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Eco-Friendly Transportation: How Cargo Electric Trikes Are Revolutionizing Mobility

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By Mitch Rice

We all know the drill: traffic jams, honking horns, and the guilty feeling of watching gas prices skyrocket while the planet sighs under the weight of emissions.

Cities are growing, deliveries are multiplying, and the carbon footprint of our daily routines keeps getting bigger.

Traditional delivery vans and trucks aren’t cutting it anymore—they’re loud, expensive to run, and frankly, not the most neighbor-friendly.

Here’s where cargo e-trikes (3 wheel electric bikes) come in.

They’re big enough to carry your stuff, small enough to weave through traffic, and—best of all—electric. That means zero tailpipe emissions and a whisper-quiet ride.

Why Cargo E-Trikes Make Sense Right Now

  • Traffic Jams, Meet Bike Lanes

In many cities, cargo trikes enjoy the same lane access as bicycles. That means riders glide past gridlock instead of idling in it. Whether it’s narrow alleyways, congested downtown streets, or crowded parking lots, cargo e-trikes slip through tighter gaps than boxy vans.

  • Increased Maneuverability

Whether it’s narrow alleyways, congested downtown streets, or crowded parking lots, cargo e-trikes slip through tighter gaps than boxy vans. You won’t have to circle blocks looking for a spot.

  • Tiny Footprint, Big Payload

A compact e-trike can haul up to 500 lbs. of combined rider and cargo, which is roughly what a small hatchback carries. Yet, it needs only a fraction of the parking space.

  • Quiet Operation

Electric trikes don’t have roaring engines. This makes them perfect for residential deliveries, medical services, or any situation where noise could be an issue.

  • Electric Assist Flattens Hills

A potent rear-hub motor turns leg-burning climbs into mellow rolls, so you can load up without dreading the route home.

  • Cost That Won’t Clobber the Wallet

Charging an adult electric trike costs pennies compared with fueling a van. Maintenance is simpler, too: no oil changes, no exhaust system, and far fewer moving parts.

  • Eco Bragging Rights

Zero tailpipe emissions mean cleaner air on the school run or market haul, and every mile ridden on three wheels saves a car trip.

Who’s the Cargo E-Trike For?

You don’t have to be a delivery driver or a bike messenger to love a cargo trike. These adult electric trikes are perfect for:

  • Parents on the Go

From school runs to soccer practice and library trips, a cargo trike does it all. Throw a child seat or two in the back and ride in style.

  • Small Business Owners

Delivering baked goods, handmade crafts, or floral arrangements? Do it emission-free and turn heads while you’re at it.

  • Urban Commuters

Leave the car at home and skip the parking nightmare. Your e-trike gets you close to the door every time.

  • Eco-Conscious Riders

Reduce your carbon footprint and feel good doing it. It’s clean energy, good vibes, and fresh air all in one.

  • Pet Parents

Got a small dog with big energy? They’ll love riding shotgun in your cargo basket.

Meet the Addmotor Greattan D: A Fat Tire Electric Trike Worth Every Penny

If cargo e-trikes are changing the way we move, then the Addmotor Greattan D is leading the charge.

Here’s what makes it stand out:

SpecWhat it Means on the Road
6061 Aluminum Alloy FrameThe trike is super durable and easy to handle.
750W Rear-Drive Motor (1,400W Peak)You get a powerful boost for climbing hills and carrying cargo.
48V 20Ah UL-Certified Samsung Battery (Dual-Battery Option)You can ride long distances without worrying about running out of power.
7-inch Rear Fat Tires + 4-inch FrontExtra grip and balance for a smoother, safer ride on all surfaces.
500 lbs. Payload (350 lbs. Rider + 150 lbs. Cargo)You can carry yourself and a big load—groceries, gear, or a furry friend.
20% Thicker Rear AxleStronger support for heavy loads and better durability over time.
Torque SensorPedaling feels more natural and gives you power when needed.
Speed DifferentialThe rear wheels turn at different speeds, making sharp turns easier and safer.
Front Suspension Oil Spring Fork with 25mm of TravelAll bumps and vibrations from rough roads are absorbed, resulting in a smoother ride.
EB 2.0 Lighting SystemBright front and rear lights keep you visible and safe at night or in low light.
Tektro Mechanical Dual Disc BrakesStrong stopping power, even when it’s wet or you’re carrying cargo.
Parking Brake SystemKeeps your trike from rolling when you park it on a hill or uneven ground.
Adjustable Saddle and HandlebarsEasy to customize for comfort for riders of varying heights. You can sit upright and enjoy your ride.

