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10 Tips for Handling Burnout in the Music Industry

The music industry can be thrilling, but it can also be exhausting. Long nights, constant pressure to produce (social media, all the time. All. The. Time.), the rollercoaster of validation and criticism — it adds up. Burnout isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a very real emotional, mental, and physical drain that’s taken down some of the most beloved names in music. So, on behalf of your mental health and your art, here are 10 practical, psychologist-approved tips — with a little help from someone who’s been backstage, in the studio, and still standing.

Recognize the signs early.
When creativity starts feeling like a chore, your body aches for no reason, or you dread every call — it’s not weakness, it’s burnout. Even Lady Gaga had to stop and reset.

Sleep like your career depends on it — because it does.
You can’t write hits on zero sleep. Even Bruce Springsteen, the hardest-working man in rock, takes breaks to recover and restore.

Redefine success for yourself.
Billie Eilish once said she had to unlearn what success should look like. Followers and charts don’t mean much if you’re miserable inside.

Set boundaries — and keep them.
Just because your phone buzzes at 2 a.m. doesn’t mean you have to answer it. Alanis Morissette is vocal about protecting her peace. You can be, too.

Find someone to talk to — and actually talk.
Whether it’s a friend, a therapist, or a fellow artist, saying it out loud helps. Logic rapped his way through his darkest moments and found light in opening up.

Take tech breaks.
Constant scrolling feeds comparison, not creativity. Zayn left social media to focus on healing. If the screen steals your peace, put it down.

Say no, even to things that look good.
Not every collab, gig, or tour is worth your energy. Sinead O’Connor turned down huge opportunities to prioritize her mental health — and never apologized for it.

Get help if you’re spiraling.
There is no shame in needing help. Demi Lovato said the first step in recovery was admitting she couldn’t do it alone. Neither should you.

Do something you love that isn’t music.
Paint, cook, hike, nap — anything that reminds you who you are outside of your art. Avicii loved quiet nature more than noisy clubs. Listen to what your soul needs.

Grieve when you need to.
Burnout can come from loss, not just overwork. Chester Bennington’s voice carried pain because he felt it deeply. Feel yours. It’s human.

Burnout doesn’t mean you’re broken — it means you’ve been giving too much for too long. Take this as your permission slip to step back, breathe, and take care of yourself the way you’d take care of your bandmate, your collaborator, or your best friend. The music will wait. Your health can’t.

It’s Pandemonium Day! 10 Songs That Celebrate Chaos, Madness, and Musical Mayhem

July 14 is the day we officially celebrate chaos, confusion, and beautiful bedlam. Inspired by Milton’s Paradise Lost (where Pandæmonium is literally Hell’s capital), this day reminds us that disorder can be strangely delightful. So in true Pandemonium Day fashion, let’s crank the volume on 10 songs that fully embrace the wild, the weird, and the wonderfully unhinged:

  1. “Let’s Go Crazy” – Prince
    Because if you’re gonna lose your mind, do it in purple heels with a face-melting guitar solo.
  2. “Crazy in Love” – Beyoncé feat. Jay-Z
    Sasha Fierce didn’t walk, she stomped into pop history with this horn-fueled anthem of joyful obsession.
  3. “Basket Case” – Green Day
    A punk-pop breakdown anthem that’s been making overthinking sound catchy since 1994.
  4. “She’s in Parties” – Bauhaus
    Chaos, meet eyeliner. This gothic fever dream is what Pandemonium would sound like if it wore fishnets.
  5. “Mad World” – Tears for Fears (or Gary Jules’ version if you’re feeling cinematic)
    Because sometimes, pandemonium whispers instead of screams.
  6. “Insane in the Brain” – Cypress Hill
    Straight-up hip-hop havoc. If your brain feels like it’s doing backflips, this track understands.
  7. “Psycho Killer” – Talking Heads
    Qu’est-ce que c’est? A jittery, funky confession from the edge of sanity.
  8. “I Wanna Be Sedated” – Ramones
    The ultimate song for when everything’s spinning and you just want 20, 20, 24 hours to yourself.
  9. “Delirious” – Prince (again!)
    Yep, Prince gets two songs. When you’re delirious and funky at the same time, it’s only fair.
  10. “Bohemian Rhapsody” – Queen
    Six genres, one operatic meltdown, and a headbanging chorus that turns every living room into a mosh pit.

