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Andy Vargas & Ray Greene Drop Soulful “So Fine” Duet via Malaspalabras Records, Ahead of Vargas Solo Album

Eric Alper
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Andy Vargas & Ray Greene Drop Soulful “So Fine” Duet via Malaspalabras Records, Ahead of Vargas Solo Album

Malaspalabras Records, the artist-friendly music label formed in 2023 by celebrated Santana vocalist Andy Vargas and renowned comedic actor George Lopez, is celebrating the release of “So Fine,” a brilliant new single by Vargas and his Santana bandmate, singer Ray Greene.

Produced by Adrian “AK” Cisneros and Chris Morris, “So Fine” is a deep-grooving contemporary R&B update of the song first made famous by Howard Johnson in 1982. This striking new version brims with percolating basslines and slinky guitar rhythms, but its main attraction is the glorious duet with two vocal masters, Vargas and Greene.

“Ray and I have always loved this song, and we felt it had a vibe we could really connect with,” Vargas says. “He’s got such a strong, dynamic voice, and we’ve always had a great time singing together live with Santana. Recording ‘So Fine’ with him was the icing on the cake.”

On July 16, both Vargas and Greene begin the second leg of Santana’s 2025 European tour. Between live dates, Vargas has been hard at work recording his long-awaited debut solo album, The Heart and Soul of Andy Vargas, which will be released by Malaspalabras Records (MPR) during the first quarter of 2026.

“I feel as if this record is the culmination of all my musical experiences,” he says. “From all the people I’ve worked with, all the energy I’ve received from recordings, studio sessions and live performances with my band and, of course, Santana, this is an opportunity for me to put my best foot forward. I can’t wait to share this album with the world.”

He adds, “At the same time, I stay committed to releasing an array of music on MPR with George Lopez.”

Best Online Casino in Australia – Level Up Casino 

Eric Alper
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By Mitch Rice

Finding a trustworthy online casino in the vast Australian landscape can feel like navigating a minefield. With so many options vying for your attention, how do you separate the legitimate platforms from the rest? Enter Level Up online casino, a name that has been making waves in the Australian online gambling scene. Promising a premium gaming experience with a vast selection of games, enticing bonuses, and robust security measures, Level Up Casino aims to elevate your online casino experience.

This review dives deep into the heart of Level Up Casino, providing an expert, unbiased assessment of its offerings. From game variety and bonus structures to user experience and security protocols, we leave no stone unturned. The goal is simple: to equip you with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about whether Level Up Casino is the right fit for your online gaming needs.

Is Level Up Casino Legit? Licensing, Security and Fairness

When considering an online casino, the first question on everyone’s mind is: “Is it legit?” With Level Up Casino, understanding their approach to licensing, security, and fairness is essential to address this concern.

Level Up Casino operates under a license granted by a recognized regulatory authority. This license ensures they adhere to strict standards of operation, protecting players and ensuring fair gaming practices. While specific license numbers and issuing bodies can vary, the presence of a valid license is a primary indicator of legitimacy. This regulatory oversight demands adherence to guidelines concerning player protection, responsible gambling, and the integrity of game outcomes.

Security is paramount in the online world, and Level Up Casino employs industry-standard SSL encryption to protect player data. This technology ensures that all sensitive information, including financial transactions and personal details, is transmitted securely, shielded from potential interception. The commitment to robust security measures demonstrates Level Up Casino’s dedication to providing a safe and trustworthy gaming environment.

Fairness is crucial for any reputable online casino. Level Up Casino utilizes Random Number Generators (RNGs) to ensure that game outcomes are truly random and unbiased. These RNGs are regularly audited by independent third-party testing agencies who verify that the games operate fairly and according to established statistical probabilities. These audits provide players with the assurance that the games are not rigged and that they have a fair chance of winning. The trust and honesty rating reflects the casino’s commitment to transparency and ethical operation, reinforcing its position as a legitimate and reliable online gaming platform.