Tips for Choosing the Right Cargo E-Trike

Here are some pointers to help you pick your perfect ride:

  1. Assess Your Payload

Figure out what you’ll be hauling most often. Is it light groceries, heavy boxes, or tools? Look at the weight limits and cargo space specs accordingly.

  1. Consider Battery Range

Estimate your daily riding distance and pick a battery size that covers it with a buffer. Remember, hills, headwinds, and cargo weight can affect range.

  1. Test the Ride

If possible, demo an e-trike with your typical load. Pay attention to handling, comfort, and ease of loading.

  1. Look at Accessories

Do you need locks, lights, phone mounts, or rain covers? Check which accessories come standard and which you’ll need to buy.

  1. Check Local Regulations

Rules for electric vehicles vary. Make sure your e-trike classifies as a bike (and not a moped) if you want to avoid licenses or insurance.

  1. Assess the Brands’ Service and Support

Go with a brand that offers good warranty terms, spare parts availability, and service centers near you. In case you want to buy the Greattan D fat tire electric trike, Addmotor’s network makes maintenance a breeze.

Final Thoughts

Cargo electric trikes are a smart solution for today’s mobility challenges. And with standout models like the Addmotor Greattan D, there’s never been a better time to take the leap.

With this small investment, you get to say goodbye to gas bills, parking headaches, and hefty bills, and your day-to-day life will become extra convenient and fun.

The Greattan D is the kind of vehicle that adapts to your needs and fits into your life like it was meant to be there. Before long, you’ll wonder how you ever got by without it.

So, what are you waiting for?

Head over to Addmotor.com and get your hands on the trike that’s about to make your errands, commutes, and weekends a whole lot easier.

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

Slightly Stoopid’s ‘Closer To The Sun’ Returns With Stacked Lineup And Sun-Soaked Vibes

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Slightly Stoopid and Cloud 9 Adventures announce details for the 11th edition of Closer to the Sun. Taking place January 10-14, 2026, this one-of-a-kind concert vacation returns to Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya, an all-inclusive resort on the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. Known for its vibrant community of fans, artists, and crew, Closer to the Sun has become more than just a music event – it’s an annual tradition. With such a dedicated community, it’s no surprise that past years have sold out quickly.

The music schedule features three shows by Slightly Stoopid with a stacked lineup of additional performers. Attendees can expect multiple shows by Dirty Heads, Pepper, The Elovaters, The Movement, HIRIE, DENM, Little Stranger, and Z-Trip. Additional concerts from Rebelution, and Rome, plus a special ‘Traffic Jam” performance by Damian Jr. Gong & Stephen Marley, and an Old Soul Unplugged set by Stephen Marley to round out the musical vacation.

Closer to the Sun transforms the stunning beachfront resort into the ideal music venue, offering unique performances on 5 stages with top-tier production. The Main Stage in the revered Concert Courtyard delivers exceptional acoustics, complimentary craft cocktails, wait- staff that comes through the crowd so fans don’t miss a beat, and chef-curated food stations that rotate each night. Daytime and sunset shows take place on a Beach Stage set right on the Caribbean coastline. Guests finish the night at the intimate Late Night Stage for performances under the stars. Poolside pop-ups round out the day, providing nearly non-stop music from afternoon well into the night.

This trail-blazing event continues to deliver one-of-a-kind vacations with the addition of activities curated to bring artists & fans together – including morning yoga, hands-on workshops, annual basketball invitational, and more. Add in creative theme nights, adventurous excursions, and cultural charity initiatives, and you’ve got the ultimate concert experience.

Set between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya is the all-inclusive beachfront resort where Closer to the Sun has a full takeover. Concerts, event activities, and late-night hangs are just steps from guest rooms. Returning guests can look forward to the same fan-friendly venue layout with updated resort offerings, including an array of new restaurant concepts as well as guest room amenities, to keep the experience feeling familiar and fresh at the same time.

