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Quebec Quintet Downstater Releases Punk Anthem “Losing Grip”

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Quebec City’s punk-rock quintet Downstater has released their powerful new single, the punk rock anthem “Losing Grip,” complete with a new music video. The band describes the track as an ode to recklessness and fate, explaining that it is “about embracing the chaos of your imminent downfall. Like Sisyphus in Greek mythology who must face the absurdity of his punishment, ‘Losing Grip’ captures the thrill of looking down the barrel of defeat and smiling in the face of your impending collapse.” The group, led by singer and guitarist Jean-Philippe Lagacé—a veteran who made his mark internationally for sixteen years with his former band Get The Shot—seeks to revive the raw energy and overflowing passion of 90s punk rock, drawing deep influences from legends such as Rise Against, No Use For A Name, and The Offspring.

Since releasing their acclaimed 2023 debut album ‘Cruelest Defeats’ under the People of Punk Rock label, Downstater has significantly expanded its loyal fanbase, touring extensively across Canada and sharing stages with prominent bands like Lagwagon, Face To Face, and Goldfinger, alongside appearances at major events including Festival Au Lac and Music 4 Cancer. With songs that successfully merge nostalgia, anger, and resentment, the band continues to offer energetic and moving music that reflects their desire to find meaning in pain and the struggles of existence. The quintet is currently finalizing the recording of their second album and is set to embark on a series of international tours that will take them across Europe and North America in 2026, confirming their rising presence in the global punk scene.

Celebrate National Flossing Day With 10 Songs Guaranteed To Make You Smile

Today is National Flossing Day, the only holiday that encourages you to dig between your teeth while still recovering from yesterday’s feast. It’s the day after the fourth Thursday in November, and honestly, what better time to celebrate clean vibes, minty confidence, and the kind of smile that could power a holiday card? Consider it self-care… but for your dentist.


A$AP Rocky – “All Smiles”
A hazy, melodic track that floats between swagger and sweetness, reminding listeners that confidence shines brightest with a grin.

The Isley Brothers – “Behind a Painted Smile”
A soulful classic about masking heartbreak with a smile, delivered with the Isleys’ signature emotion and fire.

Barry Manilow – “Can’t Smile Without You”
A soft-focus, feel-good staple that’s basically the musical equivalent of a warm holiday sweater.

Kirk Franklin – “I Smile”
An uplifting gospel anthem that encourages joy even when life feels heavy, radiating pure positivity.

Pilot – “Just a Smile”
A breezy 70s pop gem that proves sometimes all you need is a grin to turn the whole day around.

Avril Lavigne – “Smile”
A punchy pop-rock track celebrating the friend who keeps you laughing even on disaster days.

Jay-Z – “Smile”
A layered, reflective piece about identity and healing, anchored by the idea that smiling through struggle is powerful.

Lily Allen – “Smile”
A cheeky breakup bop where revenge, humor, and a killer hook all share the spotlight.

Nat King Cole – “Smile”
A timeless ballad encouraging grace through hard times, delivered with Cole’s velvet-smooth vocals.

Uncle Kracker – “You Make Me Smile”
A sunny, easygoing tune that feels like a road trip with the windows down and zero stress.

Michael Jackson Biopic ‘Michael’ Set For April 2026 Release

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Lionsgate, in partnership with Universal Pictures, has announced the highly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic, ‘Michael’, is set for release in theaters and IMAX on April 24, 2026. This cinematic portrayal of the life and monumental legacy of one of the most influential artists the world has ever known will star Jackson’s own nephew, Jaafar Jackson, making his cinematic debut as The King of Pop. The film promises to tell the story of Jackson’s extraordinary life beyond the music, tracing his journey from the earliest discovery of his immense talent as the lead singer of the Jackson Five, to his evolution into the visionary artist whose relentless creative ambition propelled him to become the biggest entertainer on the planet.

