Home Blog Page 631

Melissa Errico Brings Broadway Glamour, Sondheim Magic, and Holiday Whimsy to 2025–26 Tour

0

Tony Award-nominated Broadway actress, singer and author Melissa Errico (My Fair Lady, Dracula, Les Misérables) has announced a fabulous array of upcoming shows, from Sondheim in the City at the Princeton Festival on June 8 to The Fitzgeralds with Alec Baldwin in East Hampton, NY on August 16 and beyond – see full tour dates below.

These shows follow Errico’s latest mesmerizing musical presentation earlier this month in the Washington, D.C. area, The Story of a Rose: A Musical Reverie on The Great War – available for the world to watch online soon. Errico stepped into her most personal role yet as her own great Aunt Rose, a Ziegfeld Follies star and Italian immigrant who lived through the upheaval of WWI. Produced by The Doughboy Foundation and presented by the Gary Sinise Foundation, WBGO / NPR deemed it “dazzling,” while Air Mail called it “her smartest, most resonant, and substantial palimpsest yet,” and Broadway World agreed it is “musical perfection.”

Acclaimed by Broadway World for “stringing together a mixture of holiday favorites and Broadway classics recast as holiday songs, plus a few off the beaten path,” Melissa Errico returns in radiant form, joined by jazz luminary Billy Stritch, for a dazzling and original holiday concert. Blending timeless American Songbook standards with inventive interpretations of seasonal favorites, this whimsical debut casts Errico as Mrs. Santa herself who at last sits down to pen her long-overdue memoir. Through a playful and heartfelt song list, she reveals the untold story of the Santas’ courtship, their life at the North Pole, and even a cheeky flirtation with the head elf who stays behind. Expect romantic mischief (“Baby, It’s Cold Outside”), the joys of toy-making (“When She Loved Me”), and a heartfelt reconciliation (“I’ll Be Home for Christmas”). The evening sparkles with selections like “Rudolph,” “Always True to You in My Fashion,” and “Sleigh Ride,” alongside clever parodies such as “Too Darn Cold” and a hard-swinging “Holiday Feeling,” all brought to life with a fiery jazz trio.

Actress, recording artist and writer Melissa Errico has been called, at her Carnegie Hall debut in 2022, “a unique force in the life of the New York theater– there’s no one quite like her!” A Tony-nominated actress for her mentor Michel Legrand’s “Amour” on Broadway – and star of such Broadway musicals as “My Fair Lady”, “High Society”, “White Christmas”, “Les Misérables” & more— she has come into her distinct own in recent years with concerts and cabarets touring the world that spin together vital and witty talk with the sublime singing that had Opera News dub her “The Maria Callas of the American musical theater.” Stephen Sondheim and Legrand, among others, have been the subjects of her solo concerts – her 2019 album “Sondheim Sublime” was called, by the Wall Street Journal, “The finest solo Sondheim album ever recorded”. She is touring her new album, the acclaimed “Sondheim in the City” —culminating in her London solo concert hall debut at Cadogan Hall on July 12, 2025. She has also recently appeared as Mrs. Patrick Campbell in the play “Dear Liar” at the Irish Rep and premiered the role of Eleanor of Aquitaine last fall in an unforgettable concert at the Metropolitan Museum’s Cloisters, singing a new David Shire/ Adam Gopnik musical penned for her. In addition, she writes regularly about the comic twists and turns in the life of a performer for The New York Times, in a series dubbed by the newspaper “Scenes From An Acting Life.” From Paris, where she appeared last summer with her frequent concert mate Isabelle Georges at the Bal Blomet, to London, where she is a regular at Crazy Coqs cabaret – from the Elysée Palace to the stages of the Grand Rex, Montreal Jazz Festival and Carnegie Hall – she brings her inimitable mind, spirit, voice and soul to audiences around the world.

MELISSA ERRICO UPCOMING SHOWS:

STAGE FRIGHT AT RED EYE
June 4th @ Red Eye New York
Melissa returns to Red Eye New York in the Pride Month lineup for the cabaret-meets-confessional series, STAGE FRIGHT, hosted by Out100’s Marti Gould Cummings, with Drama Desk Nominee Yaz Fukuoka on the keys.

SONDHEIM IN THE CITY – THE PRINCETON FESTIVAL
June 8 @ Performance Pavilion – Morven Museum & Garden (Princeton, NJ)
After wowing audiences at NJPAC on May 17, Errico continues her “Countdown To London,” the final stops on her 16-month tour promoting her acclaimed tribute album to Stephen Sondheim. Hailed by The New York Times as “a work from one of Sondheim’s deepest-hearted and lightest-touch interpreters” and by Gramophone UK for “bringing the musical theater compilation to a new level,” Errico delights with a cabaret-style tribute to Broadway’s greatest songwriter, Stephen Sondheim. She offers an outward-driven, kaleidoscopic street fair of New York scenes and moments – summoning back to life the poetic vision of a man who once confessed that his entire creative life had been spent in a twenty-block radius of Manhattan.