The 2026 event extends to an exclusive section of rooms at Barcelo Maya Beach and UNICO 20°87°, two all-inclusive resorts just a 10-15 minute ride from Main Stage. The 50 available rooms at UNICO 20°87° provide a high-end, luxury stay while the slightly larger block of rooms at Barcelo offer fans a more economical way to experience Closer to the Sun. Both resorts include access to beaches, pools, restaurants, and complimentary door-to-door shuttle service to Hard Rock for all four nights of event programming.

Closer to the Sun offers a wide scope of room options surrounded by tropical grounds, ocean views, and sparkling pools, including swim-outs and stage front suites. Guests can enjoy unlimited dining at a variety of restaurants, event-curated food stations, and complimentary 24-hour room service all included in their package price. Unlimited drinks are available at coffee shops and multiple bars in direct proximity to guest accommodations, lobbies, and all concert areas.

Fans looking to give back can link up with nonprofit organization Positive Legacy on humanitarian and environmental efforts. Positive Legacy continues to make an impact in the Riviera Maya region by providing emergency hunger relief, medical and school supplies, building playgrounds and community gardens, extensive beach cleanups, and improving infrastructure at the largest turtle sanctuary in the Yucatan. Since 2014, Closer to the Sun guests have raised almost $400,000 to support grants benefitting 46 different local organizations.

All-inclusive packages for returning Closer to the Sun guests can be reserved on June 3, 2025. Remaining rooms will become available on June 4th, first in a Pre-sale for new attendees who opt-in by Sunday, June 1st and then to the general public at 1pm ET on the Closer to the Sun website – www.closertothesun.com.

Closer to the Sun is brought to you by Cloud 9 Adventures, the premier provider of international concert vacations since 2003. Cloud 9 Adventures brings bands and fans together to create unforgettable memories & life-changing experiences at all-inclusive resorts and on luxurious cruise ships.

More Than Diamonds: What Her Rolex Really Says About Her

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By Mitch Rice

Wristwatches have long been more than timekeeping tools; they’ve functioned as cultural symbols, status indicators, and deeply personal accessories. For women, this evolution has mirrored broader societal shifts. In earlier decades, women’s watches were often delicate, jewellery-like, and gifted rather than self-purchased. But in recent years, this perception has changed significantly.

Today, many women are choosing watches that reflect not only their aesthetic preferences but also their personal identity, independence, and values. A Rolex, in particular, has become a leading example of how a watch can symbolise more than just wealth; it can represent legacy, precision, and quiet strength.

Why Rolex Resonates with Female Buyers

Rolex is a brand associated with longevity, craftsmanship, and design continuity. Unlike trend-driven luxury items, Rolex watches are built to last and often retain their value over time. For women, this appeals to both emotional and practical sensibilities.

Models such as the Lady-Datejust have long been a staple in the Rolex catalogue, offering both refined elegance and mechanical reliability. More recently, the growing interest in mid-size and even traditionally male-coded models among women (such as the 36mm Datejust or 40mm Day-Date) highlights a shift in taste toward function, proportion, and substance.

Rather than being purely ornamental, these watches are increasingly worn for what they represent: precision, permanence, and self-assured decision-making.

The Psychology of Choice: What the Watch Reflects

Studies in consumer psychology suggest that timepieces, like other wearable objects, communicate subtle messages about the wearer. In the case of Rolex, this message can be multifaceted discipline, taste, investment awareness, and even resilience.

For women, especially those purchasing their own luxury watches, the selection of a Rolex can indicate a desire to own something meaningful and lasting. It may reflect an appreciation for engineering and design as much as a preference for aesthetics. This shifts the narrative away from watches as mere status symbols and toward a deeper, more nuanced form of self-expression.

Why Pre-Owned Models Appeal to Informed Buyers

While new models still attract attention, the market for pre owned ladies Rolex watches is expanding steadily. One reason is access to discontinued references or classic design variations no longer produced. Another is the value proposition: pre-owned models often cost less than retail while still offering long-term appreciation potential.

Beyond price, there’s also the consideration of sustainability. Purchasing pre-owned contributes to a circular economy, aligning with values of longevity and environmental consciousness. Moreover, many collectors argue that watches with a history of light wear, prior ownership, or limited-edition status carry more narrative weight and character than brand-new counterparts.

This growing trend shows that female buyers are not only style-conscious but also research-driven. Their purchases are increasingly shaped by awareness of market trends, mechanical specifications, and collectibility.

