Rock 'n' Roll Truth

2026 Coachella Weekend 1, Day 1 recap

2026-04-12T15:34:00.000-07:00

Sabrina Carpenter (seen in the upper left) performing on the Coachella
Stage on Friday, April 10. Photo courtesy of YouTube

While not everyone can attend Weekend 1 of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, just about everyone can watch key performances in their entirety thanks to YouTube's official livestream of the event. In this column I will highlight a handful of the outstanding artists I caught on day one of Coachella (Friday, April 10) via the livestream. And I found both the visual and audio elements of the livestream to be excellent.

Devo / Photo courtesy of YouTube

Performing on the Mojave stage, groundbreaking American band Devo brought a mix of new wave and art rock to a set that spanned just under an hour. Highlights included the robotic "Don't Shoot (I'm a Man)," hyper synth rocker "Peek-A-Boo!," driving "Girl U Want," infectious hit "Whip It" and set-ending "Freedom of Choice."

The xx performing on the Coachella Stage on April 10.
Photo courtesy of YouTube

The xx thrilled throughout their 50-minute set on the Coachella Stage. Although the trio is armed with a signature sound that showcases the unique talents of Romy Bradley Croft, Oliver Sim and Jamie xx in spades, each of the selections highlighted different areas of the trio's collaborative command of their sonic universe. Dream pop, Euro dance sorties, electronic rock and more styles were masterfully explored during the fast-moving 16-track outing. I look forward to catching The xx when they return to perform in Indio on April 17.

Another strong performance came from New York City native Moby, one of the most important artists to emerge in the 1990s. His energetic and inspired 50-minute set on the Mojave stage was a chance to catch the legendary artist mix up a number of his beloved classics including the high-octane opener "Bodyrock," dance-meets-world music foray "Go" (the latter featuring Moby on percussion), his doomed relationship-themed "Porcelain," the rousing electronica romp "Extreme Ways," and several poignant originals featuring guest vocalist Jacob Lusk ("Natural Blues" in particular was a powerful standout).

The day's headliner Sabrina Carpenter (seen on the left) turned in a 90-minute production taking full advantage of the larger-than-life setting afforded by the Empire Polo Club. The multi-Grammy winner unleashed a parade of high energy, accessible tracks in front of a massive crowd positioned in front of the Coachella Stage.

For more information, visit Coachella.com.

Justin Hayward brings 'The Story In Your Eyes Tour' to Phoenix

2026-04-09T10:53:00.000-07:00

Who: Justin Hayward

Where: Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix, AZ

When: Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Information: justinhayward.com

Review and photos by Robert Kinsler

It's hard to imagine a more enthusiastic audience than the one that caught legendary singer-songwriter/guitarist Justin Hayward's "The Story In Your Eyes" Tour at the Celebrity Theatre in Phoenix on Wednesday night. Although 79, Hayward looked and sounded decades younger; his signature vocals soared and his artful lead guitar work impressed at every turn. And when it came to an extended portion of the night where he fielded questions from members of the audience, he was charming and witty — adding even more magic to the event.

Backed by a terrific four-member band, Hayward revisited many of his most beloved Moody Blues and solo hits in a fast-moving 90-minute set. The approach focused on blending classic rock, Americana and Baroque pop stylings together to masterfully showcase the emotional and melodic strength of each of the songs.

Hayward opened the night with the Moody Blues' "Lovely To See You," bringing a warm Americana vibe to the track from that band's 1969 LP On the Threshold of a Dream. Other Moody Blues favorites also received reworkings early in the set including "Gypsy," "Tuesday Afternoon" (the latter featuring Karmen Gould's virtuoso flute playing), and "The Voice" with Gould and keyboardist Julie Ragins sharing lead vocals with Hayward.

The Question & Answer part of the night found Hayward tackling everything from how he takes care of his voice, when he began playing guitar, and the band's memorable concert at the Isle of Wight in 1970 before an estimated crowd of 600,000 concertgoers (one of his most bittersweet memories of that event was that it marked the last time Hayward saw Jimi Hendrix).

The momentum of the concert continued after the Q and A, with "The Land of Make-Believe," "You and Me," "Forever Autumn," "Your Wildest Dreams" and driving "Question" (the latter featuring Hayward on 12-string acoustic guitar) among the standouts.

The night was capped off with stellar takes on "Nights in White Satin" with Hayward's dynamic vocals front and center, a rocking "The Story in Your Eyes" and wonderful "I Know You're Out There Somewhere." Then Hayward remained alone, walking to different areas at the front of the stage to greet and chat with fans awhile, including one young boy who was rewarded with Hayward's guitar pick.

If Hayward's "The Story In Your Eyes" tour is hitting your town this spring, don't miss it!

Justin Hayward connecting with fans at the end of his April 8, 2026 concert.

The Alarm releases "Live Today," the final video featuring the late Mike Peters

2026-04-08T08:47:00.000-07:00

Make sure to check out the bittersweet video "Live Today," - the final music video filmed with the late Alarm frontman Mike Peters. A fantastic song and one that resonates powerfully...Robert Kinsler

Releases “Live Today”
The Final Video Featuring Mike Peters
Who Passed Away April 2025
Premieres via Consequence

New Album TRANSFORMATION
To Be Released May 29, 2026
On Twenty First Century Recordings/Virgin Music Group

Click above to watch the newly released "Live Today" music video

APRIL 8, 2026 [New York, NY] – “Mike lived a life of beauty and never gave up right to the very end,” says Jules Peters, bandmate and wife of the late Mike Peters of THE ALARM who passed away on April 29, 2025. Following a fearlessly valiant 31-year battle with cancer, his monumental legacy continues with the release of TRANSFORMATION on May 29, 2026 on Twenty First Century Recordings/Virgin Music Group. Its latest single, “Live Today” premieres now via Consequence.

Filmed just days before Mike underwent the innovative CAR-T treatment with hopes of eradicating Richter’s Syndrome, an aggressive form of lymphoma, “Live Today” is Mike’s final video. “As the sun rose, watching Mike perform this song with so much optimism and hope will live with me forever,” said Jules as she looks back. “It was a bittersweet day for me as we filmed this incredible joyous film on the beach in the North of England. After filming concluded, we climbed onto the tour bus and drove straight to the Christie Hospital in Manchester, U.K.. We were full of determination that the pioneering CAR-T would save Mike’s life but, at the same time, I was personally terrified as I couldn’t shake off a feeling that cancer had finally caught up with us both.”

Mike Peters of The Alarm
Photo credit: Andrew Labrow

A poignant rallying cry, the video shows Mike performing without any hint of weakness, though his health was ailing at the time. “This video is such a difficult watch,” she says through tears. “It broke my heart… but it captures the eternal essence of Mike Peters that keeps us coming back to him and his incredible songs time after time.”

Taken from the upcoming Transformation, “Live Today” is one of 12 prescient tracks that Mike gifts us through his passing. The recording sessions for Transformation began spontaneously on October 7, 2024, and after various life-interventions, it was finally completed on the evening of January 15, 2025 - the night before he began his CAR-T therapy.

From the opening call to arms “New Life,” The Alarm roars vibrantly to life. Originally intended as an optimistic song to herald the triumph over cancer to be released after he had beaten cancer successfully again, it instead carries a new sort of poignant breath as he sings “I’ll see you in the new life.”

First single “Chimera” was poised as an allegorical rebirth when it was released on January 23, 2025 - the exact day his CAR-T therapy began. Symbolically encapsulating the Greek mythos of a chimera which embodies the characteristics of different animals into one body, Mike envisioned that he himself would become like the fabled creature. “When I have CAR-T therapy I will literally become chimeric,” stated Mike at the time. “There will be two types of blood flowing inside of me. Two individual types of DNA.”

Watch the "Chimera" music video

The classic ringing guitar progressions that made The Alarm household names in the ‘80s punctuates “Outlier” with Mike’s vocals showing no signs of wear. The anthemic and earnest “One In A Million” kicks off as a gorgeous hymn with the lyrics “one life, one heart, one soul” before counting down to a fiery chorus. It’s a fist-up outcry, the kind that the band built their initial acclaim with and made fans out of U2, Simple Minds, The Cult, among dozens of other renowned bands. The closing ballad “Love Makes Love” closes the album with a pensive note, the warmth of Mike’s voice acting as a final embrace.

“Transformation is the finest Alarm album of all, written through adversity, with lashings of hope to stay strong, to believe, to keep moving forwards, to stay alive, to never be afraid and to welcome transformation,” says Jules.

Described by Bono of U2 as “the second greatest rock and roll band in the world,” Mike Peters has been the driving force behind The Alarm for over forty creative years of new music making and dedication to presenting the band’s classic songs in ways both imaginative and inventive. A voice of defiance and hope both on and off the stage, Peters first rose to prominence in the early 1980s with The Alarm, whose powerful anthems like "68 Guns" and "Strength" helped define a generation of alternative rock. Known for their empowering anthems and heartfelt lyrics, The Alarm garnered a devoted international following, with Peters' raw vocals and commanding stage presence at the heart of it all, garnering number one rock album chart hits in the USA / UK and 4 albums in the top 10 with Equals, Sigma, Omega and Forwards. During a music career that spanned five decades, Peters performed with some of music’s greatest artists and bands including Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Bruce Springsteen and U2.

Diagnosed with lymphoma in 1995 and later with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, Peters refused to let his illness silence him. Instead, he turned his fight into a mission to help others.

Alongside his wife Jules, he co-founded Love Hope Strength, a music-driven cancer charity that revolutionized awareness and action around stem cell donation that continues beyond his passing. Through its innovative “Get On The List” campaigns—often hosted at rock concerts and even atop mountains—the charity has added over 400,000 people to the global stem cell registry and helped secure thousands of potential life-saving matches for patients worldwide.

While this may seem like the final chapter for The Alarm, Transformation promises that the legacy of The Alarm will transform into something larger. While Mike has gone out in a blaze of glory, his love, hope and strength continues on. Echoing the title of the new single,

Jules concludes, “Mike and the spirit of The Alarm will ‘Live Today,’ forever more. I invite you all to blast Transformation out loud. Imagine Mike in the room with you. Transformation is his battle cry, his resilient love of life. Right to the very end, Mike believed that he was going to live, to be totally free. My last memory is driving him open top along the North Wales coast road, playing Transformation at maximum volume. He was so happy. So full of life. Playing his air drums, bass guitar, already imagining himself on his next world tour. So keep that positive spirit moving forwards. Imagine him as you all knew him best, striding out on to that stage, changing lives one concert at a time. This is an album of hope and a passionate celebration of a life well lived. Please do not be sad. Mike wouldn’t want that. He was so proud of this album and had the best time recording it during the last six months of his life. Blast it out loud like Mike did. Play along to the track list and most of all, be happy that we all had Mike in our lives and continue to do so. The music of Mike and The Alarm will always keep us strong”.

“Live Today” is released, April 8, 2026. TRANSFORMATION will be released on May 29, 2026 via Twenty First Century Recordings/Virgin Music Group and is available for presale at the band's official webstore.

album art

TRANSFORMATION

New Life
Chimera
Outlier
Saviour
Metaverse
Wired
One In A Million
Live Today
Soul Town
In Unity
To Be Alive
Love Makes Love

New music: The Droptines soar with 'Drought Flower'

2026-04-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a wonderful friend whose taste in discovering new music may well outdistance even my own, I was introduced to the The Droptines a few months ago and can proclaim they are one of my favorite bands to emerge this decade. The Austin, Texas-based Americana quintet led by frontman Conner Arthur blend alternative country, Southern rock, blues, gritty roots and top-tier songcraft into an authentic style rooted in real world emotion. I am not the first to say this and will definitely not be the last; I truly believe The Droptines are destined for bona fide greatness.

The Concan, Texas-spawned band's new album Drought Flower (released via Miranda Lambert's Big Loud Texas label on April 3) is a joyful lesson in how to fall in love with new music anew and to feel its power sweep over you. The majority of the 11 songs on the disc play out in under three minutes, but nevertheless pack an emotional wallop for anyone who has fallen in love, lost someone they cared about, woke up with a hangover or longed to escape the cage where they are now.

The songs are not delivered via empty slogans or labored poetry, but rather feel as genuine as the events, persons and places that inspired their creation. Recorded at Arlyn Studios in Austin, there isn't anything even close to a throwaway on the LP.

Among the great cuts on the album are the rollicking opener "A Town Near You," anthemic "Tombstone" celebrating love's magic touch with a burgeoning sonic ascent, the rollicking title track, deeply affecting mandolin-adorned "Mamaw" that details an elderly loved one's descent into dementia, confessional "What Ate My Friend" and biting rocker "Whatever It Is."