So, on this Pandemonium Day, let the laundry pile up, say yes to spontaneous dance parties, and celebrate the glorious mess of life — with a soundtrack that’s just as unhinged as you are.

Michael Jackson’s Isolated Vocals For Jackson 5’s “ABC”

Released in 1970, the Jackson 5’s “ABC” knocked the Beatles’ “Let It Be” off the top of the Billboard Hot 100. With over 4 million copies sold worldwide, it became a Motown classic. Its catchy, alphabet-inspired lyrics and electric energy helped cement the group’s status as a pop powerhouse. Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2016, “ABC” still swings like the first day of school.

History and development of Kaboom77 Casino in the Australian market

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By Mitch Rice

Kaboom77 casino has exploded onto the Australian online casino scene, quickly becoming a beloved destination for players seeking thrilling entertainment. But its rise to prominence wasn’t an overnight sensation. This article dives deep into the story of Kaboom77, exploring its origins and charting its impressive growth within the competitive Australian market. From its initial launch to its current position as a leading online gambling platform, we’ll uncover the key milestones and strategies that have fueled its success. With a growing user base, Kaboom77 offers a unique experience, making it stand out from the crowd. Join us as we dissect the evolution of Kaboom77, revealing the story behind this popular online casino and its impact on the Australian gambling landscape.

A Brief History of Online Casinos in Australia

Before Kaboom77 emerged onto the scene, Australia’s online casino landscape had already carved out a unique and somewhat turbulent history. The initial spark ignited in the mid-1990s, mirroring the global rise of the internet. Early online casinos, often hosted offshore, began to attract Australian players with promises of convenience and exciting games previously confined to brick-and-mortar establishments.

However, this burgeoning industry quickly caught the attention of Australian lawmakers. The Interactive Gambling Act of 2001 (IGA) became a pivotal piece of legislation, primarily aimed at preventing Australian-based companies from offering online gambling services to Australian residents. This law created a somewhat paradoxical situation: Australians could legally gamble at offshore online casinos, but local companies were largely prohibited from operating them. This regulatory framework shaped the industry for years to come.

The IGA has been amended and reinterpreted over time, reflecting the ongoing debate surrounding online gambling. Early online casinos often featured basic versions of popular games like poker, blackjack, and roulette. As technology advanced, so did the sophistication of these platforms, with improved graphics, a wider variety of games (including pokies, a favorite among Australians), and more secure payment options. The history of online casinos in Australia is one of technological advancement meeting complex legal and regulatory hurdles, setting the stage for platforms like Kaboom77 to navigate this intricate environment.

The Emergence of Kaboom77

Kaboom77 burst onto the Australian online casino scene with a vibrant and energetic debut. Aimed at capturing the attention of tech-savvy gamers and those seeking a fresh, modern gambling experience, the platform launched with a multifaceted marketing strategy. Initial campaigns focused heavily on social media engagement, utilizing eye-catching visuals and playful language to create a buzz. Promotional offers, including sign-up bonuses and free spins, were strategically deployed to entice new players.

The initial target audience was clearly the younger demographic, particularly those comfortable with online gaming and mobile platforms. The platform’s design reflected this, boasting a user-friendly interface, seamless navigation, and a mobile-first approach. From day one, Kaboom77 prioritized a streamlined user experience, ensuring quick loading times, intuitive controls, and a visually appealing aesthetic designed to stand out from more traditional online casinos.

Kaboom77’s Unique Features and Offerings

Kaboom77 distinguishes itself in the crowded online casino landscape through a potent blend of unique features focused on delivering a superior player experience. The platform doesn’t just offer games; it curates an immersive world of entertainment.

The game selection at Kaboom77 is a significant differentiator. While many casinos offer a similar stable of popular titles, Kaboom77 goes further, securing exclusive partnerships with rising-star software providers alongside industry giants. This results in a library peppered with fresh, innovative games that can’t be found elsewhere. Expect to discover hidden gems alongside familiar favorites, ensuring there’s always something new to explore. Also, Kaboom77 has a thorough selection of games, including table games, slots, and live dealer alternatives, to suit a wide array of tastes.