Navigating the Registration Process: Account Creation at a Glance

Ready to dive into the action at Level Up Casino? Creating an account is your first step, and it’s designed to be quick and painless. Think of it as your express lane to gaming excitement. The registration process focuses on gathering essential information to ensure a secure and personalized experience. You’ll typically start by clicking a “Sign Up” or “Register” button prominently displayed on the homepage. From there, you’ll be guided through a simple form, providing details such as your email address, desired password, and preferred currency.

Next, you’ll likely need to confirm your email address via a verification link sent to your inbox. This extra step helps Level Up Casino maintain a secure environment for all players. Once verified, you might be prompted to fill out additional personal information, like your name, date of birth, and address. This is standard practice for online casinos and is crucial for age verification and responsible gaming protocols. With those details in place, you’re generally good to go! You should be able to log in, explore the game library, and start your Level Up Casino adventure.

Level Up Casino’s Bonuses & Promotions: Boosting Your Bankroll?

Welcome Bonus Details

Level Up Casino rolls out the red carpet with a multi-tiered welcome bonus designed to extend your playtime. New players can typically expect a series of deposit match bonuses across their first few deposits. The initial deposit often comes with the most generous match percentage, incentivizing players to kickstart their experience. Each subsequent deposit unlocks further bonus funds, albeit potentially with a slightly lower match percentage.

It’s common to see free spins bundled into the welcome package, adding another layer of excitement. These spins are usually designated for specific slot games, giving you a chance to try out popular titles. All bonuses have wagering requirements applied.

Game Selection at Level Up Casino: What Can You Play?

Level Up Casino bursts onto the scene with a vibrant and extensive game library, catering to every type of player from the casual spinner to the seasoned strategist. The core of their offering revolves around a dazzling array of online pokies, also known as slots, that encompass everything from classic fruit machines to visually stunning video pokies packed with bonus features and engaging storylines. Think of popular titles with recognizable characters and innovative game mechanics that keep players on the edge of their seats.

Beyond pokies, Level Up Casino provides a solid selection of table games. Blackjack enthusiasts can find multiple variants, each with slightly different rules and strategic nuances. Roulette lovers can spin the wheel on European, American, and French versions. Baccarat, craps, and various poker derivatives round out the table game selection, ensuring there’s always a seat at the table for those seeking a more traditional casino experience.

Powering this impressive game selection are industry-leading software providers. Names like NetEnt and Microgaming are synonymous with quality and innovation, guaranteeing fair gameplay, stunning graphics, and seamless performance across all devices. These providers consistently push the boundaries of online gaming, delivering fresh and exciting content to Level Up Casino’s players, ensuring a constantly evolving and invigorating gaming experience.

Classic pokies provide a nostalgic experience with their simple mechanics and familiar symbols, usually three reels and a limited number of paylines. Video pokies on the other hand, are more complex, with five or more reels, multiple paylines, and a wealth of bonus features like free spins, wild symbols, and interactive mini-games. The table games also have many differences. Blackjack comes in many forms: Classic, European, and Vegas Strip Blackjack, each offering unique rule variations that influence optimal strategy. Roulette also has multiple personalities: European Roulette offers better player odds than American Roulette due to the single zero on the wheel.

Live Casino Overview

Step into the immersive world of Level Up Casino’s live casino, where real-life dealers host games in real-time. Experience the thrill of playing blackjack, roulette, or baccarat with professional dealers via high-definition video streams. Live Dealer games blend the convenience of online gaming with the social interaction and authentic atmosphere of a brick-and-mortar casino.

The rules of Live Dealer games mirror those of their traditional counterparts, but the gameplay is enhanced by the presence of a live dealer who manages the game, interacts with players, and creates a more engaging and realistic experience. Unlike standard online casino games that rely on random number generators, live dealer games use physical cards, wheels, and dice, adding an extra layer of transparency and excitement.

Payment Methods: Depositing and Withdrawing Funds

Level Up Casino provides a variety of payment methods to ensure smooth and convenient transactions. Players can deposit and withdraw funds using options like credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies.

Accepted payment methods include Visa and MasterCard for traditional card transactions. E-wallets like Neteller and Skrill offer fast and secure online transfers. For those preferring digital currencies, Level Up Casino supports Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.

