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CBC Reveals 2025 Polaris Music Prize Long List Featuring 40 Diverse Canadian Albums

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CBC presents the 2025 Polaris Music Prize has revealed its 40 nominated album Long List. The organization, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, also announced the launch of two major new initiatives, the SOCAN Polaris Song Prize and 2025 Polaris Festival.

The album Long List, presented by Canada Council for the Arts, is where Polaris reveals the 40 nominated records that will be considered for a given year’s Prize.

The 2025 Polaris Music Prize Album Long List is:

  • Art d’Ecco – Serene Demon
  • Backxwash – Only Dust Remains
  • Quinton Barnes – CODE NOIR
  • Bibi Club – Feu de garde
  • Basia Bulat – Basia’s Palace
  • Caribou – Honey
  • Lou-Adriane Cassidy – Journal d’un Loup-Garou
  • Choses Sauvages – Choses Sauvages III
  • Cold Specks – Light For The Midnight
  • Antoine Corriveau – Oiseau de Nuit
  • Marie Davidson – City Of Clowns
  • Destroyer – Dan’s Boogie
  • Myriam Gendron – Mayday
  • Gloin – All of your anger is actually shame (and I bet that makes you angry)
  • Saya Gray – SAYA
  • Hildegard – Jour 1596
  • Yves Jarvis – All Cylinders
  • Kaia Kater – Strange Medicine
  • Bells Larsen – Blurring Time
  • Richard Laviolette – All Wild Things Are Shy
  • Wyatt C. Louis – Chandler
  • Kelly McMichael – After The Sting Of It
  • Men I Trust – Equus Asinus
  • Mustafa – Dunya
  • N NAO – Nouveau langage
  • Nemahsis – Verbathim
  • Eliza Niemi – Progress Bakery
  • The OBGMs – SORRY, IT’S OVER
  • Dorothea Paas – Think Of Mist
  • Klô Pelgag – Abracadabra
  • Population II – Maintenant Jamais
  • Ribbon Skirt – Bite Down
  • Ariane Roy – Dogue
  • Mike Shabb – Sewaside III
  • Sister Ray – Believer
  • Snotty Nose Rez Kids – RED FUTURE
  • The Weather Station – Humanhood
  • Rick White and The Sadies – Rick White and The Sadies
  • Donovan Woods – Things Were Never Good If They’re Not Good Now
  • Yoo Doo Right – From the Heights of Our Pastureland

The Long List includes 16 first-time nominees as well as two past winners (Backxwash, Caribou) and one past Polaris Heritage Prize recipient (Rick White, as part of Eric’s Trip). In total, 189 albums were considered for the Long List by the 205 member jury this season.

The Polaris Music Prize awards $30,000 courtesy of the Slaight Family Foundation to the artist who creates the Canadian Album of the Year, judged solely on artistic merit, without consideration for genre or record sales. The Polaris Prize album winner is determined by an 11-member Polaris Grand Jury selected from the greater Polaris juror pool.

The 2025 Long List was unveiled during a reveal event at Paradise Wine Bar in Toronto’s downtown west end which featured an art installation by Polaris Community Partner Oasis Skateboard Factory. The album Long List reveal event also featured a number of previous winners and current nominees in attendance.

The Polaris Music Prize Short List, presented by FACTOR, will reveal the 10 finalist albums being considered on July 10. More details on this will be announced in the coming weeks.

Karin Ann Honors Bowie Legacy With Haunting New Single “Heroes,” Produced by Mark Plati and Featuring Bowie’s Original Band

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Critically acclaimed singer, songwriter, and actress Karin Ann ushers in a bold new chapter in her musical journey with the release of her latest single, “Heroes,” available today on all major streaming platforms. A hauntingly personal reinterpretation of the iconic David Bowie anthem, the track was produced by Bowie’s longtime collaborator Mark Plati and features members of Bowie’s original band—creating a moving homage imbued with Karin’s distinct artistry. Known for her fearless genre-blending style, Karin Ann continues to break musical boundaries, weaving elements of folk, rock, and cinematic balladry into a cohesive sound that is uniquely her own. “Heroes” exemplifies her commitment to storytelling across genres, with a deep reverence for lyrics that resonate emotionally and thematically. Whether writing original material or reimagining classics, Karin selects songs with powerful narratives at their core, showcasing her as a multi-genre talent with a storyteller’s heart.

