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THE HU Announce 2025 “Incarnation” European Tour Dates

Eric Alper
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THE HU Announce 2025 “Incarnation” European Tour Dates

Innovative Mongolian rock group and global phenomenon THE HU will continue to dominate audiences worldwide in 2025 as they today announce dates for the European leg of their headlining “Incarnation” World Tour. Set to kick off in early June, the tour will coincide with a series of shows with THE HU supporting Scandinavian folk outfit Heilung on the band’s final tour. THE HU will also appear on several of Europe’s largest heavy music festivals during the run including Hellfest and Graspop Metal Meeting. See full dates listed below. Tickets are on sale this Friday, December 13 via THE HU’s website HERE.

THE HU recently released a ‘hunnu rock’-styled take on Iron Maiden’s classic single “The Trooper.” It was aligned with the start of their North American tour directly supporting the metal legends earlier this fall. Stream the “raucous, adrenaline-fueled” (NME) cover now HERE and watch the music video HERE. “If they had amplification in ‘Game of Thrones,’ there would have been a band like this,’ exclaimed Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (11/8/24). “The Hu is described as folk-metal but they sounded a lot more like Motörhead or Metallica while mixing in traditional string instruments the morin khuur and tovshuur, with throat-singing growls and howls on top.”

THE HU have brought Mongolian music to the forefront with their unique brand of Hunnu Rock which blends traditional Mongolian instrumentation and throat singing with contemporary rock music. With over 830 million all-time streams, 330 million video views, #1 charting albums, multiple sold-out headlining tours, prestigious government honors and awards, collaborations with several of rock’s biggest names, and featured music on video games including EA Games’ Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, THE HU have cemented their status as a global powerhouse.

THE HU TOUR DATES 2025:
6/6 Maastricht, NL – Gashouder ^
6/7 Stuttgart, DE – LKA Longhorn
6/8 Mannheim, DE – Palastzelt ^
6/10 Nancy, FR – L’autre Canal
6/11 Dijon, FR – La Vapeur
6/12 Nuremberg, DE – Z-Bau
6/14 Lingen, DE – EmslandArena ^
6/15 Braunschweig, DE – Applaus Garten
6/17 Dortmund, DE – FZW
6/18 Groningen, NL – De Oosterport
6/20 Clisson, FR – Hellfest #
6/19 – 6/22 Dessel, BE – Graspop #
6/23 Bratislava, SK – Refinery Gallery
6/25 Sofia, BG – Arena Sofia
6/26 Bucharest, RO – Arenele Romane
6/27 Kragujevac, RS – Arsenal Festival #
6/30 Ljubljana, SI – Kino Siska
7/1 Munich, DE – TollWood ^
7/2 Dunaujvaros, HU – Rockmaraton Festival #
7/4 Roskilde, DK – Roskilde #
7/5 Königstein, DE – Festung Königstein ^
7/8 Kiel, DE – Wunderino Arena ^
7/10 Wroclaw, PL – Hala Stulecia ^
7/12 Saarbrücken, DE – Open Air E-Werk^
7/13 Vizovice, CZ – Masters of Rock #
7/16 Istanbul, TR – Kucukciftlik Park
^ with Heilung
# festival date

Dave Navarro and Billy Morrison Announce Star-Studded “ABOVE GROUND” Benefit Concert in Hollywood

Eric Alper
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Dave Navarro and Billy Morrison Announce Star-Studded “ABOVE GROUND” Benefit Concert in Hollywood

Guitarists Dave Navarro (Jane’s Addiction) and Billy Morrison (Billy Idol) have announced the initial artists who will join them for the January 25 “ABOVE GROUND” benefit concert at The Fonda Theatre in Hollywood, CA. The fourth iteration of the event will feature performances from Billy Howerdel (A Perfect Circle), Billy Idol, Duff McKagan (Guns N’ Roses), Elliot Easton (The Cars), Jerry Cantrell (Alice In Chains), Jerry Harrison (Talking Heads/ Modern Lovers), Josh Freese (Foo Fighters), Mark McGrath (Sugar Ray), Steve Stevens (Billy Idol) and Tommy Henriksen & Glen Sobel (Alice Cooper, Hollywood Vampires), with additional talent to be announced in the new year.

The ABOVE GROUND concerts have become known for celebrating the vinyl album as an art form with performances of two seminal albums in their entirety. This year will see Navarro and Morrison shining the light on the groundbreaking self-titled debuts by the New York Dolls (1973) and The Cars (1978) and other songs.

“Dave and I love albums that sit closer to the ‘art’ side of things, and that are a bit of a challenge to recreate,” Billy Morrison says. “We just do our best to honor the records, to get the parts and the tones correct, to not just hack through bad cover versions of these important songs. So, we don’t really try to put a ‘spin’ on them but rather present these albums as they were meant to be heard, every song in order, sounding as close as we can get to the original.”