Michael’ will highlight both his compelling life off-stage and some of the most iconic performances from his early solo career, giving audiences a true front-row seat to Michael Jackson as never before—a place where his story properly begins. The impressive cast list is robust, featuring Mia Long as Katherine Jackson, Coleman Domingo as Joe Jackson, Miles Teller as John Branco, Kat Graham as Diana Ross, and Kendrick Sampson as Quincy Jones. Numerous other legends are also portrayed, including Dick Clark, Mick Jagger, Gladys Knight, Tito Jackson, Sheryl Crow, Jermaine Jackson, and John Lennon.

Directed by Antoine Fuqua and written by John Logan, the film is expected to feature over two dozen songs from Jackson’s iconic music catalogue, promising a powerful soundtrack to match the dramatic scope of his life. To ensure maximum authenticity, Jackson’s famous Neverland Ranch was specially restored for the film’s production. Furthermore, his historic “Thriller” video was meticulously recreated in the same original California location where Jackson famously performed the celebrated Thriller Dance in 1983, proving the dedication to capturing the magic and history of the icon.

Canadian Rock Band Fatal Vision Drops New Video For “Breakers (Duet Version)”

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Canadian melodic rock band Fatal Vision has proudly released their new video for “Breakers (Duet Version),” a refreshed and emotionally charged interpretation of the track originally performed by U.S. country duo Thompson Square. The video, filmed against the striking backdrop of Quebec’s vibrant autumn landscape, brings renewed depth, chemistry, and dramatic intensity to the song’s message of heartbreak and emotional reckoning.

Lead vocalist Simon Marwood explained the track’s unexpected return, noting that the song “is always near and dear to us and our fans, goes over really well live, and life sometimes provides unexpected moments for particular messages, like it or not.” The video strongly enhances the tension between healing and breaking, perfectly capturing the song’s message that “some people are fixers… but some people decidedly are breakers,” all following the success of their 2024 album ‘Three Times Lucky’, while their brand new studio album, ‘Four Sides To Every Story’, is scheduled for release in 2026.

Math-Pop Mavericks Wot Gorilla? Announce New Album ‘Stay Home’ With Single “Young Man’s Game”

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Math-pop innovators Wot Gorilla? have dropped huge news, announcing that their upcoming album, ‘Stay Home’, will be released on February 20th, 2026, through Drongo Records and Ripcord Records. The announcement arrives alongside the immediate unveiling of the record’s incredibly honest first single, “Young Man’s Game.” Vocalist and guitarist Mat Haigh shared the profound, relatable inspiration behind the track, saying, “‘Young Man’s Game’ explores the experience of still playing in a band as an older person, and the insecurities that come with that.” Haigh also reflected on the challenges of being a front man and dealing with feedback, stating that he tries “to stay grounded in the belief that if I’m happy with what we’ve created, that’s enough.” He noted the track is one of the more manic songs on the album and is a personal highlight thanks to the introduction of saxophone playing by Jonny.

‘Stay Home’ marks a sharp, entirely self-produced evolution for Wot Gorilla?, recorded completely by the band, with mastering by Joe Gibb (digital) and Pete Maher (vinyl). The band’s unique math-rock sound is louder, leaner, and more precise than ever before, successfully incorporating post-hardcore intensity and pop sensibility with new warmth and bite. Haigh notes that the album is the sound of the band “reconnecting with why we started this band in the first place,” distilling over a decade of angular riffs, complex rhythms, and melodic urgency into their most cohesive statement yet. The creation of ‘Stay Home’ was a slow, steady, and truly DIY process, stretching over nearly three years, with the title nodding not just to the isolation of lockdown, but to the deep, inward focus required to rebuild momentum when the scene went silent.

