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Reuben and the Bullhorn Singers Announce Debut EP ‘All These Roads’ Set for Release May 2

Eric Alper
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Reuben and the Bullhorn Singers Announce Debut EP ‘All These Roads’ Set for Release May 2

Today, Reuben and The Bullhorn Singers announce their anticipated debut album All These Roads will be released on May 2nd, presave HERE. The album will feature the first single “Powerful,” alongside the latest title track “All These Roads” out today.

The album features six tracks that beautifully meld together two different genres and cultures to create an important and sonically stunning project. The group has expressed that the album is symbolic of the conversation that happens after reconciliation and moving forward together. Reuben’s heartfelt vocal delivery paired with the striking vocals of the Bullhorn Singers pow-wow style will leave a lasting emotional impact on listeners. Describing the importance of coming together to make this album, the Bullhorn Singer leader Billy Wadsworth explains:

“The collaboration between the Bullhorn Singers and Reuben has been a beautiful and powerful experience, both musically and personally. When we come together, the music flows organically and effortlessly, transcending typical musical genres. We’ve both had to step outside our comfort zones and explore new musical territories, resulting in something fresh and unique.Our connection extends beyond the music; we’re close as human beings, sharing a genuine bond and similar views on the world. We recognize the harsh realities of life and aim to counteract that negativity through our music. Our collaboration is built on positivity and good vibes, and we hope to spread that energy to our listeners. We want our music to be a source of healing, positivity, and rest. In a world that can often be harsh and threatening, we hope to create a space where people can feel safe and experience something beautiful, new, and different.”

Today the band premiered this stunning visual for the new single, featuring traditional dancers and members of the Kainai Nation, Nevada Ouellette and Sofia Eaglehead Baptiste and directed and shot by Brock Mitchell. View it here.

Earlier this month, the group announced their very special All These Roads Tour this spring, sponsored by ATCO Space Labs. The tour will highlight personal stories about Indigenous lands and music’s role in healing. The tour includes stops in Victoria, Calgary, Winnipeg and more – along with dates at several First Nation Reserve communities and schools across the country. This tour aims to amplify the group’s powerful message, as ‘the conversation after reconciliation,’ and showcase their one-of-a-kind live experience blending Indie Folk with Indigenous pow-wow music.  To get a sense of what to expect, watch this beautiful and chilling performance video of the first single “Powerful,” filmed at OCL Studios in Calgary. Watch here.

In 2021 at The Calgary Stampede mainstage, acclaimed indie-folk artist Reuben and the Dark brought out Blackfoot pow-wow champion singing group, Bullhorn Singers lead by Billy Wadsworth, for an unforgettable live performance that stopped the audience, and the artists themselves, in their tracks. What was an impromptu performance and unlikely union of culture, life experience and sound in front of a crowd of thousands was electric and the birth of something special. This led to the brand new collaborative project, Reuben and the Bullhorn Singers. Watch Reuben and Billy discuss the partnership on q with Tom Power on CBC here.

Stay tuned for more new music forthcoming in the next coming months from them.

TOUR DATES
May 2 – Fernie, BC @ Knox on 2nd
May 3 – Rossland, BC @ The Flying Steamshovel
May 4 – Kelowna, BC @ Red Bird Brewing
May 5 – Kelowna, BC @ Mount Boucherie Secondary School*
May 6 – Vancouver, BC @ The Pearl
May 7 – Victoria, BC @ Wicket Hall
May 8 – Nanaimo, BC @ The Queen’s
May 9 – Penticton, BC @ Dream Cafe
May 10 – Kamloops, BC @ Night Shift on Fifth
May 11 – Canmore, AB @ Communitea Cafe
May 12 – Kainai, AB @ Red Crow College*
May 13 – Red Deer, AB @ Bo’s Bar and Stage
May 13 – Ponoka, AB @ Mamawi Atosketan Native School*
May 15 – Edmonton, AB @ Starlite Room
May 16 – Calgary, AB @ Bella Concert Hall
May 17 – Saskatoon, SK @ Louis’ Pub
May 18 – Winnipeg, MB @ The Park Theatre
June 5 – Manawan, QC* 
June 14 – Uxbridge, ON @ Springtide Music Festival
+More TBA
*First Nations Schools or Reservations
Tickets Available HERE