The Droptines deliver two essential covers on the LP, a haunting take on the Mike McClure Band's "Calling All Cars" and evocative reading of The Magnetic Fields' "Grand Canyon," the latter as poignant as any romance-minded cry for help in memory.

In addition to Connor Arthur, The Droptines feature bassist Dillon Sampson, drummer Johnny Sheets, guitarist Donny Parkinson and steel guitar player Tony Rincon.

Information: thedroptines.com.

Robert Kinsler

2026 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival Preview

2026-04-06T08:43:00.000-07:00

This is an expanded version of an article written by George A. Paul and Robert Kinsler that was originally posted in the Desert Star Weekly. For information on Coachella, including a livestream of both weekends, visit the festival's official website HERE.

Coachella at night is magical. Here is a view captured in April 2025.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

A Potent Musical Mix Headed to Indio

By Robert Kinsler and George A. Paul

The Desert Star Weekly’s contributing music writers provide their top picks for acts set to appear at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on April 10-12 and April 17-19. This year’s headliners are Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G.

Italian techno DJ Anyma - who performed at Sphere Las Vegas and the Giza pyramids - will also premiere his science fiction-meets-ancient mythology live production AEden. Nearly 150 established and emerging artists are scheduled to perform over the two consecutive weekends.

Fridays, April 10 and 17

Devo — Although it has been almost 20 years since I first caught Devo in concert when the band headlined an event in Anaheim, CA in October 2006, the groundbreaking outfit's sound remains both influential and timeless. The Akron, Ohio-spawned band is sure to please concertgoers when they perform on April 10 and 17 in Indio. Although the band is best known for its 1980 hit "Whip It" and an original take on The Rolling Stones' "(I Can't Get No) Satisfaction," the new wave group will thrill no matter what song is being unleashed. Not bad for a band formed at the dawn of the 1970s. (RK)

Moby / Photo: Lindsay Hicks

Moby — Richard Melville Hall (better known as Moby) is a multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriter/producer who has successfully brought dance and electronica music to the mainstream around the globe. Between 1992 and 1997, he scored eight top 10 hits on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart. His albums Play (1999), 18 (2002) and Always Centered at Night (2024) are essential listens; hopefully, his Coachella appearances will offer material from across a rich and groundbreaking discography. (RK)

The xx performing at Coachella in April 2017.
Photo: Erik Voake courtesy of Goldenvoice

The xx — A favorite discovery of mine at Coachella 2017, the British trio’s sublime turn included an opening segment with guitarist Romy Madley Croft and bassist Oliver Sim sharing exquisite vocals amid the lush “Say Something Loving” and otherworldly “Angels.” The xx are currently working on a fourth studio album — the first since 2017's UK chart-topper I See You — so Coachellagoers may hear new music during their highly-anticipated sets. (RK)

Saturdays, April 11 and 18

David Byrne / Photo: Shervin Lainez

David Byrne – As leader for NYC’s Talking Heads, David Byrne and company crafted seminal Brian Eno-produced alt-rock albums like More Songs About Buildings and Food, Fear of Music, and Remain in Light during the late 1970s and ‘80s. They were later inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The singer’s solo career has been equally adventurous. Last year’s festive Who is the Sky? often recalled 1992’s Uh-Oh. It saw him collaborate with St. Vincent, Hayley Williams, and Ghost Train Orchestra with idiosyncratic results. Recent sets have included such Talking Heads classics as “Psycho Killer,” “Once in a Lifetime,” and “Life During Wartime.” (GAP)

Interpol — Back in 2015, Manhattan’s Interpol knocked me out with their nighttime appearance on the Coachella Stage. Blending indie, alternative, and post-punk into a signature dream-swept sound, singer-rhythm guitarist Paul Banks, lead guitarist Daniel Kessler, and drummer Sam Fogarino are sure to feature winning originals from across their 25-year career, including groundbreaking 2002 debut Turn on the Bright Lights and 2022 album The Other Side of Make-Believe. (RK)

Sombr / Photo: Bryce Glenn

Sombr – New Yorker Shane Boose, who records under the name Sombr, put out one of the best albums of ’25 with the reverb-drenched, alternative pop and dance-leaning I Barely Know Her. Among the strongest debuts in recent memory, it spawned international hits “Undressed,” “12 to 12,” and “Back to Friends” (the latter resides in the Spotify “Billions Club”). Latest single “Homewrecker” is equally alluring. Sombr’s TV appearances have projected plenty of swagger, so it’ll be interesting to see how that translates outdoors here. (GAP)

Sundays, April 12 and 19

Foster the People / Photo: Jimmy Fontaine

Foster the People — Los Angeles-spawned Foster the People rose to fame in 2010 with the viral success of frontman Mark Foster's dance-minded crossover hit “Pumped Up Kicks.” The group's infectious synth rock-meets-dance pop approach has also yielded winning singles such as “Helena Beat,” “Houdini,” “Coming of Age” and “Sit Next to Me.” (RK)

Iggy Pop – Widely considered the “Godfather of Punk, thanks to his pioneering and confrontational late 1960s-early ‘70s work with The Stooges, Pop jump-started a riveting solo career with David Bowie at his side. Their results included classics “Lust for Life” (frequently included in films, TV shows, and commercials), “China Girl,” “The Passenger,” and “Funtime.” Pop’s biggest mainstream hit, “Candy,” a duet with Kate Pierson of The B-52’s, arrived in 1990. More recently, 2023’s spiky Every Loser, produced by Andrew Watt, featured a star-studded guest list of alternative rockers. (GAP)

"Billy Idol Should Be Dead" Debuts on Hulu Today

2026-03-26T07:41:00.000-07:00

Big news for fans of Billy Idol and rock music documentary films...Robert Kinsler

BILLY IDOL SHOULD BE DEAD
DEBUTS ON HULU

WATCH/SHARE THE FILM’S TRAILER HERE

IDOL NOMINATED FOR ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAME
CLASS OF 2026

Sunday Arts & Leisure: “Billy Idol Had It All, and Then He ‘Lit It With Butane’”

“Billy Idol Talks About His Pop Stardom, Rock-N-Roll Excess and New Doc About His Life”

“It’s looking like 2026 is bound to be the year of Billy Idol.”

“one of the original U.K. punks”

March 26, 2026—The new feature-length documentary film Billy Idol Should Be Dead, directed by three-time Grammy-winner Jonas Åkerlund and produced by Live Nation Studios, is now available to stream on Hulu following a successful theatrical run.

In anticipation of the film’s Hulu debut, Idol recently shared a pair of clips discussing the genesis of his signature sound which came together after his introduction to producers Giorgio Moroder and Keith Forsey (watch/share HERE) and the development of his stage persona (watch/share HERE). The film’s trailer, featuring Idol along with Billie Joe Armstrong, Miley Cyrus, Pete Townshend and more, is HERE.

In addition to the new documentary, Idol is also a nominee for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026 which will be announced shortly.

The documentary— hailed by critic Jeffrey Lyons as “informative and engaging,” while Forbes calls it “poignant” and “moving”—traces the life and career of punk pioneer turned rock ‘n’ roll icon Billy Idol. Through never-before-seen archival and personal interviews with Idol, his family, peers and collaborators, the documentary digs deep into his emergence as a prototypical punk rocker, his meteoric rise as a global superstar in the MTV era and the myriad of challenges Idol had to overcome to not just survive, but to remain one of the most beloved figures in rock n roll, fifty years into his career.

The film made its festival debut at the Tribeca Film Festival last summer, followed by an award qualifying run. Theatrical distribution in North America is handled by Evan Saxon Productions (ESP), while distribution outside the U.S. is handled by Fremantle.

The film features Idol’s original song with Academy Award-nominated songwriter J. Ralph, “Dying To Live,” which was recently shortlisted for Best Original Song at the 98^th Academy Awards. The film’s coda sequence is built around “Dying To Live,” featuring imagery—both animated and archival—from throughout Idol’s life and storied career and was written by Idol and Ralph alongside longtime Idol collaborators Steve Stevens, Tommy English and Joe Janiak. Listen to the song and watch/share the video of the coda sequence HERE. The song was recently nominated for Best Song-Documentary Film at the Hollywood Music In Media (HMMA) Awards, which also nominated Billy Idol Should Be Dead for Best Music Documentary-Special Program.

Idol’s first full-length album of new music in over a decade, Dream Into It, is out now on Dark Horse Records. The album reached #7 on the U.S. Top Albums Chart and #4 on the U.S. Current Rock Album Chart, #9 on the U.K. Official Album Sales Chart and #2 on the German Top 100 Album Chart. Dream Into It continues to see extensive critical acclaim from The New Yorker, New York Magazine, AARP The Magazine, Consequence, Billboard, USA Today and many more. See what the press has said and watch Idol’s appearances on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” (performing his new single “77” feat. Avril Lavigne as well as discussing the new record with Kimmel) and “The Drew Barrymore Show” in the interactive one-sheet HERE.

The album includes performance and co-writing contributions throughout from Idol’s longtime guitarist/collaborator Steve Stevensplus appearances by Lavigne, Joan Jett and Alison Mosshart of The Kills, and is produced by Tommy English (Kacey Musgraves, blink 182, BØRNS, K. Flay). Stream/purchase the record HERE.

Idol’s greatest hits compilation Idolize Yourself: The Very Best Of Billy Idol is also available now via UMe, stream/purchase the record HERE.

Additionally, Idol recently returned to the road for It’s a Nice Day To…Tour Again! The tour saw Idol sell out venues across the U.S., Europe and Latin America while touring with support from Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, New Model Army and more. The tour announcement video featuring Idol, Jett and comedian Matt Rife was awarded a Bronze CLIO Award in the medium of live music marketing and category of live music promotion.

ABOUT BILLY IDOL

For almost 50 years, Billy Idol has been one of the definitive faces and voices of rock’n’roll. Between 1977 and 1981, Idol released three albums with Generation X as their camera-ready frontman. In 1982, with guitarist Steve Stevens at his side, he embarked on a transatlantic/trans-genre solo career that integrated the bold and simple lines of punk and rock’n’roll decadence on songs like “Dancing With Myself,” “White Wedding,” Rebel Yell,” “Eyes Without A Face,” “Cradle of Love” and more. Touring consistently around the world and showing no signs of slowing down, Idol released Dream Into It on Dark Horse Records in 2025, earning praise from fans and critics alike. In 2026, Idol will release Billy Idol Should Be Dead, the definitive documentary about his life and career.

ABOUT LIVE NATION STUDIOS

Live Nation Entertainment leads the industry bringing artists and their live shows to stages worldwide. Live Nation Studios (LNS) was created to help those same artists tell their stories. The Oscar, Emmy and Grammy-nominated division is home to artist-driven films and TV series dedicated to sharing those groundbreaking, musically-inspired stories for audiences across the globe. LNS is riding an incredible wave of success including Stray Kids: The dominATE Experience recently being the #1 movie world wide; Anderson .Paak’s K-Pops! hit theaters as an AMC Exclusive; Rolling Loud, starring Owen Wilson and Matt Rife, will premiere in cinemas this Summer; and the upcoming Noah Kahan: Out of Body doc was picked up as a Netflix Original and debuted at SXSW. Recent documentary premieres include Miley Cyrus’ Something Beautiful, Billy Idol Should Be Dead, Ty Dolla $ign’s Still Free TC, Dustin Lance Black’s Rock Out, Becky G’s Rebbeca and The French Montana Story: For Khadija. The latest scripted projects are Stages, New Years Rev—a Green Day story, as well as The Weeknd’s Hurry Up Tomorrow. LNS’ previous projects include Gaga: Five Foot Two, Moonage Daydream with David Bowie and the critically acclaimed A Star is Born.

BILLYIDOL.NET

New music: The Green Circles, He's Dead Jim, Peter Frampton

2026-03-26T07:35:00.000-07:00

In this column, I review the latest studio albums from The Green Circles and He's Dead Jim as well as details about Peter Frampton's highly-anticipated forthcoming album.

Artist: The Green Circles
Title: The Green Circles (Kool Kat Musik)
You might like if you enjoy: The Kinks, The Hives, The Knack

Tell me more: Released on March 6, The Green Circles' eponymous album is a fantastic listen. Standouts on the Australia-based garage rock outfit's fifth album release include the exuberant album opener "Said It Would," the rollicking Kinks-flavored "Days Of Blue And Grey And Green," introspective look at the realities of going to work courtesy of the driving New Wave-tinged rocker "Too Bright For A Monday," beautiful psychedelic-mining folk rocker "She Walked Along Here," horn section-adorned "I Watch The Line," galloping power pop cut "Ladder In Her Stocking" and luxurious Beatlesque closer "Yesterday's Glass." The Green Circles also unleash a flat-out rollicking take on the Masters Apprentices' "Undecided." Information: koolkatmusik.com.

