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Queen Celebrate ‘Queen II’ With Lavish Collector’s Edition Box Set Featuring Remixes, Outtakes, and Unseen Memorabilia

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Queen are streaming the newly released ‘Queen II’ Collector’s Edition, out now via Hollywood Records. The lavish 5CD+2LP box set features a brand new 2026 remix and remaster of the album, intimate fly-on-the-wall studio audio, previously unheard outtakes and demos, live tracks, radio sessions, and a 112-page book packed with unseen photographs, handwritten lyrics, diary entries, special memorabilia, and band memories from the recording sessions. Brian May speaks to the album’s significance directly: “Queen II was the single biggest leap we ever made. That’s when we really started making music the way we wanted to, rather than the way we were being pushed into recording it.”

Arguably Queen’s heaviest record, ‘Queen II’ reached number 5 on the UK album charts and delivered the band its first hit single when “Seven Seas Of Rhye” reached number 10 in the UK. The Collector’s Edition is also available in 2xCD Deluxe, Vinyl LP, Vinyl Picture Disc LP, 1xCD, and cassette formats, all featuring the new 2026 mix. For a record this important to the Queen catalogue, this kind of treatment is long overdue and entirely earned.

Steve Martin and Alison Brown Drop Clever “New Cluck Old Hen” Video Featuring Della Mae

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GRAMMY Award-winning banjoists Steve Martin and Alison Brown have shared the video for their chart-topping single “New Cluck Old Hen,” premiered by People Magazine and filmed at Brooklyn’s beloved folk venue Jalopy. The track features all-female bluegrass powerhouse quartet Della Mae, with Celia Woodsmith’s emotive lead vocals sitting perfectly alongside Martin’s reimagined lyrics for the traditional Appalachian folk song “Cluck Old Hen.” Martin explains the origin simply: “I always loved the classic American mountain tune ‘Cluck Old Hen.’ Its only problem was it was about chickens. So one day I decided to see if I could give it a new lyric spin. Alison agreed and arranged it with ‘power/bluegrass/fusion.’ Whatever that is.”

Brown knew immediately who belonged on the track. “Once I read Steve’s lyrics I knew Della Mae would be perfect for the song,” she says. “And they totally laid down the law, bringing the perfect combination of bluegrass drive and femme attitude to the track.” Della Mae delivers exactly that, with Kimber Ludiker on fiddle, Avril Smith on guitar, and Vickie Vaughn on bass rounding out a performance that lands as a fitting capstone to Women’s History Month.

“New Cluck Old Hen” appears on Brown and Martin’s debut collaborative album ‘Safe, Sensible and Sane’, out now via Compass Records. The record showcases a wide-ranging evolution of banjo music with contributions from Jackson Browne, Vince Gill, Indigo Girls, Tim O’Brien, Aoife O’Donovan, and Jason Mraz. Billboard named their collaboration with Jackson Browne, “Dear Time,” one of the 100 Best Songs of 2025, and both artists are currently featured in the American Currents exhibit at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Over three years of collaboration, Martin and Brown have produced 4 number one singles on bluegrass radio and accumulated more than 77 million views across social media platforms. Alison Brown made history as the first female recipient of the IBMA’s Banjo Player of the Year award back in 1991, while Martin was named Entertainer of the Year in 2011 and founded the Steve Martin Banjo Prize, awarding over $500,000 to banjo players across genres. This is a partnership firing on all cylinders, and “New Cluck Old Hen” is the proof.

Progressive Rock Powerhouse NMB Announce Tour Dates in Support of Album ‘L.I.F.T.’

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NMB, the progressive rock collective built around Neal Morse, Mike Portnoy, Eric Gillette, Bill Hubauer, and Randy George, have announced a short run of shows in support of their latest studio album ‘L.I.F.T.’ The run covers 5 U.S. dates including a sold-out performance at Morsefest USA in Nashville, before the band heads to Europe for Morsefest Netherlands and a final show at Morsefest UK. Written and recorded during a period of major transition, ‘L.I.F.T.’ captures the full lineup at their most instinctive and inspired, and these shows will bring that chemistry to the stage in full force. Tickets are available now.