Formed in 2009 in Sowerby Bridge, Halifax, Wot Gorilla? have carved out a significant space in the UK’s math and post-hardcore scene. Veterans of massive events like Reading & Leeds, 2000trees, and ArcTanGent festivals, they have shared stages with incredible acts including Vennart, The Get Up Kids, and Rolo Tomassi, earning a strong reputation for their famously tight musicianship and highly dynamic live shows. With UK tour dates already lined up for February and March 2026, ‘Stay Home’ finds Wot Gorilla? sounding more focused, fearless, and formidable than ever before, ready to deliver their most essential work yet.

Global Dance Titans Alison Wonderland, Disclosure, Deadmau5 Headlining Debut Igloofest Edmonton In March 2026

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OEG Sports & Entertainment, Multicolore, and Boodang Music Canada have unveiled massive headliners for the debut edition of Igloofest Edmonton, which will take place from March 12th to 14th, 2026, in Fan Park at ICE District. Marking the festival’s first-ever appearance in Edmonton, the inaugural three-night event brings a towering lineup of global electronic music powerhouses, uniting internationally renowned artists with vital homegrown Canadian talent for an electrifying winter rave experience under the open sky. The festival begins on Thursday, March 12th, with Alison Wonderland, known for her cinematic bass sound and emotional intensity, followed by a signature night on Friday, March 13th, featuring a high-energy DJ set from the legendary UK duo Disclosure.

The debut edition of Igloofest Edmonton will conclude with a thunderous finale on Saturday, March 14th, headlined by Canada’s own electronic titan, Deadmau5, an iconic artist with an unmistakable sound and commanding stage presence. Joining the final night is Québec’s rapidly rising trance-and-rave sensation TDJ, who brings an exhilarating blend of underground edge and emotional uplift to the closing lineup. Winter 2026 marks a historic milestone for Igloofest as the iconic event expands beyond the province of Québec for the first time, bringing its frosty magic across Canada after over fifteen years of transforming the coldest months into a full-scale celebration of music and dance. General sale for the 18+ event kicks off today, Friday, November 28th, at 10 am local time.

Punk Rock Gives Back Returns To Alex’s Bar In Long Beach For Annual Charity Show

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Punk Rock Gives Back is making its highly anticipated return to Alex’s Bar in Long Beach, California for the 2nd Annual Charity Show and 3rd Annual Ornament Auction, bringing a full day of music, community, creativity, and huge charitable impact. This crucial event is happening on Saturday, December 13th, starting at noon, once again hosted by the fantastic Bruce Zebel. The lineup perfectly embodies the heart, grit, and enduring spirit of Southern California punk, featuring Empired, The Jack Knives, Spark of Life, Rudy Nuno, Unsound Sunday, and a special DJ set from Danny Thompson of the legendary Face to Face. Admission is entirely free, with attendees strongly encouraged to show support by bidding, buying unique items, volunteering, and getting fully involved in the cause.

The beloved Annual Ornament Auction stands at the center of the event, generating crucial support for over thirty charities through the sale of truly one-of-a-kind, artist-created ornaments. It is a tradition that has grown exponentially not only in scale but in deep meaning, serving as a cornerstone of community-driven generosity within the global punk world. Artist Josh Dorius, a previous participant, perfectly captured the event’s spirit, stating, “I am extremely honored to have been included in the first annual Punk Rock Gives Back charity art auction… It’s punk as $#@% to give a $#@%!” Beyond the auction, the event will feature a carefully curated vendor village showcasing local creatives like Two Birds Baking, Punk Rock Pottery, and Sp00ky Sprinkles Art.

Nonprofits also credit Punk Rock Gives Back with actively amplifying important voices that often go unheard. Kel Izumine of Rock and Roll Rescue shared her gratitude, saying, “Words can’t fully express how much Punk Rock Gives Back means to us. They champion small nonprofits, amplify the underdogs, and give us the support and visibility we need to make a real impact.” Rachael Contreras of The RachaelORama Punk Show added her ringing endorsement, stating, “I support Punk Rock Gives Back – turns out rebellion pairs nicely with charity!” Everyone who RSVPs for the event receives a free entry into day-of giveaways, featuring fantastic art, band merch, and more, serving as a great thank-you to the community for showing up and supporting the cause so passionately.