IRISH REP CELEBRATES THE MUSIC OF VAN MORRISON
June 9 @ The Town Hall (New York, NY)
Melissa Errico is appearing in a starry Van Morrison tribute program, including Kate Baldwin (The Dead, 1904), Kathryn Gallagher (Jagged Little Pill), Peter Gallagher (Left on Tenth), Kelli O’Hara (Days of Wine and Roses), Ciaran Sheehan (The Phantom of the Opera), Gary Troy (The Dead, 1904), and Nik Walker (Spamalot). Errico has enlisted Clifford Carter (The James Taylor Band) to arrange and perform an original arrangement of “The Way Young Lovers Do” with the pop orchestra.

MELISSA ERRICO SINGS SONDHEIM
June 20-21 @ 54 Below (New York, NY)
June 21 show also livestreamed
In a sparkling evening of Stephen Sondheim’s sublime songs side by side with engaging stories of his craft and life, Errico’s admiration for her friend and teacher — she refers to his wisdom and inspiration as “life-saving, sheer joy, giving us all creative courage ” — is always evident. This two-night only New York engagement is a preview of her upcoming concert hall debut in London. Errico worked with Stephen Sondheim on productions of Sunday in the Park with George, played the Baker’s Wife in a concert run of Into The Woods and more. She has made two all-Sondheim albums, with a third on the way. With musical direction by Tedd Firth and featuring renowned jazz instrumentalist and trumpet player Bruce Harris, the June 21 performance will also feature Tony winner® Len Cariou (original Sweeney in Sweeney Todd).

SONDHEIM IN THE CITY WITH MELISSA ERRICO
July 12 @ Cadogan Hall (London, UK)
Melissa Errico, in tandem with Olivier award-winner Julian Ovenden, brings the genius of Stephen Sondheim to life for a magical night, celebrating the legendary composer’s most iconic works. Errico and Ovenden’s stunning vocals and heartfelt interpretations will take center stage, accompanied by Tedd Firth on piano and a trio from Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Club. Errico is one of the few Broadway divas along with Bernadette Peters, Patti Lupone and Lea Salonga, to have Stephen’s personal seal of approval on their renditions. With her deep connection to Sondheim and his music, Errico will guide you through timeless classics from “Company,” “Merrily We Roll Along,” “Anyone Can Whistle,” and more, offering personal stories and insight into her work with the musical theatre legend.

THE FITZGERALDS: A READING WITH MUSIC
August 16 @ Guild Hall (East Hampton, NY)
Marking the centennial of The Great Gatsby, at the heart of this performance lies the extraordinary correspondence between F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald — letters that reveal a relationship shaped by ambition, artistry, and emotional complexity. Directed by Stephen Hamilton, this reading features acclaimed performers Melissa Errico and Alec Baldwin, with an original live score by composer/performer Forrest Gray that brings new resonance to the Fitzgeralds’ words. The last time Errico and Baldwin paired up at Guild Hall was for a shattering performance of the American world premier of the Peter Shaffer (Equus) play The Gift of The Gordon. In this turbulent and violent play, Errico played the role originated in London by Judi Dench.

MELISSA SINGS BARBRA: THE STREISAND EFFECT
November 19-22 @ 54 Below (New York, NY)
Melissa Errico debuts a new theme concert called MELISSA SINGS BARBRA: THE STREISAND EFFECT. The coming together of two pure-bred New Yorkers, one the legendary hamische Jewish-comedienne-chanteuse, the other the intellectual-Italian enchantress who has for so long been inspired by her. The “Streisand Effect” is in part, the power of songs and her example of independent-minded pursuit. It’s no accident that in recent years Errico has found herself surrounded by many of Streisand’s greatest collaborators, from composer Michel Legrand to the pianist Randy Waldman, and arranger Peter Matz. The Legrand songbook, from “The Way He Makes Me Feel” to “The Summer Knows” will ring out, as will some of the classics that Errico learned to love from listening to Barbra, many of whose creators became mentors of her own — from David Shire to Marvin Hamlisch, and of course, Stephen Sondheim.

THE SECRET DIARY OF MRS. SANTA
Melissa Errico with Billy Stritch
December 10 @ Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture (Erie, PA)
December 15 @ Parker Jazz Club (Austin, TX)
Austin Cabaret Theatre 25th Anniversary Season

Jennifer Lopez Announces Electrifying ‘Up All Night’ Las Vegas Residency for 2025–2026

0

Global superstar Jennifer Lopez announces her return to the iconic Las Vegas Strip with a new residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Jennifer Lopez: Up All Night Live in Las Vegas will kick off New Year’s Eve week with four spectacular performances on December 30 and 31 and January 2 and 3, and an additional eight shows in March 2026.