Rolex as a Crossroads of Identity and Legacy

Wearing a Rolex doesn’t simply signal luxury; it often reflects decisions shaped by career growth, financial planning, or personal milestones. Many women choose to mark occasions like promotions, business achievements, or significant birthdays with a watch purchase.

A Rolex, therefore, becomes a tangible representation of time not only the hours it counts, but the moments it honours. The enduring appeal lies in its ability to accompany its wearer across different life stages, maintaining both form and function.

In this context, the watch isn’t merely decorative. It becomes a legacy item, something that might be passed down, remembered, and even studied by future collectors. And as more women engage with horology, the historical record of ownership becomes more inclusive and representative of wider social shifts.

Beyond Luxury, Toward Meaning

The act of wearing a Rolex, particularly one chosen and purchased with intent reflects more than a taste for luxury. It reveals thought, research, and often a sense of connection to something larger: tradition, quality, or even investment foresight.

Whether brand new or pre-owned, a Rolex on a woman’s wrist today is part of a larger story. It’s about how time is marked, celebrated, and valued not only financially, but personally. And in that sense, it’s far more than diamonds. It’s a reflection of identity, independence, and enduring purpose.

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

58 Surprising Facts For Noel Gallagher’s 58th Birthday

Happy 58th birthday to The Chief—the man who turned a warehouse job into Definitely Maybe, a Mancunian accent into stadium singalongs, and sibling rivalry into Britpop history. Noel Gallagher has done it all: written era-defining anthems, dissed pretty much everyone, and reminded us all that sometimes you just need a wall of guitars and a tambourine.

So in honour of Noel Thomas David Gallagher turning 58 today, here are 58 surprising, iconic, and occasionally ridiculous facts about the rock ‘n’ roll legend who made us believe we could live forever. Cue the feedback.

  1. Noel Gallagher was born on May 29, 1967—the same day Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band was released in the UK. Fate? Probably.

  2. His first guitar was a gift from his mother during probation for robbing a corner shop.

  3. He taught himself to play by mimicking songs on the radio. His first musical idol? Johnny Marr.

  4. Before Oasis, he was a roadie for Inspiral Carpets and failed their audition as lead singer.

  5. He only joined Oasis after demanding full creative control. Classic Noel.

  6. He once said, “Let me write your songs and I’ll take you to superstardom.” Spoiler: He did.

  7. He wrote “Supersonic” in the time it takes to play it. Fastest #31 hit in British history.

  8. Definitely Maybe was written in a gas company storeroom he called “The Hit Hut.”

  9. He once quit Oasis mid-tour and ran off to San Francisco. Came back with “Talk Tonight.”

  10. “Live Forever” was written as a direct rebuttal to grunge’s pessimism.