Tour Dates:

Aug 11 – Glenside, PA – Keswick Theater

Aug 12 – St Charles, IL – Arcada Theater

Aug 14 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues

Aug 16 – Seattle, WA – The Triple Door

Aug 21-22 – Nashville, TN – Morsefest USA (SOLD OUT)

Aug 28-29 – Zoetermeer, NL – Morsefest Netherlands

Sept 4-5 – Brentwood, UK – Morsefest UK

How Heat Pump Installations Are Transforming Energy Efficient Living in Modern Homes

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By Mitch Rice


Homeowners are increasingly looking for ways to improve energy efficiency while maintaining indoor comfort throughout the year. With rising energy costs and environmental awareness, heating and cooling systems are no longer just functional necessities but strategic investments. Among the most popular upgrades today are heat pump systems, known for their ability to provide both heating and cooling from a single unit.

Many property owners exploring heat pump installation ottawa solutions are discovering how these systems can significantly reduce energy consumption while improving overall comfort. Unlike traditional systems that generate heat, heat pumps transfer heat, making them far more efficient in a variety of climates. This shift is changing how modern homes approach temperature control.

As more households prioritize sustainability, these systems are becoming a central part of long-term home improvement strategies. Their ability to deliver consistent performance across seasons makes them especially appealing for homeowners seeking reliability. This growing demand reflects a broader shift toward smarter, more efficient living environments.

Understanding How Heat Pumps Work in Residential Settings

Heat pumps operate by transferring heat rather than generating it, which is what makes them so energy efficient. During colder months, they extract heat from the outside air and bring it indoors. In warmer months, the process reverses, removing heat from inside the home to keep it cool.

This dual functionality eliminates the need for separate heating and cooling systems. As a result, homeowners benefit from simplified maintenance and potentially lower installation costs over time. The system’s efficiency also translates into reduced energy bills, which is a major advantage.

Another important aspect is adaptability. Modern heat pumps are designed to perform effectively even in colder climates, making them suitable for a wide range of environments. This versatility has contributed to their growing popularity in residential applications.

Evaluating Whether a Heat Pump Is Right for Your Home

Before installing a heat pump, it is essential to assess whether the home is well-suited for the system. Factors such as insulation, window quality, and overall energy efficiency play a significant role in performance. A well-insulated home allows the system to operate more effectively.

The size and layout of the property also influence the type of heat pump required. Larger homes may benefit from ducted systems, while smaller or older homes might be better suited for ductless options. Choosing the right configuration ensures optimal performance.

Climate considerations should not be overlooked. While modern systems are capable of handling colder temperatures, understanding local weather patterns helps determine the most appropriate system. Proper evaluation leads to better long-term results.

Comparing Ducted and Ductless Heat Pump Systems

Ducted heat pumps are integrated into a home’s existing ductwork, distributing air evenly throughout the space. This option is ideal for homes that already have ducts in place. It provides a consistent and uniform temperature across different rooms.

Ductless systems, on the other hand, are more flexible and easier to install. They consist of individual units placed in specific areas, allowing for zoned temperature control. This setup can be particularly useful in homes with varying heating and cooling needs.

Each option has its own advantages, and the choice depends on the home’s structure and the homeowner’s preferences. Consulting with professionals helps ensure that the selected system aligns with both functional and budgetary requirements.

Installation Considerations That Impact Performance

The quality of installation directly affects how well a heat pump performs. Proper placement of both indoor and outdoor units is essential for efficiency and longevity. Poor installation can lead to reduced performance and increased maintenance needs.

Electrical requirements must also be considered. Heat pumps rely on consistent power supply, and ensuring that the home’s electrical system can support the unit is crucial. Upgrading electrical components may be necessary in some cases.

Airflow and ventilation are equally important. Ensuring that there are no obstructions and that air can circulate freely enhances system performance. Attention to these details helps maximize the benefits of the installation.