Accompanying the single is a captivating music video, composed of footage from Karin’s studio recording sessions with Plati and Bowie’s original band, offering fans an intimate look behind the scenes of this once-in-a-lifetime collaboration.

“Heroes” follows Karin’s February release, “choking on my words” – a stirring duet with acclaimed Dutch artist and 2019 Eurovision winner Duncan Laurence – which further cemented her reputation for emotionally charged, thought-provoking music.

Karin’s 2024 debut album, through the telescope, received widespread praise for its ambitious scope and thematic depth. Tackling issues such as gender equality, the LGBTQ+ experience, mental health, and toxic love, the album showcases Karin’s fearless storytelling and sonic versatility – ranging from brutalist folk to gothic disco-rock. NME hailed it as “a confident and unflinching debut,” applauding its existential weight and cohesive vision.

Beyond music, Karin continues to make waves as an actress. She made a cameo appearance in the critically acclaimed historical drama miniseries The Tattooist of Auschwitz, portraying the character Maria. Her screen work also includes cinematic music videos for her own singles “a stranger with my face” and “favorite star,” presented as a two-part narrative series. Co-starring Ashley Moore and Gus Kenworthy, and directed by the acclaimed duo TUSK, the project was praised for its emotional storytelling and won Best Music Video at the 2023 Top Shorts Film Festival. Their collaboration extended to the striking video for “i don’t believe in God,” featuring a powerful guest appearance by Imogen Heap.

For Karin Ann, music has always been more than melody – it’s about message, meaning, and emotional truth. Her past releases aren’t just standout tracks; they’re complete stories, with each song chosen or written for the power of its lyrics and the narrative it conveys. This storytelling ethos continues to shape her evolving sound, informing a new, folk-leaning direction rooted in authenticity and emotional depth. As she expands her creative repertoire – with new film projects on the horizon – Karin is cementing her place as a dynamic, multifaceted artist unafraid to blend genres, mediums, and cultures. “Heroes” marks the start of this new musical chapter, with more original music set for release later this year – works that increasingly draw from the rich tapestry of her Central European and Middle Eastern heritage. These influences deepen the cultural and emotional resonance of her artistry, further defining her voice as a fearless, genre-defying storyteller.

Letlive. Returns with ‘The Blackest Beautiful Revisited’ Deluxe Edition and New Single Featuring Dan Campbell

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Cult favorite post-hardcore band letlive. returns in full force this summer, reigniting their legacy with a newly remixed and remastered edition of their iconic 2013 album. The Blackest Beautiful Revisited arrives on all digital streaming platforms June 13, 2025, featuring two powerful bonus tracks and marking the band’s first digital release since reuniting.

To kick off the campaign, letlive. drops a blistering new single today: “The Dope Beat Rendition (ft. Dan Campbell)”, a reimagined version of a fan favorite featuring vocals from Dan Campbell of The Wonder Years. The single is available now across all major platforms.

Originally released in 2013, The Blackest Beautiful was a defining moment for letlive., fusing unfiltered emotion with genre-defying intensity. With Revisited, the band has sonically reimagined the album from the ground up-revitalizing every mix, remastering every moment, and adding two bonus tracks that showcase their enduring influence and collaborative spirit.

“It’s surreal hearing The Blackest Beautiful remastered after all these years,” says guitarist Jeff Sahyoun. “This record meant everything to us, and now it gets to live again in a new light. I couldn’t be more excited to share it with everyone.”

In addition to “The Dope Beat Rendition,” Revisited includes “27 Club Rendition (ft. Keith Buckley)”, featuring Many Eyes frontman in a searing new version that amplifies the urgency and vision of the original record.

“The Blackest Beautiful is a lighthouse for those who feel lost in this mad world,” adds guitarist Jean Nascimento. “It’s an honor for us to give our fans a chance to listen and have a new perspective on this album, one more time.”