“ABOVE GROUND 3 [2021] was a great success,” Dave Navarro says. “But I got really sick with Covid after that show. And it’s been over two years until I was well enough to get back on stage. And as I continue to heal, we thought this is the time! We have work to do and we need to remind people, especially through the holidays, that it’s ok to ask for help! I really look forward to getting on stage with my friends and recreating this seminal music while at the same time having some fun and raising money for MusiCares.”

“The need to shine a light on mental health doesn’t go away,” Morrison says. “And I think that Dave and I work so well together on these AG events that it just felt right to come back with the fourth show. We both have our own mental health battles on different levels and if we can help raise some funds and awareness, then we are doing a good thing.

“ABOVE GROUND” launched in 2018 and has featured Navarro and Morrison alongside a star-studded lineup of their friends including Jack Black, Corey Taylor, Anthony Kiedis, Juliette Lewis, Courtney Love, Billy Idol, Al Jourgensen, Steve Stevens, and many more. The events have highlighted full-length albums from legendary acts including Adam and The Ants, Lou Reed, The Velvet Underground, David Bowie, The Stooges, and Sex Pistols. Tickets are on sale now HERE.

Suwannee Spring Reunion Adds Jim Lauderdale, Electric Larry Land, Po Ramblin’ Boys

Eric Alper
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Suwannee Spring Reunion Adds Jim Lauderdale, Electric Larry Land, Po Ramblin’ Boys

The Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park (SOSMP) in Live Oak, Florida, will host the 7th Annual Suwannee Spring Reunion from Thursday through Sunday, March 20–23. This family-friendly music festival spans four days and nights and includes camping, music workshops, children’s activities, arts & crafts, and daily yoga. Nestled amidst 800 acres of majestic Spanish moss-draped oak and cypress trees along the Suwannee River, the weekend will be jam-packed with music rooted in Americana, newgrass, bluegrass, folk, blues, and more.

Suwannee Spring Reunion is excited to announce new additions to the lineup including Jim Lauderdale & The Game Changers, Larry Keel’s Electric Larry Land, The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Jon Stickley Trio, Verlon Thompson, Paul McDonald & The Mourning Doves, Mosier Brothers Band, The Grass Is Dead, John Mailander (Artist at Large), Ain’t Sisters, Blair Crimmins & the Hookers, David Grier, Grateful Dawg Tribute with Billy Gilmore & Mickey Abraham, and more. This also includes a Suwannee debut performance by Yet To Be Gold, which features Gregor Sayet-Bone, Jeb Puryear (of Donna the Buffalo), Luca Greenspun, and Jonas Puryear.

These additions are in addition to the already announced stellar acts, which include The Infamous Stringdusters, Sam Bush, Donna the Buffalo, Kitchen Dwellers, Peter Rowan Walls of Time Band with Don Grant Reggaebilly, Steve Poltz, Fireside Collective, SCYTHIAN, Roy Book Binder, Hattie & Joe Craven Quartet, Big Cosmo’s Band, Lee Hunter & The Gatherers, and others. See the full lineup, including the new additions, below.

Suwannee Spring Reunion focuses on showcasing both established and up-and-coming roots musicians throughout the weekend, often featuring one-of-a-kind collaborations among the performers—you never know who will make a surprise appearance on stage (or in the campgrounds, for that matter). There’s an open invitation to join the many campground pickin’ party sites throughout the weekend, including Slopryland, hosted by Sloppy Joe, and the Bill Monroe Shrine, hosted by Quartermoon.

The lineup includes artists with storied histories of epic Suwannee performances over the years. The festival is home to generations of families who have gathered year after year to experience that shared connection to the music and to a sense of something bigger than themselves.

Suwannee Spring Reunion hosts multiple areas for music, including Big Cosmo’s Amphitheater, the NEW Music Farmers Stage at The Porch and The Back Porch, the Music Hall, and The Tent.

The Music Farmers Stage at The Back Porch is sponsored by the festival’s nonprofit arm, the Live Oak Music and Arts Foundation (LOMAF). A raffle with a variety of prizes donated by festival merchants, artists, and sponsors will be held on-site at a tent at the top of the hill near Big Cosmo’s Amphitheater. Proceeds will benefit LOMAF to support music and arts programs in North Florida schools, including the Suwannee Spirit Kids Music Camp.

Tickets are on sale now. Suwannee Spring Reunion offers a multi-day Weekend Ticket that includes festival admission for four days of music, as well as primitive camping on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. Military and student discounts are available. Children 12 and under are free if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Get your tickets before they increase to the next pricing tier. Please note that an additional event car pass is required to bring a car into the campground—Advance Car Pass: $15 or $20 at the Gate. For complete ticket information and to purchase tickets, visit www.suwanneespringreunion.com/Tickets/.

SOSMP offers guest comforts including a general store, a full-service restaurant, free showers, indoor bathrooms, and water stations. Upgraded camping options, including RV hookups and cabin rentals, as well as golf cart rentals, are currently on sale. Reservations may be made by calling the Park office at (386) 364-1683. SOSMP is located between Jacksonville and Tallahassee, about 30 minutes south of the Georgia state line and approximately 45 minutes north of Gainesville. It hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Please visit the park’s website at www.musicliveshere.com for further information.