Bonuses and promotions are another area where Kaboom77 shines. Beyond the standard welcome bonus, players can anticipate a steady stream of creative and rewarding offers. These might include tiered loyalty programs, seasonal promotions tied to specific games, and surprise bonuses delivered directly to player accounts. The aim is to keep the experience fresh and exciting, consistently rewarding players for their loyalty.

The user interface is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it’s engineered for seamless navigation and intuitive gameplay. The platform’s design prioritizes user experience, ensuring that players can quickly find their favorite games, access account information, and contact customer support without frustration. This attention to detail extends to the mobile experience, with a fully optimized platform that delivers the same level of performance and usability on any device.

Customer service at Kaboom77 is proactive and always available. Whether players have a question about a game, need help with a transaction, or simply want to provide feedback, the support team is available around-the-clock to offer fast, friendly, and effective assistance. This commitment to customer satisfaction reinforces Kaboom77’s position as a trustworthy and reliable online casino.

Navigating the Australian Regulatory Landscape

Operating within the Australian gambling market requires strict adherence to a complex web of regulations. Kaboom77 is committed to upholding the highest standards of legal and ethical conduct, ensuring full compliance with all applicable Australian laws and guidelines.

A cornerstone of this commitment is the acquisition and maintenance of necessary licenses. Kaboom77 diligently pursues and adheres to the specific requirements stipulated by Australian licensing authorities. This includes rigorous vetting processes and ongoing monitoring to guarantee operational integrity.

Beyond licensing, Kaboom77 prioritizes responsible gambling. A range of measures are in place to protect players, including tools for setting deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and readily available resources for problem gambling support. These initiatives aim to promote a safe and enjoyable gaming environment for everyone.

Furthermore, Kaboom77 implements robust anti-money laundering (AML) protocols. These protocols are designed to detect and prevent any illicit financial activity, safeguarding the integrity of the platform and complying with Australian financial regulations. This includes stringent Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures and continuous monitoring of transactions.

Kaboom77 acknowledges that staying informed and adaptable is essential in the ever-evolving regulatory landscape. The company continuously reviews and updates its policies and procedures to reflect current best practices and legal requirements, reinforcing its dedication to operating legally and ethically in Australia.

Marketing Strategies and Player Acquisition

Kaboom77 employs a multifaceted approach to captivate and retain Australian players, recognizing the unique dynamics of the Australian gaming market. Their marketing strategies span across various channels, each meticulously designed to resonate with the local audience.

Advertising forms a cornerstone of their player acquisition efforts. Kaboom77 strategically utilizes online and offline platforms, ensuring visibility across diverse demographics. Digital campaigns leverage targeted ads on social media, search engines, and gaming-related websites, while traditional advertising includes partnerships with local media outlets and sponsorships of community events.

Partnerships play a crucial role in expanding Kaboom77’s reach within Australia. Collaborations with local influencers, sports teams, and entertainment venues amplify their brand presence and credibility. These partnerships often involve cross-promotional activities, exclusive offers for members, and co-branded events that generate excitement and engagement.

Promotional campaigns are another vital component of Kaboom77’s marketing arsenal. They regularly introduce enticing bonuses, free spins, and loyalty programs to attract new players and reward existing ones. Tournaments and competitions add an element of excitement, fostering a sense of community and encouraging players to remain active on the platform.

To cater specifically to the Australian market, Kaboom77 tailors its campaigns to reflect local preferences and cultural nuances. They use images that resonate with Australians, highlight features that are relevant to them, and run promotions during important national holidays and sporting events. By adapting their marketing efforts in this way, Kaboom77 ensure their message connects with players on a personal level.

Technological Innovations Driving Growth

Kaboom77’s impressive growth trajectory is inextricably linked to its embrace of technological innovations. By strategically leveraging cutting-edge advancements, they’ve not only enhanced the player experience but also expanded their reach and fortified their platform’s integrity.

One crucial element has been their seamless mobile compatibility. Recognizing the increasing prevalence of mobile gaming, Kaboom77 invested heavily in optimizing their platform for smartphones and tablets. This allowed players to access their favorite games anytime, anywhere, breaking free from the constraints of desktop computers and significantly widening their potential user base.