Deposit and withdrawal limits vary depending on the chosen method. Typically, minimum deposits start at $10, while maximums can reach several thousand dollars. Withdrawal times also differ; e-wallets and cryptocurrencies generally offer the fastest processing, often within 24 hours. Credit card withdrawals may take longer, usually between 3-5 business days.

Level Up Casino aims to minimize fees, but some payment providers might impose their own charges. It’s advisable to check with the specific provider for details. Players should select a payment method based on their individual needs, considering factors like speed, security, and potential fees, in order to facilitate an optimal gaming experience.

Mobile Compatibility: Gaming on the Go

In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to gamble on the go is a must. Level Up Casino understands this, providing seamless mobile compatibility. Players can access the casino either through a dedicated mobile app or directly through their mobile browser. The mobile interface is designed to be user-friendly and easy to navigate, ensuring a smooth gaming experience on smaller screens.

Whether using an iOS or Android device, Level Up Casino mobile offers a comparable experience to the desktop version. The responsive design adapts to different screen sizes, maintaining visual appeal and functionality. Most of the games available on the desktop platform are also accessible on mobile, allowing players to enjoy their favorites anywhere, anytime. Performance is optimized for mobile devices, delivering smooth gameplay and quick loading times.

Customer Support: Getting Help When You Need It

Level Up Casino understands that players may occasionally need assistance, which is why they offer several avenues for customer support. Players can reach out through live chat, email, or, in some cases, phone support. The availability of these channels is generally 24/7, ensuring players can get help regardless of the time. When tested, the live chat feature provided the quickest response times, often connecting players with a representative within minutes. Email support response times were slightly longer, usually providing an answer within a few hours. The quality of the support received was generally high, with representatives providing accurate and helpful answers to inquiries. Overall, Level Up Casino’s customer support system is reliable and effective, giving players peace of mind knowing that help is readily available.

Pros and Cons: A Balanced Overview of Level Up Casino

Level Up Casino, like any online gaming platform, has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these can help players determine if it aligns with their individual preferences and expectations.

  • Pros:
  • Extensive Game Library: A wide variety of slots, table games, and live dealer options cater to diverse tastes.
  • Attractive Bonuses and Promotions: Generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions can enhance the playing experience.
  • Multiple Payment Options: Supports various deposit and withdrawal methods, including cryptocurrencies, for user convenience.
  • 24/7 Customer Support: Readily available assistance ensures prompt resolution of queries and issues.
  • Cons:
  • Wagering Requirements: Bonus terms and conditions may include high wagering requirements.
  • Limited Availability: Access restrictions in certain countries may limit its accessibility.
  • Withdrawal Limits: There may be withdrawal limits.

By weighing these pros and cons, players can form a more complete picture of what Level Up Casino offers and make an informed decision.

Conclusion: Is Level Up Casino Right for You?

Level Up Casino throws a lot at you – a massive game library, tempting bonuses, and a commitment to crypto. It’s a solid platform, especially if you’re hunting for variety. However, the wagering requirements can be a bit steep, so take a close look at the bonus terms before diving in headfirst.

For seasoned players who know their way around the online casino world, Level Up is definitely worth exploring. The sheer number of games alone is a major draw. If you’re newer to online gambling, Level Up could still be a good fit, but be sure to start small and understand the rules.Ultimately, whether Level Up Casino is the best online casino for Australian online gambling depends on your personal preferences. If you value a huge game selection, crypto options, and are comfortable with wagering requirements, then give it a shot. Ready to see if it’s your lucky day? Explore Level Up Casino and claim your bonus to start!

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

Dropout Kings Honor Late Frontman Adam Ramey with Emotional New Album Yokai, Out August 8

Eric Alper
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Dropout Kings Honor Late Frontman Adam Ramey with Emotional New Album Yokai, Out August 8

In loving memory of the late Adam Ramey – the co‑founder, spirit, and powerful voice of Dropout Kings – the band’s newest and most personal album, Yokai, is set to drop digitally on August 8, 2025 via Napalm Records. The album serves as a fitting tribute to a great talent lost too soon.