The digital release coincides with letlive. returning to the stage one more time, which includes a packed summer of festival appearances and headlining dates across North America, Europe, Australia and the UK. The band will hit major stages at the DC and Orlando dates of Warped Tour, When We Were Young Festival in Las Vegas, Louder Than Life in Kentucky, and the UK’s 2000 Trees Festival.

This run marks letlive.’s first tour in years and has already drawn massive anticipation from fans across the globe. Full tour dates and ticket information are available now at www.letliveperiod.com.

The Blackest Beautiful Revisited Tracklisting:
1. Banshee (Ghost Fame)
2. Empty Elvis
3. White America’s Beautiful Black Market
4. Dreamer’s Disease
5. That Fear Fever
6. Virgin Dirt
7. Younger
8. The Dope Beat
9. The Priest And Used Cars
10. Pheromone Cvlt
11. 27 Club
12. The Dope Beat Rendition (ft. Dan Campbell)
13. 27 Club Rendition (ft. Keith Buckley)

Rising Indie-Rock Star Meg Elsier Announces Deluxe Edition of Debut Album ‘spittake’ with New Tracks and Tour Dates

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Today, rising indie-rock force meg elsier announces the deluxe edition of her widely praised debut album, spittake, set for release on July 25 via Bright Antenna Records. The expanded project features 17 tracks in total, including a live recording, never-before-heard demos, and B-sides that offer a deeper, more unfiltered glimpse into the emotional and creative core of one of 2024’s most compelling debut records.

These B-sides, these demos, this deluxeit’s a celebration of all the little choices that made ‘spittake’ what it is,” says meg. “It’s a look under the hood. A practice in vulnerability. A lighter grip. I wanted to show how much beauty can exist in the unfinished and imperfect.

With her signature blend of gauzy shoegaze textures, grungy guitars, and sharp, introspective lyrics, deluxe edition sees meg peeling back the layers and inviting listeners into the messy, uncertain, and deeply human process behind the music. Reflecting on this approach, she explains that “artists and creatives have the ability to seem untouchable—to remain inches off the ground, and honestly that seems safer sometimes. But sometimes it seems like curation to the point of alienation. I wanted to start this off right and honest. That was the intention with ‘spittake.’ It’s the intention with the deluxe. And it’s the intention with the next album.”

The first single from the deluxe edition, “sportscar [scrapped],” arrives June 18. A sleek, emotionally charged indie-pop track with alt-rock undercurrents, the song builds from hushed vulnerability into a bold, driving chorus that mirrors the emotional acceleration suggested in its title.

This summer, meg joins Blondshell on tour starting June 11 in Minneapolis, with stops in Chicago, Columbus, Toronto, and Montreal. She’ll then hit the road with Liz Cooper for shows in Brooklyn, Washington DC, Durham, and Nashville. Tickets are on sale now.

Based in Nashville, meg elsier is a singer, songwriter, and visual artist making waves as one of indie-rock’s most exciting new voices. Her 2024 debut spittake earned acclaim from DIY Magazine, OnesToWatch, and CLASH for its emotionally raw storytelling and lush, genre-blending production. Known for weaving humor, heartbreak, and honesty into every song, meg continues to cement her place as a fearless and singular artist to watch.

Upcoming Tour Dates:
June 11 – Minneapolis, MN @ Fine Line*
June 13 – Chicago, IL @ Metro Chicago*
June 14 – Columbus, OH @ Skullys Music Diner*
June 16 – Toronto, ON @ Phoenix Concert Theatre*
June 17 – Montreal, QC @ Théâtre Fairmount* 
June 19 – Brooklyn, NY @ Union Pool^
June 20 – Washington DC @ Comet Ping Pong^
June 21 – Durham, NC @ The Pinhook^
June 26 – Nashville, TN @ Soft Junk^
*supporting Blondshell
^ with Liz Cooper

Music Event Mistakes: Do’s & Don’ts

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By Mitch Rice

Attending a music event, whether it’s a massive festival or an intimate rave, is an exciting experience filled with unforgettable moments, incredible music, and vibrant fashion. But with all the excitement, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can impact your overall enjoyment. As someone who lives for festivals, rave culture, and expressive fashion, I’ve seen it all—the good, the bad, and the “I wish I had known that before” moments. This guide is here to help you avoid common music event mistakes while making sure you feel comfortable, stylish, and ready to dance the night away. 