Suwannee Spring Reunion 2025 Lineup:
New additions in purple
The Infamous Stringdusters
Sam Bush
Donna the Buffalo
Kitchen Dwellers
Peter Rowan Walls of Time Band with Don Grant Reggaebilly
Jim Lauderdale & The Game Changers
Larry Keel’s Electric Larry Land
Steve Poltz
Jon Stickley Trio
Fireside Collective
Verlon Thompson
SCYTHIAN
Roy Book Binder
John Mailander (Artist at Large)
Hattie & Joe Craven Quartet
The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys
The Grass Is Dead
Paul McDonald & The Mourning Doves
Mosier Brothers Band
Blair Crimmins & the Hookers
Ain’t Sisters
Grandpa’s Cough Medicine
Nikki Talley Band
Grateful Dawg Tribute with Billy Gilmore & Mickey Abraham
Ralph Roddenbery
David Grier
Lee Hunter & The Gatherers
Big Cosmo’s Band
The New Quintet
Habanero Honeys
Todd Albright
Yet To Be Gold
Sloppy Joe
Quartermoon
Magic Moon Traveling Circus
Bill Monroe Shrine
Slopryland Music Workshops
Umalumina Daily Yoga with Rhonda Bell

 

Lyle Lovett Adds Additional Dates To 2025 U.S. Tour

Eric Alper
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Lyle Lovett Adds Additional Dates To 2025 U.S. Tour

4x Grammy Award-winning singer, composer and actor Lyle Lovett has announced additional dates to his extensive 2025 tour with his Acoustic Group. Tickets for the newly added shows will be available this week, with pre-sale starting today, December 11 at 10:00AM local time, followed by general on-sale this Friday, December 13 at 10:00AM local time. For tickets, go to www.lylelovett.com/tour.

Lovett’s 2025 tour kicks off overseas on January 19 in Glasgow at Royal Concert Hall, followed by stops in Dublin, Belfast, and London. Lovett will also receive the Trailblazer Award on January 23 in London at the UK’s Americana Music Association Awards.  The U.S. leg begins shortly thereafter on February 4 at The Grand 1984 Opera House in Galveston, TX, and makes 38 stops across the country The full tour itinerary is listed below.

Whether touring as a ‘Duo’ or with his ‘Acoustic Group’ or his ‘Large Band,’ Lovett’s live performances show not only the breadth of this Texas legend’s deep talents, but also the diversity of his influences, making him one of the most compelling and captivating musicians in popular music.

A singer, composer and actor, Lyle Lovett has broadened the definition of American music in a career that spans 14 albums. Coupled with his gift for storytelling, the Texas-based musician fuses elements of country, swing, jazz, folk, gospel and blues in a convention-defying manner that breaks down barriers. Since his self-titled debut in 1986, Lyle Lovett has evolved into one of music’s most vibrant and iconic performers. Among his many accolades, besides the four Grammy Awards, he was given the Americana Music Association’s inaugural Trailblazer Award, and was named Texas State Musician. In January 2025, he will be honored with the International Trailblazer Award at the UK Americana Music Awards. His works, rich and eclectic, are some of the most beloved of any artist working today.

2025 Tour Dates:

January 19—Glasgow, UK—Glasgow Royal Concert Hall
January 20—Dublin, IRE—Dublin National Concert Hall
January 21—Belfast, UK—Belfast Ulster Hall
January 24—London, UK—London Cadogan Hall
January 25—London, UK—London Cadogan Hall
February 4—Galveston, TX—The Grand 1984 Opera House
February 5—New Braunfels, TX—Gruene Hall
February 6—New Braunfels, TX—Gruene Hall
February 7—New Braunfels, TX—Gruene Hall SOLD OUT
February 8—Kerrville, TX—Arcadia Live Theatre SOLD OUT
February 11—Colorado Springs, CO—Pikes Peak Center
February 12—Greeley, CO—Union Colony Civic Center
February 13—Aspen, CO—Belly Up Aspen
February 14—Breckenridge, CO—Riverwalk Center
February 15—Steamboat Springs, CO—Strings Music Pavilion SOLD OUT
February 16—Grand Junction, CO—The Historic Avalon Theatre
February 19—Seattle, WA—Moore Theatre
February 20—Bellingham, WA—Mount Baker Theatre SOLD OUT
February 21—Olympia, WA—Washington Center for the Performing Arts
February 22—Salem, OR—Elsinore Theatre
February 23—Astoria, OR—Liberty Theatre SOLD OUT
February 25—Carmel-By-the-Sea, CA—Sunset Cultural Center
February 26—Folsom, CA—The Harris Center
February 27—Vacaville, CA—Vacaville Performing Arts Theatre
March 2—Palm Desert, CA—McCallum Theatre for the Performing Arts
March 3—Thousand Oaks, CA—Fred Kavli Theatre at Bank of America Performing Arts Center
March 5—Del Mar, CA—The Sound at Del Mar
March 6—Cerritos, CA—Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts
March 7—Ivins, UT—Tuacahn Amphitheatre
March 8—Presscott, AZ—Jim & Linda Lee Performing Arts Center
March 10—Scottsdale, AZ—Arizona Musicfest at Highlands Church SOLD OUT
March 11—Tucson, AZ—Fox Tucson Theatre SOLD OUT
April 3—Nashville, TN—Schermerhorn Symphony Center#
April 4—Nashville, TN—Schermerhorn Symphony Center#
April 5—Nashville, TN—Schermerhorn Symphony Center#
April 22—Lynchburg, VA—Historic Academy Theatre
April 23—Greensburg, PA—The Palace Theatre
April 24—Wilmington, DE—The Grand Opera House
April 25—York, PA—Appell Center for the Performing Arts
April 26—Tarrytown, NY—Tarrytown Music Hall
April 27—Concord, NH—Capitol Center for the Arts – Chubb Theatre
April 29—Portsmouth, NH—The Music Hall
April 30—Brownfield, ME—Stone Mountain Arts Center
May 1—Cranston, RI—The Park Theatre
May 2—Lexington, MA—Cary Hall
May 3—Rockport, MA—Shalin Liu Performance Center
May 4—Rockport, MA—Shalin Liu Performance Center
#with the Nashville Symphony
More dates TBA