Artist: He's Dead Jim
Title: These Men, These Monsters (Kool Kat Musik)
You might like if you enjoy: Stiff Little Fingers, New York Dolls, The Kinks
Tell me more: Masterfully blending glam rock, power pop, post-punk and hard rock, He's Dead Jim is back with the band's sophomore album These Men, These Monsters. Along with their forceful rock sound, the Scottish band's intelligent lyrics and unique sonic approach make for an intoxicating journey. Highlights on These Men, These Monsters include the propulsive "Dragonsfield," tuneful "Anything Can Happen Day," jaunty "Everybody's Little Sister," infectious '80s rocker "Living In Harmony," baroque pop meets melodic proto-prog original "The Process," raucous "Under A Rock" and edgy "Negative Vibes." He's Dead Jim also reworks a 10cc's 1975 hit "Art For Art's Sake" into something that is delightfully the band's own. Trivia note: He's Dead Jim got their name from a famous line delivered by the character of Dr. McCoy in an episode of the original "Star Trek" series. Information: koolkatmusik.com.

Peter Frampton is back!

Last week Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Peter Frampton has announced the release of Carry The Light, his first new full-length album of original material in 16 years. Slated for release on May 15, the full-length studio album features guest appearances from Sheryl Crow, Bill Evans, H.E.R., Tom Morello, Graham Nash and Benmont Tench. "Buried Treasure" is the first advance track released from the 10-track album and it's an enticing rocker showcasing Frampton's signature vocals and his fiery lead guitar work; the song is a tribute to the late Tom Petty and features keyboardist Benmont Tench of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers fame. Information: Frampton.com.

Robert Kinsler

The Black Keys release new song 'Where There's Smoke, There's Fire'

2026-03-20T07:02:24.269-07:00

Check out the fiery track "Where There's Smoke, There's Fire" from The Black Keys...Robert Kinsler

THE BLACK KEYS RELEASE NEW SONG “WHERE THERE’S SMOKE, THERE’S FIRE”

LISTEN HERE

OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO OUT NOW

WATCH HERE

PEACHES ‘N KREAM WORLD TOUR KICKS OFF APRIL 24, 2026

TICKETS HERE

NEW ALBUM PEACHES! OUT MAY 1, 2026

PRE-ORDER/SAVE HERE

(Akron, Ohio — March 20, 2026) – Today, GRAMMY award-winning rock duo The Black Keys return with their new song, “Where There’s Smoke, There’s Fire” — listen here. The new track serves as the latest preview for their upcoming album Peaches! set for release May 1 via Easy Eye Sound/Warner Records — pre-order/save Peaches! here.

Alongside the song comes a captivating official music video, transporting viewers to the band’s recent intimate surprise show at Lucinda’s in New York City, where fans lined the streets for a special, up-close performance – watch here. “Where There’s Smoke, There’s Fire” follows the band’s release of their single “You Got To Lose” — listen to/watch here.

The Black Keys will soon begin their PEACHES ‘N KREAM WORLD TOUR ‘26, kicking off on April 24th with stops in major cities including New York, Chicago, Nashville, London, Paris, Milan and more. All supporting acts for the tour come from the stable of Dan Auerbach’s own Easy Eye Sound record label, with artists varying per city. Tickets available here.

Peaches!, the band’s fourteenth studio album, is a visceral and raw 10-song collection described by singer Dan Auerbach as the band’s “most natural record” since their 2002 debut, The Big Come Up. The project was born in the wake of Auerbach’s late father’s diagnosis of esophageal cancer, as he was staying in Dan’s Nashville home, in rapid decline. Patrick Carney, Dan’s Black Keys bandmate and oldest, closest friend, knew without asking “that it would be good for Dan to have something to do.” That something, of course, was to head into the studio and crank up the amps.

The songs on Peaches! reflect Dan and Patrick’s obsessive record-collecting habit, which in recent years has escalated into an ongoing series of Record Hang DJ-set dance parties. These hangs fueled a deeper period of musical archaeology for both of them. “I’d look for 45s specifically to play at the record hangs,” Dan says, “but sometimes I’d find a song and think, ‘This might be fun for Pat and me to play live.’”

Peaches! cover art is illustrated with an image by the iconic Memphis-born photographer William Eggleston, a hero of the band’s who also provided the cover shot for their 2021 album, Delta Kream. This album also sees Patrick’s brother, Michael Carney, designing and art-directing the package as he did similarly with early Black Keys albums, notably winning a GRAMMY award for the Brothers cover. Peaches! will be available on vinyl, CD, cassette and digitally — pre-order/save here.

Peaches! Tracklist:

01. Where There's Smoke, There's Fire

02. Stop Arguing Over Me

03. Who's Been Foolin' You

04. It's a Dream

05. Tomorrow Night

06. You Got To Lose

07. Tell Me You Love Me

08. She Does It Right

09. Fireman Ring the Bell

10. Nobody But You Baby

PEACHES ‘N KREAM WORLD TOUR Routing:

▲ indicates support from MILES KANE

⬥ indicates support from EDDIE 9V

⏺ indicates support from FAI LACI

⏹ indicates support from ROBERT FINLEY

◀ indicates support from JEREMIE ALBINO

4/24/26 – Fort Lauderdale, FL – Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood, FL▲

4/26/26 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle▲

4/27/26 – Atlanta, GA – Tabernacle▲

5/1/26 – New Orleans, LA – New Orleans Jazz Fest

5/3/26 – Louisville, KY – The Louisville Palace Theater▲

5/4/26 – Columbus, OH – The Ohio State University - Wexner Center for the Arts - Mershon Auditorium▲

5/5/26 – Columbus, OH – The Ohio State University - Wexner Center for the Arts - Mershon Auditorium▲

5/7/26 – Port Chester, NY – The Capitol Theatre▲

5/8/26 – Niagara Falls, ON – Fallsview Casino Resort - Grand Ballroom▲

5/9/26 – Philadelphia, PA – Franklin Music Hall▲

5/11/26 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount▲

5/12/26 – Brooklyn, NY – Brooklyn Paramount⬥

5/27/26 – Troutdale, OR – Edgefield Amphitheater⏺

5/29/26 – Carnation, WA – Remlinger Farms⏺

5/30/26 – Carnation, WA – Remlinger Farms⏺

5/31/26 – Vancouver, BC – Pepsi Live at Rogers Arena◀

6/3/26 – Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place◀

6/5/26 – Calgary, AB – Spruce Meadows - ATCO Field◀ *SOLD OUT*

6/6/26 – Calgary, AB – Spruce Meadows - ATCO Field◀ *SOLD OUT*

6/8/26 – Jackson, WY – Snow King Resort⏺ *SOLD OUT*

6/9/26 – Ogden, UT – Ogden Amphitheater⏺

6/11/26 – Stateline, NV – Harveys Lake Tahoe⏺

6/12/26 – Las Vegas, NV – Virgin Hotels Las Vegas - The Theater⏺

6/13/26 – Santa Barbara, CA – Santa Barbara Bowl⏺

7/16/26 – Chicago, IL – The Salt Shed - Fairgrounds⬥

7/17/26 – Saint Paul, MN – Minnesota Yacht Club Fest

7/19/26 – Chesterfield, MO – The Factory⬥

7/20/26 – La Vista, NE – The Astro – Outdoor Amphitheater⬥

7/21/26 – Oklahoma City, OK – The Zoo Amphitheatre⬥

7/23/26 – Dallas, TX – Bomb Factory⬥

7/24/26 – Houston, TX – Lawn at White Oak Music Hall⬥

7/25/26 – New Braunfels, TX – Whitewater Amphitheatre⬥

7/28/26 – Clearwater, FL – Coachman Park - The BayCare Sound⬥

7/29/26 – St Augustine, FL – The Saint Augustine Amphitheatre⬥

7/30/26 – North Charleston, SC – Firefly Distillery - Lawn⬥

8/1/26 – Richmond, VA – Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront⬥

8/2/26 – Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AE⬥

8/4/26 – Newport, KY – MegaCorp Pavilion⬥

8/6/26 – Nashville, TN – The Pinnacle⬥

8/7/26 – Nashville, TN – The Pinnacle⬥

8/28/26 – Paris, FR – Rock En Seine

8/29/26 – Portsmouth, UK – Victorious Festival

8/31/26 – London, UK – Eventim Apollo⏹

9/1/26 – London, UK – Brixton Academy⏹

9/4/26 – Amsterdam, NL – AFAS⏹ *SOLD OUT*

9/5/26 – Amsterdam, NL – AFAS⏹ *SOLD OUT*

9/6/26 – Cologne, DE – Palladium⏹

9/7/26 – Bern, CH – Festhalle⏹

9/9/26 – Munich, DE – Zenith⏹

9/10/26 – Milan, IT – Alcatraz⏹

9/13/26 – Madrid, ES – Movistar Aena⏹

9/15/26 – Istanbul, TR – KüçükÇiftlik Park⏹

10/10/26 – Verona, NY – Turning Stone Resort & Casino◀

10/11/26 – Portland, ME – Cross Insurance Arena◀

10/13/26 – Moncton, NB – Avenir Centre◀

10/14/26 – Halifax, NS – Scotiabank Centre◀

10/16/26 – Laval, QC – Place Bell◀

10/17/26 – Ottawa, ON – Canadian Tire Centre◀

10/18/26 – Windsor, ON – Caesars Windsor◀

Photo Credit: Romeo Okwara

###

About The Black Keys:

Around the turn of the century in Akron, OH, two childhood friends regularly huddled around a rudimentary tape recorder and wrote songs. After more than two decades, five GRAMMY® awards, worldwide sales of 10 million-plus, streams in the billions, and countless sold-out shows, The Black Keys—Dan Auerbach [vocals, guitar] and Patrick Carney [drums]—still operate the same way. To this day, the duo write, record, and produce music together, jamming like no one’s watching, disregarding the rules, and following their own creative impulses without compromise. Since their inception, they have consistently captivated audiences with seismic live performances and a fluid and fiery body of work. Following influential favorites such as Thickfreakness [2003] and Magic Potion [2006], they made waves with 2008’s gold-certified Attack & Release. In its wake, Brothers [2010] reached double-platinum status, received a GRAMMY® for “Best Alternative Music Album,” and spawned the staple “Tighten Up”—which notched a GRAMMY® for “Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.” 2011 saw the guys unveil El Camino. It went double-platinum and scored three GRAMMYs®, including “Best Rock Album” as well as “Best Rock Performance” and “Best Rock Song” for “Lonely Boy.” In 2014, the gold-selling Turn Blue bowed at #1 on the Billboard 200. Maintaining this momentum, 2022’s Dropout Boogie marked their sixth Top 10 debut on the Billboard 200. Plus, they sold out iconic venues such as Madison Square Garden and shined as an outlier who could collaborate with either Noel Gallagher, Billy F. Gibbons, and Beck or Juicy J. In 2025, the duo’s bond as bandmates and friends underscored their thirteenth full-length LP, No Rain, No Flowers [Easy Eye Sound/Warner Records], which earned Dan his fifth “Producer of Year” GRAMMY nomination.

theblackkeys.com | X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Neil Diamond returns with 'Wild At Heart,' the third and final album from his 2007 Rick Rubin collaboration

2026-03-20T06:40:00.335-07:00

Check out the media release issued this morning detailing a forthcoming Rick Rubin-produced album featuring previously-unissued tracks from the great Neil Diamond...Robert Kinsler

NEIL DIAMOND RETURNS WITH

WILD AT HEART

THE THIRD AND FINAL ALBUM FROM

HIS 2007 RICK RUBIN COLLABORATION

AVAILABLE MAY 8 VIA CAPITOL/UME

FEATURES TEN PREVIOUSLY UNRELEASED TRACKS CUT DURING PROLIFIC SESSIONS WITH RUBIN FOR

HOME BEFORE DARK, DIAMOND’S FIRST EVER #1 ALBUM

WATCH THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO FOR “WILD AT HEART” HERE

VIEW THE WILD AT HEART TRAILER HERE

MARCH 20, 2026 (LOS ANGELES) – On May 8, rock ‘n’ roll icon Neil Diamond unveils Wild At Heart, a testament to his mastery and a remarkable third – and final – entry in his universally praised collaboration with producer Rick Rubin. Recorded initially at sessions for Diamond’s chart-topping Home Before Dark, this collection of ten songs features his signature passionate vocals and powerfully incisive lyrics surrounded by urgent yet stripped-down arrangements.

Diamond initially teamed up with Rubin for 2005’s 12 Songs, hailed as “one of the most entertaining, satisfying albums Diamond has ever released.” The partnership went so well that Diamond was eager to work with Rubin again. 2008’s Home Before Dark was a tremendous popular success (his first-ever Number One album on the Billboard charts) and garnered widespread critical praise. PopMatters’ James Bassett echoed many of his colleagues’ sentiments when he hailed Home Before Dark as “an album of rare beauty, grace, and eloquence that captures Diamond in all his plain-spoken and big-hearted glory. And it is easily the most intensely personal release of his esteemed career.”