Integrating Heat Pumps with Broader Home Improvements

Heat pump installation is often most effective when combined with other upgrades around the home. Improvements such as better insulation, updated windows, and improved layouts can significantly enhance overall efficiency. This integrated approach creates a more comfortable and balanced living environment.

Many homeowners choose to align these upgrades with home remodeling services to ensure both structure and systems evolve together. Coordinating these improvements allows for better airflow planning, optimized space usage, and a more seamless overall design. It also helps avoid the need for repeated adjustments later.

Additionally, combining projects can be more cost-effective. Addressing multiple aspects of the home at once reduces disruption and ensures that all elements work together efficiently. This strategy often leads to better long-term results.

Improving Indoor Comfort Through Smart Design Choices

Comfort goes beyond temperature control. Factors such as humidity, airflow, and noise levels also influence how a home feels. Heat pumps contribute to improved indoor air quality by maintaining consistent airflow and reducing humidity.

Design choices can further enhance this comfort. Open layouts, proper ventilation, and strategic placement of vents all play a role. These elements ensure that conditioned air is distributed effectively throughout the home.

Lighting and material selection can also complement the system’s performance. For example, materials that retain or reflect heat can support energy efficiency. A holistic approach results in a more enjoyable living space.

Long Term Cost Benefits and Energy Savings

One of the main reasons homeowners choose heat pumps is the potential for long-term savings. While the initial investment may be higher than traditional systems, the reduced energy consumption often offsets the cost over time. This makes it a financially sound decision for many households.

Maintenance costs are also generally lower. With fewer components compared to separate heating and cooling systems, there is less that can go wrong. Regular maintenance ensures that the system continues to operate efficiently.

In addition, many regions offer incentives or rebates for energy-efficient upgrades. These programs can help reduce upfront costs and make the transition more accessible. Taking advantage of such opportunities adds further value to the investment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Heat Pump Installation

One common mistake is choosing the wrong system size. An undersized unit may struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures, while an oversized system can lead to inefficiency. Proper sizing is essential for optimal performance.

Another issue is neglecting home preparation. Installing a heat pump without addressing insulation or sealing gaps can limit its effectiveness. Preparing the home ensures that the system can operate at its full potential.

Lack of professional guidance can also lead to problems. Attempting to cut costs by avoiding expert input often results in higher expenses later. Professional installation and consultation provide long-term benefits.

Creating a Future Ready Home with Efficient Heating Solutions

Heat pump systems represent a shift toward more sustainable and efficient living. They offer a practical solution for homeowners looking to reduce energy consumption while maintaining comfort throughout the year. This balance makes them an attractive option for modern households.

When combined with thoughtful planning and complementary upgrades, these systems can significantly enhance the overall quality of a home. From improved efficiency to increased property value, the benefits extend beyond immediate comfort.

Ultimately, investing in the right heating and cooling solution is about preparing for the future. With careful consideration and proper execution, homeowners can create spaces that are not only comfortable but also aligned with evolving energy standards and expectations.

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

Montreal’s Elephant Stone Announce 10th Album ‘ASHA’ and Drop Fierce Lead Single “Everything Evil”

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Elephant Stone have announced their 10th studio album, ‘ASHA’, due August 28 via Elephants On Parade/Little Cloud Records, and the lead single “Everything Evil” arrives as one of the most direct and aggressive things Montreal’s Rishi Dhir has ever committed to tape. A sub-two-minute proto-psych-punk blast, raw and hooky and over before you’ve caught your breath, it sets the tone for an album that carries enormous personal weight. ‘ASHA’ is the Sanskrit word for “Hope,” and the record is named after Dhir’s late mother, who passed away earlier this year. “It feels like there’s a lot of evil in the world right now,” says Dhir, “and ‘Everything Evil’ is a direct response to that — it’s short, it’s angry, and it gets straight to the point.”