Hailing from Phoenix, Arizona, DROPOUT KINGS fuse the raw energy of nu‑metal and rap, a synergy Adam helped forge from the very beginning. Just weeks before his tragic passing on May 19, 2025 at age 32, Adam completed the finishing touches on what he considered the band’s most personal and powerful album to date.

Yokai is more than an album – it’s a legacy. Across its tracks, the influence of Adam’s dynamic stage presence and lyrical authenticity resonates profoundly. The album channels the same heart‑pounding aggression and rap‑rock fusion that brought hits like “Virus” to the Billboard Mainstream Rock Charts, but with an added emotional depth that can only come from one final shared chapter.

Napalm Records will release Yokai digitally on August 8, followed by physical versions later in the fall, each designed and curated to honor Adam’s creative vision and unwavering passion. Together with the band, this release isn’t just a farewell – it’s a celebration of everything Adam stood for: creativity, connection, and the raw power of music.

DROPOUT KINGS says about the album, “It’s with an incredible mix of emotion and devotion that we announce the release of our new album, Yokai, on August 8th! However, so much more than just new music, this album is our greatest dedication to the late legend, new father and cherished brother, Adam Ramey. Not just entertainment, but a testimony to the ambition, struggle, pain and indomitable will that has made the Dropout Kings who they are. Not only a journey into the hearts and souls of the band during a time of their greatest loss as well as the experience of Trap Metal’s evolution, but the soundtrack to the realization of dreams and the defeat of nightmares across the world. We ask that you to listen, enjoy and join us in the mission of not just uplifting and remembering the spirit of one of the best men we’ll ever know, but in creating a better world so that those like you, him and us can LIVE better and with brighter futures ahead.”

Toad The Wet Sprocket Reimagine “Good Intentions” for 30th Anniversary with Acoustic Video & 2025 Tour

Eric Alper
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Toad The Wet Sprocket Reimagine “Good Intentions” for 30th Anniversary with Acoustic Video & 2025 Tour

Toad The Wet Sprocket are celebrating the 30th anniversary of their single “Good Intentions” with a new acoustic version and video out today. This new reimagined version of the track is in celebration of their 2025 Good Intentions U.S. headline tour beginning on Thursday, July 17th.

“The stunning reimagining of the mid-’90s classic rejuvenates its words and adds a rootsy glimmer to the rugged vocals. The colors of the lyrics are brighter as they skate across a sleek acoustic arrangement, allowing “Good Intentions” to lean to TTWS’s folksy side compared to the rock undertones of the original.” – Glide Magazine

“Good Intentions” was originally written and recorded for Toad The Wet Sprocket’s 1991 album fear. Simple, catchy and just over three minutes long, it had the hallmarks of a great single. “We were a rock band, and there was a feeling that this particular song was too lightweight for us,” recalls bassist Dean Dinning. Columbia Records, however, loved it and even suggested it as the album title. “That settled it. When the songs for the album were finally selected we made the decision to leave it off.”

Fast forward a few years, Warner Brothers were looking for music for a soundtrack album to a new show called “Friends”. Amongst tracks from R.E.M, The Rembrandts, and Barenaked Ladies, Toad the Wet Sprocket’s “Good Intentions” was chosen as a single with an accompanying video featuring “Friends” co-star Courtney Cox. The soundtrack went multi-platinum and “Good Intentions” peaked at #23 on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart. It was also included on In Light Syrup, a collection of B sides and rarities and became a staple at their live shows.

Most recently, “Good Intentions” has become a highlight and fan favorite while on tour, as part of a few song acoustic set as part of each live show. Of the new version, Dinning says, “As a joke, we tried playing it with a bluegrass feel and prominent mandolin part. It came alive in a way that felt really exciting…the audience response was incredible and has been that way pretty much every night we do it.”

The intention behind the “Good Intentions (Acoustic)” video is to capture the joy and celebratory spirit that comes from seeing music performed live, something that the band appreciates at every show with their fans. It also documents the studio recording of “Good Intentions (Acoustic)” which will be a part of a new album available later this year.