“My work with Rick was a labor of love,” Neil shares, “and I’m so gratified that these songs will finally be set free into the world to complete our trilogy of work.”

Neil Diamond performing at the Forum
in Inglewood, CA in August 2017.
Photo: Drew A. Kelley

Recently revisiting this material, Diamond spent time fleshing out nine new songs to be released for the first time and closed the set with an alternate take of “Forgotten,” which initially appeared on Home Before Dark.

The unique set of songs on Wild At Heart (simultaneously archival and brand-new) will be released on CD, vinyl, and digital platforms via Capitol/UMe on May 8, 2026. Limited edition colored vinyl and 2CD versions will also be available. Preorder and Listen to Wild At Heart HERE.

In anticipation of Wild At Heart’s release, digital Deluxe Editions of 12 Songs and Home Before Dark are now available and include the debut of bonus tracks previously available on limited physical releases. Listen to 12 Songs HERE and Home Before Dark HERE.

Diamond immensely enjoyed collaborating with Rick Rubin and the all-star quartet he assembled for the Home Before Dark sessions: keyboardist Benmont Tench and guitarist Mike Campbell (both from Tom Petty’s Heartbreakers), along with ace session guitarist Smokey Hormel and guitarist Matt Sweeney (co-founder of the NYC indie rock group Chavez) and frequent Will Oldham cohort. “Working with these guys and having Rick’s ear made it a great deal of fun,” Diamond told Billboard in 2008. “It was magic.”

Revealing the spare but emotional resonance that are hallmarks of his work with Rick Rubin, Wild At Heart has marvelous cohesiveness drawn from material recorded over a handful of years ago.

Accompanying his soul-baring lyrics and commanding yet vulnerable vocals, Diamond’s guitar, which he had rarely played on recordings, leads the unadorned arrangements, which involve mainly subdued guitars and keyboards.

Wild At Heart finds Diamond in a reflective, philosophical mood, but it is conveyed on a very human scale, so the songs come across as deeply personal. On “Shine On,” the singer advises his son to “never doubt in yourself” and “sing what you feel inside.” The terrific “You Can’t Have It All” remains presciently relevant today as Diamond asks: “What’s the matter with the world? Can’t everyone take care?”

A well-known master of love songs, Diamond adds several more to his canon with “The Secret You” and “You Still Look Good To Me,” while “Talking It To Death” and “Forgotten” explore the rockier side of love that is on the rocks. “You’re Getting To Me,” “You’re My Favorite Song,” “You Never Know,” and the title track contains classic Diamond hooks; however, the performances hold a warm intimacy that feels like he’s playing in your living room.

Neil Diamond’s illustrious career, spanning over five decades, has seen him sell over 130 million albums, placing him among the best-selling rock musicians ever. He has had 18 Top 10 albums and scored nearly 40 Top 40 singles, with ten reaching #1. His 1969 hit “Sweet Caroline” has continued its unbridled grip on pop culture and has become a permanent fixture at sporting events and a TV and film soundtrack favorite.

A GRAMMY ® Award-winning artist, Diamond is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. He also has received two of the highest honors bestowed upon songwriters: the Johnny Mercer Award and the Sammy Cahn Lifetime Achievement Award.

Additionally, Diamond has garnered the GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award, NARAS’ MusiCares Person of the Year Award, and the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor for his lifetime of contributions to American culture. His achievements include a Golden Globe Award, 13 GRAMMY nominations, an American Music Award, an ASCAP Film and Television Award, and a Billboard Icon Award.

Diamond, who starred in the 1980 film The Jazz Singer, has seen his life and music turned into the hit Broadway musical A Beautiful Noise. The show debuted in New York City in 2022, and with over 650 performances and was one of the longest-running new musicals on Broadway since the pandemic. Beautiful Noise launched its first tour in 2024 and continues to tour across America with performances set to open in Australia in August, 2026. Listen to the Original Broadway Cast Recording of A Beautiful Noise, The Neil Diamond Musical, HERE.

In addition, Focus Features released Song Sung Blue on December 25^th, a musical drama starring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson. Directed by Craig Brewer and based on a true story, the film follows two down-on-their-luck musicians who form a joyous Neil Diamond tribute band. The movie has been a huge success, with Hudson receiving Oscar, SAG Actor Award, Golden Globe, and BAFTA nominations, and will be released via international streaming in late Spring.

Photo Credit - Jesse Diamond

Wild At Heart Tracklisting

Side A

Wild At Heart
You Can’t Have It All
Talking It To Death
Shine On
The Secret You

Side B

You Never Know
You’re Getting To Me
You Still Look Good To Me
You’re My Favorite Song
Forgotten

Follow Neil Diamond: https://linktr.ee/NeilDiamond

Website: https://www.neildiamond.com/

Email List: https://www.neildiamond.com/subscribe/

Therapy?’s 'One Cure Fits All' Anniversary Deluxe Edition out March 27

2026-03-19T08:45:04.290-07:00

Therapy?'s classic LP "One Cure Fits All" is coming via an expanded 20th anniversary edition on March 27. The official media release follows...Robert Kinsler

Mercury Studios Honors Therapy?’s One Cure Fits All With Newly Remastered 20th Anniversary Deluxe Edition Out March 27, 2026

Demos, B-Sides, and First-Ever Vinyl Pressing Make This a Must-Have Release

Preorder link: HERE

View trailer: HERE

New York, NY (March 19, 2026) – Mercury Studios is proud to announce the release of a lavish 20th anniversary reissue of Therapy?’s beloved eleventh studio album, One Cure Fits All, out March 27. Newly remastered under the supervision of the band, the album will be available as a deluxe double-CD edition featuring an exclusive second disc of rare B-sides and demos for every song on the album.

In addition, One Cure Fits All will be released on vinyl for the first time ever, pressed on black vinyl and a red variant. The red vinyl will be available as a D2C exclusive through the Mercury Studios Store, and uDiscover. Long unavailable on streaming platforms, this newly remastered edition will finally bring the album to streaming services worldwide.

One Cure Fits All was remastered from the original source files under the supervision of the band. The second disc of the 2CD package features 4 B-sides, including “Crazy Cocaine Eyes,” “Hard Work Hope,” “Play On,” and “Freeze The Remains,” in addition to a plethora of album demos. These 4 B-sides have previously only been available digitally and are making their first appearance on CD.

Northern Irish alternative rock band Therapy? formed in Larne in 1989 and is known for its lacerating lyrics, tuneful angst, pummeling drums, and inventive—often abrasive—musicality. One Cure Fits All was originally released on Spitfire Records on April 24th, 2006. Over the course of its career, Therapy? has released 16 albums and sold over two million albums worldwide. The trio has had numerous UK top 40 singles, earned a Mercury Music Prize nomination, played Top of the Pops, and has been honored by the Kerrang! Awards. Therapy? has performed at festivals such as Knebworth, Hellfest, Sonisphere, Wacken Open Air, and Donington, the latter at Metallica’s request.

In the early 1990s, Therapy? signed to A&M Records, releasing four critically acclaimed albums celebrated for their polished, anthemic sound. Following their major-label era, the band briefly expanded its lineup to include a cellist before returning to its lean and mean trio configuration for One Cure Fits All. The album was produced by Pedro Ferreira, who was coming off a major success after producing The Darkness’ UK chart-topping Permission to Land.

The production sheen of One Cure Fits All recalls the band’s major-label years, pairing some of its catchiest songwriting with the heft-and-hooks sensibility that defined their most popular period. Folded within this welcomed familiarity is the moodiness that characterized the band’s later work, making One Cure Fits All the perfect then-and-now summation of the band’s sound. The album features the band’s current lineup: founding vocalist and guitarist Andy Cairns, bassist Michael McKeegan (both of whom appeared on the breakthrough 1994 album Troublegum), and drummer Neil Cooper.

DELUXE 2CD TRACK LISTING:

CD1

1. Outro

2. Sprung

3. Deluded Son

4. Into The Light

5. Lose It All

6. Dopamine, Serotonin, Adrenaline

7. Unconsoled

8. Our White Noise

9. Private Nobody

10. Rain Hits Concrete

11. Fear of God

12. Heart Beat Hits

13. Walk Through Darkness

CD2

1. Play On

2. Crazy Cocaine Eyes

3. Hard Work Hope

4. Freeze The Remains

5. Sprung (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

6. Deluded Son (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

7. Into The Light (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

8. Lose It All (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

9. Dopamine, Serotonin, Adrenaline (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

10. Unconsoled (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

11. Our White Noise (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

12. Private Nobody (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

13. Rain Hits Concrete (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

14. Fear of God (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

15. Heart Beat Hits (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

16. Walk Through Darkness (Pingle Farm Demo 2005)

Side A

1. Outro

2. Sprung

3. Deluded Son

4. Into The Light

5. Lose It All

6. Dopamine, Serotonin, Adrenaline

7. Unconsoled

Side B

1. Our White Noise

2. Private Nobody

3. Rain Hits Concrete

4. Fear of God

5. Heart Beat Hits

6. Walk Through Darkness

About Mercury Studios

World Class Music Content. Working with a global network of creatives and artists, Mercury Studios develop, produce, distribute and invest in award-winning content. We are filmmakers in the world of music.

Headquartered in London, with offices in LA and New York, current and recent projects include ONE TO ONE: JOHN & YOKO directed by Academy Award-winning director Kevin Macdonald, Grammy-winning, Academy Award and BAFTA award-nominated AMERICAN SYMPHONY, directed by Matthew Heineman for the Obamas’ Higher Ground Productions/Netflix, REGGAETON: THE SOUND THAT CONQUERED THE WORLD / NBC Peacock, and IF THESE WALLS COULD SING, directed by Mary McCartney for Disney+.

Mercury Studios also produced and distributed performance capture films ANDREA BOCELLI 30TH: THE CELEBRATION, directed by Sam Wrench (Taylor Swift The Eras Tour) for global Theatrical and TV, BACK TO THE BEGINNING: OZZY’S FINAL BOW, for global Livestream and Theatrical, and QUEEN ROCK MONTREAL for IMAX and Disney+.

In 2025, Mercury Studios also hosted world premieres at the Tribeca Festival for METALLICA SAVED MY LIFE and JUST SING.

Mercury Studios represents the world’s leading catalogue of music-related content, consisting of thousands of hours of premium music-driven film and television programming.

Justin Hayward to embark on 'The Story In Your Eyes' Tour beginning March 31, 2026

2026-03-17T16:55:51.005-07:00

Check out this exciting news regarding Moody Blues singer-guitarist Justin Hayward. You can revisit his incredible legacy via my May 2015 review of The Moody Blues' performance at The Greek Theatre in Los Angeles...Robert Kinsler

Moody Blues singer-songwriter/guitarist Justin Hayward announces 2026 'The Story In Your Eyes' Tour

Justin Hayward performing "Nights in White Satin"
at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, CA on May
5, 2015. Photo: Robert Kinsler

Legendary singer-songwriter/guitarist Justin Hayward, the unmistakable voice and principal creative force behind The Moody Blues, will return to the road in 2026 with "The Story In Your Eyes' Tour. The U.S. leg of the tour will make place in late March and throughout April 2026, ahead of subsequent U.K. and European dates later in the year.

Now in his fifth decade as a recording and touring artist, Justin Hayward is best known as the vocalist, lead guitarist, and primary songwriter for The Moody Blues. After joining the band in 1966, he helped shape their iconic sound with timeless classics including “Nights in White Satin,” “Tuesday Afternoon,” “Question,” “The Voice,” “In Your Wildest Dreams,” and “I Know You’re Out There Somewhere.” The Moody Blues have sold more than 70 million albums worldwide and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018. Learn more about Hayward via his official website HERE.

In recognition of his contributions to music, Hayward was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2022. The medal was presented by King Charles III at Windsor Castle in July 2023.

Alongside his band legacy, Hayward has enjoyed a successful solo career with albums including Songwriter, Night Flight, Moving Mountains, The View From the Hill, and Classic Blue, recorded with Mike Batt and The London Philharmonic Orchestra. More recent releases include Spirits of the Western Sky, the No. 1 Billboard Video Chart release Spirits…Live, and Tuesday Afternoons: The Audio Files, which grew out of his popular YouTube performance series. His 2022 single “Living For Love,” following the EP One Summer Day, continues to receive international radio airplay and has become a fan favorite.

Hayward continues to perform extensively throughout the UK and U.S., most recently completing a sold-out co-headlining U.S. tour with Christopher Cross. “Working on the road with Christopher was a dream come true for me’ says Justin ‘I’ve always been a fan. and it was an honour to tour with him’.