The album moves through darker and more expansive terrain than the single suggests, balancing Elephant Stone’s signature raga-rock foundations with a newfound urgency born from grief. It opens with the hypnotic “Here Comes The Rising Sun” and closes with the ethereal “Spirit, Take Me Away,” featuring a guest appearance from Amy Millan of Stars and Broken Social Scene. Produced, engineered, and mixed entirely by Dhir at his Montreal home studio, Sacred Sound, ‘ASHA’ draws on two decades of blurring Western psych-pop with Indian classical tradition and a collaborative history that includes The Black Angels, The Brian Jonestown Massacre, Beck, and his role in psych-supergroup MIEN.

This is an album made at a defining moment in an artist’s life, and it sounds exactly like that. Limited-edition vinyl is available for pre-order now via Little Cloud Records.

‘ASHA’ Track Listing:

  1. Here Comes The Rising Sun
  2. Everything Evil
  3. Fascists Killed Yer Rock ‘N’ Roll
  4. I Got A Pill
  5. Broken Arrow
  6. A Beautiful Fate
  7. Parallel And Contrary Motion
  8. Sleepwalking In Prague
  9. Spirit, Take Me Away (feat. Amy Millan)

KJ Apa Stars as Jimmy Stewart in JIMMY, Opening Nationwide November 6

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Burns & Co. Entertainment and Fathom Entertainment have announced that JIMMY, the highly anticipated feature film about the life of Jimmy Stewart, will open nationwide on November 6, 2026. KJ Apa leads the cast as Stewart, guiding audiences through the most transformative years of the beloved American icon’s life, from his Academy Award win for Best Actor in The Philadelphia Story to his service as a combat pilot and commander in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II, flying 20 missions over Europe and rising to the rank of colonel, before returning home to find George Bailey waiting.

The ensemble cast surrounding Apa is genuinely impressive. Kara Killmer plays Lady Julia, Neal McDonough takes on Stewart’s father Alexander, Max Casella plays Frank Capra, Jason Alexander portrays Louis B. Mayer, Christopher McDonald steps in as Lionel Barrymore, and Sarah Drew plays Hedda Hopper. Rob Riggle, Julian Works, Jemma Donovan, and Jen Lilley round out a cast that brings Hollywood’s golden age and the European theatre of World War II to life with real weight. Aaron Burns directed from a script by Justin Strawhand, and Kelly Steward Harcourt, Jimmy’s daughter, serves as Executive Producer.

Fathom CEO Ray Nutt will host KJ Apa and debut JIMMY footage at CinemaCon on April 16. Burns & Co. has also announced a Give Back campaign in partnership with Vet Tix, a veteran-led nonprofit, with the goal of providing 1 million donated tickets to veterans and their families. All donations are 100% tax deductible with 100% of proceeds going directly toward donated tickets. And for those who fall hard for the film, Nutt has already confirmed that ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ returns to theatres December 18 for its 80th anniversary.

Tickets go on sale this September at FathomEntertainment.com and participating theatre box offices.

Grammy-Winning Bluegrass Savant Billy Strings Announces Massive Fall 2026 U.S. Tour

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Billy Strings is taking his Grammy-winning bluegrass to arenas and theatres across the U.S. this fall, with a run that stretches from September through December and hits Denver, Los Angeles, Baltimore, New Orleans, Fort Worth, and more. The newly announced dates round out an already packed 2026 schedule that kicks off April 2 with a three-show run in St. Augustine, Florida, and includes a slot at Willie Nelson’s annual Fourth of July picnic in Austin alongside Wilco, Sheryl Crow, and Margo Price.

Strings arrives at these dates riding serious momentum. His 2024 album ‘Highway Prayers’, produced with Jon Brion, won Best Bluegrass Album at the Grammy Awards in February, his second consecutive win in the category. That kind of back-to-back recognition at the highest level of the industry speaks to exactly where Strings sits right now: at the absolute top of his genre and pulling audiences that go well beyond it.