Trombone Shorty’s Key Upcoming Performances Include The Super Bowl, Kennedy Center Honors, CBS National Christmas Tree Lighting

Eric Alper
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Trombone Shorty’s Key Upcoming Performances Include The Super Bowl, Kennedy Center Honors, CBS National Christmas Tree Lighting

Trombone Shorty has announced a number of key upcoming performances, as well as summer 2025 tour dates with his band Orleans Avenue. Trombone Shorty will be performing at The Super Bowl (FOX) on February 8 in his hometown of New Orleans, playing “America The Beautiful” with Lauren Daigle during the pre-game show. He is also performing at the CBS National Christmas Tree Lighting at the White House, which will broadcast on December 20, and performed last night at the Kennedy Center Honors, to celebrate recipient Arturo Sandoval, which will air on December 22 at 8:30PM ET on CBS / Paramount Plus.

Trombone Shorty also recently earned a fresh GRAMMY Nomination, for his appearance on Live At The 2024 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival by New Breed Brass Band, the New Orleans ensemble led by his nephew, Jenard Andrews (Best Regional Roots Music Album). Trombone Shorty is a GRAMMY-winner and now a four-time nominee: he earned a nomination in the same category last year for his work on New Breed Brass Band’s debut album, Made In New Orleans, which he produced and recorded at his Buckjump studio.

Today he has also announced a summer tour with JJ Grey & Mofro and Dumpstaphunk, stopping at major venues across the country in June and July including LA’s The Greek Theater (June 8), Chicago’s Salt Shed (July 12) and more. Tickets go on sale this Friday, 12/13 (10AM Local). The summer tour is in addition to the recently announced second annual Shorty Gras Tour in March 2025 with Tank and the Bangas. Fresh off a busy year of performances and a planned cultural exchange trip to Cuba, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue will deliver their signature high-energy performances over a three-week run of shows, bringing New Orleans’ famous Mardi Gras party to the East Coast, South and Midwest. Full 2025 itinerary here: https://www.tromboneshorty.com/tour

The upcoming appearances and tour announcement arrives amid a packed year for the New Orleans icon and musical ambassador. From January 16-20, he will embark on the fourth Getting Funky in Havana cultural exchange trip to Cuba, alongside Orleans Avenue, young musicians from the Trombone Shorty Foundation, renowned Afro-Cuban star Cimafunk, George Clinton, Taj Mahal, Grace Potter, Yola and Robert Randolph. The cultural exchange will feature performances and collaborations between artists from New Orleans and Cuba, highlighting the deep-rooted musical connections between the two regions.

Over the past year, Trombone Shorty headed tours with Big Boi and headlined historic venues like the Hollywood Bowl. He also appeared at the White House’s Juneteenth Celebration, played a headline set with Lil Wayne at the Roots Picnic, made a special appearance at Madison Square Garden for the Soulshine benefit concert to aid recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, and once again closed out the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, a tradition he has led for over a decade.