IN 2025 Justin Hayward also released a new single and video, “Life in a Northern Town,” via Universal Records.

“The Story In Your Eyes” Tour features an expanded setlist spanning every era of Hayward’s career, stories behind the songs, and a dedicated audience Q&A segment. The tour is performed with a full band including Billy Adamson (guitar), Julie Ragins (keyboards, guitar, vocals), Karmen Gould (flute, keyboards, vocals), and longtime collaborator Josh Johnson (guitar).

“The title suggests my intention for this tour,” says Hayward. “It’s about sharing the stories, answering questions, and performing the songs that have meant so much to me — and to the fans — throughout my career.”

The Story In Your Eyes Tour Dates

Tue	3/31/26	Cerritos, CA	Cerritos Center For The Performing Arts
Wed	4/1/26	Santa Barbara, CA	Lobero Theatre
Thu	4/2/26	San Diego, CA	Balboa Theatre
Sat	4/4/26	Stateline, NV	Harrah's Lake Tahoe - South Shore Room
Tue	4/7/26	Tucson, AZ	La Rosa
Wed	4/8/26	Phoenix, AZ	The Celebrity Theatre
Fri	4/17/26	New Orleans, LA	Orpheum Theater New Orleans
Sun	4/19/26	Atlanta, GA	Center Stage
Tue	4/21/26	Augusta, GA	Miller Theater
Thu	4/23/26	Ponte Vedra Beach, FL	Ponte Vedra Concert Hall
Sat	4/25/26	Clearwater, FL	Capitol Theatre
Mon	4/27/26	Fort Lauderdale, FL	The Parker

Omnivore Recordings announces The Knack's 'Knackology: The Zen Recordings' out May 8

2026-03-17T07:12:59.706-07:00

Big news for fans of The Knack and power pop. A wonderful proponent of power pop and melodic rock, the Los Angeles-based band was formed in 1978 and released a number of great albums. "Knackology: The Zen Recordings" sounds like an essential title to add to your collection...Robert Kinsler

Omnivore Recordings Announces
The Knack’s Knackology: The Zen Recordings
Out May 8

19-Song Collection Features Rare Studio, Live
and Demo Recordings from the “My Sharona”

Hitmakers

March 17, 2026: Today, Omnivore Recordings announces Knackology: The Zen Recordings, a special 19-song collection from The Knack. Out May 8, the release features rare studio, live and demo recordings — including their classic cover of Badfinger’s “No Matter What” and other hard-to-find performances — mastered by multiple Grammy-winning engineer Michael Graves, with liner notes from Grammy-winning set co-producer Lee Lodyga.

Principal songwriter and vocalist Doug Fieger of The Knack created Zen Records as an outlet for new Knack material, as well as early recordings, demos, and more in order to get them into the public ear. Omnivore Recordings has been honored to have a decade-plus relationship with Zen Records.

Knackology: The Zen Recordings collects 19 classic Knack performances. From pre-Get The Knack demos (“That’s What The Little Girls Do”), to a live “Let Me Out,” Knackology shows the band’s genesis. Follow that with more performances of hits across the globe, including “Good Girls Don’t,” “Baby Talks Dirty,” “One Day At A Time,” and — naturally — “My Sharona,” and feel the live power that caused a bidding war for their debut, and how it never relented onstage throughout their tenure.

Also included are studio tracks from their releases Zoom (which Fieger called their best album) and Normal As The Next Guy, showcasing that they were never truly that “one hit wonder” label they had been slapped with. Add in rarities like their cover of Badfinger’s “No Matter What” (originally released on a Badfinger tribute) and you have a total Knack education and experience.

Knackology: The Zen Recordings is more than just a compilation. It is both an introduction and

refresher course to one of the world’s most important, impressive, and irreplaceable bands.

Pre-order here: http://www.omnivorerecordings.com/shop/knackolog

Knackology: The Zen Recordings:

1. Let Me Out (Live In Los Angeles, 1978)

2. Pop Is Dead

3. (She’s So) Selfish (Live At Mountain View, California, June 10, 1994)

4. Ambition

5. That’s What The Little Girls Do (Fieger/Averre Demo)

6. Les Girls

7. Rock & Roll Is Good For You (Fieger/Averre Demo)

8. Can I Borrow A Kiss

9. Oh Tara (Live From The Rock ’n’ Roll Fun House)

10. Normal As The Next Guy

11. Shine (Live At Leeds, 1991)

12. Good Girls Don’t (Live From The Rock ’n’ Fun House)

13. No Matter What

14. Love Is All There Is

15. One Day At A Time (Live From The Rock ’n’ Roll Fun House)

16. Seven Days Of Heaven

17. Harder On You (Demo)

18. Baby Talks Dirty (Live From The Rock ’n’ Roll Fun House)

19. My Sharona (Live At Mountain View, California, June 10, 1994)

Credit: Randee St. Nicholas

For more information about Omnivore Recordings, visit their website.

Peter Frampton announces new album, "Carry The Light," co-created with son Julian Frampton And Featuring Sheryl Crow, Graham Nash, H.E.R., Benmont Tench & Bill Evans

2026-03-17T06:44:32.781-07:00

Exciting news that Peter Frampton is set to return with his first new album of original material in 16 years. The first advance single "Buried Treasure" is fantastic. The official media release follows...Robert Kinsler

PETER FRAMPTON CONFIRMS

FIRST ORIGINAL ALBUM IN 16 YEARS,

CARRY THE LIGHT, CO-CREATED WITH

SON JULIAN FRAMPTON, SET FOR MAY 15

FEATURES SHERYL CROW, BILL EVANS, H.E.R.,
TOM MORELLO, GRAHAM NASH AND BENMONT TENCH

SINGLE “BURIED TREASURE” OUT NOW

photo credit: Lynn Goldsmith

March 17, 2026—Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Grammy Award-winning guitarist Peter Frampton will release Carry the Light, his first album of all-new rock material in 16 years, on May 15 via UMe—pre-order/pre-save here. Co-written and produced with his son Julian Frampton, the collection features guest appearances from Sheryl Crow, Bill Evans, H.E.R., Tom Morello, Graham Nash and Benmont Tench.

“The Carry the Light album is the first new music from me in 16 years. It was one of my most enjoyable projects ever. I got to work with my son Julian—writing and producing together. A first of many for us I’m sure,” Frampton said.

In advance of the album, Frampton has shared the new track “Buried Treasure,” featuring keyboardist Benmont Tench of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers—listen here. A tribute to the late Tom Petty, the track honors the SiriusXM radio show of the same name that Petty curated and hosted for 15 years, with lyrics crafted entirely from Petty’s song titles. Frampton personally sought out Tench to add his signature style to the Petty homage.

For Frampton, Carry the Light is a reflection of the present, rooted in the challenges, changes and connections that have defined recent years. The title itself is a statement of purpose; to Frampton, the light represents wisdom, something to be carried forward. At its core, the album is a deeply personal document, one that Frampton credits in large part to the experience of making it alongside his son. “This may be the best album Peter’s ever made,” said engineer and co-producer Chuck Ainlay (Mark Knopfler, Miranda Lambert, George Strait). “The songs are just so poignant, and his voice has matured in a way that really delivers what he's trying to get across.'"

Frampton is surrounded on Carry The Light by an all-star supporting cast: Sheryl Crow is Frampton’s vocal foil on “Breaking the Mold,” Bill Evans adds saxophone to both “Can You Take Me There” and “Tinderbox,” H.E.R. trades guitar lines on the instrumental “Islamorada,” Tom Morello brings his signature intensity to the protest song “Lions at the Gate,” Graham Nash lends harmonies to “I’m Sorry Elle,” Benmont Tench contributes keyboards to “Buried Treasure.” Everyone asked to participate in Carry the Light gladly heeded the call to lend their support and create new material with an artist who’s been dispersing endless goodwill and great music across the globe for more than six decades and counting.

Carry The Light will be released in a variety of formats, including CD, 180-gram yellow vinyl and digitally in stereo, hi-res audio and immersive Dolby Atmos® options. A special limited-edition vinyl, which will feature a premium cover treatment and be numbered, will be available exclusively via Peter Frampton’s official store, uDiscover Music and Sound of Vinyl.

Earlier this year, Peter celebrated the 50^th anniversary of his iconic album Frampton Comes Alive! Upon its original release in 1976, Frampton Comes Alive! became a cultural phenomenon and remains one of the top-selling live albums of all time, with nearly 20 million copies sold worldwide. In honor of the milestone, Peter released a Vinylphyle edition of the landmark album via A&M/UMe—order here. The limited Vinylphyle double LP pressing is sourced from the original 1975 Doug Sax 1/4" production master, with lacquers cut by Joe Nino-Hernes, and pressed on 180g black vinyl at RTI. The package features a four-panel insert including a new interview with Frampton and Anthony Fantano of The Needle Drop.

Over the course of a career spanning more than six decades, Peter Frampton has established himself as one of the most celebrated guitarists in rock history. In 2007, he won a Grammy for Best Pop Instrumental Album for Fingerprints; in 2014, he was inducted into the Musicians Hall of Fame; and in 2019, he received the Les Paul Innovation Award at NAMM's TEC Awards.

In 2020, Frampton was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, his autobiography, “Do You Feel Like I Do?: A Memoir,” debuted on The New York Times Bestsellers list and he appeared on Dolly Parton’s latest album, Rockstar, as the only artist featured on two tracks.

In 2023, Frampton unveiled Frampton@50 on Intervention Records, a numbered limited-edition vinyl box set featuring Frampton’s essential 1972-1975 studio releases Wind of Change, Frampton’s Camel and Frampton. He also received The Myositis Association’s Heroes in the Fight 2023 Patient Ambassador Award and unveiled his historic performance at London’s Royal Albert Hall as a live album via UMe—listen here.

In 2024, he received the Les Paul Spirit Award at Gibson Garage Nashville, was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and wrapped an extensive headline tour before returning to the studio to record Carry the Light.

PETER FRAMPTON—CARRY THE LIGHT

1. Carry the Light

2. Buried Treasure (feat. Benmont Tench)

3. I'm Sorry Elle (feat. Graham Nash)

4. Breaking The Mold (feat. Sheryl Crow)

5. I Can't Let It Be

6. Lions At The Gate (feat. Tom Morello)

7. Islamorada (feat. H.E.R.)

8. Can You Take Me There (feat. Bill Evans)

9. Tinderbox (feat. Bill Evans)

10. At The End of The Day

FIND PETER FRAMPTON ONLINE

Facebook | Website | Instagram | Spotify | Twitter

New music: Squeeze, SLD

2026-03-17T06:38:43.068-07:00

In this column, I review the latest studio albums from Squeeze and SLD.

Artist: Squeeze
Title: Trixies (BMG/Love Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Squeeze, The Beatles, The Zombies
Tell me more: British rock band Squeeze is back. Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook were just 19 and 16 respectively back in 1974 when they wrote the songs on the newly-released 13-track album Trixies (the album was demo-ed at the time but never released). The sixteenth studio album by Squeeze, the ambitious material taps into both imagination and nostalgia; Trixies focuses on a fictional members' club that the duo dreamt up in the early 1970s with its arc set in the "future" (the 1980s). This is a masterwork that features a parade of great songs, but those songs are even more compelling when heard as part of the complete album. Early standouts include the evocative opener "What Moore Can I Say," tender acoustic sortie "You Get the Feeling," the David Bowie-mining "The Place We Call Mars," the genre-defying rocker "Hell on Earth" and unsettling "The Dancer." The album's strengths play out on the last half courtesy of the jazzy "Good Riddance," edgy "Don't Go Out in the Dark," driving melodic rocker "Why Don't You," dreamy "It's Over" and stylish "Trixies, Pt. 1." Trixies marks the first new studio album from Squeeze since 2017's The Knowledge. Information: squeezeofficial.com.

Artist: SLD
Title: Look Back (Kool Kat Musik)
You might like if you enjoy: Badfinger, Brian Wilson, Paul McCartney
Tell me more: Singer-songwriter Paul Costanza is back with the latest full-length LP from SLD, the wonderful aptly-titled collection Look Back. Melody and solid songcraft — along with winning lyrics focused on memories from Costanza's past — take center stage across the 12-track disc. From the soaring opener "Nothing Can Stop Me" and charmingly Beatlesque "Bye Bye" to the '60s-flavored rocker "Come Back," music hall gem "A Look Back," exuberant "Everywhere She Goes" and shimmering acoustic nugget "Little Man," the album takes the listener on a wonderful listen. Information: koolkatmusik.com.