The fall leg alone covers 20 cities across the country, from the Paramount Theatre in Denver to the Kia Forum in Inglewood to the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. This is a full-scale touring operation from an artist operating at full capacity, and every date on this list is worth showing up for.

Tickets and full details are available now.

Tour Dates:

Apr 2 – St. Augustine, FL – St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Apr 3 – St. Augustine, FL – St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Apr 4 – St. Augustine, FL – St. Augustine Amphitheatre

Apr 8 – Tampa, FL – Benchmark International Arena

Apr 10 – Savannah, GA – Enmarket Arena

Apr 11 – Savannah, GA – Enmarket Arena

Apr 14 – Greensboro, NC – First Horizon Coliseum

Apr 17 – Charlottesville, VA – John Paul Jones Arena

Apr 18 – Charlottesville, VA – John Paul Jones Arena

Apr 22 – Charleston, WV – Charleston Coliseum

Apr 24 – Fishers, IN – Fishers Event Center

Apr 25 – Fishers, IN – Fishers Event Center

Apr 26 – Fishers, IN – Fishers Event Center

Jul 4 – Austin, TX – Germania Insurance Amphitheater

Jul 14 – Roanoke, VA – Berglund Center

Jul 17 – Portsmouth, VA – Portsmouth Pavilion

Jul 18 – Portsmouth, VA – Portsmouth Pavilion

Jul 21 – Boston, MA – Agganis Arena

Jul 22 – Boston, MA – Agganis Arena

Jul 24 – Portland, ME – Cross Insurance Arena

Jul 25 – Portland, ME – Cross Insurance Arena

Jul 28 – Hartford, CT – PeoplesBank Arena

Jul 31 – Bethel, NY – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Aug 1 – Bethel, NY – Bethel Woods Center for the Arts

Aug 28 – Ionia, MI – Ionia Freak Fair

Aug 29 – Ionia, MI – Ionia Freak Fair

Sep 18 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena

Sep 19 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena

Sep 20 – Denver, CO – Paramount Theatre

Sep 25 – Los Angeles, CA – The Orpheum Theatre

Sep 26 – Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum

Sep 28 – San Diego, CA – Pechanga Arena

Oct 2 – Oakland, CA – Oakland Arena

Oct 3 – Oakland, CA – Oakland Arena

Oct 6 – Eugene, OR – Matthew Knight Arena

Oct 9 – Everett, WA – Angel of the Winds Arena

Oct 10 – Everett, WA – Angel of the Winds Arena

Oct 23 – Huntsville, AL – The Orion Amphitheater

Oct 24 – Huntsville, AL – The Orion Amphitheater

Oct 30 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena

Oct 31 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena

Dec 4 – New Orleans, LA – Saenger Theatre

Dec 5 – New Orleans, LA – Smoothie King Center

Dec 9 – Sugar Land, TX – Smart Financial Centre

Dec 11 – Fort Worth, TX – Dickies Arena

National Music Centre Announces Three 2026 OHSOTO’KINO Recording Bursary Recipients and Opens Call for Indigenous Music Incubator Applications

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The National Music Centre (NMC) today announced the 2026 recipients of the OHSOTO’KINO Recording Bursary, which has expanded this year to support three recipients instead of two. The growth is made possible through the continued support of TD Bank Group, a funder of the program since 2022.

The OHSOTO’KINO Recording Bursary recipients are traditional powwow drum group Mountain Kree from Mountain Cree Camp in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta; Ojibwe queer singer-songwriter and beadworker Larrisa Desrosiers from Couchiching First Nation in Treaty 3; and award-winning fiddle player and composer Wesley Hardisty, a member of the Dene Nation, from Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories, who has played notable festivals and events including the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics.

Alongside the announcement, NMC is opening applications for the next edition of the OHSOTO’KINO Music Incubator. The program, designed for emerging First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists from across Canada, will take place at Studio Bell in Calgary, Alberta, from September 14-18, 2026. Applications are open until May 17, 2026, at 11:59 pm MT at studiobell.ca/ohsotokino.