1. Don’t Sacrifice Comfort for Style – Do Find the Right Balance

One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing an outfit that looks amazing but feels terrible after just an hour of dancing. Festivals and raves are endurance events—you’ll be standing, walking, and moving for hours. While bold, eye-catching outfits are part of the fun, always consider comfort. Women’s rave skirts with shorts underneath are a prime example of how you can combine style with functionality. They’re popular not just because they’re trendy, but because they allow for full movement, keep you cool, and pair well with everything from crop tops to mesh bodysuits. If you want to go all out with your look, opt for breathable fabrics and items that won’t chafe or dig into your skin after a few hours.

2. Don’t Forget to Hydrate – Do Bring a Hydration Pack

Between dancing, the sun (for outdoor events), and the sheer energy of the crowd, dehydration can sneak up on you. One of the most common mistakes is relying on bottled water from vendors, which often means standing in long lines and paying high prices. Instead, bring a hydration pack—it doubles as a stylish accessory and keeps you hydrated without the hassle.

3. Don’t Wear New Shoes – Do Break Them in Before the Event

Your shoes will make or break your festival experience. It’s tempting to buy a brand-new pair of boots or platform sneakers for the event, but wearing them without breaking them in is a recipe for blisters and sore feet. Stick with shoes you know are comfortable or take the time to wear in your new pair ahead of time. Pairing your rave booty shorts with comfy, broken-in sneakers or platform boots will keep you dancing all day and night without regret.

4. Don’t Neglect Weather Prep – Do Dress for Changing Conditions

Weather at music events can be unpredictable. Festivals often start under a blazing sun and end in chilly evenings. Layering is key—bring a lightweight jacket or kimono that you can tie around your waist when you’re not wearing it. Booty shorts for raves are perfect for dealing with the heat, and when paired with leg wraps or thigh-high socks, they can easily transition into a nighttime look without sacrificing warmth.

5. Don’t Forget to Plan Your Outfits – Do Think Ahead for Comfort and Style

Last-minute outfit decisions often lead to stress and regret. Planning your looks in advance gives you time to create outfits that are both stylish and practical. If you’re considering adding rave booty shorts to your wardrobe, experiment with different tops and accessories before the event. These shorts are versatile—pair them with fishnet tights, holographic tops, or LED accessories to create looks that stand out while keeping you comfortable. Planning ahead also helps avoid packing unnecessary items, saving space for essentials.

6. Don’t Lose Track of Your Friends – Do Set a Meeting Spot

With spotty cell service and huge crowds, it’s easy to get separated from your group. Avoid the panic by designating a meeting spot ahead of time. Make it somewhere easy to find but away from the busiest areas. Pro tip: If you’re rocking bold pieces like neon tops and rave shorts, you’ll be easier for your friends to spot in a crowd.

7. Don’t Skip Sunscreen – Do Protect Your Skin

Whether you’re spending the day under the sun or dancing under LED lights, sunscreen is a must. Sunburn can quickly ruin your festival experience. Apply a high-SPF sunscreen before arriving and reapply throughout the day. Plus, if you’re wearing shorts, you’ll have more exposed skin, so extra care is essential. Look for sunscreen sprays that are quick to apply without messing up your outfit.

8. Don’t Overpack – Do Bring the Essentials

It’s tempting to bring everything “just in case,” but carrying a heavy bag around all day is exhausting. Pack light but smart. Essentials include your ID, tickets, hydration pack, sunscreen, and a portable charger. If you’re wearing outfits with pockets, you’ll have one less thing to carry.

9. Don’t Forget Ear Protection – Do Care for Your Hearing

It’s easy to overlook, but high-volume music can cause hearing damage over time. Invest in quality earplugs designed for concerts; they reduce volume without sacrificing sound quality. They’re small, easy to carry, and can fit perfectly in the pockets.

10. Don’t Miss Out on Exploring – Do Experience the Whole Festival

Many attendees make the mistake of sticking to one stage or only watching headliners. Festivals are packed with hidden gems—art installations, secret sets, and interactive experiences that are worth exploring. Wear an outfit that keeps you comfortable for lots of walking and take time to wander. You never know what incredible moments you’ll stumble upon.