  11. Morning Glory is the fourth-best-selling album in UK chart history.

  12. He originally wanted to sing “Wonderwall.” Liam said no. He got “Don’t Look Back In Anger.”

  13. He headbutted Liam over a remark about his then-wife Meg. Brotherhood, huh?

  14. He once bought a pool and several cars… even though he can’t swim or drive.

  15. His house was called Supernova Heights. Obviously.

  16. He named his cats Benson and Hedges. Guess why.

  17. He’s collaborated with Johnny Depp, Kate Moss, The Chemical Brothers, and Paul Weller.

  18. He was part of the Britpop supergroup Smokin’ Mojo Filters.

  19. His acoustic version of “Fade Away” features Johnny Depp.

  20. Oasis played to over 250,000 fans at Knebworth in 1996.

  21. Be Here Now sold 813,000 copies in its first week. It now lives in the overblown classics section.

  22. He described Be Here Now as “the sound of a band on cocaine… and not getting off it.”

  23. He quit drugs in 1998 after a series of terrifying panic attacks.

  24. His go-to songwriting advice? “Don’t overthink it. If it sounds good, it is good.”

  25. He declined to be best man for Russell Brand’s wedding to Katy Perry.

  26. In 2005, he joined Paul McCartney and Paul Weller on a cover of “Come Together.”

  27. He turned down The X Factor because “I don’t want to be on TV with idiots.”

  28. He has a song for every feud. “The Importance of Being Idle” was basically his brand.

  29. Blur beef? Called Damon Albarn “a fucking lightweight.” Then collaborated with him in 2017.

  30. He said the Jay-Z Glastonbury headline was “wrong.” Jay-Z opened with “Wonderwall.” Game, set, Hova.

  31. He tried to retire from touring before 60. Spoiler: didn’t happen.

  32. He co-wrote three songs with the Black Keys in 2024.

  33. He’s said “Champagne Supernova” lyrics mean nothing… but they must mean something.

  34. He’s a dyslexic who can’t read music. Writes anthems anyway.

  35. He once described his own solo debut as “pretty f***ing good, if I say so myself.”

  36. His favourite band? The Smiths.

  37. His favourite football team? Manchester City.

  38. He once played Gaelic football at Croke Park.

  39. He wanted to be Johnny Marr. Marr gave him a Les Paul.

  40. His biggest regret? Letting Liam sing “Wonderwall.”

  41. He shares a birthday with Bob Hope and La Toya Jackson.

  42. He hosted a one-off radio show with Russell Brand and Mr. Gee.

  43. He was offered a judge spot on The X Factor. Said hell no.

  44. He hates Instagram. Loves Hot Ones.

  45. He says he’s not English—he’s Irish.

  46. He named a record label Sour Mash. Because of course.

  47. He wrote “Little by Little” about how God let him down.

  48. His greatest hits album Back The Way We Came hit #1 in the UK.

  49. He has two sons named Donovan and Sonny.

  50. He said if he hadn’t been a rock star, he’d “still be a scaffolder on hash.”

  51. His old man beat the talent into him. His words.

  52. He once said: “I don’t give a shit about being different. I want to be the same. And that in itself makes me different.”

  53. He told Ewan McGregor, his neighbour, to lightsaber duel in the garden.

  54. He made a cameo in The Young Person’s Guide to Becoming a Rock Star.

  55. He’s never had a driver’s license—but owns luxury cars anyway.

  56. He still thinks “Talk Tonight” is one of the best things he’s written.

  57. He calls Morrissey “one of the greatest lyricists ever.”

  58. He’s reuniting Oasis in 2025. And if that’s not worth 58 facts, I don’t know what is.

Happy birthday, Noel. Still the best there is at turning a headache into a hook, a feud into a chorus, and a guitar into a sledgehammer.

‘You Have Not Yet Heard Your Favourite Song’ by Glenn McDonald Explores How Streaming Has Transformed Music Forever

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In ‘You Have Not Yet Heard Your Favourite Song: How Streaming Changes Music’, out June 20, Glenn McDonald—Spotify’s former “Data Alchemist”—dives deep into how the digital age has redefined what music is, how it’s made, and how we find it. After analyzing the listening habits of 500 million people, McDonald reveals what tech giants know about you, how they serve your next song, whether fans can cheat the algorithm, and if ASMR really is the new punk. From the mystery of Norway’s russelåter to why Christmas music thrives in the Philippines, this book blends data with heart, uncovering what our music choices say about us. With 10 handpicked playlists and glowing praise from The Washington Post’s Joseph Menn and Daily Telegraph’s Neil McCormick, this is essential reading for anyone who’s ever hit “shuffle” and wondered what came next—and why.

Morgan Wade Announces ‘The Party Is Over (Recovered)’ With Title Track and Raw Reflections

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Morgan Wade has announced her new album “The Party is Over (recovered)”, arriving August 1st. In celebration of the announcement, the singer has also released the title track off the album titled “The Party Is Over” – lending fans a glimpse of what they can expect from the full-length project later this summer.

With “The Party is Over (recovered)” Wade continues the intense exploration of her psyche’s recesses across 11 songs that she wrote solo. As the project’s title notes, a handful of the songs date back to before Wade signed her major-label deal and have been “recovered” here with all-new versions. In a time of self-reflection, Wade revisited her earlier writing sessions to revitalize past songs that still spoke to the person she is today. She has also been playing some of her most relatable tracks on the road to sold-out shows across the country. These songs, which so many fans have gravitated to live, will, for the first time ever, be made available. “The Party Is Over (recovered)” connects Wade’s past and present and breathes new life into her earlier works.

Wade invites listeners into the world of the forthcoming album with “The Party Is Over,” an anthemic, guitar-driven track that explores her lingering feelings in the aftermath of a relationship. “Another year and I can’t leave you alone/And why would I want to?” she sings. “When the lights all dim and the party is over/Baby I still want you when I’m sober.” With the songwriting prowess and powerful storytelling she is so widely known for, Wade captures the universal experience of holding onto a past love.