Another game-changer has been the introduction of high-quality live dealer games. These immersive experiences bridge the gap between traditional brick-and-mortar casinos and online platforms. Through live video streams, players can interact with real dealers in real-time, fostering a sense of authenticity and excitement that’s hard to replicate with purely digital games. The integration of advanced streaming technology and user-friendly interfaces has made these live dealer games a major draw for Kaboom77.

Furthermore, Kaboom77 prioritizes security features. They understand that trust is paramount in the online gaming world. By implementing robust encryption protocols, multi-factor authentication, and proactive fraud detection systems, Kaboom77 creates a safe and secure environment for players to deposit funds and enjoy their favorite games without worry. This commitment to security has proven to be a major differentiator, attracting and retaining players who value peace of mind.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Kaboom77 navigates a complex landscape in the Australian online casino market. Increased competition from both established brands and emerging platforms presents a significant hurdle. Staying ahead requires continuous innovation and a commitment to providing a superior user experience. Regulatory changes also pose ongoing challenges, demanding adaptability and adherence to evolving legal frameworks. Successfully navigating these changes is critical for maintaining compliance and operational integrity.

Looking ahead, Kaboom77’s future prospects hinge on its ability to embrace innovation and adapt to the changing market. Exploring new technologies, enhancing user engagement, and strategically expanding its game offerings are vital for sustained growth. By addressing these challenges head-on and capitalizing on emerging opportunities, Kaboom77 can solidify its position and achieve long-term success in the Australian market.

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

How To Make Math Interactive?

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By Mitch Rice

Many children initially find mathematics difficult or even frightening. They might have trouble focusing on the numbers and symbols. To make learning interesting and fun, some parents use art forms similar to how creators have taught other sciences through music.

The best educators opt for the most interactive form of learning, which is through games and activities that students may do at home. This interactive math education system doesn’t replace parents’ efforts. Instead, it gives parents extra tools to support their kids’ learning while keeping them happy and involved.

What is Interactive Learning?

With interactive learning, rather than only listening to teachings, students engage fully in them. They can explain concepts using games, riddles, digital math worksheets, or videos. These students get to interact and apply what they have learned to actual real-life problems rather than just memorizing formulas.

For instance, a teacher may have students construct shapes to learn geometry or teach addition through fun interactive math games. Children learn math more effectively and retain it longer when using this method. They don’t simply observe; they learn by doing.

Students are also encouraged to think carefully, work with others, and ask questions via interactive learning.

How Brighterly Makes Math Truly Engaging?

For many kids, math can be complex, mostly if class tutors don’t offer enough help. Here are ways Brighterly interactive math lessons make the entire process fun and easy:

Engaging 1:1 lessons with expert math tutors

With Brighterly, you can rest assured that your kids will get personalized learning; these tutors work closely with students, finding areas for improvement. This learning approach enhances children’s confidence since they get prompt help when necessary. Additionally, educators adopt various techniques to make math more exciting and enjoyable.

With Brighterly, your kids will learn critical problem-solving skills. Tutors ensure that kids understand the techniques that kids can use daily, not just in school.

Interactive curriculum tailored to each child

Brighterly uses a special way of teaching called interactive learning. With this learning approach, kids do not just listen but participate in activities, which matches their needs. For instance, they provide pictures if a kid learns better by viewing photos.

If they like to try problems step-by-step, the lessons adjust to that by giving them interactive math homework. This flexible learning lets kids study anytime, anywhere, even at home or while traveling.

Fun games, visual tools, and home practice resources

Using entertaining games, colorful designs, interactive math worksheets, and simple at-home activities, Brighterly encourages children to love math. These resources transform math education from tedious tasks into thrilling activities. Children improve their ability to concentrate when they play math games.

For instance, a game may require players to work through problems gradually, which prolongs their attention span. They will do better in school and other activities with this concentration skill. Playing math games also helps children remember what they learn.

Just like how kids remember the lyrics to their favourite artists’ songs and the rules of their favorite board games, Brighterly’s math games help them keep math facts in their memory longer. The games give their brains a workout, making it easier to recall numbers and formulas later on.

Why You Should Make Math Interactive

When children are involved and having fun, they’re more likely to stay focused and confident in their abilities. Hence, interactive learning makes math feel less like a chore and more like a challenge they can enjoy. Here are reasons why you should make math interactive:

Gamification for motivation

Making math interactive means using games and fun activities to help kids learn. This approach is called gamification, and it works really well, especially for math. When kids play math games, their brains stay active, and they enjoy learning more. Instead of just listening or writing answers, they solve problems like puzzles, complete levels, and even earn points. It feels like playing, but it’s also teaching them important skills.