Final Thoughts

Music events are about having fun, connecting with others, and celebrating music and self-expression. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure a smoother, more enjoyable experience from start to finish. Remember that comfort and style can coexist. Plan ahead, stay hydrated, protect yourself from the elements, and most importantly, let loose and enjoy every beat, every moment, and every memory made on the dancefloor.

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

Drowning Pool Returns to Europe for First Headline Tour in 9 Years with Special Guests LILIAC

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Multi-platinum hard rock band, Drowning Pool are making their return to Europe for their first headline tour across the continent in 9 years. But first, the band will warm things up with six U.S. shows in June and July before heading overseas. Joining them for the European run is rising hard rock family band LILIAC, who will serve as special guests on all headline dates.

The European tour launches with a monumental appearance at the sold out Wacken Open Air on August 1 in Wacken, Germany, one of the world’s premier metal festivals. From there, Drowning Pool will embark on a series of headline dates across Europe, delivering their signature blend of aggressive energy, powerful vocals, and fan-favorite anthems like “Bodies,” “Tear Away,” “Sinner,” “Step Up,” “37 Stitches,” “Feel Like I Do,” and “Turn So Cold.”

The band will also be playing a number of festivals this summer including Lakes Jam Fest on June 26th in Brainerd, MN, Big River Rally on June 28th in Lacrosse, WI, Rockfest on July 16th in Cadott, WI, Inkcarceration Festival 2025 on July 18th, Brutal Assault Fest on August 7th in Josefov, Czech Republic , ALCATRAZ festival on August 9th in Kortrijk Belgium, and Reload Festival on August 15th in Sulingen, Germany.

In addition, the band has also announced a UK and Ireland tour with Spineshank and special guests Hed PE in November.

Stay tuned for more announcements from Drowning Pool as they gear up for additional tour dates and new music in 2025.

Drowning Pool, a name etched in the score of modern rock history, roars back into the spotlight with thunderous energy and uncompromising power. The band’s unmistakable sound, synonymous with raw energy and unapologetic attitude, returns to captivate audiences once again.

Known for their iconic anthem “Bodies,” Drowning Pool needs no introduction. This breakout single propelled them to international recognition, leaving an indelible mark on the nu metal landscape. The song’s relentless energy and defiant spirit resonated with a generation, becoming an anthem for moshers, metalheads, and fans of electrifying live performances.

Ryan McCombs played a pivotal role in the band’s evolution, joining their ranks in the aftermath of the tragic loss of beloved frontman Dave Williams. His powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence breathed new life into Drowning Pool, solidifying their status as metal titans. Songs like “37 Stitches,” “Feel Like I Do,” and “Turn So Cold” catapulted them to new heights, earning them a place among the genre’s heavyweights.

Yet, Drowning Pool’s story is not just about music; it’s a testament to enduring friendships and a shared passion for their craft. Ryan’s return to the band in 2023 marks a reunion of kindred spirits, a return to the roots of their musical journey. As he succinctly puts it, “Just being back in the same room together after so many years… was a quick reminder as to why I considered them to be my best friends in the business back in the day.”

Drowning Pool’s return is a testament to the enduring power of their music, a reminder that their unapologetic spirit continues to strike chords with audiences worldwide. The band experienced a triumphant resurgence in 2023 and with new music on the horizon, a 2025 calendar proving that the demand for the band isn’t about to slow down. Drowning Pool has a white knuckle grip on their present and future with no plans to slow down.

2-8-25 / BERLIN, GERMANY / SO36
3-8-25 / WARSAW, POLAND / Proxima
4-8-25 / KRAKOW, POLAND / Hype Park
7-8-25 / JOSEFOV, CZECH REPUBLIC / Brutal Assault Festival
8-8-25 / AUGSBURG, GERMANY / Kantine
9-8-25 / KORTRIJK, BELGIUM / Alcatraz Festival
10-8-25 / KARLSRUHE, GERMANY / Substage
13-8-25 / SITTARD, NETHERLANDS / Volt
14-8-25 / HOOFDDORP, NETHERLANDS / Cpunt
15-8-25 / SULINGEN, GERMANY / Reload Festival

Deep Purple’s ‘Rapture of the Deep’ Celebrates 20 Years With Remixed Edition and Rare Bonus Tracks

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Deep Purple’s Rapture of the Deep turns 20 – and is being celebrated with a complete remix and remaster, striking new artwork, plus a bonus CD/LP featuring never-before-released recordings that will be released on August 29th.