2025 Shorty Gras Tour Dates:
Thursday, March 6 – Burlington, VT – The Flynn
Friday, March 7 – Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre
Saturday, March 8 – Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre
Tuesday, March 11 – Van Wert, OH – Niswonger Performing Arts Center
Wednesday, March 12 – Columbus, OH – Newport Music Hall
Friday, March 14 – Nashville, IN – Brown County Music Center
Saturday, March 15 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium
Sunday, March 16 – Memphis, TN – Minglewood Hall
Tuesday, March 18 – Tulsa, OK – Cain’s Ballroom
Thursday, March 20 – Austin, TX – Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater
Friday, March 21 – Dallas, TX – Majestic Theatre
Saturday, March 22 – Houston, TX – House of Blues

2025 Summer Tour Dates – announced today:
Wednesday, June 4 – Aspen, CO – Belly Up Aspen
Thursday, June 5 – Vail, CO – Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
Saturday, June 7 – San Diego, CA – The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park
Sunday, June 8 – Los Angeles, CA – The Greek Theatre
Wednesday, June 11 – San Francisco, CA – The Masonic
Friday, June 13 – Eugene, OR – The Cuthbert Amphitheater
Sunday, June 15 – Airway Heights, WA – Northern Quest Resort & Casino
Tuesday, June 17 – Sandy, UT – Sandy Amphitheater
Wednesday, June 18 – Arvada, CO – Arvada Center
Friday, July 11 – Minneapolis, MN – Surly Brewing Festival Field
Saturday, July 12 – Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed
Thursday, July 17 – Lewiston, NY – Artpark Amphitheater
Friday, July 18 – Portland, ME – Thompson’s Point
Saturday, July 19 – Hyannis, MA – Cape Cod Melody Tent
Sunday, July 20 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway

Cosmico 2025: Boutique Music Festival Returns to Sonoma County with White Denim, Bay Ledges, and Gilligan Moss

Eric Alper
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Cosmico 2025: Boutique Music Festival Returns to Sonoma County with White Denim, Bay Ledges, and Gilligan Moss

Cosmico, in conjunction with the Launch Pad Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit charity, announces an exciting and diverse lineup for its event taking place May 16–18, 2025, at Dawn Ranch in Guerneville, California. This unique festival creates an immersive experience for attendees, including on-site accommodations, opportunities to connect with the artists, local food and wine experiences, and family-friendly programs. Last year’s festival brought together members of the Sonoma community to create an incredible and engaging event.

A Sonic Journey Through the Redwoods
“Cosmico takes you on a sonic journey connecting artists, audience, and nature to raise our collective vibration,” says Chris Schultz, Producer of Cosmico. “This year’s Cosmico Sound features a genre-spanning lineup: beginning with soulful psychedelic rock on Friday, layering in indie rock and electronic dance music on Saturday, and culminating with American roots music and ‘never miss a Sunday show’ vibes on Sunday.”

The lineup features White Denim, Gilligan Moss, Bay Ledges, Paul McDonald & the Mourning Doves, Jason Crosby & Friends, Logan Ledger, Never Come Down, New Body Electric, Jeremy Sole, Gaby de la Juentes, Kacie Hill, and ZG Smith.

New for 2025 is a dance tent hosted by Jason Bentley (KCRW) and Chris Smith, a.k.a. Shiny Objects (Ohm Records), who will curate a lineup of dance and electronic music. The weekend will be filled with music, from the main stage under the redwoods to acoustic sets throughout the property, plus late-night after-parties in the lodge for VIP ticket holders.

Discover the Magic of Dawn Ranch
Dawn Ranch is a stunning boutique resort located on the lower Russian River, offering over 22 acres of lush grounds, luxury cabins, a spa, and a restaurant. The Dawn Ranch experience invites you to immerse yourself in nature’s beauty and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Cosmico will take place under the redwood trees, creating a magical experience for all who attend.

For a truly one-of-a-kind experience, attendees can stay on-site at Cosmico in one of the 81 cabins at Dawn Ranch by purchasing a VIP Stay Onsite Package, available for sale now. On-site packages sold out last year, and are sure to sell out quickly this year.

General Admission ticket holders can stay just steps from the festival at one of our accommodation partners, to be announced in January.

Early Bird Tickets and Stay Onsite Packages On Sale Now
Weekend passes and VIP Stay Onsite Packages are now available at https://cosmi.co. Early-bird tickets are available until they sell out at 2024 prices: General Admission early-bird tickets for $149 and VIP early-bird tickets for $349. Single-day tickets will be available in January 2025.

The Cosmico Experience Has Something for Everyone
The weekend will highlight what Sonoma County is known for: independent boutique wineries, incredible food, stunning nature, and a vibrant arts and creative community. Cosmico will offer tailored experiences for all attendees:

  • Wine Camp: Explore the different tastes of independent winemakers in our dedicated tasting area, and enjoy unique experiences offered by our winery partners to celebrate the rich viticulture that defines our region.
  • White Sage Market: Discover treasures created by artisans, including one-of-a-kind jewelry, vintage pieces, records, clothing, and more. We focus on handcrafted and thoughtfully sourced items.
  • Healing Experiences: Connect with nature, expand your consciousness, and experience healing programs such as forest bathing, sound baths, and tea ceremonies. Explore the area’s natural beauty to nourish your soul.
  • Kids Camp: Engage the little ones in a camp-like experience highlighting music and art.