This new residency marks a triumphant return to Las Vegas following Lopez’s previous record-breaking run, “JENNIFER LOPEZ: ALL I HAVE,” at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino. Playing 120 shows from 2016 to 2018, the residency grossed over $100 million and earned widespread acclaim from critics and fans alike over its nearly three year run.

JLovers, fans and audiences are sure to be Up ALL Night singing, dancing and livin it up with the global superstar performing chart-topping hits from across her legendary career, alongside exclusive new ‘never heard before’ songs.

Citi is the official card of Jennifer Lopez at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Citi cardmembers will have access to presale tickets beginning Monday, June 2 at 10 a.m. PT until Thursday, June 5 at 10 p.m. PT through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.

Fan club presale tickets will be available starting Tuesday, June 3 at 10 a.m. PT. Caesars Rewards members, Caesars Entertainment’s loyalty program, and Live Nation and Ticketmaster customers will have access to a presale from Wednesday, June 4 at 10 a.m. PT until Thursday, June 5 at 10 p.m. PT.

Tickets for the following 12 performances go on sale starting Friday, June 6 at 10 a.m. PT:
Dec. 2025: 30 & 31
Jan. 2026: 2 & 3
March 2026: 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 & 28
Shows begin at 8 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit ticketmaster.com/JLoVegas.

Jennifer Lopez is an award-winning actress, producer, singer, entertainer, and businesswoman who has helped build billion-dollar brands and established herself in film, music, television and business as one of the most influential artists in history.

The only female artist to ever have a number one album and number one film simultaneously, she has a cumulative worldwide box-office gross of over $3 billion. Additionally, Lopez has sold over 80 million records, had 15 billion global streams and more than 18 billion views of her music videos.

Jennifer Lopez’s record-breaking success shows no signs of slowing down in 2025. Her highly anticipated film Unstoppable premiered on Prime Video on January 16th, climbing to the #1 spot globally. Ten days later, Kiss of the Spider Woman, based on Manuel Puig’s novel, debuted at the Sundance Film Festival on January 26th, earning critical acclaim and generating significant industry buzz.

Further solidifying her reign as a top streaming star, Unstoppable became Lopez’s fifth #1 streaming film in just two years. In 2024, ATLAS dominated Netflix, holding the #1 position for two weeks with over 60 million global views. The previous year, The Mother was Netflix’s most-watched film worldwide, amassing over 239 million hours streamed. She also had two additional #1 films on Prime Video, underscoring her unparalleled streaming dominance.

Starring in over 35 movies to date, her box office success is just as impressive, in 2019, the movie Hustlers was Lopez’s highest opening weekend of her career, topping $32 million and grossing over $100 million worldwide.

Her television success on and off the screen is just as impressive. Appearing on five seasons of American Idol (ABC), and three seasons of Shades Of Blue (NBC), she was also an executive producer for four seasons of World Of Dance (NBC) and five seasons of Good Trouble (Freeform).

Grammy and Golden Globe nominated, she is the recipient of prestigious industry awards including the 2500th star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame, the first female recipient of the Billboard Icon Award, and the Telemundo Star Award (2017). She was also awarded the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award (2018) and the MTV Generation Award (2022). Lopez is the first and only person in history to receive both of these awards for her accomplishments in music, film and television.

As a fashion icon, entrepreneur, and a philanthropist, Jennifer Lopez has been named on the TIME 100 list, Forbes’ “Most Powerful Celebrity,” and was the first to grace People Magazine’s cover for “Most Beautiful Woman in the World.” In 2023, she was the recipient of Elle’s Women In Hollywood Icon Award and April 2024 saw her awarded the Premio Orgullo Award which celebrates bringing pride to the community at the annual Hispanic Federation Gala chaired by Lin-Manuel Miranda.

In addition to receiving accolades across film, music and her philanthropic efforts, Lopez has also made waves within business as a Founder, Owner and Investor. She has co-owned Nuyorican Productions for two-decades and produced acclaimed film and tv projects. Most recently Lopez, announced a multi-year and multi-platform first-look production deal with Netflix in addition to a partnership with Skydance and Concord to develop original projects based on Concord’s catalog of musicals.

Philanthropy and giving back are dear to Lopez’s heart and while she prefers to keep these efforts out of the public eye, she is passionate about helping children and supports the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and Gloria Wise Boys and Girls Club. She was also a global advocate for girls and women at the United Nations Foundation. In 2022, Jennifer partnered with Grameen America, the nation’s fastest-growing microfinance organization, alongside her latest philanthropic project, Limitless Labs, to support Latina-owned small businesses and to empower 600,000 Latina entrepreneurs across 50 U.S. cities with $14 billion in life-changing business capital and 6 million hours of financial education and training by 2030.


With a career spanning over two decades at the top of every field, Jennifer Lopez is cemented in history as a global icon and the ultimate multihyphenate.