Earlier this year, Wade released the first single off the album, titled “East Coast.” Originally introduced to fans during her live shows, the single arrived alongside an accompanying music video, aptly filmed on the coastline with powerful imagery.

“The Party Is Over (recovered)” follows Wade’s recent album, Obsessed, released late last year. The project arrived as a solo-written opus, which No Depression celebrated, “She’s without a doubt one of the finest singers in country and Americana music today, and this album is her best yet.” The 14-track LP pared things back to the essence of who she is as a musician, storyteller, and human. Obsessed followed her debut Reckless (which Rolling Stone declared the Best Country Album of the Year upon release) and sophomore effort Psychopath, which was spotlighted by The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, People, Tennessean, Variety, and many more.

 

Emma Swift Announces ‘The Resurrection Game’ With Lush Orchestration, Raw Emotion, and a Story Worth Telling

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Acclaimed singer-songwriter Emma Swift announced her long-awaited new album, The Resurrection Game, arriving on Friday, September 12, via her own Tiny Ghost Records. A wide variety of formats are available, including digital, CD, premium D2 black vinyl, cassette, limited edition lavender vinyl, and limited edition blue swirl vinyl. All vinyl editions were pressed at Denver, CO’s Paramount Pressing and feature deluxe packaging with a gatefold sleeve and rice paper inner bag.

Swift’s first full-length collection of all original material and eagerly anticipated follow-up to 2020’s Blonde On The Tracks – which earned worldwide praise for the Sydney, Australia-born, Nashville-based artist’s inspired reimagining of eight classic Bob Dylan songs through her own unique musical perspective – The Resurrection Game is heralded by today’s premiere of the rhapsodic “No Happy Endings,” available everywhere now alongside an official music video.

Shifting gracefully between intimate confession, philosophical musing, and elegiac storytelling, The Resurrection Game sees Emma Swift fusing timeless singer-songwriter touchstones to her own extraordinary experiences with an exquisitely melancholic song cycle born of a personal crisis that left her shattered and forced to pick up the pieces of her inner life. Songs like “Beautiful Ruins” and the album-opening “Nothing and Forever” resonate with insistent, inestimable sadness, the exactitude of Swift’s devastatingly candid admissions lifted aloft by the subtle strength of her deep-blue vocals and an evocative breadth of gorgeously baroque musical flourishes.

“I am a big believer in the redemptive power of art,” Emma Swift says. “Though many of these songs come from an immensely difficult time in my life, what I’m trying to do here is to alchemize the experience. To make the brutal become beautiful.”

The seeds of The Resurrection Game were sown on the heels of a seven-week “nervous breakdown” that saw Swift sectioned in her native Australia. Over a year of recovery followed, a “very fragile” period in which she grappled with what had happened through therapy, medication, and eventually, her art. Working with producer Jordan Lehning (Kacey Musgraves, Rodney Crowell, Caitlin Rose) at Chale Abbey, a residential studio built within a stone barn dating back to the 16th century located on the downs at the southern tip of England’s Isle of Wight, as well as Lehning’s The Duck in East Nashville, Swift assembled a cadre of Nashville’s finest, most in-demand players, including pedal steel master Spencer Cullum (Steelism, Miranda Lambert, Angel Olsen), guitarist Juan Solorzano (Devon Gilfillian, Sheryl Crow), bassist Eli Beaird (Merle Haggard & Willie Nelson, James Bay, Luke Bryan), and drummer Dom Billet (Yola, Phosphorescent), with Lehning handling keyboards and other instruments.

Together, Swift and her collaborators conjured an unabashedly melodramatic, “deliberately lush” musical milieu brimming with imagination and communal energy, Lehning’s ornate arrangements creating an atmosphere so intense and cinematic that Swift’s tragic tales of catastrophic psychological collapse ultimately prove buoyant and exhilarating. Strewn with keenly incisive wit and heartbreaking accuracy, songs like “How To Be Small” bridge the gap between traditional folk songcraft and self-revelatory confessional poetry. Despite the myriad unpleasantness of her experience, Swift somehow finds wry humor and sweeping beauty as she reckons with the all-encompassing crisis. Swift tells her story with raw clarity and the power of contemplative hindsight, her remarkably self-assured vocals capturing her undeniable anguish but also, within such songs as “No Happy Endings” and “Going Where The Lonely Go,” romantic joy thanks to the understanding and sustenance provided by her husband, legendary British singer-songwriter Robyn Hitchcock.