Multi-Instrumentalist Dylan White Debuts Solo EP ‘Fronds’, Drops Funky Single “Rags”

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Ontario-based multi-instrumentalist and composer Dylan White makes his highly anticipated solo debut with ‘Fronds’, a lush, groove-driven EP that brilliantly explores the repeating patterns of love and fear that shape human connection across lifetimes and generations. Rooted firmly in jazz, soul, and funk, ‘Fronds’ reflects both the intricate structure found in nature and the resilient spirit of those who dare to break cycles of doubt.

White explained the concept, stating the album was inspired by the deep-rooted patterns of both love and fear that repeat themselves throughout life, noting, “As a nature boy, I’ve always been intrigued by the fact that repeating systems are the basis of all life.”

This debut captures a wide network of collaborators across Guelph, Toronto, and Calgary, with its communal sound shining brightest on the centerpiece single, “Rags,” a joyfully funky track that playfully yet defiantly dismantles the tired “rags to riches” myth with sharp wit and a light-on-its-feet groove.

Country Music Week And CCMA Awards Return To Saskatoon In 2026

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The Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) has thrilling news for fans across the country, officially announcing that Country Music Week 2026 will take place in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, from September 16th to 19th. Canada’s biggest night in country music, the 2026 CCMA Awards, will close out the massive weekend at the SaskTel Centre on Saturday, September 19th. The awards show will be available exclusively on CTV, CTV.ca, and the CTV app, and streaming the following day on Crave, ensuring every fan can join the celebration.

This announcement marks a highly anticipated return to Saskatoon after a nine-year absence. Country Music Week 2026 and the 2026 CCMA Awards will once again shine a national spotlight on the City of Bridges—a community highly celebrated for its vibrant arts scene, deep musical roots, and famously warm prairie hospitality. Located beautifully along the South Saskatchewan River, Saskatoon is well-known for successfully mixing small-town charm with appealing urban sophistication, offering visitors an exciting and deeply immersive experience across its historic Broadway Avenue and thriving Riversdale district.

This event solidifies Saskatchewan’s role as a major hub for the genre, as it marks the sixth time the province has hosted Country Music Week, and the third time Saskatoon has welcomed the CCMA specifically. Over four memorable days of connection, collaboration, and country music, artists, industry professionals, and fans from across Canada will gather to celebrate the very best in Canadian country music talent. The successful hosting of this year’s event is made possible through the enthusiastic support of the City of Saskatoon, Discover Saskatoon, Saskatoon Destination Marketing Hotels (SDMH), the Government of Saskatchewan, and the dedicated 2026 Host Committee.

The 2026 CCMA Awards will deliver a spectacular evening of powerful live performances and unforgettable country music moments, cementing its status as the absolute highlight of Country Music Week 2026. Additional announcements will be shared in the months ahead, and fans are encouraged to sign up here to receive exclusive updates, breaking news, and early access to presale codes when tickets go live.

James Hype Teams Up With Hip-Hop Icon A.D.O.R For Explosive Club Single “Behaviour”

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James Hype makes a monumental return with his latest single, “Behaviour,” a sharp, attitude-filled club record that expertly pairs his trademark high-voltage energy with the iconic voice of hip-hop veteran A.D.O.R. The track hits hard from the very first second, delivering a tight, rolling groove, bold vocal chops, and the kind of intense tension-and-release moments James Hype is known for creating in packed rooms around the world. Leaning into a darker, heavier sound anchored by gritty bass and crisp drum work, “Behaviour” feels explicitly designed for sweaty, late-night clubs and festival crowds waiting for the one track that flips the room upside down. A.D.O.R, best known for the classic tracks that defined 90s hip-hop, brings the perfect edge with his confident, rhythmic, and instantly recognizable vocals, adding a raw presence that cuts through the mix and ensures the track’s massive identity.