Toad The Wet Sprocket will embark on the 2025 Good Intentions U.S. headlining tour in July with KT Tunstall, Sixpence None The Richer, The Jayhawks and Vertical Horizon on select dates.

Alter Bridge Announce Eighth Album Alter Bridge for 2026 with Heavy Riffs, Dual Vocals, and Epic Final Track

Eric Alper
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Alter Bridge Announce Eighth Album Alter Bridge for 2026 with Heavy Riffs, Dual Vocals, and Epic Final Track

 With more than two decades performing together, acclaimed rockers Alter Bridge show no signs of slowing down. Known for their memorable riffs, infectious vocal melodies and dueling guitar attack, the quartet comprised of Myles Kennedy on vocals/guitars, Mark Tremonti on guitars/vocals, Brian Marshall on bass and Scott Phillips on drums have garnered themselves massive critical and fan acclaim around the globe.

The band looks to continue that trend when they release their self-titled, eighth studio album next year via Napalm Records. Alter Bridge will be released on January 9, 2026, first physical formats for pre-order are now available.

Alter Bridge is comprised of 12 all new tracks from the band and features some of their most iconic moments on record. Songs like “Rue The Day,” “Disregarded” and “Scales Are Falling” will fit alongside any of the classic songs from Alter Bridge’s catalog. “Trust In Me” shows Myles and Mark sharing vocal duties as Myles handles the verse duties while Mark takes the chorus. That strategy is flipped on “Tested And Able” as Mark handles the verses and Myles takes on the choruses behind one of the band’s heaviest intros to date, giving way to an unforgettable melody. “Hang By A Thread” is sure to become a show favorite as it hints at some of the most popular songs in the band’s catalog. The album closer “Slave To Master” is an epic track that Alter Bridge has come to be known for and is the longest song the quartet has recorded to date. The band worked with longtime collaborator and producer Michael “Elvis” Baskette on their eighth album. Alter Bridge was recorded over 2 months this Spring in the legendary 5150 studio in California and Elvis’ recording studio in Florida.

The track listing for Alter Bridge is:

1) Silent Divide (5:06)
2) Rue The Day (4:46)
3) Power Down (4:08)
4) Trust In Me (4:48)
5) Disregarded (3:55)
6) Tested And Able (4:36)
7) What Lies Within (5:07)
8) Hang By A Thread (4:11)
9) Scales Are Falling (5:54)
10) Playing Aces (4:05)
11) What Are You Waiting For (5:00)
12) Slave To Master (9:03)

Alter Bridge is currently available for pre-order in the following formats here:
-1-CD 6p Digisleeve, 12p Booklet
-2-LP Gatefold BLACK, Lyric Sheet
-2-LP Gatefold TRANSLUCENT VERDE – VETRI (INDIE exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold TRANSLUCENT VERDE – VETRI + autographed postcard (NEWBURY exclusive, limited to 50)
-1-CD 6p Digisleeve + autographed postcard (NEWBURY exclusive, limited to 250)
-2-LP Gatefold SPLATTERED BLACK SMOKE/ WHITE ORANGE BLACK, 12p Booklet (Napalm mailorder exclusive)
-2-LP BLACK, White Label Edition + hand-numbered Covercard (Napalm mailorder international-only exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold MARBLE COLORLESS BLACK & RED BLACK OLD PURPLE, 12p Booklet (Napalm exclusive)
-LP Box incl. 2-LP Gatefold SPLIT BLACK/MILK, 12p Booklet, 5-Tack Bonus Picture Vinyl in Plastic Sleeve, Artprint (Napalm mailorder international-only exclusive)
-1-CD 6p Digisleeve + “Hang By A Thread” Shirt Bundle (Napalm exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold SPLATTERED CRÈME BLACK, 12p Booklet (Band exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold MARBLE BLACK SMOKE, 12p Booklet (Band exclusive)
-2-LP Gatefold CRISTALLO MILK GLITTER, Lyric Sheet (Band exclusive)
-1-CD Jewel Case (Ticket Bundle for Townsend exclusive) + Guitar Pick (Band exclusive)