Grounded firmly in enduring musical traditions yet utterly contemporary in viewpoint and execution, The Resurrection Game immediately confirms Emma Swift as a singularly gifted singer and songwriter of immense skill and spirit. Swift trusts to her core that the act of creating something so passionately personal, of giving in completely to her life-altering heartache and despair, is the truest path towards greater connection with her art and the world outside.

“I believe that there is a space for songs about real pain,” Swift says. “In this moment in time, we live in a world where we’re encouraged to anesthetize what ails us by any means possible. But this record is more about spending time with your sadness, of leaning into that sorrow and facing it head-on.

“Hard times are a part of the seasons of any person’s life. You don’t have to have an acute mental health crisis to understand this. Everyone experiences grief, pain, tremendous suffering at one time or another. I wouldn’t want to live through that particular season again, but I feel duty-bound to honor it. And so I have.”

10 Tips For Picking the Right Song to Pitch to Spotify’s Playlists (and Everyone Else’s)

Picking the right song to pitch to Spotify curators or playlist editors isn’t a science—but it sure isn’t a guessing game either. One song can change everything. And if you’re going to shoot your shot, make sure you’re not firing blanks. Here are 10 tips that just might make the difference between a playlist add and a polite pass.

1. Lead With Your Strongest Hook
The first 15 seconds of your song should stop someone mid-scroll, mid-thought, mid-latte. Curators hear hundreds of tracks a week—your song doesn’t just have to be good. It has to be unforgettable immediately.

2. Choose the Song Your Fans Already Love
Check your stats. What’s getting streamed, saved, shared, and shouted out in your comments? The people have spoken—and often, their favourite track is your best bet for playlists too.

3. Match the Mood, Not Just the Genre
Playlists aren’t sorted by record store sections. They’re sorted by vibes—chill morning, late-night drive, gym grind, breakup recovery. Pick the track that feels like it belongs in that emotional moment.

4. Quality Over Recency
New doesn’t always mean better. If your last single is two months old but gaining traction, pitch that one. Spotify cares about engagement, not timestamps.

5. Make Sure It Sounds Finished
This isn’t the time for a rough mix. Even if your songwriting is stellar, a half-baked production will lose curators fast. Master it, mix it, polish it—then pitch it.

6. Pick the One With a Story
Every great song pitch comes with a reason. What inspired it? Was it written after a loss, a tour, a late-night phone call? Curators love a song that comes with a moment worth talking about.

7. Don’t Pitch a Niche Just to Be Different
If a song is amazing but totally left-field from your usual sound, save it for later. Playlist editors want to know who you are, not what random directions you can go in.

8. Look at What’s Already Landing on Playlists
Do some playlist stalking. What songs that sound like yours are getting added? If your song fits the tone, energy, and style, you’re not copying—you’re aligning.

9. Think About Longevity
Pick a song you’ll be proud to talk about in interviews, perform live, and have attached to your name. Playlists create discovery, but they also create first impressions.

10. Be Ready to Follow Up
Pitch the song you can support. If it lands, will you push it? Promote it? Tour it? A playlist placement is a door opening—but you’ve got to walk through it, not wait for someone to carry you in.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about getting on a playlist. It’s about making someone’s playlist. That’s the moment you move from background noise to favourite song. And that’s what it’s all about.

If you’re still looking for help, or have any questions, or looking for more information, email me, I’ll be happy to chat – Eric@ThatEricAlper.com and talk soon!

 

Banquets Announce First Show in Nearly a Decade This August in New Jersey

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It’s been nine years since Banquets played their farewell show at St. Vitus in Brooklyn, NY. FFO: The Menzingers, The Loved Ones, Saves The Day, Jimmy Eat World, Hot Rod Circuit.