Reuben Bullock, is a multifaceted artist, best known for his role as the lead vocalist and songwriter of the acclaimed indie-folk band Reuben and The Dark. The inspirational release, sees the unlikely union of culture, life experience, and sound friendship and artistic collaboration between Reuben and The Dark and Southern Alberta Kainai/Blood traditional pow-wow champion Bullhorn Singers, since their collaboration for a performance at the Calgary Stampede mainstage in 2021. The spirited folk-rock sounds led by Reuben Bullock, whose music blends introspective lyrics with the irrepressible pulse and harmonies of his band, sees a single that combines Native American singing with resounding themes of emotive storytelling.

Reuben Bullock is a multifaceted artist, renowned for his role as the lead vocalist and songwriter of the acclaimed indie-folk band, Reuben and the Dark. The career of Reuben, a Calgary-born, currently Victoria-based singer-songwriter, skateboarder, carpenter, and preacher’s son is marked by a series of milestones that underscore his profound impact on the Canadian music landscape over the last 10 years. The band looks ahead to new music in 2025 as well as extensive touring and collaboration in partnership with Bullhorn Singers.

Bullhorn Singers is led by Iskotoah’ka William (Billy) Wadsworth and brings powerful songs to the powwow music scene. Stemming from the Blood Tribe, Kainai Nation of the Blackfoot Confederacy, Billy is a member of the Motois’pitaiks “All Tall Peoples” Clan and a member of the Kaanaa’tsimiitaiks “Brave Dog” society of the Blood Tribe. Bullhorn Singers were created by Billy and his late brother Blaine Wadsworth who began singing as kids and they then began to build the group including their family members and extended family. Since 1998, the group has traveled throughout the U.S and Canada competing at contests and have won several championships.

 

Skylar Blatt Goes “Major League” on Swaggering New Single

Eric Alper
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Skylar Blatt Goes “Major League” on Swaggering New Single

Today, Cincinnati rapper and singer Skylar Blatt returns to the brash bars that put her on the map with “Major League,” out today on ILWT / Saint KaSh / Arista Records. The speaker-busting track plays like a victory lap following the versatile vocalist’s winning melodic turn last year, including her slick “Wake Up” which racked up over 60 million streams to date and broke into the Top 10 on Urban and Rhythmic Radio.

“Major League” slaps from the start, with the sound of jangling jewels mixed in with booming bass, sharp percussion, and ominous synth. Skylar trades in her striking singing voice for a gruff delivery that strikes a balance between off-the-cuff and laser sharp. She sounds like she can’t be bothered to consider the other side, but her lines hit their mark: “I’m in a AMG, I made some Gs before I learned my ABC’s / F— it, I’m putting it in they face, the s— they hate to see.”

On putting the track together, Blatt shares:

“’Major League’ is a record that has a bop to it – like as soon as you hear it you want to dance lol. The first time I heard the beat in the studio I got extremely excited. Whenever I’m excited by a beat, I know it’s going to be a hit! I love a good catchy yet simple hook, especially when it has anything to do with ‘balling.’ Everyone wants to ‘ball’ whether it’s at work, in the gym or while watching a basketball game. The lifestyle that most people are chasing is what I consider ‘balling.’ I love the saying “ball ‘til I fall” I think everyone can relate to that.”

Fans will recognize the same swagger, humor, and heat that Skylar’s brought to past team-ups like “F**k Fame, Pt. 2” featuring Lola Brooke, “Super Bowl” with Doe Boy, and “God Forbid” with Icewear Vezzo. Her most recent single, “Hold Me Down,” put her melodic charm on full display over a sexy drill-inspired production — a fitting followup to R&B-inflected “Wake Up,” whose official video (shot at Brown’s mansion) recently surpassed 12 million views.

The latter dropped in late April to much fanfare, with TMZ Hip-Hop calling it an early entry to the “song of the summer” contest, ESSENCE crowning the “banger” as one of the “Best New Music” releases that week, and Angela Yee tapping Skylar for a wide-ranging chat on Lip Service. Meanwhile, Billboard selected “Hold Me Down” as one of its R&B/Hip-Hop Fresh Picks, writing, “Blatt is always cool, calm and collected. No matter the tempo of a track, the Cincinnati-bred artist remains in control of the steering wheel.” Before that came “Laughin to tha Bank.”