MØ Unleashes Ecstatic ‘Plæygirl’ World Tour Across UK and Europe This Fall

0

Following the release of her fourth studio album ‘Plæygirl’ via RCA/Sony earlier this month, MØ has announced Phase 1 of the ‘Plæygirl’ World Tour commencing this Autumn across the UK and Europe.

MØ debuted her brand-new ‘Plæygirl’ live show in London in January and followed this with sold-out dates in Europe and the US. The ‘dance party’ has seen MØ capture the hedonistic pleasures of early-2010s club culture with a Nordic twist, featuring curated guests and DJs alongside a live set from MØ.

As she herself says, it’s “a little club, a little punk, a little chaos, and a whole lot of new songs”. She has just announced new tour dates beginning this Autumn and continuing into Spring 2026 with shows across the UK and Europe. Tickets are available via pre-sale on Wednesday 28th May from 10am BST and go on general sale on Friday 30th May at 10am BST. Full dates are below.

2025:
Thurs Oct 2nd – London, Fabric
Fri Oct 3rd – Manchester, Factory251
Sun Oct 5th – Glasgow, Classic Grand
Wed Nov 12th – Paris, Trabendo
Fri Nov 14th – Zurich, Plaza
Sat Nov 15th – Lausanne, Les Docks
Sun Nov 16th – Milan, Apollo
Tue Nov 18th – Barcelona, La 2 de Apolo
Wed Nov 19th – Madrid, Sala Copérnico
Thu Nov 20th – Lisbon, LAV2

2026:
Tue Feb 17th – Helsinki, Tavastia
Fri Feb 20th – Copenhagen, KB Hallen
Sat Feb 21st – Aarhus, ACC
Wed Feb 25th – Gothenburg, Pustervik
Fri Feb 27th – Stockholm, Slaktkyrkan

10-years into her impressive career, new album ‘Plæygirl’ marks both a reinvention and a reintroduction and is a deeply personal and authentic reflection on her evolution as both a person and an artist. A careful balance between light and darkness, it is a record that celebrates growth, change and hope.

Written over the course of 2022-2024 between her native Copenhagen and Los Angeles with renowned producer Nick Sylvester (LCD Soundsystem, Channel Tres, The Dare) and longtime collaborator Ronni Vindhal, the 12-track collection reflects her most authentic and liberated self, showcasing her signature offbeat sound and pushing it into fresh, thrilling territory that is unapologetically, powerfully MØ. She says, “I just wanted to make music that was true to me – music that feels free. I feel like I’m standing in front of a new era”.

From the previously released singles ‘Who Said’, ‘SWEET’ feat. Biig Piig, ‘Keep Møving’ and ‘Lose Yourself’ to the striking, dancefloor-dominating focus track ‘Heartbreak’, MØ adds rich yet jagged new textures to her time-tested sonic approach, creating an atmosphere of total liberation.

2024 marked the 10th anniversary of MØ’s acclaimed debut album, ‘No Mythologies to Follow’. To celebrate, she released a Deluxe Edition and performed sold-out residencies at London’s XOYO and Copenhagen’s iconic Vega. In 2022, she released her third studio album ‘Motordrome’, which followed her previous 2018 album ‘Forever Neverland’. Her fourth album signals the beginning of her new chapter – 2025 is the year of ‘Plæygirl’.

A.T.L.D.V. Drop Emotionally Charged R&B Single “CRAZY” About Toxic Love and Real Feelings

0

Rising R&B band A.T.L.D.V., known for blending the nostalgic essence of classic soul with the bold edge of contemporary R&B, is set to release their single “CRAZY” in the second quarter of this year.

A.T.L.D.V. is Artist That’s Living a Dream Vision. The band consist of Members Amy Christine, Ike Nyce & Nako DeVinnci.

The track delivers a modern sonic experience layered with emotionally rich vocals and polished production. With its clean radio edit, “CRAZY” is primed for mainstream airplay while staying true to the group’s artistic vision.

“CRAZY” is more than just a song—it’s a statement. Penned by Nako DeVincci, the band’s creative force, the single offers a raw exploration of the highs and lows of modern relationships. Through powerful lyrics and captivating melodies, the band holds a mirror to the fractured dynamics between men and women in today’s dating landscape.

Unlike previous releases, “CRAZY” dives deeper into emotional and psychological terrain, confronting mental turmoil with honesty and boldness. Early feedback has been polarizing—some praise its authenticity and emotional depth, while others grapple with its provocative themes. But it’s in that tension that the true strength of the song lies.
“As A.T.L.D.V., we want our existing and new fans to know our new single Crazy is about the ups and downs in relationships.
You know that you can have crazy relationships but you have to see through them.
Well, when you’re dealing with crazy love, it’s toxic but real love at the same time. I’ve had a lot of crazy relationships.”
-Nako DeVinnci (Pronounced Nay-ko DaVinci), Crazy Creator & A.T.L.D.V. Group Member

“I wrote my Crazy verse in regards to an experience that I got caught up in that was created by someone else’s crazy. In my verse, I say “that the girl will call the police on you and turn right around and go bail you out of jail.” That’s crazy to me! It’s that crazy love, in and out of hell love, that keep you in a spell love.”
–Ike Nyce, A.T.L.D.V. Group Member

A.T.L.D.V. has long been a whispered name in underground music circles. With this upcoming release, the band signals a bold leap into broader visibility, challenging conventions and expanding what modern R&B can look—and sound—like.