The OHSOTO’KINO Recording Bursary gives Indigenous artists the opportunity to record in NMC’s professional studio spaces and explore its renowned living collection of rare and iconic musical instruments, with the goal of creating a commercial release. The OHSOTO’KINO Music Incubator supports emerging Indigenous artists through mentorship, career-development workshops, and live performance opportunities. Participants in both programs are selected by NMC’s Indigenous Programming Advisory Committee, which helps shape Indigenous-led programs and exhibitions at Studio Bell.

“We received a record number of applications for bursary opportunities this year. This indicates the program is gaining much traction, particularly within the traditional music community. We’re also very grateful for TD’s support in making it possible for an additional group to take part in the bursary this year. Indigenous music is truly on the rise,” said David McLeod (Minegoziibe Anishinabe, formerly Pine Creek First Nation, Treaty 4), NMC Board Member and Chair of NMC’s National Indigenous Programming Advisory Committee.

Launched in 2022 and supported by TD Bank Group, the OHSOTO’KINO Indigenous Programming Initiative has amplified the voices of Indigenous artists from communities across Canada. OHSOTO’KINO focuses on three elements: creation of new music in NMC’s recording studios, artist development through a music incubator program, and exhibitions via the annually updated Speak Up! gallery. The name OHSOTO’KINO – a Blackfoot phrase meaning “to recognize a voice of” – honours the Blackfoot people and the traditional territory where the National Music Centre is located.


The National Music Centre (NMC) has a mission to amplify the love, sharing, and understanding of music. It is preserving and celebrating Canada’s music story inside its home at Studio Bell in the heart of the East Village in Mohkinstsis (Calgary) on Treaty 7 territory. NMC is the home to four Canadian music halls of fame, including the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, and Quebec’s ADISQ Hall of Fame. Featuring musical instruments, artifacts, recording equipment, and memorabilia, the NMC Collection spans over 450 years of music history and innovation. A registered charity with programs that include exhibitions, artist development, performance, and education, NMC is inspiring a new generation of music lovers. For more information about NMC’s onsite activities, please visit studiobell.ca. To check out the NMC experience online, including video-on-demand performances, made-in-Canada stories, and highly entertaining educational content, visit amplify.nmc.ca.

Photo Gallery: Black Label Society, Zakk Sabbath, And Dark Chapel At Toronto’s Queen Elizabeth Theatre On March 29, 2026

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All photos by Mini’s Memories. You can contact her through Instagram or X.

The 61st ACM Awards Week Just Got Bigger With Lauren Alaina, Rodney Atkins, Randy Houser, Ashley Cooke, Dasha, and More Added to Las Vegas Events

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The 61st ACM Awards Week is adding names fast. Lauren Alaina, Rodney Atkins, and Randy Houser are now confirmed to join headliner Riley Green at ACM Lifting Lives Country on the Green: Riley Green & Friends, taking place at Topgolf Las Vegas on Friday, May 15. Tickets are $200 for VIP Early Access and $150 for General Admission at AXS.com, with all proceeds benefiting ACM Lifting Lives.

On Saturday, May 16, ACM Next Wave: Country’s Beach Bash at Mandalay Bay Beach gets even stronger with the addition of Ashley Cooke, Dasha, Flatland Cavalry, Braxton Keith, and Tucker Wetmore, joining previously announced members of the Opry NextStage Class of 2026, including Willow Avalon, Graham Barham, Tyler Braden, Alexandra Kay, Vincent Mason, Emily Ann Roberts, and Hudson Westbrook. Ashley Cooke and Dasha co-host the event. Tickets start at $150 for VIP and $75 for General Admission at AXS.com.

The 61st ACM Awards returns to its Sunday night timeslot, continuing a legacy that stretches back to 1966 and includes history-making moments like the first major awards show to exclusively livestream on Prime Video. Additional performers, nominations, presenters, and the host will be announced in the coming weeks.

Tickets for all ACM Awards Week events are on sale now at AXS.com.