Raised by a single mother as one of six, Skylar turned to hip-hop to escape the troubles of her youth, developing a style derived from the best east coast and midwest rappers. She first gained attention with freestyles she posted on her Instagram, eventually earning an early co-sign from Meek Mill and a glowing profile from Lyrical Lemonade. In October 2023, Skylar shared her mixtape Blatt SZN, home to “God Forbid” and 10 other certified Cincy slappers.

Now signed to Arista and Saint Ka$h Records, Skylar is looking to become the next midwest rapper to break things open. With more music on the way, the Queen City queen is ready for her takeover. As she drops more hits, the Sky is the limit.

Bon Jovi’s ‘Forever’ Anthology Hits Bookstores In September, 2025

Eric Alper
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Bon Jovi’s ‘Forever’ Anthology Hits Bookstores In September, 2025

Genesis Publications announces that Bon Jovi’s official Anthology ‘Bon Jovi: Forever’ will be released as a hardback bookstore edition on September 23rd 2025. The news comes after it was announced that the limited edition version became the fastest-selling book in the highly respected, family-run British publishing house’s 50-year history.

Bon Jovi: Forever is the definitive anthology of one of the world’s most iconic rock bands, offering an unparalleled glimpse into their extraordinary journey through rare artifacts, stunning photography, and the personal insights of Jon Bon Jovi himself.

With unprecedented access to Bon Jovi’s extensive archive, this official book chronicles the band’s remarkable 40-year history. From their meteoric rise with chart-topping hits like ‘Livin’ On a Prayer’, ‘You Give Love a Bad Name’, ‘It’s My Life’, and ‘Have a Nice Day’, to their relentless touring schedule that has seen them perform over 2,700 shows for 34 million fans across more than 50 countries, Bon Jovi: Forever captures the essence of a band that defined a generation.

This meticulously curated collection showcases a treasure trove of memorabilia, including handwritten lyrics, iconic stage costumes, guitars, studio track lists, and personal photographs from the band’s private collections. Complemented by an array of vivid images that capture Bon Jovi live, backstage, on tour, and in the studio, this book offers fans a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the band’s enduring legacy.

“As band members, you share a unique bond that no one else can truly understand, not even family. That brotherhood comes with a long career like ours. We all felt part of something special, trusted each other, and they trusted me. I never let them down. It was always a give-and-take.” – Jon Bon Jovi

Jon Bon Jovi shares the intimate stories behind the artifacts, shedding light on the creative process behind their songwriting, the making of their legendary albums, and the key performances that cemented their place in rock history. His candid reflections offer a deeper understanding of the band’s brotherhood, their distinctive style, and the unwavering trust that fuelled their success.

Salt-N-Pepa Celebrate 35 Years of Classic ‘Blacks’ Magic’ Album

Eric Alper
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Salt-N-Pepa Celebrate 35 Years of Classic ‘Blacks’ Magic’ Album

Salt-N-Pepa proudly celebrates the 35th anniversary of their iconic album Blacks’ Magic. This record cemented their status as hip-hop pioneers and empowered generations with timeless messages of strength, independence, and self-expression.

Originally released in 1990, Blacks’ Magic delivered five powerful singles – “Expression,” “Let’s Talk About Sex,” “Independent,” “You Showed Me,” and “Do You Want Me” – each of which spoke to important cultural themes that remain relevant today. The album’s lead single, “Expression,” was notably produced by Cheryl “Salt” James herself, making her the first female MC to produce her own platinum record. Salt also produced the empowering anthem “Independent,” which remains a declaration of self-sufficiency and empowerment.

“Blacks’ Magic was about creating something meaningful that spoke to who we were as women, as artists, and as Black voices,” said Cheryl “Salt” James. “It was empowering to produce tracks like ‘Expression’ and ‘Independent’ that encouraged self-love, independence, and boldness. We wanted our fans to feel seen and powerful.”