“CRAZY” is a provocative, timely single that promises to engage, inspire, and start conversations. A.T.L.D.V. isn’t just making music—they’re shaping the future of the genre.

Kaiser Chiefs Celebrate 20 Years of ‘Employment’ With Massive Anniversary Vinyl Reissue and Tour

0

Following the announcement of a run of very special outdoor celebration shows, which include a massive hometown show at Leeds’ Temple Newsam Park later this month, Yorkshire indie icons Kaiser Chiefs have announced a 20th anniversary release of their seminal debut album Employment. The album will come July 18th.

A year typically commemorated with China, Kaiser Chiefs will mark 20 years of their iconic debut album Employment with three brand new expanded ‘China Anniversary’ formats. The 1LP edition is pressed on white vinyl, and includes ‘bonus’ track ‘Take My Temperature’; the 2LP set features 15 additional tracks, including a selection of B-Sides and CD single bonus tracks, plus two previously unreleased songs, exclusive to this format. On the 3CD set, alongside the original album, the band have added 40 tracks, including previously unreleased demo recordings, remixes, radio sessions, and a selection of live tracks that chart their rapid rise from small club dates in Leeds, to festival headline act. The original album has been remastered at Abbey Road Studios, and the bonus material was curated by the band from their own archive.

Originally released in March 2005, the album landed to wide-spread acclaim and has gone on to become one of the most successful debut albums from a UK band. Peaking at No. 2 on the UK album chart, the record has since spent more than 17 months on the Official Top 40 chart, selling more than 2.1 million copies in the process, and being certified 7 x Platinum status by the British Phonographic Industry. Featuring a host of hit singles including ‘Oh My God’, ‘I Predict A Riot’, ‘Everyday I Love You Less And Less’ and ‘Modern Way’, the album catapulted the band to into the music world’s stratosphere, setting them onto the path of arena mainstays and festival headline status across the world.

“20 years ago, a brand new song by a brand new band was released. ‘I Predict A Riot’ was the start of something really special for some musicians from Leeds,” the band reminisced. “And the album that followed, ‘Employment’, changed our lives and has soundtracked the lives of millions of others since 2005. In 2025 we are saluting 20 years of that album and everyone is invited. Come celebrate the 2000’s, loving everything less & less and stripey blazers taking over the world..”

To coincide with the release Kaiser Chiefs will also be taking the celebrations out on the road this summer. Kicking off in Port Talbot on May 23rd, the band will play a run of outdoor shows across the UK stopping off in Leeds, Bristol, Edinburgh, London, Brighton, Cumbria & Newquay – full dates below.

Formed in Leeds in 2000, Kaiser Chiefs are one of the most exciting and consistently successful bands of their generation. Fronted by the charismatic Ricky Wilson, with Simon Rix on bass, Andrew ‘Whitey’ White on guitar, Nick ‘Peanut’ Baines on keyboards and drummer Vijay Mistry, the band have released eight original studio albums (two of those UK No. 1), had nine Top 40 singles, including the No. 1 ‘Ruby’, received three Brit Awards, an Ivor Novello Album of the Year award for Employment, toured with U2, Foo Fighters and Green Day and sold more than eight million albums worldwide.

2025 OUTDOOR SHOWS
May
Thur 22nd Live at Argyle Home Park Stadium,Plymouth, UK
Fri 23rd In It Together Festival, Port Talbot, UK
Sat 31st Temple Newsam, Leeds, UK

June
Sun 22nd Pinkpop Festival, Amsterdam, NL
Thur 26th Bristol Sounds, Bristol, UK
Sat 28th Glastonbury Festival, Somerset, UK

July
Fri 4th Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh, UK
Thu 10th Weekend Beach Festival, Malaga, ESP
Fri 11th Mad Cool Festival, Madrid, ESP
Sat 12th Cruilla Barcelona, Barcelona, ESP
Sat 19th Alexandra Palace Park, London, UK
Sun 20th Splendour Festival, Nottingham, UK
Mon 21st Tall Ship Races, Aberdeen, UK
Sat 26th Latitude, Suffolk, UK
Sun 27th Brighton Beach, Brighton, UK
Thu 31st Kendal Calling, Cumbria, UK

August
Sat 2nd Suikkerock Festival, Tienan, BE
Sun 3rd Ronquieres Festival, Braine-la-Comte, BE
Fri 8th Boardmasters, Newquay, UK
Sun 10th The Weekender, Belfast, UK
Sat 23rd The National Museum of Ireland, Dublin, ROI
Sun 24th Live at the Docklands, Limerick, ROI

Country Riser Blake Smeltz Unleashes Coming-Of-Age Anthem ‘Nicotine Daydream’

0

Country artist Blake Smeltz releases his bittersweet, energetic new single, “Nicotine Daydream,” capturing the rush of young love and the memories that linger long after it fades.