Placebo Announce 4-Disc Deluxe Set This Search For Meaning Featuring New Doc, Live Mexico Show & Bonus Tracks

Eric Alper
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Placebo Announce 4-Disc Deluxe Set This Search For Meaning Featuring New Doc, Live Mexico Show & Bonus Tracks

Placebo have announced a new four disc deluxe collection, This Search For Meaning, for release on 12th September via SO Recordings. The deluxe six-panel digipak features their acclaimed new documentary This Search For Meaning on blu-ray and DVD, plus two audio CDs of This Is What You Wanted – Live In Mexico City, as well as a bonus track edition of their latest studio album Never Let Me Go which includes their cover of the Tears For Fears hit ‘Shout’. The set also features a pull-out poster booklet.

The band’s new documentary This Search For Meaning, directed by Scottish award-winning filmmaker Oscar Sansom, received its theatrical release last year. It is an intimate and enlightening film exploring the ideas that inhabit the lyrics and subject matter of Placebo’s songs, whilst charting their evolution as a group and as human beings. It is a fearless, truthful and forthright exploration of the creative process and the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, along with its inevitable consequences.

Both reflective and revealing, interviews with the band members also underline Placebo’s ongoing socio-cultural curiosity and musical journey – a quest that continues in their chart-topping albums and sold-out live arena performances worldwide today. In and around the band’s presence, we see contributions from other significant figures from the music world that either admire or have been inspired by Placebo. These entertaining and often emotive discussions are presented as a single, yet multi-faceted, overheard conversation – and include the likes of Shirley Manson (Garbage), Robbie Williams, Yungblud, Rebecca Lucy Taylor (Self Esteem), Joe Talbot (IDLES) as well as actor Benedict Cumberbatch, and contemporary artist Stuart Semple. The result is honest and rewarding – capturing the sense that we are all just trying to figure out our place in this world; and hopefully making some sense of it too.

The film’s overall narrative is structured around incredible and completely new performances of Placebo’s latest songs – taken from Never Let Me Go – captured at Britain’s legendary Twickenham Film Studios, where The Beatles can be seen composing a new album in Peter Jackson’s Get Back. The film is intercut with archive footage of the band, and exclusive, never-before-seen, material that spans across their entire career, including their creative and personal collaboration with David Bowie and his enduring influence.

Also featured in the collection is the band’s performance at Palacio de los Deportes in Mexico City in 2023, recorded as they toured the world in support of new album Never Let Me Go, playing to over 1.5 million fans in the process. View the show’s full tracklisting below.

Placebo – This Is What You Wanted – Live In Mexico City tracklisting

1. Opening Titles
2. Forever Chemicals
3. Beautiful James
4. Scene Of The Crime
5. Hugz
6. Happy Birthday In The Sky
7. Bionic
8. Twin Demons
9. Surrounded By Spies
10. Chemtrails
11. Sad White Reggae
12. Try Better Next Time
13. Too Many Friends
14. Went Missing
15. For What It’s Worth
16. Slave to The Wage
17. Song To Say Goodbye
18. Come Undone
19. The Bitter End
20. Infra-Red
21. Shout
22. Fix Yourself
23. Running Up That Hill

Julien-K Plots Massive DRK|MODE Tour with Over 30 Dates Across U.S. and Europe

Eric Alper
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Julien-K Plots Massive DRK|MODE Tour with Over 30 Dates Across U.S. and Europe

Genre-bending alt/goth/industrial legends Julien-K have just announced over 30 new tour dates, marking one of the busiest schedules in the band’s recent history.

Following national tours with The Union Underground and Spineshank, international treks alongside Lord of the Lost and Scarlet Riot, and special appearances with Strangelove and Stabbing Westward, Julien-K is now gearing up for a headlining West Coast run in support of the release of their new album, DRK|MODE.

And they’re not done yet-even more dates are expected to be announced soon, promising to close out 2025 with a powerful statement from one of the scene’s most enduring and innovative acts.