Cosmico is the main fundraising event for the Launch Pad Foundation, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to creating stronger communities through entrepreneurship and the arts. Launch Pad is a community foundation and fiscal sponsor for independent grassroots organizations making a difference in their communities. Benefiting organizations include Voices for a Stronger Tennessee, Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods, Trip the Light Fantastic, Healdsburg Dance Collective, and Peptoc.

“Cosmico is our opportunity to bring our community together and foster deeper connections through music. It is a platform to demonstrate the Launch Pad Foundation’s commitment to community and the grassroots organizations that do the hard work of lifting others up.” – Anne Driscoll, CEO of Launch Pad Foundation.

Dark Star Orchestra Announces 2025 Winter Tour with Stops in Six Cities

Eric Alper
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Dark Star Orchestra Announces 2025 Winter Tour with Stops in Six Cities

Dark Star Orchestra is keeping their celebratory spirit rolling right into 2025! After wrapping up their annual Jamaican Jam in the Sand festival and a winter run along the West Coast, the band will bring their Winter Tour eastward this March, making stops in six cities over eight electrifying shows.

This newly announced run features two-night stands at both the F.M. Kirby Center in Wilkes-Barre, PA, and the Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, NJ. Fans can also catch the band at the College Street Music Hall in New Haven, CT, the State Theatre in Ithaca, NY, and two exciting first-time venues: the Providence Performing Arts Center in Providence, RI, and the Luhrs Center in Shippensburg, PA.

Secure your spot before the general public! The artist pre-sale begins on Wednesday, December 11 at 10 AM ET, and tickets open to everyone on Friday, December 13 at 10 AM ET. Sign up for an Artist Pre-Sale code at darkstarorchestra.net, and don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable winter adventure.

Tour Dates:

MAR 6 // New Haven, CT – College Street Music Hall
MAR 7 & 8 // Wilkes-Barre, PA – F.M. Kirby Center
MAR 10 // Ithaca, NY – State Theatre
MAR 12 // Providence, RI – Providence Performing Arts Center
MAR 13 // Shippensburg, PA – Luhrs Center
MAR 14 & 15 // Red Bank, NJ – Count Basie Center for the Arts

The Philly Specials, Jason Kelce, Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata Announce Global Partners to Help Execute Operation Snowball

Eric Alper
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The Philly Specials, Jason Kelce, Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata Announce Global Partners to Help Execute Operation Snowball

The Philly Specials—Jason, Lane, and Jordan—are excited to announce their global partners, including retailers and toy companies, who have donated 200,000 age-appropriate toys, apparel, cosmetics, and more to help achieve Operation Snowball. Operation Snowball is their ambitious goal of delivering a gift to every student in the School District of Philadelphia this December, in collaboration with The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia.

With the release of their third and final holiday album, A Philly Special Christmas Party (Vera Y Records), currently at #2 on Billboard’s Holiday Charts, the players decided to do something never before done for Philadelphia’s public school students—truly embracing the spirit and magic of the season. All proceeds from album sales support this citywide initiative, as well as direct donations to The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia.

The initial idea for Operation Snowball was sparked by Jason Kelce, who wanted to match the indomitable spirit of the City of Philadelphia by doing something BIG that would reach an unprecedented number of young people. When children’s entertainment company Spin Master generously donated close to $1 million worth of toys to get the initiative (and “snowball”) rolling, Operation Snowball was born. Spin Master is best known for its innovation in toys and games, including award-winning brands like PAW Patrol™, Hatchimals™, and Rubik’s Cube™.

In addition to Spin Master, The Philly Specials are teaming up with the following global partners, toy companies, and non-profits to bring Operation Snowball to life:

  • Just Play: A leading global toy manufacturer that delivers play for kids of all ages—from the Toy of the Year (TOTY) Award Finalist furReal Peanut the Playful Monkey to the magical “phygital” toy HOLOBRITE—along with many other best-selling toys representing the world’s best entertainment brands.
  • Fanatics: A leading global digital sports platform that created exclusive merchandise for Operation Snowball.
  • Jazwares: Makers of Squishmallows, Bumbumz, and more.
  • QVC: A world leader in live, shoppable entertainment that made a financial donation to support this initiative.
  • Tarte Cosmetics: Celebrating 25 years of female-founded, cruelty-free beauty infused with good-for-you ingredients and kindness.
  • The Toy Foundation: A nonprofit organization that unites the toy industry’s donations to bring the power and comfort of play to children in need. It works with World Vision to distribute toys globally.
  • Amazon Wondery / Amazon Local Good: Operation Snowball’s delivery and logistics partner, managing the distribution of toys.
  • WildBrain: A global leader in kids’ and family entertainment that created the animated video for “It’s Christmas Time (in Cleveland Heights)” featuring Jason and Travis Kelce and Boyz II Men, which premiered on December 6.
  • Five Below: A leading high-growth value retailer offering trend-right, high-quality products loved by tweens, teens, and beyond.
  • Wawa: The beloved Philadelphia convenience store donated coupons for hot chocolate to gift to every student.
  • Shipmate Fulfillment  and Zippy Shell: Offering additional delivery, shipping, and logistics support to help execute Operation Snowball.