Tracing the story of a first love tied tightly to youth and rebellion, “Nicotine Daydream,” is a song about associating your first love with the feeling of Nicotine. It captures imagery of blaring Springsteen on the radio, windows down, with nowhere to be but everywhere to go. As the years pass, a chance encounter stirs up old emotions, offering a sharp, relatable look at how certain moments stay with us forever.

Anchored by lines like, “Nicotine daydream at 18 here we go again / It’s been a couple years now since I last seen her face / ran into her the other day / and it gave my heart a race,” the track leans into the sweetness and sting of growing up, growing apart, and remembering who we once were.

With a sound that echoes influences like Luke Combs, Zach Bryan, and Gavin Adcock, Smeltz pairs vivid storytelling with his signature raspy vocals, once again proving his knack for crafting songs that feel both personal and universal.

Nicotine Daydream is a song about associating your first love with the feeling of nicotine. It’s an upbeat song about growing up and growing apart, another perspective on a failed relationship. Everyone has one thing that reminds them of something they had in the past.” – Singer-Songwriter Blake Smeltz

Produced by Charlotte Avenue Entertainment, David Flint and William Gawley, “Nicotine Daydream” is the latest preview from Smeltz’s forthcoming album, Heartbreak Highway, set for release this July. With this track, Smeltz continues to build on the emotional honesty and sonic grit that are quickly becoming his trademarks in today’s country scene.

Blake Smeltz, a native of Evington, Virginia, has always felt a deep connection to nature, a bond that resonates throughout his music. A self-taught artist who wears his heart on his sleeve, Blake merges sharp songwriting with captivating storytelling to craft songs that are both authentic and engaging. His raspy voice and tenderhearted approach allow him to forge meaningful connections with listeners, drawing them into his world.

Inspired by country legends like Luke Combs, Zach Bryan, and Jason Aldean, Blake seamlessly navigates genres, blending elements of country-rock, singer-songwriter, and everything in between. In 2023, he debuted with Demos From the 434, a project that ignited his passion for music and set him on a promising path in country music. Blake’s artistry is a unique blend of Zach Bryan’s introspective lyrics and Luke Combs’ soulful style, enriched by his own powerful voice and heartfelt storytelling.

Outside of music, his passions for motorcycle rides, racecars, and life on the open road fuel his adventurous spirit and inspire his creative process. Rooted in the stillness of nature and the beauty of God’s creation, Blake channels these experiences into lyrics that resonate deeply with his audience. With his passion for music and a life lived boldly, Blake Smeltz is poised to take country music to exciting new horizons.

Why Choosing a Local Expert for Portable AC Unit Installation and Advice Makes Sense

0

By Mitch Rice

With UK summers becoming increasingly unpredictable and heatwaves more frequent, more households and businesses are turning to portable air conditioning units for a quick, flexible cooling solution. These units offer an affordable way to stay comfortable without the cost or complexity of permanent systems. But while portable ACs are designed for ease of use, getting the right advice — and potentially professional help with setup — can make a real difference. That’s where a local portable AC expert comes in.

Why Use a Portable Air Conditioning Unit?

Portable AC units are compact, movable systems that provide targeted cooling for specific rooms or spaces. Unlike fixed air conditioning, they don’t require invasive installation, making them ideal for renters, homeowners, offices, and even small commercial setups. Most models only need a power supply and a window or external vent to expel warm air.

However, choosing the right unit for your space, setting it up correctly, and using it efficiently are all factors that can affect performance. That’s where local knowledge and experience are valuable.

Expert Advice on Choosing the Right Unit

Not all portable AC units are created equal. Factors such as room size, insulation, humidity levels, and even the direction your windows face can impact which model will work best for you. A local specialist understands the typical property styles in your area and the kind of heat issues that occur — whether you’re in a modern flat or a Victorian terrace.

Rather than guessing online or relying on product descriptions, speaking with a local expert gives you access to tailored advice. They can recommend a unit with the right BTU rating, features like dehumidification, and energy efficiency suited to your specific needs.

Proper Setup for Better Efficiency

Although portable AC units are marketed as plug-and-play devices, incorrect setup can seriously affect performance. Poor vent placement, blocked airflow, or leaky windows can all reduce cooling efficiency and increase running costs. A local fitter or technician can help you set up your unit properly — ensuring that ducts are sealed, vents are in the right position, and the machine is running at its optimum setting.