Meanwhile, Sandra “Pepa” Denton played a pivotal role in amplifying the group’s bold, unapologetic voice and signature style, helping Salt-N-Pepa become cultural icons recognized for their fearless image and empowering lyrics. As an outspoken advocate for female empowerment, Pepa has remained a vocal presence in entertainment and social causes, earning her continued respect as a trailblazer in the industry.

“Blacks’ Magic was a celebration of women standing strong in their truth,” said Sandra “Pepa” Denton. “We didn’t shy away from topics people thought were taboo. We wanted to educate, uplift, and make people feel good. Looking back, I’m proud we did just that.”

DJ Williams Unveils ‘Gravity & Grace’ and 2025 Tour Dates

Eric Alper
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DJ Williams Unveils ‘Gravity & Grace’ and 2025 Tour Dates

Renowned multi-instrumentalist and producer DJ Williams returns with his highly anticipated album, Gravity & Grace, set for release on June 3, 2025. Written, performed, recorded, and engineered entirely by Williams himself, Gravity & Grace is a fearless sonic journey that blends deep grooves, soaring guitar work, and the raw intensity of rock at its purest form.

“This album is the result of late-night sparks, relentless groove, and the beautiful chaos of creation,” says Williams. “It’s the rock album I’ve always wanted to make. No safety nets, no boundaries—just music in its purest form.”

To celebrate the release, Williams will embark on a massive spring and summer tour, bringing his electrifying live show to audiences across the country. Known for his dynamic performances and deep-pocket rhythms, fans can expect an unforgettable night of soulful storytelling and thrilling musicianship at every stop.

SPRING TOUR DATES

March

    14 – The B. Bar – Omaha, NE
15 – Zoo Bar – Lincoln, NE

April

    4 – Appaloosa – Denver, CO
10 – Winston’s – San Diego, CA
11 – Hotel Cafe – Los Angeles, CA
12 – Goldsteins – Fresno, CA
16 – Liquid Gravity – San Luis Obispo, CA
17 – Music City – San Francisco, CA
18 – Berryessa Brewery – Winters, CA
19 – Ivy Room – Albany, CA
20 – Peri’s Tavern – Fairfax, CA
24 – Torch Club – Sacramento, CA
25-26 – Liberty Bar – Mammoth, CA
27 – Divided Sky – Lake Tahoe, CA

May

    2 – Tres Litros – Salida, CO
3 – The Lariat – Buena Vista, CO
10 – Goosetown Station – Golden, CO
24 – Pittsburgh Winery – Pittsburgh, PA
25 – Private Event – Pittsburgh, PA

June

    3 – Gravity & Grace Album Release
7 – Odell Brewing – Fort Collins, CO
11 – Anthem Park – Broomfield, CO
13 – Roots Music Project – Boulder, CO
20 – Cervantes – Denver, CO

Additional East Coast dates will be announced soon.

Gravity & Grace showcases DJ Williams’ evolving artistry and unwavering commitment to musical exploration. Pre-save the album now and purchase tickets for the upcoming shows at: www.djwilliamsmusic.com

TASH SULTANA Announces ‘RETURN TO THE ROOTS’ EP and U.S. Tour Featuring City and Colour

Eric Alper
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TASH SULTANA Announces ‘RETURN TO THE ROOTS’ EP and U.S. Tour Featuring City and Colour

A decade into their evolution, multi-instrumentalist, engineer, producer, and entrepreneur TASH SULTANA weaves nostalgia with newfound wisdom, as they reveal their forthcoming EP RETURN TO THE ROOTS out Friday, May 30.

Today TASH unveils the full tracklist for the EP, featuring a powerful collaboration with City and Colour. This standout track brings together two masterful storytellers, blending their distinct styles with deep mutual respect.

The original version of this song is one of the oldest TASH has written and inspired by artists like Jeff Buckley, Bon Iver, and City and Colour. It was only fitting that when reworking the track, City and Colour became part of the journey. When City and Colour announced an Australian tour, TASH reached out, the teams connected, and the song naturally fell into place.

“The song was meant for us,” TASH says. “We instantly understood each other and it was a completely natural fit.”

The EP also features the fan-favourite “Kiss The Sky,” a track that first set the internet buzzing when TASH teased it in 2023 via Instagram. Resurfacing on TikTok this year, the teaser videos have received over 3.5 million views, instantly cementing its status as a must-hear anthem.