Tour dates are as follows:

STRANGELOVE | STABBING WESTWARD | JULIEN-K

08-15-25 ANAHEIM, CA – THE HOUSE OF BLUES
08-16-25 LOS ANGELES, CA – THE WILTERN

UNION UNDERGROUND | SPINESHANK | JULIEN-K

09-05-25 NEW ORLEANS, LA – SOUTHPORT HALL
09-06-25 BIRMINGHAM, AL – WORKPLAY
09-07-25 GREENVILLE, SC – RADIO ROOM
09-10-25 CLIFTON, NJ – DINGBATZ
09-11-25 SCRANTON, PA – THE RITZ THEATRE
09-12-25 READING, PA – REVERB
09-13-25 ROCHESTER, NY – MONTAGE MUSIC HALL
09-14-25 NORWALK, CT – DISTRICT MUSIC HALL
09-16-25 NORFOLK, VA – THE NORVA
09-18-25 LEESBURG, VA – TALLY HO THEATRE
09-21-25 BLOOMINGTON, IL – CASTLE THEATRE
09-23-25 SIOUX FALLS, SD – BIG’S BAR
09-26-25 WICHITA, KS – WAVE

JULIEN-K | FOR ALL THE EMPTINESS

10-08-25 SAN FRANCISCO, CA – DNA LOUNGE
10-10-25 PORTLAND, OR – COFFIN CLUB
10-11-25 SEATTLE, WA – EL CORAZON
10-12-25 SPOKANE, WA – THE RED ROOM
10-15-25 GLENDALE, AZ – THE 44
10-16-25 COSTA MESA, CA – THE WAYFARER
10-17-25 WEST HOLLYWOOD, CA – THE WHISKY A GO GO
10-18-25 REDLANDS, CA – J REILLY DISTILLERY
10-19-25 SAN DIEGO, CA – VOODOO ROOM @ HOUSE OF BLUES

LORD OF THE LOST | SKARLETT RIOT | JULIEN-K

10-30-25 WOLVERHAMPTON, UK – KK’S STEEL MILL
10-31-25 MANCHESTER, UK – O2 RITZ
11-02-25 GLASGOW, UK – GARAGE
11-04-25 BELFAST, IE – LIMELIGHT
11-05-25 DUBLIN, IE – ACADEMY
11-07-25 BRISTOL, UK – MARBLE FACTORY
11-08-25 LONDON, UK – ELECTRIC BALLROOM
11-09-25 SOUTH HAMPTON, UK – ENGINE ROOMS

Isabella Lovestory Leads Spotify RADAR Canada with Bold Sound and Big Moves

Eric Alper
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Isabella Lovestory Leads Spotify RADAR Canada with Bold Sound and Big Moves

Breaking molds and blurring genres, Isabella Lovestory is the latest artist to lead Spotify’s RADAR Canada playlist.

The daughter of a legendary Honduran DJ who introduced The Smiths and The Cure to local airwaves, Isabella blends goth electronica, Y2K pop, and reggaeton into a sound that’s entirely her own. With her breakout debut, Amor Hardcore to her latest release Vanity, Isabella continues to challenge conventions with her music, making her the perfect choice as RADAR Canada’s ambassador for July. 

To celebrate her accolades to date, Isabella curated a playlist of both up-and-coming and Canadian artists who are currently shaping Canadian music, while also taking over Toronto’s iconic Yonge-Dundas Square billboard. 

Keith Wallen Releases Emotional Cover of Avril Lavigne’s ‘I’m With You’

Eric Alper
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Keith Wallen Releases Emotional Cover of Avril Lavigne’s ‘I’m With You’

 Breaking Benjamin guitarist Keith Wallen dropped his most recent solo album Infinity Now last year via Rise Records. He is continuing to release new music.

On now, he throws his fans a glorious and gorgeous curveball with an unexpected but on point cover of Avril Lavigne’s contemplative classic “I’m With You”, along with a music video.