For example, using a math app that gives stars for correct answers can make a child want to keep going. Or they might play a multiplication game that lets them beat their high score. These online interactive math games train the brain to think faster and remember better. Some even boost physical activity, like dancing games that use numbers to move along. Kids who normally don’t like homework may suddenly want to “level up” in math.

Gamification also benefits children who learn in various ways. Even children with learning disabilities, such as autism, have made significant improvements when utilizing video games that teach school concepts in a straightforward, hands-on manner. That is why Brighterly incorporates interactive elements such as games, stories, and activities into their online math classes.

Brighterly’s pleasant, qualified tutors know how to make arithmetic entertaining for youngsters, allowing them to remain engaged and confident. Brighterly’s method keeps youngsters interested at all stages, whether they’re completing puzzles, earning stars, or playing arithmetic bingo.

Personalisation

Every child is different. That’s why personalized learning is very important. It means the interactive math teaching ideas are made just for your child’s needs, strengths, and interests. Brighterly’s online math tutors use this idea to make sure lessons fit your child perfectly. Instead of giving the same lesson to all kids, Brighterly finds the best way to teach your child. First, these tutors give diagnostics and pre-assessment tests to kids so they can gauge their level of understanding.

Personalized learning helps children remain focused because they work on themes that are relevant to them. When arithmetic seems relevant and entertaining, children are more likely to learn. For example, if your youngster enjoys space, their tutor may use space-themed math problems to illustrate ideas. In this manner, learning is enjoyable and purposeful.

With tailored instruction, your kid may progress at their speed. If they rapidly grasp a subject, they may go on to study new information. If they encounter a difficult situation, they may take their time and not feel left behind. Brighterly instructors provide the appropriate level of assistance so that your kid feels confident and prepared to progress.

Leverage technology for enhanced learning

Every day, technology changes the way children learn math. With interactive tools for math education, learning becomes more fun and tailored to each child’s requirements. For instance, Brighterly matches each child with a tutor who can teach math in a way that the pupils can easily understand using technology.

Technology allows kids to study at their own pace. So, children may practice math at any time and from any location.

This is ideal for busy families or youngsters who like to study in short spurts. Technology enables children to collaborate via video chats or shared online projects, teaching them social skills as they study arithmetic. It also prepares youngsters for a future when digital skills are essential.

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

New Found Glory Signs to Pure Noise Records, Drops Uplifting New Single “100%”

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 New Found Glory is thrilled to announce that they have signed to Pure Noise Records, joining the label’s already illustrious roster including Knocked Loose, State Champs, Less Than Jake, The Story So Far, Senses Fail, and more.

To celebrate the band is sharing their brand new single “100%”, a song that captures New Found Glory’s timeless pop punk sound, relentless energy, and unwavering determination. The song can be streamed now, and purchased as an exclusive 7″ – available in Neon Yellow (400), Half Neon Yellow / Half Neon Pink w/Black Splatter (400) and Clear w/Neon Pink and Neon Yellow Splatter (400) – here.

On the new single, the band shares: “No matter what, life is gonna hit you with unexpected tough times. It’s unavoidable. Sometimes we are lucky to prepare for them and other times they come out of nowhere. In those moments we can choose to face them head on and rise to the challenge. Find ways to grow from them, share your struggles with others to help them grow. Or there’s the opposite and what I’d advise against which is feeling like a victim, blaming the world, and just being stuck.”

“This song 100% is meant to inspire fans and people going through hard times,” they continue. “Giving 100% of yourself whatever that is. For NFG, our outlet has always been music. It’s our positive escape. For instance, the lyric in the song ‘These songs aren’t for awards it’s how we take a breath’ I think is a sentiment that has always resonated with our fans and built our connection. Very excited for this song and the guitar riffs too! A strong suit and characteristic of New Found Glory that’s fun to be back as a centerpiece.”

Fans around the world can look forward to seeing New Found Glory live this year. The band will be performing throughout the UK and Europe at Slam Dunk Music Festival before hitting the road in North America with The Offspring and Jimmy Eat World on the “SUPERCHARGED: Worldwide in ’25” tour. They’ll return to the UK this fall for a series of headline shows featuring Real Friends and Koyo.