It’s no secret that Rapture of the Deep isn’t the first album that comes to mind when listing Deep Purple’s classics – and while it was met with interest at the time, it gradually faded from view. Despite solid sales, the album arrived during a period when there was little spotlight on the world of classic rock, and over the years, Rapture of the Deep developed into an overlooked chapter in Deep Purple’s rich discography.

It’s equally true that this record, and the story behind it, marked a turning point – the quiet beginning of a run that would eventually lead to four consecutive No. 1 albums (2013, 2017, 2020, 2024) and the kind of success few bands experience even once, let alone decades into their career.

New insights by Kerrang! founder and Classic Rock magazine writer Geoff Barton pull back the curtain on a time when Deep Purple were navigating an uncertain era in the music industry that saw the downfall of many once-great artist careers – and unravel the strange chemistry that gave birth to Deep Purple’s 18th studio album.

As bassist Roger Glover reflects, “We were going through a bit of a hard time when we started the songwriting and production of Rapture of the Deep and, strangely enough, we didn’t have a record company at that point. Let’s face it, we were a bit lost (…).”

But from that uncertain moment emerged an album bursting with sharp songwriting, masterful playing, and pure Deep Purple grit.

Now, newly mixed with the supervision of Glover, analogue-mastered at renowned Chameleon Studios in Hamburg, and presented with bold new artwork, Rapture of the Deep finally shines with clarity and color. “It’s a new album now to me,” says Roger Glover. Fans will hear it blooming for the first time.

This new edition also includes a bonus CD/LP featuring previously unreleased instrumental takes and studio rehearsals recorded during the songwriting process – providing a rare, unfiltered insight into the band’s creative work in the studio. Captured on multi-track in 2005 and mixed for the first time in 2025, it’s one of those rare instances where recordings resurface decades later from archives long thought lost.

Among the highlights is the track “Closing Note,” a never-before-heard piece by former guitarist Steve Morse – recorded during the album sessions and now officially released for the first time.

These tracks are available exclusively on all three physical formats – CD Digipak, 3LP Vinyl (black, 180g), and the strictly Limited 3LP Transparent Sky-Blue Vinyl.

With Deep Purple riding high on the success of their latest No. 1 record =1, the time is right to (re)discover the album that set the path for Deep Purple in the 21st century.

Tracklist CD & LP

  1. Money Talks
  2. Things I Never Said*
  3. Rapture of the Deep
  4. Clearly Quite Absurd
  5. MTV*
  6. Back to Back
  7. Wrong Man
  8. Girls Like That
  9. Kiss Tomorrow Goodbye
  10. Don’t Let Go
  11. Junkyard Blues
  12. Before Time Again
  13. *not on original studio album
  14.  
  15. Tracklist Bonus LP/CD
  16. 2005 Studio Jams & Rehearsals
  17. MTV
  18. Money Talks
  19. Back to Back
  20. Before Time Began
  21. Closing Note**
  22. **unreleased instrumental track by Steve Morse

Benefit for Tim Cronin: Art Auction and Live Music Event to Support Monster Magnet Founder Battling ALS

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Earlier this year, Tim Cronin, original Monster Magnet member, beloved Ribeye Brother, and cherished Jack’s Record Shoppe stalwart, was diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). Now, he needs our support. Join us on Sunday, June 22, at Whitechapel Projects in Long Branch, NJ, for a one-of-a-kind art auction and live music event to benefit Tim.

Hosted by standup comedian Dave Hill, the bands – Holmes, Von Mons, and The Long Defeats – start at 3 pm and will be playing short sets of Ribeye covers, alongside some awesome rock’n’roll DJs.

The art auction features pieces donated by various artist friends, including a signed Beastie Boys print from photographer Danny Clinch. Tim also contributed one of his own pieces to the event. Pat Longo graciously created the show poster.