The video finds Wallen, back to the camera, in an open box truck, singing as thought his life depends on it. As it were, the song had a lasting impact on Wallen. “‘I’m With You’ is a song that takes us all back to the early 2000s,” Wallen offers. “We were younger and ready to take on the world. I remember where I was when I first heard the song, which to me makes it a timeless work of art. It was fun to record this and live in that moment for a little while again.”

Carla Olson & Tall Poppy Syndrome Drop Deluxe CD Single ‘Is It True’ August 1 Featuring Clem Burke & Vince Melouney

Eric Alper
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Carla Olson & Tall Poppy Syndrome Drop Deluxe CD Single ‘Is It True’ August 1 Featuring Clem Burke & Vince Melouney

“Is It True” CD single by Carla Olson and Tall Poppy Syndrome (w/Clem Burke of Blondie) to be released August 1, 2025. After receiving numerous requests for a physical release, Tres Melo Musique is happy to announce a deluxe CD single release of “Is It True,” the collaboration between acclaimed singer/songwriter/producer Carla Olson and Tall Poppy Syndrome, the Indie Rock band consisting of Vince Melouney, Australian guitar legend and member of the (psych-era) Bee Gees; Clem Burke, the renowned drummer of Rock And Roll Hall-Of-Famers Blondie; guitarist Jonathan Lea of the critically-acclaimed Art Pop group The Jigsaw Seen and singer Paul Kopf and bassist Alec Palao of Strangers In A Strange Land.

“Is It True” was originally a hit for Brenda Lee who recorded it in London with Jimmy Page on guitar. Carla and the guys have adapted the song to suit their style, highlighting Clem’s powerful drumming and Alec’s unique, melodic bass lines. Vince contributed the lead guitar breaks while Jonathan added an assortment of guitars including baritone and electric 12-string. Last but not least, Paul embellished the track with an exceptional backing vocal arrangement. “Is It True” is the follow-up to Carla’s single “It Makes Me Cry” (with Allan Clarke of The Hollies) and Tall Poppy Syndrome’s version of The Kinks’ “This Time Tomorrow” which received support from Kinks Ray Davies, Dave Davies and Mick Avory. Both tracks received substantial radio airplay worldwide in 2024.

Carla is a longtime friend of TPS members Vince, Jonathan and Clem who all thought it would be fun to record something together. Everybody suggested songs to record but it was difficult to find one that everyone liked until Jimmy Page posted Brenda Lee’s version of “Is It True” on his social accounts and Jonathan listened to it, thinking it might work. Later the same day, he heard Palmyra Delran play Brenda’s version on her show in Little Steven’s Underground Garage and considered it to be a “sign.” Jonathan then sent the track to Carla and the guys and everyone agreed that it was a good choice (Clem was familiar with the single and admired Bobby Graham’s fantastic drumming on it.) This new version of “Is It True” was recorded in Los Angeles last Summer (produced by Jonathan Lea, Carla Olson and engineer Mark Wheaton) and was mastered by Sean Magee (The Beatles’ remastered catalog, “The Rolling Stones In Mono” box set) at Abbey Road Studios in London.

Shortly after “Is It True” was released digitally, Little Steven Van Zandt (Bruce Springsteen and The E Street Band, “The Sopranos”) heard it on the air and chose it to be featured as a “Coolest Song In The World” at his “Underground Garage” station at SiriusXM where it has remained in rotation since, racking up almost 500 spins there.

The “Is It True” Deluxe CD single was designed by “Best Recording Package” Grammy nominee (and TPS bandmember) Jonathan Lea and renowned graphic designer Mark London (Brian Wilson’s “Smile.”) The disc includes Vocal and Instrumental versions of the track and is packaged in a gatefold sleeve that also includes a 4″ square art card hand-signed by Carla, a 4″ round sticker and a download card (with link to high resolution 24-bit/96kHz audio files) in a resealable plastic outer sleeve

The limited edition CD will be available on August 1, 2025 at Tall Poppy Syndrome’s Bandcamp page (tallpoppysyndrome.bandcamp.com,) the Tres Melo Musique Shop (tresmelomusique.bigcartel.com,) Amazon and other outlets (a seven-inch vinyl single will be released on November 14.)

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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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