Robert Kinsler

Tinsley Ellis releases music video for 'Sweet Ice Tea'; celebrated singer-guitar great coming to Coach House on March 12

2026-03-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

Check out the great new video from singer-songwriter/guitar master Tinsley Ellis as well as news related to his most recent album 'Labor Of Love'. Ellis headlines a concert at The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano, CA on March 12, 2026. Get details on that event HERE..Robert Kinsler

Tinsley Ellis in March 2019.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

TINSLEY ELLIS RELEASES VIDEO FOR SWEET ICE TEA

Song A Highlight Track From Acclaimed New Album, Labor Of Love

Labor Of Love is equal parts passion, grace and artistry…earthy, contemplative and gut-bucket. Ellis’ vocals deliver old-world goodness without pretense or artifice. [This is] the real deal for lovers of the bona fide.
–Vintage Guitar

Ellis delivers a masterclass in passionate musicianship. Raw, edgy performances.
–Relix

Labor Of Love is an unqualified masterpiece.
–AllMusic

Today, Monday, March 9, Atlanta-based blues guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Tinsley Ellis releases his new video for Sweet Ice Tea, a highlight track from Ellis' new album, Labor Of Love (released January 30). Labor Of Love is Ellis' second acoustic album (after 2024's Blues Music Award-nominated Naked Truth), and his first acoustic album to contain all original material. The album is available on CD, Georgia peach-colored vinyl LP and at all digital service providers. It is available to order here.

Since the release of Labor Of Love, many outlets including No Depression, AllMusic, Living Blues, Blues Music Magazine, Relix and numerous publications across the UK and Europe have featured Ellis and his mesmerizing acoustic music. Vintage Guitar magazine put Ellis on the cover of its February 2026 issue.

Sweet Ice Tea debuted on the nationally syndicated radio program, Acoustic Café, in over 120 markets. Labor Of Love hit #1 on the NACC Blues Genre Chart (North Americana College & Community), #1 on The Big Blues Radio Chart and appears on the Folk Alliance International Radio Chart’s Top 50. It’s also at or near the top on blues radio chart across the globe in France, Australia, Canada and the UK.

According to Ellis, “Sweet Ice Tea is a hill country blues stomper with a plaintive shout-out to the love of my life -- Soul Food! We hope it makes the listener hungry for more songs from my new Labor Of Love album!” The video for the song was directed by filmmaker Tony Bieser, who also directed Ellis' previous videos for Too Broke and Hoodoo Woman. Watch Sweet Ice Tea below.

Sweet Ice Tea by Tinsley Ellis
From the new Alligator Records album, Labor Of Love.

With Labor Of Love, Ellis delivers a raw, edgy, self-produced set of 13 original compositions, all performed with pure emotional honesty. The songs spin modern tales of floods, conflagrations, voodoo spirits, personal travails and heaven-sent prayers. From the feral opener Hoodoo Woman to the John Lee Hooker-groove of Long Time to the evocative, Skip James-inspired To A Hammer to the Son House-style stomp of Sunnyland, Ellis inhabits his songs in a way that is simply astonishing.

Each performance carries the weight, experience and hard-earned wisdom Ellis learned over four decades on the road, making Labor Of Love as profoundly deep and moving as any music he has made in his career. It covers the gamut of emotions, finding good times in the hard times, mixing gentle beauty with foot-pounding ferocity.

Ellis continues performing solo all over the country in his aptly named “Two Guitars And A Car” tour. For Ellis, playing solo, acoustic blues has helped him tap into the raw essence of the music. “I love doing these shows,” Ellis says, “I can be more expressive and emotional as a solo acoustic artist. I just love the sound of acoustic guitar. I always have.” Find Ellis' tour dates here.

“No matter what I play, I like to have an edge, "Ellis says. "For me, just playing this music is a labor of love. I sat at the feet of Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Howlin’ Wolf. I got into this music because of them. I always told myself if I could just make a living playing the blues, I’d be, at least in my own mind, successful.”

Premier Guitar believes he’s more than reached that goal, declaring, “Ellis is a legend of American blues music...he’s an American music treasure. He delivers a sermon on the power and glory of the blues, and is one of modern blues’ greatest performers.”

###

New music: Seal, The Legal Matters, Mumford & Sons, Gorillaz, Johnny Blue Skies

2026-03-08T12:26:00.000-07:00

In this column I review fantastic new titles featuring British soul icon Seal, as well as new studio albums from power pop greats The Legal Matters, British Americana troupe Mumford & Sons, groundbreaking collective Gorillaz and genre-defying Johnny Blue Skies & the Dark Clouds; all the releases are available now.

Artist: Seal
Title: Purpose: Celebrating 30 Years of the Classic Albums Seal I and Seal II (Mercury Studios)
You might like if you enjoy: Seal, Trevor Horn
Tell me more: Fans of top-tier artists, immersive concert films and timeless music will all have find plenty to love about Mercury Studios' "Purpose: Celebrating 30 Years of the Classic Albums Seal I and Seal II." The fabulous new concert film featuring four-time Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Seal was filmed at The Venetian Theatre in Las Vegas in 2024 and features stunning live versions of the artist's most beloved material. The 10-track concert film also features some insightful thoughts from Seal interspersed along the way: "I think a song can change peoples lives...in a way that is so profound." That is especially true after seeing Seal and his six-piece band soar through stellar hits including "Crazy," "Future Love Paradise," "Prayer For The Dying" and "Kiss From A Rose." Seal's signature vocals come in the service of a timeless sound that blends soul, R&B, pop and dance. In addition to Seal's incredible vocals, his band features the artist's longtime producer, Grammy Award-winning producer/artist Trevor Horn. Highlights abound on the title, including the sumptuous opener "Crazy," dance-fueled "The Beginning" and "Bring It On," bewitching "Prayer For The Dying," and moving "Kiss From A Rose" and "Love's Divine," the latter two selections finding Seal going into the crowd to sing. Released on Feb. 13, the title is available via multiple formats including a 4K UHD+Blu-ray combo pack, Blu-ray+CD combo, and digital audio and video (the 4K UHD+Blu-ray format is reviewed here). Information: mercurystudio.co.

Artist: The Legal Matters
Title: Lost At Sea (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Badfinger, ELO, Fountains Of Wayne, Crowded House, Dada
Tell me more: Michigan-based The Legal Matters have returned with a spectacular new album, the 10-track Lost At Sea. The talented trio comprised of Keith Klingensmith, Andy Reed and Chris Richards have collaborated on their first new batch of ambitious, harmony-filled songs since 2021's Chapter Three. The Legal Matters' fourth album includes the sumptuous opener "Everybody Knows" (which delightfully recalls the magic of classic Badfinger), propulsive "The Message," melodic gem "Temporary Thing," driving psychedelic-tinged "It Doesn't Matter," Beatlesque "Let Me Explain," and Baroque ballad "Slow Down." Not only does the album sound fantastic, but the songs are literate and tap into modern-day themes at every turn. Information: bigstirrecords.com.

Artist: Mumford & Sons
Title: Prizefighter (Glassnote Music)
You might like if you enjoy: Mumford & Sons, Chris Stapleton, Hozier
Tell me more: English band Mumford & Sons is back with Prizefighter, another batch of infectious originals bolstered by winning songcraft, shining harmonies, dynamic musicianship and artful arrangements crafted from folk and Americana essentials. Additionally, the group's music making is enhanced by several high-profile names who join along the way on the band's sixth studio LP. The anthemic opener "Here" features country music great Chris Stapleton adding his vocals to the track. On the introspective "Rubber Band Man," Hozier brings his distinctive voice to the cut as he trades verses with Marcus Mumford. There are so many great songs on the disc with the sweeping "Banjo Song," ambitious "Run Together" with its burgeoning arc, the confessional "Shadow Of A Man," soaring "Begin Again" that explores the courage to start over and the gentle closer "Clover" are among this writer's favorites. Information: mumfordandsons.com.

Artist: Gorillaz
Title: The Mountain (Kong Studios Essex Limited)
You might like if you enjoy: Gorillaz, Blur, Damon Albarn
Tell me more: Singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Damon Albarn has returned with the latest Gorillaz full-length masterwork, The Mountain. The album includes a parade of 15 compelling originals featuring a slew of high-profile guests. Highlights include the instrumental-heavy opener "The Mountain," luxurious trip hop meets hip-hop romp "The Moon Cave," the New Wave-flavored "The Happy Dictator" featuring the iconic duo Sparks, the mesmeric "Orange County," dreamy "The Empty Dream Machine" (the latter featuring guitar great Johnny Marr), electronica sortie "The Plastic Guru," immersive "Delirium" featuring English singer Mark E. Smith, evocative "Casablanca" (featuring Marr and Clash bassist Paul Simonon) and India-minded foray "The Sweet Prince." The album's closing track, "The Sad God," is a wonderful showcase for Albarn's signature vocals and alluring melodic instincts as well as his ability to collaborate with other artists artfully. Information: gorillaz.com.

Artist: Johnny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds
Title: Mutiny After Midnight (High Top Mountain Records/Atlantic Music Group)
You might like if you enjoy: Sturgill Simpson
Tell me more: Following up the release of Johnny Blue Skies' 2024 debut Passage Du Desir, singer-songwriter Sturgill Simpson (aka Johnny Blue Skies) and The Dark Clouds are back with the sophomore followup Mutiny After Midnight. The dance-minded disc is filled with left-leaning political-minded originals that simultaneously are aimed at getting everyone out on the dance floor. The rousing opener "Make America Fuk Again," rapid-fire rock-styled "Excited Delirium," Americana-rooted "Don't Let Go" (the latter featuring nuanced sax playing from Raw B), funky "Stay On That" and "Ain't That A Bitch," and country-tinged "Viridescent" all explode out of the speakers. The nine-track album is available on vinyl, as well as via audio CD and on cassette. Information: sturgillsimpson.com.

Robert Kinsler

Mumford & Sons 'Prizefighter' Tour; Tour coming to Forum on Tuesday, Oct. 6

2026-02-20T08:59:00.000-08:00

Mumford & Sons has just announced details about the band's "Prizefighter" tour. The group's new album Prizefighter is out today...Robert Kinsler

MUMFORD & SONS’ NEW ALBUM PRIZEFIGHTER OUT TODAY, MASSIVE

NORTH AMERICAN TOUR CONFIRMED

KIA FORUM – TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6

BAND SET TO RETURN TO ‘SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE’ AS MUSICAL GUEST FOR THE FOURTH TIME

Tickets on Sale Friday, February 27, at 10 AM PT

Mumford & Sons’ anticipated new album, Prizefighter, is out today via Glassnote Records/Gentlemen of the Road. Stream/purchase HERE.

Long celebrated for their electric live performances, touring has defined Mumford & Sons from the beginning, in shaping their sound, building their global fanbase, and fostering their collaborative spirit. Continuing that tradition, the group will kick off their massive North American headline Prizefighter Tour in June, which includes a stop at the Kia Forum on Tuesday, October 6.

Tickets will be available for pre-sale for AGORA members starting Tuesday, February 24, at 10:00 am PT, with general on-sale following on Friday, February 27, at 10:00 am PT. Full details can be found at www.mumfordandsons.com.

The tour will also offer a variety of different VIP packages and experiences for fans to take their concert experience to the next level. Packages vary but include premium tickets, access to the pre-show Prizefighter club, exclusive VIP merchandise & more. VIP package contents vary based on the offer selected. For more information, visit vipnation.com.

Co-produced and co-written with The National’s Aaron Dessner, Prizefighter features collaborations with Hozier, Gracie Abrams, Chris Stapleton, and Gigi Perez and finds Mumford & Sons at their most instinctive and open, capturing the sense of community and connection that has influenced them from the start.

Already receiving widespread attention, the band was recently featured on NPR’s Morning Edition, The Zane Lowe Show, Bert Kreischer’s The Bertcast, And The Writer Is… and Brittany Broski’s Royal Court, while NPR Music praises the album, saying, “it’s pretty wonderful…this music is very evolved and intricate and exquisitely produced and performed. They are incredible musicians.”

The official music video for the album track, “The Banjo Song,” is also out now, directed and produced by the Bristol-based events collective, Streets of Soul, who cast the dancers solely from clubbers they met at their Bristol Northern Soul Club nights. Watch/share HERE.

Less than a year from the arrival of RUSHMERE, the band’s long-anticipated #1 album in March 2025, Mumford & Sons take full advantage of a prolific period of songwriting with another full-length record in quick succession. For a band whose unique sound has helped to both influence and inspire countless artists all around the globe, Prizefighter is Mumford & Sons’ finest example of precisely how and why they lead by example.

The album sessions were as much about rediscovery as recording. Days spent writing in Hudson cafés and nights spent around Long Pond’s kitchen table gave rise to songs that feel unpolished in the best sense—alive with first takes and the joy of simply making music together again. Reenergized, rejuvenated, and in the form of their lives, Prizefighter embraces and reflects that full-strength energy and enthusiasm with 14 songs of light, shade, and everything in between.