“We are grateful for the generosity of Jason Kelce, Lane Johnson, and Jordan Mailata, in coordination with The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia, for launching Operation Snowball,” said Tony B. Watlington, Sr., Ed.D., Superintendent of the School District of Philadelphia. “This ambitious effort will help bring joy—one of our core values in our five-year strategic plan, Accelerate Philly—to students across Philadelphia this holiday season, thanks in part to sales of the third holiday album, A Philly Special Christmas Party.”

“When I first came to Philadelphia, it was apparent how much pride, joy, and a sense of community and family this city exudes,” says Jason Kelce. “It’s the City of Brotherly Love, and this city has supported this initiative over the past two years. We’ve done two Christmas albums, and because of your support, we’ve raised over four million dollars and given to over fifty charitable organizations. This year, we’re trying to go even bigger—trying to give a gift to every kid in Philly’s public schools this holiday season. If that’s not the holiday spirit, I don’t know what is. That’s the Philadelphia spirit that I’ve come to know, love, and appreciate.”

“Operation Snowball is an incredible undertaking that reminds us who matters most in our fight for, and investments in, public education: our children,” says Kathryn Epps, President and CEO of The Fund for the School District. “As the only nonprofit organization charged with aligning philanthropic dollars with district priorities to spur student achievement, The Fund is proud to partner on this opportunity to celebrate our children and reward them for their hard work and dedication this school year. We thank The Philly Specials and former Eagle and album executive producer, Connor Barwin, for their generous support of our students.”

Listen to A Philly Special Christmas Party Here.

“Santa Drives An Astrovan,” the album’s third single, has reached #1 on the iTunes Holiday Charts and is accompanied by a music video shot before a live audience at Lincoln Financial Field. The first two singles from A Philly Special Christmas Party include the iTunes #1 holiday chart-topping duet by Kelce and Stevie Nicks, “Maybe This Christmas,” and the #7-ranked collaboration “It’s Christmas Time (In Cleveland Heights)” by Jason, Travis, and Boyz II Men. The music video for “Loud Little Town,” featuring Jason and Kylie Kelce, was released on YouTube the night before Thanksgiving.

A Philly Special Christmas Special raised over $3 million, and its singles “This Christmas,” “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” “Fairytale of Philadelphia,” and “Pretty Paper” have garnered over 10 million streams across platforms. “Fairytale of Philadelphia” reached #1 on iTunes, and 50,000 copies have been sold on vinyl. The stop-motion special created by unPOP Animation, A Philly Special Christmas Special, has been viewed over 700,000 times, with 10,000 live viewers tuning in for its Thanksgiving night premiere. Its predecessor in 2022, A Philly Special Christmas, immediately sold out its limited pressing. That record reached four top-ten spots on various Billboard Music Charts, including #1 on the Compilation Albums Chart.

A Philly Special Christmas donated over $1 million to local charities, including the Children’s Crisis Treatment Center, and fulfilled the wish lists of Philadelphia School District teachers via DonorsChoose.

As the only fundraising organization with a direct understanding of the needs of students and families in Philadelphia’s traditional public schools, The Fund for the School District of Philadelphia works to ensure that an excellent public education is within reach of every child. By aligning philanthropic and private-sector dollars with district priorities to advance academic achievement, The Fund helps transform students’ lives. To learn more, visit thefundsdp.org.

Trampled by Turtles To Headline Rooster Walk 15 Music & Arts Festival

Eric Alper
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Rooster Walk 15 is excited to announce that the chart-topping progressive bluegrass band Trampled by Turtles will headline the 15th annual Rooster Walk Music & Arts Festival, taking place May 22-25, 2025, at Pop’s Farm in Martinsville, Virginia.

“We’re thrilled to finally welcome Trampled by Turtles to Rooster Walk,” said Johnny Buck, Executive Director of Rooster Walk. “Our fans have been asking for them for years, and after several attempts, it all came together for RW15. We can’t wait!”

In addition to Trampled by Turtles, Town Mountain (Asheville, NC), a long-time favorite, will return to Rooster Walk for their sixth performance at the festival. They previously co-headlined Rooster Walk 1 in 2009.

Other newly announced bands include: Kendall Street Company (jamband / Charlottesville, Va.); Sneezy (partyfunk Chicago, Il.); Caitlin Krisko & The Broadcast (soul roots / Asheville, N.C.); Caleb Caudle (roots music / Winston Salem N.C.); The Wilson Springs Hotel (roots rock / Richmond, Va.); Isaac Hadden (jam / Asheville, N.C.); Sol Driven Train (R&B / Charleston, S.C.); Florencia & The Feeling (R&B/soul, Johnson City, TN); Ramona & The Holy Smokes (honky tonk / Charlottesville, Va.); Big Fat Gap (bluegrass / Chapel Hill, N.C.); Mountain Walrus (jam / Roanoke, Va.);  The Shoaldiggers (Horny swampgrass, North Carolina); Griffin (southern rock / Martinsville, Va.); DJ What? (dj / Martinsville, Va.); Raffi Kids Tribute by Mile Andrews (Chapel Hill, N.C.)