First taste of the EP and opening track “Milk & Honey” marked a bold return to their roots as a looper, while the most recent release “Hold On” reaches deep emotional depths, dedicated to their wife after being diagnosed with cancer at the end of last year.

“My partner went through hell because of medical malpractice,” TASH explains. “A tumor left undetected. Surgery on the wrong thing. A second operation. Twice the recovery time. And we still don’t have answers. If you’ve ever been failed by the system—misdiagnosed, ignored, or left without answers—this song is for you.”

The brand-new EP is a raw, unfiltered dive back into the heart of their artistry. Stripping away the pressure of commercial success, this six-track collection rekindles the spirit of spontaneous creation—the very essence that first ignited their career.

Building on the success of the first single, “Milk & Honey”—which earned rotation on triple j, topped the AMRAP Metro Charts, received praise from Rolling Stone (Australia), and landed on key DSP playlists like Spotify’s The Local List and Apple’s Heaps Indie—latest release “Hold On” continues that momentum with support from triple j, DSP playlisting across Spotify’s Pop’N’Fresh and Apple’s New in Indie, and online love from The Music, Rolling Stone and AU Review.

Fresh from selling out Red Rocks in minutes. TASH SULTANA has recently announced a massive 2025 U.S. tour. Bringing their signature electrifying energy and genre-blurring sound to fans nationwide, this tour is set to be nothing short of unforgettable. Tickets are available now via tashsultana.com

With a career spanning over a decade, TASH SULTANA’s accomplishments speak volumes: selling out shows at global arenas and iconic venues, headlining major festivals, 15 ARIA nominations, and the 2023 Rolling Stone (Australia) Global Artist Award. Yet, for TASH, the journey is far from over. With their unwavering drive to push creative boundaries and a focus on building a broader legacy as an entrepreneur and mentor, TASH continues to shape the industry on their own terms.

RETURN TO THE ROOTS is a fearless declaration of resilience, reinvention, and the boundless power of self-expression.

TASH SULTANA ‘RETURN TO THE ROOTS’ US TOUR

TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE

TUEDAY JUNE 10 | THE RANDY SHELL AT JACOBS PARK, SAN DIEGO, CA

WEDNESDAY JUNE 11 | HARD ROCK LIVE – SACRAMENTO, WHEATLAND, CA

FRIDAY JUNE 13 | THE MASONIC, SAN FRANCISCO, CA

SATURDAY JUNE 14 | SHRINE EXPO HALL, LOS ANGELES, CA

SUNDAY JUNE 15 | THE VAN BUREN, PHOENIX, AZ

TUESDAY JUNE 17 | THE PAVILION AT TOYOTA MUSIC FACTORY, IRVING, TX

WEDNESDAY JUNE 18 | BAYOU MUSIC CENTRE, HOUSTON, TX

**FRIDAY JUNE 20 | RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATRE, MORRISON, CO

SATURDAY JUNE 21 | DILLON AMPHITHEATRE, DILLON, CO

SUNDAY JUNE 22 | TBA, SALT LAKE CITY, UT

TUESDAY JUNE 24 | KNITTING FACTORY CONCERT HOUSE, BOISE, ID

WEDNESDAY JUNE 25 | KNITTING FACTORY CONCERT HOUSE, SPOKANE, WA

FRIDAY JUNE 27 | EDGEFIELD CONCERTS ON THE LAWN, TROUTDALE, OR

SATURDAY JUNE 28 | CHATEAU STE. MICHELLE, WOODINVILLE, WA

SUNDAY JUNE 29 | BRITT MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL – BRITT PAVILION, JACKSONVILLE, OR

10 of the Best Psychedelic Songs That’ll Melt Your Mind

Eric Alper
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10 of the Best Psychedelic Songs That’ll Melt Your Mind

Psychedelic music is a trip through swirling soundscapes, hypnotic rhythms, and lyrics that stretch the imagination. Whether fueled by acid-soaked creativity or just a desire to expand sonic possibilities, these songs broke barriers, altered minds, and still hit like a cosmic awakening today.

Here are 10 of the best psychedelic songs—each one a portal to a different dimension.