GOTTHARD Drop Video for Fan-Favorite “Burning Bridges” from Chart-Topping Stereo Crush

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Looking back on a more than 30-year long career, GOTTHARD still remain relevant: TV appearances at “Sing meinen Song – Das Schweizer Tauschkonzert,” all-embracing media presence around the globe, and especially their chart-storming new album Stereo Crush keep the band in the talks.

After fans received the three previously released singles “Boom Boom,” “Thunder & Lightning” and “Rusty Rose” with open arms, there seems to be yet another track on the album which has entered their hearts right away. Closing in on the mentioned tracks, most notably on streaming platforms, is “Burning Bridges,” and that’s why GOTTHARD are even more pleased to present a music video for this evident new fan favourite today.

Vocalist Nic Maeder, who also wrote the song, comments: “This track is about the thrill of non-conformity and the moment you walk away from what’s expected of you: because freedom tastes better than approval. Don’t play it safe, move on and burn the bridge to a new world after crossing it. ‘Burning Bridges’ is dedicated to all those who don’t fit in – and don’t want to!”

Hatebreed Revives Summer Slaughter Tour for 2025, Championing Heavy Music’s Next Wave

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Hatebreed proudly announces it is resurrecting the beloved and annual Summer Slaughter tour for 2025, on now and runs through July 28 in Grand Rapids.

The Summer Slaughter brand built its reputation as a breeding ground for new talent and to showcase up and coming heavy bands, alongside established headliners. Hatebreed singer Jamey Jasta is breathing new life into this legacy brand and will continue the long-held tradition of giving a live platform to the absolute best up ‘n’ comers in the scene.

Support for this year’s run will include Fugitive, Gridiron, Malevolence, Incite, Escuela Grind, and Snuffed on Sight on select dates. So the Summer Slaughter mission is clear: The best of the best.

“A new era of Summer Slaughter has begun,” states Jamey Jasta. “Huge thanks to Ash and the Sumerian team for their belief and support. Myself and Sound Talent Group are excited to be working with them going forward and taking the tour worldwide. It’s been years since Hatebreed has done a Summer tour in the U.S. and Summer Slaughter is the perfect return for us. The tour has always catapulted the newest and brightest talent to new heights and we’ll be continuing in that tradition while expanding in size and scope. Let the slaughter begin AGAIN!”

“I’ve always wanted Hatebreed to headline Summer Slaughter since the inception of the tour many years ago,” says tour founder and Sumerian Records’ Ash Avildsen. “Jasta and the band have always curated and built community across different sub-genres in the world of heavy underground music like very few others have been able to. I am thrilled it’s finally happening on Slaughter with Hatebreed at the top. Now is the time!”

SUMMER SLAUGHTER 2025:
WITH FUGITIVE, MALEVOLENCE, GRIDIRON, ESCUELA GRIND, + INCITE:
7/15 – Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room at Old National Centre
7/16 – Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AE
7/17 – Huntington, NY – The Paramount

HATEBREED WITH LAMB OF GOD + SHADOWS FALL (NOT PART OF SUMMER SLAUGHTER):
7/18 – Springfield, MA – MassMutual Center

WITH FUGITIVE, MALEVOLENCE, GRIDIRON, SNUFFED ON SIGHT, + INCITE:
7/19 – Sayreville, NJ – Starland Ballroom
7/20 – Philadelphia, PA – Franklin Music Hall
7/22 – Charleston, SC – Charleston Music Hall
7/23 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore Charlotte

HATEBREED WITH WITH LAMB OF GOD + GWAR (NOT PART OF SUMMER SLAUGHTER):
7/24 – Richmond, VA – Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront

WITH BLEEDING THROUGH, MALEVOLENCE, GRIDIRON, SNUFFED ON SIGHT, + INCITE:
7/25 – Rochester, NY – Water Street Music Hall
7/26 – Detroit, MI – Harpos
7/27 – Milwaukee, WI – The Rave
7/28 – Grand Rapids, MI – The Intersection

The Sword Reunites for Warp Riders 15th Anniversary Tour Performing the Album in Full

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Following their much-anticipated reunion, The Sword has announced their first slate of U.S. tour dates. The legendary Austin band heads west this summer, performing the epic Warp Riders album in its entirety to mark the record’s 15th anniversary.