PRIZEFIGHTER TRACK LIST

1. Here (with Chris Stapleton)
2. Rubber Band Man (with Hozier)
3. The Banjo Song
4. Run Together
5. Conversation With My Son
6. Alleycat
7. Prizefighter
8. Begin Again
9. Icarus (with Gigi Perez)
10. Stay
11. Badlands (with Gracie Abrams)
12. Shadow Of A Man
13. I’ll Tell You Everything
14. Clover

MUMFORD & SONS CONFIRMED TOUR DATES

BOLD on-sale next Friday, February 27 at 10:00am local time

February 20—Tempe, AZ—Innings Festival

April 24—Melbourne, Australia—Rod Laver Arena

April 25—Melbourne, Australia—Rod Laver Arena

April 28—Brisbane, Australia—Entertainment Centre

April 29—Sydney, Australia—Qudos Bank Arena

May 2—Auckland, New Zealand—Spark Arena

June 2—Vancouver, BC—Rogers Arena||

June 4—Bozeman, MT—Bobcat Stadium|| (not a Live Nation date)

June 6—Boulder, CO—Folsom Field† (not a Live Nation date)

June 8—Fort Worth, TX—Dickies Arena‡

June 9—Rogers, AR—Walmart AMP‡

June 11—Chicago, IL—Wrigley Field#

June 13—Toronto, ON—Rogers Stadium#

June 14—Pittsburgh, PA—The Pavilion at Star Lake‡

June 16—Bangor, ME—Maine Savings Amphitheater‡

June 18—Syracuse, NY—Empower FCU Amphitheater‡

June 19—Bristow, VA—Jiffy Lube Live‡

June 20—Hershey, PA—Hersheypark Stadium+

June 22—Boston, MA—Fenway Park+

July 1—Groningen, Netherlands—Stadspark

July 2—Werchter, Belgium—Rock Werchter Festival

July 4—London, U.K.—BST Hyde Park^

July 5—Dublin, Ireland—Marlay Park

July 7—Rome, Italy—Rock in Roma

July 9—Berlin, Germany—Waldbuhne

July 31—Minneapolis, MN— Mystic Lake Amphitheater~

August 1—St. Charles, Iowa—Hinterland Music Festival

August 2—Kansas City, MO—Morton Amphitheater~

August 4—Atlanta, GA—State Farm Arena~

August 6—Hollywood, FL—Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino~

August 7—Tampa, FL—Benchmark International Arena~

August 9—Charlotte, NC—Spectrum Center~

August 11—New York, NY—Madison Square Garden~

August 15—Gilford, NH—BankNH Pavilion~

August 16—Montreal, QC—Lasso Festival

September 12—Rio de Janeiro, Brazil—Rock in Rio

September 20—Charlottesville, VA—John Paul Jones Arena%

September 22—Grand Rapids, MI—Acrisure Amphitheater%

September 23—Madison, WI—Kohl Center %

September 25—Louisville, KY—Bourbon & Beyond Festival

September 29—Birmingham, AL—Coca-Cola Amphitheater%

October 1—The Woodlands, TX—The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion%

October 3—Albuquerque, NM—First Financial Credit Union Amphitheater||

October 6—Los Angeles, CA—Kia Forum||

||with special guest Sierra Ferrell

†with special guests Sierra Ferrell and Dylan Gossett

‡with special guest Dylan Gossett

#with special guests Caamp and Dylan Gossett

+with special guests Lord Huron and Dylan Gossett

^with special guest The War on Drugs

~with special guest Medium Build

%with special guest Marcus King Band

*Student tickets will be available in Bozeman, Boulder, Chicago, Rogers, Boston, Tampa and Charlottesville

www.mumfordandsons.com

ABOUT THE KIA FORUM

Located in Inglewood, California, the Kia Forum is the only arena-sized venue in the country dedicated to music and entertainment, delivering a superior experience for artists and fans alike. The iconic venue hosts a diverse range of premier events, featuring the biggest names in music and entertainment, award shows, combat sports, and more. Fans at the Kia Forum enjoy approximately 8,000 square feet of event-level hospitality offerings, including merchandise and food and beverage options. A tinted glass wall separates this concession area from the arena, ensuring fans do not miss a moment of the show. A 40,000-square-foot outdoor terrace wraps around the perimeter of the building and offers comfortable furnishings and food and beverage options from some of SoCal’s most celebrated brands. Designed with entertainers and performers in mind, Kia Forum Backstage includes star-caliber dressing rooms that provide unparalleled comfort. The Kia Forum received Pollstar's "Arena of the Decade" award in 2022 and was named the top West Coast arena in 2025 by Pollstar and Billboard magazines. thekiaforum.com. Instagram| Facebook | Twitter

U2 announce new standalone 6-Track EP 'U2 - DAYS OF ASH'

2026-02-18T10:08:00.000-08:00

Big news and new music from U2...Robert Kinsler

ANNOUNCE NEW STANDALONE 6-TRACK EP

U2 - DAYS OF ASH

LISTEN HERE // WATCH LYRIC VIDEOS HERE

PLUS A SPECIAL ONE-OFF EDITION OF U2 MAGAZINE PROPAGANDA:

"U2 - DAYS OF ASH: SIX POSTCARDS FROM THE PRESENT… WISH WE WEREN’T HERE"

WITH BAND INTERVIEWS + SONG LYRICS + MORE

READ HERE

A SHORT DOCUMENTARY FILM TO ACCOMPANY THE SONG

"YOURS ETERNALLY" (FT. ED SHEERAN & TARAS TOPOLIA)

WILL BE RELEASED ON TUESDAY FEBRUARY 24TH, THE 4^th ANNIVERSARY OF RUSSIA’S INVASION OF UKRAINE

February 18, 2026 – on this Ash Wednesday (the day after carnival) - Interscope Records today announces the release of U2 - Days Of Ash, a brand new standalone 6-track EP from U2. Out now, listen HERE. Watch lyric videos HERE .

In advance of a new album in late 2026, the U2 - Days Of Ash EP is a self-contained collection of five new songs and a poem - "American Obituary," "The Tears Of Things," "Song Of The Future," "Wildpeace," "One Life At A Time," and "Yours Eternally" (ft. Ed Sheeran & Taras Topolia) - an immediate response to current events and inspired by the many extraordinary and courageous people fighting on the frontlines of freedom. Four of the five tracks are about individuals – a mother, a father, a teenage girl – whose lives were brutally cut short. A soldier who’d rather be singing but is ready to die for the freedom of his country.

“It’s been a thrill having the four of us back together in the studio over the last year… the songs on Days of Ash are very different in mood and theme to the ones we’re going to put on our album later in the year. These EP tracks couldn't wait; these songs were impatient to be out in the world. They are songs of defiance and dismay, of lamentation. Songs of celebration will follow, we’re working on those now… because for all the awfulness we see normalized daily on our small screens, there’s nothing normal about these mad and maddening times and we need to stand up to them before we can go back to having faith in the future. And each other.

“If you have a chance to hope it’s a duty…” is a line we borrowed from Lea Ypi.

A laugh would be nice too. Thank you.”

Bono

“Who needs to hear a new record from us? It just depends on whether we’re making music we feel deserves to be heard. I believe these new songs stand up to our best work. We talk a lot about when to release new tracks. You don’t always know… the way the world is now feels like the right moment. Going way back to our earliest days, working with Amnesty or Greenpeace, we’ve never shied away from taking a position and sometimes that can get a bit messy, there’s always some sort of blowback, but it’s a big side of who we are and why we still exist.” Larry Mullen Jr.

“I’m excited about these new songs, it feels like they’re arriving at the right time.”

Adam Clayton

“We believe in a world where borders are not erased by force.

Where culture, language, and memory are not silenced by fear.

Where the dignity of a people is not negotiable.

This belief isn’t temporary.

It isn’t political fashion.

It’s the ground we stand on.

And we stand there together.”

The Edge

"American Obituary" speaks to the shocking event the world witnessed in Minneapolis, Minnesota on January 7th, 2026 where Renée Nicole Macklin Good, an idealistic mother of three, was shot at almost point-blank range while exercising her right to peacefully protest, a right that is protected under the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. This unarmed mother was then described as a “domestic terrorist” by a government who will not withdraw the description even though they know it’s not true. Or mount a proper enquiry into what happened for the sake of everyone involved.

"The Tears Of Things" borrows its title from a book by Franciscan friar Richard Rohr, which examines, through the writings of the Jewish prophets, how one can live compassionately in a time of violence and despair. The song imagines a conversation between Michelangelo’s David and his creator… where the young man with the sling and five smooth stones refuses the idea that he has to become Goliath to defeat him... he’s also revealed as having heart shaped pupils half a millennia before the heart shaped emoji, which puzzles visitors at the Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence, Italy, to this day.

The star of the lyric, Sarina, in "Song of the Future" honors the life of 16-year-old Sarina Esmailzadeh, one of thousands of Iranian schoolgirls who took to the streets as part of the Woman, Life, Freedom movement in 2022. These protests were sparked by the death of Jina Mahsa Amini, a young Kurdish-Iranian woman who died in Tehran on September 16th that year from injuries sustained following her arrest by the so-called "morality police" for not wearing a hijab in accordance with government standards. Seven days later, Sarina was beaten by the Iranian security forces and died from her injuries, the regime claiming she killed herself. The song aims to capture Sarina’s free spirit, the promise and hope of her short life.

The Days of Ash EP includes a reading of "Wildpeace" - a poem by Israeli author and poet Yehuda Amichai - by Nigerian artist Adeola of Les Amazones d'Afrique, with music by U2 and Jacknife Lee.

"One Life At A Time" is written for Awdah Hathaleen, a Palestinian father of three. A nonviolent activist and English teacher, Awdah was killed in his village in the West Bank by Israeli settler Yinon Levi on July 28th, 2025. Awdah was a consultant on the Oscar-winning documentary “No Other Land,” made by Palestinians and Israelis. At his funeral, one of the directors, Basel Adra, spoke of the slaughter of his friend and the experience of Palestinians being erased “one life at a time.” U2 took that line and turned it around to suggest that a peaceful resolution will be wrought “one life at a time.”

"Yours Eternally" sees Bono and The Edge joined on vocals by Ukrainian musician-turned-soldier Taras Topolia, as well as Ed Sheeran. In the spring of 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Bono and The Edge traveled to Kyiv to busk in a metro station at the invitation of President Zelensky. A couple of days prior to that, Ed connected Taras Topolia, and by extension his band Antytila, with Bono. Bono, Taras and The Edge met for the first time on that subway platform. They’ve been friends ever since. Taras is the inspiration for "Yours Eternally," a song written in the form of a letter from a soldier on active duty with a bold, mischievous spirit to match Ukraine’s.

"Yours Eternally" will also be proudly accompanied by a short 4½ minute documentary film directed by Ukrainian cinematographer and filmmaker Ilya Mikhaylus, that will be released on Tuesday, February 24^th - the 4^th anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Shot in December 2025 while Mikhaylus and his crew were embedded alongside the 40,000-strong Khartiya Corps, the film captures the extraordinary daily lives of Alina and her fellow soldiers fighting on the frontlines of the war.

U2 Days of Ash EP is accompanied by the return of Propaganda as a one-off digital zine, with a limited-edition print run. Forty years ago, in February 1986, the first issue of Propaganda dropped through the letterboxes of U2 fans around the world. Aspiring to match other fan magazines at that time, Propaganda was born out of the punk-era D.I.Y. zine culture that embraced attitude, ideas and dialogue. In the spirit of those early issues, this standalone EP will be accompanied by a one-off limited edition print run plus digital e-zine drop of Propaganda titled "U2 - Days Of Ash: Six Postcards From The Present… Wish We Weren’t Here." This 52-page special publication accompanies the release of the Days Of Ash EP and includes exclusive interviews with "Yours Eternally" film director Ilya Mikhaylus and film producer Pyotr Verzilov, as well as musician and soldier Taras Topolia. It also includes song lyrics; notes from the four band members; plus a Q&A interview with Bono. Read Propaganda HERE .

The one-off special edition of Propaganda, "U2 - Days Of Ash: Six Postcards From The Present… Wish We Weren’t Here," is available digitally HERE and as a limited print run at select independent record stores across Europe and North America.