1. The Beatles – “Tomorrow Never Knows” (1966)

If there’s a song that changed everything, it’s this. The Beatles dove headfirst into Eastern mysticism, tape loops, and mind-expanding production, creating a track that sounds like it was beamed in from another planet. With John Lennon’s vocals floating like a mantra over Ringo’s hypnotic drumming, it was the moment rock music turned psychedelic—and never looked back.

2. Pink Floyd – “Echoes” (1971)

A sonic odyssey clocking in at over 23 minutes, “Echoes” is a slow burn into the great beyond. From the underwater sonar pings to the surreal midsection that sounds like a cosmic whale party, Pink Floyd crafted an entire universe inside a song. It’s space rock at its most expansive, hypnotic, and transcendental—best experienced in the dark with your eyes closed.

3. The Jimi Hendrix Experience – “Are You Experienced?” (1967)

Jimi didn’t just play the guitar—he made it speak, scream, and bend reality. This title track from his debut album is drenched in backward tapes, surreal lyrics, and a groove that feels like stepping into another dimension. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to float through a dream where the laws of physics don’t apply, this song is your guide.

4. The Doors – “The End” (1967)

Jim Morrison didn’t just write songs—he channeled visions. “The End” starts as a hypnotic, almost meditative tune before descending into Oedipal nightmares and existential chaos. Ray Manzarek’s eerie organ, Robby Krieger’s swirling guitar, and Morrison’s shamanic delivery make this a journey into the abyss—beautiful, terrifying, and unforgettable.

5. Jefferson Airplane – “White Rabbit” (1967)

Few songs capture the psychedelic counterculture like this one. Grace Slick takes us down the rabbit hole, weaving a trippy, Lewis Carroll-inspired fever dream over a swelling, dramatic crescendo. With its marching, hypnotic rhythm and surrealist storytelling, it’s a 2-minute dose of pure, uncut acid rock energy.

6. Grateful Dead – “Dark Star” (1968)

The Dead weren’t just a band—they were a living, breathing psychedelic organism. “Dark Star” is more than a song; it’s a cosmic improvisation, stretching and shifting like an ever-expanding galaxy. With liquid guitar lines, dreamy vocals, and endless possibilities, every live version becomes its own unique trip—one that never quite lands in the same place twice.

7. Tame Impala – “Let It Happen” (2015)

Psychedelic music never died—it just evolved. Tame Impala’s “Let It Happen” is a modern psych masterpiece, blending swirling synths, hypnotic beats, and Kevin Parker’s airy vocals into an eight-minute trip that feels like falling into a kaleidoscope. The glitching, looping midsection creates an out-of-body experience—a moment where time ceases to exist.

8. The 13th Floor Elevators – “You’re Gonna Miss Me” (1966)

Considered the first true psychedelic rock band, The 13th Floor Elevators invented the genre before anyone even knew what to call it. “You’re Gonna Miss Me” is raw, wild, and driven by electric jug sounds (yes, really), making it feel like garage rock being abducted by aliens. It’s the sound of psychedelia in its most unfiltered, manic, and electrifying form.

9. King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – “Gamma Knife” (2016)

Modern psych rock doesn’t get much wilder than King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard. “Gamma Knife” is a frenzied, spiraling whirlwind of guitars, flutes, and relentless grooves that pulls you in and refuses to let go. It’s ancient mysticism meets futuristic chaos, and it’ll make you feel like you’ve unlocked a portal to another dimension.

10. The Flaming Lips – “Do You Realize??” (2002)

Psychedelia isn’t just about melting your brain—it’s about expanding your perception. “Do You Realize??” is as much a philosophical revelation as it is a song, delivering one of the most mind-blowing truths ever put to music: everyone you know someday will die. And yet, it feels strangely uplifting, like staring into the vastness of existence and finally understanding it all.

Psychedelic music is about breaking boundaries, expanding consciousness, and diving into the unknown. Whether it’s the classic acid-drenched anthems of the ‘60s or modern-day sonic explorations, these songs all rearrange reality in their own unique way.

