition Blue Giant Yogurtland Spoon on August 24, available in stores for one day only with a minimum in-store purchase of $15 (maximum two spoons per transaction) at participating locations, while supplies last. Guests are encouraged to share their ‘A Very Laufey Day’ Yogurtland experience on TikTok and Instagram using Laufey’s new album with the hashtags #AVeryLaufeyDay and #Yogurtland.

“Our second collaboration with Laufey marks another opportunity to connect with our guests in a way that’s both fun and meaningful,” said Melissa Luna, Sr. Field Marketing Manager at Yogurtland. “Laufey’s influence on today’s music landscape is remarkable, and we’re excited to celebrate her artistry with an exclusive flavor swirl and the highly anticipated limited-edition Yogurtland Giant Spoon that honors her love for frozen yogurt and the release of her new album.”

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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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