They can also offer guidance on where to position your unit for maximum effect and how to maintain airflow without compromising insulation.

Ongoing Support and Maintenance

Working with a local portable AC expert means you’ll have someone nearby who can help if things go wrong. Whether your unit starts underperforming, needs a part replaced, or you want to upgrade in the future, having access to fast, local support is invaluable — especially during peak summer months when demand is high.

Supporting Local Businesses

Opting for local help not only gives you a better service, but it also supports small businesses in your area. You’ll likely benefit from more personal attention, flexible appointment times, and competitive pricing — all while keeping money in the local economy.

Final Thoughts

Portable air conditioning units are a smart solution for keeping cool in the UK’s rising summer temperatures. But for the best results, it pays to consult a local portable AC expert who understands your space and your needs. From choosing the right unit to setting it up correctly and offering ongoing support, their knowledge ensures you get the most out of your investment.

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

Metallica and Red Cross Celebrate 1,000+ Blood Donations on M72 Tour

0

Metallica and its foundation, All Within My Hands (AWMH), are thrilled to announce more than 1,000 blood donations have been collected to date as part of a lifesaving partnership with the American Red Cross. 

Just over one month ago, a series of Red Cross x Metallica blood drives kicked off in select locations along the current U.S. leg of the M72 World Tour. Since then, members of the Metallica family have turned out to blood drives in full force, ready to roll up their sleeves and help patients counting on critical care this spring. This week marked the 1,000th donation collected, with several blood drives still on the books into June. Each blood donation can help save more than one life. 

“The Red Cross appreciates the impact this partnership has made in the lives of people in trauma situations, and those facing cancer and chronic conditions, like sickle cell disease,” said Darren Irby, executive director of national partnerships for the Red Cross. “Not only are donors who give regularly coming to give at these blood drives, but we are welcoming many new donors who have never given before – a true sign of how Metallica and All Within My Hands are inspiring people to give back across the country.”

All Within My Hands takes advantage of opportunities on the road to contribute to each community the tour visits. Several Red Cross x Metallica blood drives remain, including stops in Houston TX, Santa Clara CA, and Denver CO. 

As a thank you, all who come to give at this special series of blood drives will get a limited-edition Red Cross x Metallica T-shirt, while supplies last. For more information and to book a blood donation appointment, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Metallica

Formed in 1981 by vocalist/guitarist James Hetfield and drummer Lars Ulrich and including guitarist Kirk Hammett and bassist Robert Trujillo, Metallica has become one of the most influential and successful rock bands in history, selling nearly 125 million albums worldwide and generating more than 17 billion streams while playing to millions of fans on all seven continents—more than 1.3 million of whom belong to the band’s fiercely loyal and consistently growing Fifth Member fan club. Metallica’s catalog of multi-platinum studio albums includes Kill ’Em All, Ride the Lightning, Master of Puppets, …And Justice for All, Metallica (commonly referred to as The Black Album), Load, ReLoad, St. Anger, Death Magnetic, Hardwired…To Self-Destruct, and most recently, the Grammy-winning 72 Seasons, released April 14, 2023, on the band’s own Blackened Recordings label. Metallica’s awards and accolades include nine Grammy Awards, two American Music Awards, multiple MTV Video Music Awards, a 2009 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and Sweden’s Polar Music Prize. In 2017, Metallica established its own charitable foundation, All Within My Hands, to give back to communities that have supported the band. To date, All Within My Hands’ collective efforts have raised nearly $20 Million since inception, including $11.4 million in grants to workforce education, $7.4 million to fight hunger globally, and $5.2 million donated to critical local services around the world.

In 2017, Metallica established their foundation, All Within My Hands, to give back to communities that have supported the band. Since its inception, All Within My Hands’ collective efforts have raised more than $20 million. The foundation has provided $11.4 million in grants for workforce education, $7.4 million to fight hunger globally, and $5.2 million donated to critical local services worldwide.

Ozwin Games Library: Best Games to Win

0

By Mitch Rice

It is not only the Oz Win bonuses that attract the attention of players from Australia. Most gambling fans come to the site because of the high chances of making money. The Ozwin Casino hosts games with a high RTP, mainly presented by the giants of the world iGaming – RTG. The brand’s set includes 500 top entertainments and their number is regularly replenished with developments of such well-known companies as Play’N GO, Betsoft, Playson, etc. We invite you to set off into the ocean of entertainment of the site under the sails of our experts.

Variability of Ozwin Casino Games

The gambling site Ozwin operates legally in Australia because it has an official license from the Netherlands Antilles. That is why thousands of Australians, ready to risk their money for big wins, regularly come here. The brand’s library includes the most popular game categories, from classic emulators to innovative pokies with combined bonuses.