Pistol Whip The Devil Captures Small-Town Nostalgia in New Single “City With One Red Light”

Eric Alper
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Pistol Whip The Devil Captures Small-Town Nostalgia in New Single “City With One Red Light”

With their signature blend of outlaw country, rock, and grunge, Pistol Whip The Devil delivers a heartfelt tribute to small-town roots with their latest single, “City With One Red Light.” Built on sweeping guitars, anthemic drums, and raw, evocative vocals, the song captures the bittersweet feeling of returning home, where memories linger in the air like smoke from a fire that never quite burns out.

“City With One Red Light” was written about the nostalgic feeling you get when you go back and visit friends and family—it’s like stepping into a time machine,” the band shares. “The Okanagan lakes are as familiar as family and old friends. You wander the shores, remembering childhood days spent casting lines, skipping stones, bush parties, cliff jumping, mountain climbing, racing cars, and playing guitars.”

The track unfolds like a hazy recollection of youthful nights and first experiences. Shane’s lyrics paint vivid pictures of home, where “days by the lake and nights by the fire” define a place that never truly changes. The chorus swells with a mix of longing and pride:

“As I’m walking by / This city with one red light
I think about the times / The good, the bad, the wrong, the right.”

Pistol Whip The Devil’s edgy country-rock sound sits comfortably alongside Dallas Smith, The Sheepdogs, and Tyler Joe Miller, blending gritty storytelling with soaring melodies. Their ability to balance introspective nostalgia with high-energy instrumentation makes them one of the most exciting emerging acts in the Canadian music scene.

That potential has already been recognized—Pistol Whip The Devil was named a 2024 Emerging Artist Creative BC Grant Recipient, further cementing their place in the next wave of breakout country-rock acts.

Formed when longtime friends and musicians found themselves with unexpected time to create during the pandemic, Pistol Whip The Devil is made up of Shane Jolie (vocals, guitars), Geoff Way (guitars, songwriting), Ryan Trimble (bass), and Dan Wood (drums). Their music reflects their own upbringing—Northern Ontario, the Okanagan, and Vancouver—blending the untamed beauty of their surroundings into a sound that’s both familiar and electrifying.

“The fire pits out in the bush are in the exact same spots they were long before,” the band shares. “You can almost hear the crackle of logs and the stories that once filled the summer nights. All the old sights and sounds envelop you, and for a moment, you’re fifteen years younger, living those simple, precious days once more.”

Following “City With One Red Light,” Pistol Whip The Devil is gearing up for more releases, live performances, and a continued push to bring their roots-driven, hard-hitting sound to wider audiences. Fans can expect music that celebrates the highs and lows of small-town life, the resilience of friendships, and the stories that never fade.

With anthemic energy, a rugged authenticity, and a sound that bridges country, rock, and grunge, Pistol Whip The Devil is proving that sometimes, the places we come from are the ones that shape us the most.

Peterborough/Brantford Americana Artist KC Armstrong Rides a Wave of Momentum as “I Don’t Care” Climbs the Canadian Independent Country Charts

Eric Alper
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Peterborough/Brantford Americana Artist KC Armstrong Rides a Wave of Momentum as “I Don’t Care” Climbs the Canadian Independent Country Charts

For many artists, releasing an album is a dream deferred. For Peterborough-born, Brantford-based Americana artist KC Armstrong, that dream became reality with Finally Crafted—and now, that dream comes with a new thrill: watching his music climb the charts.

Since releasing Finally Crafted in September 2024, Armstrong has been making waves internationally, earning radio play across multiple countries and securing the coveted #1 spot on two different stations—one in the U.S. and one in the U.K. But in Canada, the journey of “I Don’t Care” is proving to be the most exciting chapter yet.

A chance discovery of the Canadian Independent Country Countdown (CICC) led Armstrong down an unexpected path. Despite identifying as an Americana artist, he noticed that the chart welcomed the genre alongside country. A quick submission, a bit of good fortune, and a few weeks later, “I Don’t Care” entered the CICC chart at #150.

“I wasn’t expecting much from a country-based chart,” Armstrong admits. “I kept an eye on it, but I didn’t even promote it at first.” Yet the song had other plans. Climbing steadily, it cracked the Top 40 before Armstrong turned his promotional efforts toward it.