Event organizer and Ribeye Brother, Joe Calandra comments: “Save the date. This benefit is for one of my oldest and dearest friends, Tim Cronin. Tim and I have been close since the mid-’80s, when we first met at Jack’s Music. We’ve been all over the world together during our Monster Magnet days, but what I’m most proud of is sharing the stage with him in the Ribeye Brothers for the past 14 years. Please come to the show if you can – to support Tim and celebrate his amazing life. I’m so grateful to have had him in my life all these years. Thank you, Tim.”

The venue was generously donated by Marilyn Schlossbach, who owns the White Chapel Projects, as well as the Low Dive (formerly the Yacht Club) and the Langosta Lounge (now operating under a new name) – all places the Ribeye Brothers have played over the years.

This benefit is a true labor of love, with so many friends and associates working hard to make it happen, including Joe’s wife, Samantha, and Todd Abramson of WFMU, who have been handling venue details, lining up DJs, organizing the auction, and keeping everything on track. BetterWorld provides ticketing and online auction services. Gets tickets here.

Imagine Dragons’ Mac and Dan Reynolds Co-Found Indie Studio Night Street Games to Launch “Last Flag,” a Funky 5v5 Capture-The-Flag Shooter in 2026

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From Night Street Games-an indie studio co-founded by Mac and Dan Reynolds (from diamond-certified GRAMMY Award-winning band Imagine Dragons)-Last Flag is a 5v5 team shooter built to bring CTF center stage. It’s fast, it’s fun, and delivers 20 minutes or less of non-stop chaos, clutch comebacks, and buzzer-beating plays.

Last Flag is launching in 2026 on Windows PC via Steam and the Epic Games Store. Console platforms are in the works. Sign up now at LastFlag.com for a shot at becoming the next Contestant in the alpha playtest launching later this year.

“When I was in third grade, my ‘what do you want to be when you grow up’ answer was ‘run a video game studio.’ Oddly specific, but I guess I really meant it,” said Mac Reynolds, CEO and co-founder of Night Street Games. “Dan and I grew up playing capture the flag in the woods at night with flashlights, friends, and lots of adrenaline. Last Flag is our attempt to honor the purity and magic of that hide and seek experience-brought to life by the incredible team of developers we’re lucky enough to stand beside.”

Set in a funk-blasted 1970s-inspired universe, Last Flag transforms players into Contestants on the world’s most-watched game show-hosted by the mysterious media mogul Victor Fex.

When the cameras start rolling, players leap into an outdoor arena to hide their team’s flag, then scramble to reveal the enemy’s location by controlling radar towers and scouring the map’s multitude of hidden nooks and crannies.

Capture the flag. Haul it home. Defend it for one minute to win it.

Whether you’re celebrating your victory or vibing to the smooth sounds of defeat, you can always choose to run it back.

Queens of the Stone Age Release Audio of “Alive in the Catacombs” Performance with Limited Vinyl Edition

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By popular demand, Queens of the Stone Age are releasing the audio of their spellbinding Alive in the Catacombs performance. Appropriately, the music arrives this Friday the 13th across all digital platforms via Matador Records.

The band has also announced a limited vinyl edition of the AITC audio. Only 5,000 copies will be pressed of this special one-sided vinyl edition. Housed in a gatefold jacket with foil print inside and out, the AITC vinyl edition contains an exclusive 24-page booklet of behind the scenes photos taken by long-time collaborator Andreas Neumann. Each copy will be individually stamped and numbered. Pre-orders are available now at qotsa.com for a release date of August 22nd.

The AITC film and subsequent audio release is QOTSA distilled down to their most elemental form-Joshua Homme, Troy Van Leeuwen, Michael Shuman, Dean Fertita and Jon Theodore augmented by a three-piece string section, employing chains and chopsticks as makeshift percussion instruments. Entirely unfiltered, as every song was recorded live in a complete take with no overdubs or edits. The audio was recorded by Mark Rankin, François-Xavier Delaby, Henri d’Armancourt and Alban Lejeune, and was produced by Mark Rankin. Final mixes by Mark Rankin, Joshua Homme and Michael Shuman.

Queens of the Stone Age: Alive in the Catacombs, the film, was released on June 5th to much anticipation and critical acclaim.