Online Pokies: Risk Less, Get More

Our experts have personally seen that online pokies are some of the fastest games with a chance of getting an impressive profit. The fact is that these devices have a dynamic atmosphere of the game with rounds of 1-3 seconds. At the same time, the betting range varies from a few cents to 50 or even 100 dollars per spin. With the right approach, sufficient bankroll, and well-developed tactics, Ozwin casino pokies will become a good source of additional income. The fact is that even 1 dollar in the form of a bet will easily bring you a multiplier from x2 to x100 or even x1,000. You need to be lucky and have a budget for at least 20 spins at this rate.

Moreover to the variability of pokies online, they will surprise you with a wide range of themes. Most games are based on books, films, comics, and cartoons. Others will delight you with popular themes today, including the Australian outback, gold mining, sports, or music. They have high percentages of return, which increases the chance of getting a fairly large profit in the following popular pokies:

Online PokiesRTP
Thai Emerald96,25%
Bubble Bubble 396%
Frog Fortunes96%
Witchy Wins96%
Wild Hog Luau96,25%

Ozwin Table Games: Place Bets on Winning Games

Our experts will immediately clarify that the classic Oz casino online games are designed for the more experienced half of gambling enthusiasts. You must clearly understand the rules and remember the card combinations to play them successfully. But the essence of the popularity of table and card games is the high RTP because some varieties of baccarat and blackjack have 98-99%. But to make a profit in these games, chaotic play will not work. We advise you to initially check the following betting strategies:

  • Martingale
  • Zigzag
  • D’Alembert
  • One Line
  • Fibonacci, etc.

The analysts of our project checked the brand library and found several interesting classic games. We would advise you to start your acquaintance with such devices as Caribbean Hold’em Poker, Suit Em Up Blackjack, and European Roulette. For beginners, we recommend going through all the stages of learning the rules of table games and testing them in a free demo mode.

Video Poker: Fast Money in a Card Game

Video poker from Oz Win casino will bring no less joy and winnings. The fact is that this type of game is equipped with much faster rounds because here, you get money for collecting card combinations according to the rules of five-card poker. The game has no opponents, and you don’t need to beat the dealer’s card combination. But you have the function of holding good cards and a double move in the round to collect a combination.

To understand what to expect regarding odds, look at the payout table in each game. Play the following types of video poker:

  • Double Double Bonus Poker
  • Jacks or Better
  • Aces & Eights

Oz Win Casino Specialty Games

The most important advice from our professionals is not to get hung up on a certain type of game. This online casino has a unique variety of games hidden in the Specialty Games section. It includes the following entertainment:

  • Banana Jones
  • Fish Catch
  • Keno

This means you can try your luck at dice, collect bananas, or catch a fish. This approach will help you take a break from the usual entertainment and earn good earnings in the brand’s special games.

Crash Games: Fasten Your Seat Belts and Take Off!

The gradual filling of the Crash Games section allows the administration to attract the attention of connoisseurs of non-standard entertainment. Currently, there is only one game in this category: Galaxy Blast from RTG. However, with it, you will begin your journey into the world of instant earnings, where the player’s only task is to exit the game on time. The essence is in the rocket flight and the increase in the bet multiplier. Click cashout and immediately receive payments. What could be simpler?

Ozwin Games Experts’ Opinions

Considering our monitoring of the Ozwincasino gaming room, we are 100% sure that any Australian will find the site interesting. For fans of reel devices, there are all types of games, from classics to progressive games and innovative pokies with many bonus features. Connoisseurs of intellectual entertainment will have no problem placing bets in top versions of roulette, poker, video poker, and other classic games. The only rule is reaching 21 years of age in Australia.

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

Wunderhorse Release Urgent New Single “The Rope” After Sold-Out UK Tour

0

Wunderhorse are proud to share new single “The Rope”, along with a visualizer video, following a sold-out UK tour, which culminated in a triumphant stop at London’s Alexandra Palace.

“The Rope” came together weeks before Wunderhorse embarked on their biggest headline shows to date last month. Conceived and recorded in a flash at London’s RAK Studios with producer Loren Humphrey, the track mirrors the ethos of spontaneity and urgency present throughout recent album Midas.

Recorded at Minnesota’s Pachyderm Studio (birthplace of Nirvana’s In Utero & PJ Harvey’s Rid Of Me) with producer Craig Silvey (The Rolling Stones, The National, Florence + the Machine), August’s album Midas follows the band’s acclaimed 2022 debut, Cub, and sees the band striding confidently into their role as one of British guitar music’s most exciting outfits.

Adopting an organic, unpolished recording process, Midas is a collection which captures the visceral atmosphere of Wunderhorse’s lauded live performances. “When we first went into the studio to make this record, the only thing we were sure about is how we wanted it to sound: very imperfect, very live, very raw,” frontman Jacob Slater explains. “We wanted it to sound like your face is pressed up against the amplifiers, like you’ve been locked inside the bass drum.”