Then, a twist: without his knowledge, CICC also began playing his track “Someone Else Tonight.” That song entered at #148 and quickly gained traction—so much so that Armstrong split his focus, rallying support from family, friends, and even his local euchre league to help both tracks gain momentum.

What followed was an exhilarating race to the top. As “I Don’t Care” climbed to #26, Armstrong tapped into a community that had supported his career from the start: his hometown of Lakefield, ON. A single Facebook post mobilized an entire network, propelling the song into the Top 20 nationwide.

Currently, “I Don’t Care” sits at #18, while “Someone Else Tonight” continues to rise at #73—and Armstrong has his sights set on even higher ground.

With six Peterborough-area musicians contributing to Finally Crafted, Armstrong is calling on his home region to help push “I Don’t Care” into the Top 10 nationally.

“I’ve been writing and performing for years, but this is a whole new experience,” Armstrong says. “Seeing the support roll in, watching my songs find their audience—it’s been unreal.”
A testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of community, Finally Crafted is proving to be more than just an album title—it’s a rallying cry. And as Armstrong’s songs continue to rise, one thing is certain: he’s just getting started.

Odario, Mad Professor & Yolanda Sargeant Deliver a Hip-Hop Meets Dub Masterpiece With “The Situation”

Eric Alper
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Odario, Mad Professor & Yolanda Sargeant Deliver a Hip-Hop Meets Dub Masterpiece With “The Situation”

The worlds of hip-hop, dub, and soul collide in mesmerizing fashion on Odario’s latest single, The Situation—a deep, hypnotic groove that brings together UK dub pioneer Mad Professor and Canadian soul singer Yolanda Sargeant. This genre-blurring track, recorded at Mad Professor’s legendary Ariwa Studios in South London, is a lush blend of analog warmth, beat poetry, and sonic innovation.

Odario’s distinctive slow-flow lyricism, a signature of his work with Grand Analog and as a solo artist, finds a new home in the echo-drenched textures of Mad Professor’s signature dub production. “The Situation is a fresh rare groove that sounds like a manual no longer in use—three coats of dust mixed with the lush sound of the city at night,” says Odario. “It’s a reminder of where hip-hop and dub connect, two worlds of sound that have always belonged together.”

Odario’s journey with Mad Professor began in 2016 with their first collaboration on Grand Analog’s “Love Is A Battlefield.” Since then, the two have cultivated a brotherhood through sound and their shared heritage of being born in Guyana, leading to this latest single and an upcoming full-length project, tentatively titled Toaster Boys, set for release in late 2025.

A B-side dub version of The Situation, mixed by Mad Professor himself, strips the track down to its rawest elements, allowing the deep bass and haunting reverb to speak for itself. As the song fades, Mad Professor delivers a final mantra: “Dub music is a natural creation. Analog is our only sound. We don’t know nothing else.”

Joining Odario and Mad Professor on The Situation is the effortlessly soulful Yolanda Sargeant, whose smooth, ethereal vocals glide over the track’s deep, pulsating groove. Best known as one half of Sargeant X Comrade, Yolanda has been hailed as “Canada’s Queen of Lo-Fi Soul” and has built a career pushing the boundaries of jazz, hip-hop, and soul.

The track also features a powerful lineup of musicians, all masters in their craft. Warren Bray (bass, guitar) brings a deep, groove-heavy foundation to the track, while Alister Johnson (drums, keys) adds a rhythmic complexity that blends seamlessly with Mad Professor’s analog magic. Rounding out the sound is Aubrey McGhee (saxophone), whose subtle yet commanding horn arrangements elevate the track’s rich sonic landscape.

A Winnipeg-raised artist now based in Toronto, Odario has spent his career blending storytelling, hip-hop, and jazz-infused grooves. As a solo artist and former frontman of Grand Analog, he has worked with legends like Posdnuos (De La Soul), Shad, Maylee Todd, Cadence Weapon, and Saukrates. His music reflects his lifelong immersion in sound, from tagging along with his DJ father at late-night reggae and funk gigs to discovering the revolutionary work of King Tubby, Sister Nancy, and Scientist.

Available now, The Situation is a sonic meeting of minds, a tribute to the deep roots of dub and hip-hop, and a bold step toward Odario’s highly anticipated 2025 album.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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