A special, limited-edition reissue of Warp Riders was released for Record Store Day. Remastered by J. Robbins, the “Sea of Pyres” vinyl variant features an embossed mirror board jacket and sold out within hours.

Upon its 2010 release, the 10-track Warp Riders was praised by the BBC for its “level of fantastical grandeur… on par with the bands who built the power metal subgenre,” while The Quietus called it “brilliant,” and Pitchfork dubbed it “Camaro-ready riff-rock.”

Warp Riders 15th Anniversary Tour:

August 17 Phoenix, AZ Crescent Ballroom
August 18 Albuquerque, NM Sister Bar
August 19 Denver, CO Gothic Theatre
August 20 Salt Lake City, UT Metro Music Hall
August 22 Spokane, WA Knitting Factory
August 23 Seattle, WA Neumo’s
August 24 Portland, OR Hawthorne Theater
August 25 Boise, ID Knitting Factory
August 27 San Francisco, CA Great American Music Hall
August 28 Pioneertown, CA Pappy & Harriet’s
August 29 San Diego, CA Belly Up Tavern
August 30 Los Angeles, CA The Bellwether

5 Surprising Facts About The Kinks’ ‘The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society’

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Before The Village Green Preservation Society, the Kinks were pop hitmakers. After it? Cult heroes. Released in November 1968—the same day as the Beatles’ White Album—this oddball, orchestral album about tea, nostalgia, and flying cats didn’t chart. But oh, how it grew. With its delicate English charm and obsession with memory, Village Green is now hailed as one of the greatest British albums ever made. Ray Davies imagined a world where steam trains still puffed and people still said “cheerio,” and somehow made it sound cool.

Here are five delightful and little-known facts about this eccentric gem:

1. A radio drama about quirky villagers inspired the whole thing
Ray Davies found his muse in Dylan Thomas’s 1954 radio play Under Milk Wood, which followed the eccentric residents of a Welsh village over one day. The idea of weaving character sketches into one big portrait of a town stuck with him. Instead of villagers like Polly Garter and Captain Cat, Ray gave us Johnny Thunder and Wicked Annabella. Think of Village Green as an audio postcard from a place where nothing changes—except the memories.

2. Nicky Hopkins played nearly every keyboard—but got no credit
Pianist extraordinaire Nicky Hopkins was the secret sauce of the Kinks’ late ’60s sound, contributing everything from Mellotron flutes to harpsichord trills. On Village Green, he plays a staggering array of instruments, adding baroque elegance to songs like “Village Green” and “Phenomenal Cat.” But in true Kinks fashion, the official credits gave all the keyboard glory to Ray Davies. Hopkins later joked he played 70% of it—quietly brilliant as always.

3. “Phenomenal Cat” is a psychedelic bedtime story about a flying cat
Ever wanted to know the meaning of life… from a cat? “Phenomenal Cat” tells the tale of a feline who flies to Katmandu, finds enlightenment, and decides to chill and eat forever. Dave Davies voices the cat with a sped-up vocal, giving it a surreal, dreamy quality. Add in Mellotron flutes and nursery-rhyme whimsy, and you get one of the most quietly trippy songs of the ’60s.

4. Ray wrote “Big Sky” from a hotel balcony in Cannes
While attending the MIDEM music industry conference in France, Ray stood on a balcony at sunrise, looked down at a sea of businessmen, and looked up at the sky. Thus was born “Big Sky,” a song about a silent, towering force that watches people struggle and shrugs. It’s been interpreted as a song about God, capitalism, or just weather. Either way, it’s the most philosophical moment ever born from jet lag and a view.

5. It was released the same day as the Beatles’ White Album—and got flattened
November 22, 1968: The Village Green Preservation Society hit the shelves… just as the Beatles dropped their 30-track monster of an album. Guess which one dominated headlines? With no hit single and little promo, the Kinks’ quiet masterpiece got lost in the shuffle. But over time, it became their best-selling UK album—and earned its place as a national treasure in vinyl form.

The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society wasn’t made to storm the charts—it was made to preserve the past, one barbershop harmony at a time. And somehow, it ended up preserving the band’s legacy too.