A lot has changed since then, St. Vitus has shuttered its doors, members of Banquets have spread out all over the US, and they’ve all started new chapters in their lives. But recently, there’s been a feeling pulling its four members back together to celebrate what Banquets started many years ago. After a failed attempt of a reunion at The Fest in 2021, they have put together their first official show since February 2016 and what better place to host it than in their home state of New Jersey? Banquets will be playing on Saturday, August 30th at the infamous Crossroads Bar in Garwood, NJ. Joining them will be Bad Boys, ERRTH and Fat Wreck Chords up-and-comers, MakeWar. “It’s been almost 10 years since we did this in front of anyone. There were a couple of times that it was almost there, but life happens. Life is also fleeting.” – Travis (guitar and vocals). Tickets are on sale now and are expected to move quickly. Dig into Banquets discography starting with their 2015 full length ‘Spit At The Sun’ released by Black Numbers.

Tour Dates:
August 30th @ Crossroads – Garwood, NJ w/ Bad Boys, ERRTH, MakeWar

Cartel Celebrates 20 Years of ‘Chroma’ With Re-Recorded Album, Guest Vocals, and Fall Tour

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Alternative rock band Cartel is excited to celebrate the 20th anniversary of their iconic album Chroma this year with Chroma – 2025 – a re-recorded version of the record, including new guest vocals from Cassadee Pope (Hey Monday) – and a full US headline tour this fall.

Featuring hit singles including “Honestly” and “Say Anything (Else)”, Chroma debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart and has widely been regarded as one of the best pop punk albums of all time.

Chroma – 2025 is set to be released on September 12, 2025 via Field Day Records, and fans can look forward to their first taste this Friday, May 30th with the release of “Honestly – 2025”.

“It’s a privilege to still have the opportunity to share this with all the people who celebrate this record alongside us,” shares front man Will Pugh. “It’s hard to put in to words the level of gratitude we have for this moment, and we hope that is conveyed during this anniversary.”

He continues: “The whole idea was to bring Chroma into a modern place sonically and reconcile the live versions of these songs with what is on record. Our hope is that current fans will rock out harder and that new fans will be able to discover these songs in a modern context.”

In addition to the release of Chroma – 2025 Cartel will be embarking on a North American headline tour this fall, kicking off with the album release on September 12th in Charlotte. The tour features stops in Nashville, Brooklyn, Toronto, Chicago, Seattle, San Diego, Austin, and more, concluding with a hometown headline show in Atlanta. Pre-sale tickets for all shows, including VIP packages will be available starting May 28th at www.chroma20.com, with general on-sale starting this Friday, May 30th.

Prior to their fall headline tour, Cartel will be performing at the Vans Warped Tour on June 14-15 in Washington, D.C. and July 26-27 in Long Beach, CA.

Upcoming Tour Dates:
6/14-6/15 – Washington, DC @ Vans Warped Tour
7/26-727 – Long Beach, CA @ Vans Warped Tour
9/12 – Charlotte, NC @ Underground #&
9/13 – Nashville, TN @ Marathon Music #&
9/15 – Richmond, VA @ The Broadberry #&
9/16 – Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Sound Stage #&
9/17 – Brooklyn, NY @ Warsaw #&
9/19 – Philadelphia, PA @ TLA #&
9/20 – Boston, MA @ Paradise #&
9/22 – Toronto, ON @ Opera House #&
9/23 – Detroit, MI @ St. Andrews Hall #&
9/24 – Cleveland, OH @ House Of Blues #&
9/26 – Chicago, IL @ House Of Blues #
9/27 – Milwaukee, WI @ Rave #^
9/28 – Minneapolis, MN @ Amsterdam #^
9/30 – St. Louis, MO @ The Pageant #^
10/1 – Kansas City, MO @ Truman #^
10/3 – Denver, CO @ Summit #^
10/4 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot #^
10/6 – Seattle, WA @ El Corazon #^
10/7 – Portland, OR @ Hawthorne #^
10/9 – San Francisco, CA @ August Hall #^
10/10 – Santa Ana, CA @ Observatory #^
10/11 – San Diego, CA @ HOB #^
10/12 – Phoenix, AZ @ Van Buren #^
10/14 – Dallas, TX @ Echo #^
10/15 – Austin, TX @ Mohawk #^
10/17 – Orlando, FL @ The Beacham #
10/18 – Tampa, FL @ The Ritz #
10/19 – Fort Lauderdale, Florida @ Revolution #
10/25 – Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade (Heaven) #

# – Hunny
& – Landon Conrath
^ – Macseal