Previously announced RW15 bands include: Daniel Donato’s Cosmic Country (jam-roots-country / Nashville, TN),  Andy Frasco & The U.N. (rock/Los Angeles, CA); Little Stranger (indie hip-hop / Charleston, S.C.); Yarn (roots rock / NC-NY), Hogslop String Band (bluegrass / Nashville, TN), ShadowGrass (progressive bluegrass / VA-NC); the Rooster Walk House Band (various cities).

A third and final batch of bands will be announced in January 2025.

Tickets and camping passes for Rooster Walk 15 are available now at www.roosterwalk.com, which also features all the information needed to plan for an amazing experience. Some options are in low inventory.

The festival will be held Thursday through Sunday of Memorial Day weekend at the scenic Pop’s Farm venue. With over 50 bands performing on 6 stages, attendees can expect an immersive experience filled with live music, food, craft beer, family-friendly activities, arts, and outdoor adventures, including guided fly fishing trips, pedal boats, yoga, and more.

Rooster Walk has earned recognition as one of the Top 5 festivals in Virginia by Richmond-Times Dispatch and was voted the region’s Most Creative Charitable Event by Virginia Living Magazine for three consecutive years.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit local and regional charities, including the Penn-Shank Memorial Endowment Scholarship Fund for Martinsville High School students and the Rooster Walk Music Instrument Program for local schools. Additionally, a portion of every admission ticket sold before January 1, 2025, will be donated to the United Way’s efforts to support Hurricane Helene victims in the mid-Atlantic region.

Rooster Walk is produced by Rooster Walk Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has donated over $330,000 to local charities since its founding in 2009.

Bob Mosley’s 1972 Solo Debut Gets Long-Awaited Revival with OMAD Records Reissue

Eric Alper
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Bob Mosley’s 1972 Solo Debut Gets Long-Awaited Revival with OMAD Records Reissue

The influence of 1960s rock legends Moby Grape has long been acknowledged by a diverse range of artists, from Robert Plant and Little Steven to Beck, Chrissie Hynde, Cat Power, and Jeff Tweedy. The band’s five distinct songwriters created a timeless musical tapestry that continues to resonate with new generations. Yet, while Moby Grape’s legacy thrives, one of its most integral members—bassist and singer Bob Mosley—never received the recognition he deserved for his 1972 Warner Bros. solo debut Bob Mosley… until now.

Today, OMAD Records is proud to announce the long-awaited reissue of Bob Mosley, newly remastered and available on CD beginning December 6. The original sessions captured Mosley’s formidable musical vision at its peak. With raw, bluesy rockers like “The Joker,” the horn-driven soul of “Gypsy Wedding,” and the country-tinged yearning of “Thanks,” the album is a testament to Mosley’s vocal prowess and muscular bass playing. Supported by drummer Allen Wehr, guitarists Woodie Berry and Frank Smith, the Memphis Horns, and pedal steel from Ed Black, the record brims with energy and emotion—yet its initial release never achieved the widespread acclaim it deserved.

Enter singer, songwriter, and producer John DeNicola, a lifelong Moby Grape devotee who was inspired to give this unsung gem the sonic depth it always merited. DeNicola’s own track record includes co-writing the iconic hits “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” and “Hungry Eyes” for the Dirty Dancing soundtrack, earning him an Academy Award and a Grammy nomination. He also discovered the band Kara’s Flowers, which later evolved into Maroon 5. Through his boutique label OMAD, DeNicola has consistently championed artistry and authenticity.

Upon revisiting Bob Mosley, DeNicola was struck by the thinness of the original mix—particularly in the low-end frequencies. “It’s a record that should have soared, and I felt like the bass and drums deserved more presence,” he says. Though the original multitracks had gone missing, DeNicola obtained the master two-track DDP file from Warner Bros. and employed innovative “de-mix” technology and AI-driven separation tools. By isolating and rebalancing the rhythm section, DeNicola has finally brought out the warmth, depth, and groove that Mosley intended.

“I’m really happy with it,” DeNicola enthuses. “This record now sounds as it should have from the start—bolder, fuller, more alive. Bob Mosley’s talent always shone through, but now it’s presented as it was meant to be heard.”

In an era when physical media is experiencing a resurgence, OMAD’s reissue of Bob Mosley on CD—and potentially on vinyl—offers a fresh opportunity for both longtime fans and newcomers to discover this lost masterpiece. All profits from the release will go directly to Mosley himself, a former Marine who has faced personal challenges over his 81 years but remains a cherished figure in the rock pantheon.

“Bob’s doing well these days,” DeNicola notes. “With this release, listeners can finally understand and believe his worth, just like he asks on the opening track ‘The Joker.’ His voice, his bass, and his songs deserve this moment in the spotlight.”

For more information, or to order the CD, please visit OMAD Records.

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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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