U2 Days of Ash - EP Tracklisting:

1. American Obituary

2. The Tears of Things

3. Song of The Future

4. Wildpeace - by Yehuda Amichai, read by Adeola, with music by U2 and Jacknife Lee.

5. One Life At A Time

6. Yours Eternally (ft. Ed Sheeran & Taras Topolia)

Photo Credit: Anton Corbijn (2025)

Jason Aldean takes 'How Far Does A Goodbye Go' all the way to Number One at Country Radio, his 31st Career Chart-Topper

2026-02-16T08:21:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the talented Jason Aldean on his latest number one...Robert Kinsler

JASON ALDEAN TAKES “HOW FAR DOES A GOODBYE GO” ALL THE WAY TO NUMBER ONE AT COUNTRY RADIO, HIS 31ST CAREER CHART-TOPPER

New Album Songs About Us Drops April 24

Full Throttle World Tour Returns This Week to Australia And New Zealand

Two-Time Nominee at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards --- Country Artist of the Year & Country Song of the Year

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (February 16, 2026) — Multi-platinum award-winning artist and reigning country powerhouse Jason Aldean lands his 31st number one at Country Radio topping both the Billboard and Country Aircheck/Mediabase charts with his latest single “How Far Does A Goodbye Go” via Broken Bow Records. On the Billboard Country Airplay chart, Aldean now ties George Strait, Alan Jackson and Luke Bryan for the fourth-most No. 1s since the chart began in 1990. This single served as the first preview of Aldean’s new album Songs About Us, dropping April 24. Pre-add, pre-save, pre-order HERE.

“Man, I thought 30 was a milestone…now we’re sitting at 31 number one songs. That’s pretty wild. Thank you to country radio, my team, our streaming partners, the songwriters and every one of y’all who’ve listened and turned these songs into something bigger than we ever imagined,” says Aldean.

The chart topping success coincides with Aldean’s Full Throttle World Tour return to Australia and his first time headlining New Zealand this week with shows kicking off on Thursday. Aldean is also a two-time nominee at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards — Country Artist of the Year and Country Song of the Year for his 30th number one hit “Whiskey Drink.”

The ACM Artist of the Decade has been sharing new music with his fans since the November announcement of Songs About Us and the surprise drop of “Help You Remember,” “Hard To Love You,” and “Lovin’ Me Too Long,” along with the chart topping “How Far Does A Goodbye Go.” He shared a second batch of songs last month when he premiered “Easier Gone” featuring Brittany Aldean, “Her Favorite Color” and “What’s A Little Heartache.” Songs About Us follows Highway Desperado, an album that earned him his first career Billboard Hot 100 chart-topping hit and his 30th career number one at country radio.

Over the past two decades, Aldean has built a remarkable career with 13 Top 10 country albums, 31 number one hits at country radio and a SoundExchange Hall of Fame Award for being one of the most-streamed artists of all time.

For more information on Songs About Us, Full Throttle tour dates, and other Aldean updates, visit www.JasonAldean.com.

About Jason Aldean:

Grammy-nominated, Multi-Platinum award winning entertainer Jason Aldean is one of country’s most successful touring powerhouses and influential musical icons of the 21st century. With 31 number one singles, nearly 20B streams, and over 20M albums sold, Aldean’s name is synonymous with country music. Since exploding onto the scene with his 2005 self-titled debut, Aldean has carved out a reputation for delivering hard-hitting, emotionally resonant anthems that blend small-town storytelling with stadium-powered energy. He’s remained a steadfast and defining voice, with a fanbase that spans generations and continues to grow. The Georgia native recently released his album 30 Number One Hits, marking his 13th top 10 country album in 20 years with its #4 debut on the Billboard Top Country Album Chart (10/10). His 11th studio album, Highway Desperado (2023), featured his 30th number one single and garnered his first career number one on the Billboard Hot 100. Known for his electrifying live shows and breakout crossover hits, Aldean is currently igniting stages across the globe on the Full Throttle Tour, a high-octane experience that reinforces his place as a legendary live performer. The Full Throttle World Tour kicks off its international leg in 2026, following an extensive US headlining run, hitting New Zealand and Australia. Aldean made his 31st run to the top of the charts with “How Far Does A Goodbye Go,” the first preview he shared with his fans of his new album, Songs About Us, out April 24.

KEEP UP WITH JASON ALDEAN

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Photo Credit: Spidey Smith

New music: The Far West, The Droptines

2026-02-08T14:05:00.000-08:00

In this column I review two essential under-the-radar titles worthy of discovery.

Artist: The Far West
Title: Everything We Thought We Wanted (Blackbird Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Wilco, Band of Horses, Steve Earle, Phosphorescent
Tell me more: Released in late 2025, The Far West's Everything We Thought We Wanted is a terrific album that blends alt country, folk and roots rock into an authentic and luxurious listen. The Los Angeles-based troupe's winning album was self-produced and mixed/mastered by veteran engineer Dave Trumfio (Wilco, My Morning Jacket). The 12-track disc includes the exuberant opener "See For Yourself," the sumptuous "Joshua Tree," the evocative "These Lies," psychedelic-tinged "Hope I Don't Bleed," the melodic "Meet Me Where We Parted Last," dreamy "For The Birds" and rollicking roots rocker "In Your Own Time." The album closes out with the introspective "Over the Hill," showcasing the ambitious lyrical and musical approach of the band. The Far West will perform with Rose's Pawn Shop at Pappy & Harriett's in Pioneertown, CA on Friday, Feb. 27, 2026. Information: thefarwestofficial.com.

Artist: The Droptines
Title: The Droptines (Big Loud Texas)
You might like if you enjoy: Merle Haggard, John Mellencamp, Johnny Cash, Old 97's
Tell me more: Released back in 2024, The Droptines' self-titled album was one I only recently discovered thanks to a friend who encouraged me to check out the Austin, Texas-based band's singular sound and lyrical approach that masterfully blends country, indie, heartland rock and folk together into an intoxicating amalgam that is clear once heard. There is a real life-lived spirit across the album, even if that means sex, booze and drugs are referenced to bolster the proceedings. Founded by top-tier singer-guitarist Conner Arthur, the quartet shines on each of the album's dozen tracks. My favorites include the deeply affecting "No One Man," Texas-themed confessional rocker "Bill of Sale," probing tale of romantic longing showcased on "Hyna," the beautiful genre-blending "Let Her Go," aptly-titled "As Your Heart Breaks," satirical "Things I Ain't Got" and disc-closing rocker "Raining Where You Are." What's more, I learned that a "droptine" is a downward-pointing antler of a deer. Information: thedroptines.com.

Robert Kinsler

Album review: Toad the Wet Sprocket's 'Rings: The Acoustic Sessions'

2026-02-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

Toad the Wet Sprocket, from left, Glen Phillips, Todd Nichols and Dean Dinning.
Photo credit: Chris Orwig

Artist: Toad the Wet Sprocket
Title: Rings: The Acoustic Sessions (Abe's Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Toad the Wet Sprocket, Glen Phillips
Tell me more: Toad the Wet Sprocket has released one of the first great albums of 2026, Rings: The Acoustic Sessions. The 14 versions on Rings burst forth with new emotional and musical textures sure to please longtime fans while also serving to introduce Toad the Wet Sprocket's timeless sound to new listeners. And while the versions here are performed by singer-guitarist Glen Phillips, guitarist Todd Nichols and bassist Dean Dinning along with 11 guest players with a battery of acoustic guitars, acoustic bass, piano, accordion, fiddle, mandolin and an array of other instruments, there is a palpable energy across the collection that draws comparisons with the band's well-recognized sonic approach.

"Something's Always Wrong" is a particularly powerful track that taps into the deepest fears that inevitably challenge us as we go through life, Phillips' stellar vocals spinning magic amidst the uptempo acoustic textures that define the new collection. Other highlights abound on the 14-track set include the poignant opener "All I Want," fiery "Woodburning," countrified "Good Intentions," stirring "Walk on the Ocean," Americana-flavored "California Wasted," bold acoustic folk rocker "Fall Down," tender gem "Transient Whales" and chilling piano-anchored title track. This is no simple "unplugged" greatest hits set, but rather stands as another high mark in Toad the Wet Sprocket's delightfully ambitious career. Information: toadthewetsprocket.com.

Robert Kinsler

2026 NAMM Show Roundup

2026-01-29T20:15:00.000-08:00

Singer-songwriter-guitarist Ron Artis II performing at the 2026 NAMM
Show in Anaheim, California on Jan. 22.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

From left, Sheléa Melody McDonald, Stevie Wonder and Alana Springsteen performing on Jan. 23, 2026. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Here is my roundup of the action I caught at the 2026 NAMM Show in Anaheim, California last week. A special "thank you" to Bob Steshetz for allowing me to use so many of his amazing photographs.

You can also read music writer George A. Paul's excellent coverage of the 2026 NAMM Show via Rock Cellar Magazine HERE.

Robert Kinsler

The NAMM Show, the largest music industry trade show in the world, returned to the Anaheim Convention Center and adjacent hotels last week for several days of education sessions, performances, award ceremonies, new product demos and much more.

NAMM SHOW 2026 BY THE NUMBERS

60,000+ show attendees, including 8,760+ international attendees from 122 countries, regions and territories
1,650+ exhibitors representing 5,400+ brands, which is 25 percent more than 2025
Nearly 15,000 artists demonstrating and endorsing products and brands
200+ education sessions with 550+ speakers
1,600+ media, influencers and content creators reaching over 200+ million followers, which is 50 percent more than 2025.

Below are some highlights of my visit to NAMM's 125th anniversary show.

From left, Molly Tuttle and Martin President/CEO Thomas Ripsam at NAMM's Global Media Day on Jan. 21, 2026. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

On Jan. 21, music journalists and social media influencers were given a preview of what select music manufacturers offered as part of NAMM's Global Media Day. Grammy Award-winning bluegrass artist Molly Tuttle and singer-songwriter Margaret Glaspy, as well as rising young band The Runarounds performed as part of the event; Tuttle was excited to showcase two new signature Martin guitars (the D-18 and D-X2E).

The Runarounds performing at NAMM's Global Media Day.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Singer-songwriter Margaret Glaspy performing at NAMM's Global Media Day.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

NAMM President/CEO John Mlynczak kicked off the Media Preview Day, held in the Hilton Pacific Ballroom. A number of other high-profile guests also participated during the event.

"We love to create new products," C.F. Martin & Co. President/CEO Thomas Ripsam said.

Ripsam was joined by Tuttle at several media-related events on Jan. 21. "All my favorite guitar players played Martin (guitars)," Tuttle noted.

Molly Tuttle performing at the Martin Guitars Booth on Jan. 21, 2026. Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Tuttle was truly one of the great musicians I caught performing at NAMM this year; the Santa Clara, California native — who celebrated her 33rd birthday earlier this month — began playing guitar at age 8. She released her fifth studio album So Long Little Miss Sunshine in August 2025. Her performance of the original song "San Joaquin" from her 2023 album City of Gold was a highlight for me (you can see that performance HERE).

At the media event Mlynczak noted that "5,400 brands are collaborating" with NAMM this year and the industry show saw double the product releases in 2026 compared with 2025. "This is where new products flourish," he noted.

Guitarist Chris Buck demonstrating his technique and the sound of Yamaha's Chris Buck Signature Rev-star RS02CB at the NAMM Show.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Among the wide range of new guitars showcased that day were PRS Guitars' Silver Sky Wild Blue Limited Edition and Ed Sheehan Cosmic Splash Limited Edition guitar models, Yamaha's Chris Buck Signature Rev-star RS02CB and C.F. Martin & Co.'s Super D-14 Acoustic Guitar line (the latter whose larger body provides for 20 percent more air volume and projection).

John Mlynczak at NAMM. Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Jan. 22 saw Mlynczak welcome attendees at the NAMM U Breakfast Session - Industry Insights. During his keynote address before thousands of NAMMgoers, he explained because "Music-making is a core function of society, we are consistently guided by the best minds win the industry and we adapt, evolve and learn from the past."

That day also saw several memorable performances.

During a powerful 40-minute daytime set on the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Ron Artis II was backed by a great two-man rhythm section. He delivered strong originals blending rock, blues, soul, and more. Among my favorite originals he performed was the propulsive funk-fueled "The Truth."

Laurence Juber performing on the Martin Guitar
Acoustic Stage.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Another fantastic live performance that Thursday came courtesy of Grammy Award-winning fingerstyle guitarist Laurence Juber, who appeared on the Martin Guitar Acoustic Stage. His signature instrumentals were unleashed before a big, enthusiastic crowd. Standouts included his dazzling takes on the Jimi Hendrix classic "Little Wing," The Beatles' "Strawberry Fields Forever" and The Who's "Won't Get Fooled Again."

Italian guitarist Matteo Mancuso performing on the Yamaha Grand
Plaza Stage on Jan. 23, 2026.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

On Jan. 23, I caught a number of other performances. The most high-profile of the concerts was led by instrumental guitar virtuoso Matteo Mancuso. The Italian guitar master's set on the Yamaha Grand Plaza Stage blended progressive rock, jazz and flamenco elements into a signature sound across a 40-minute crowd pleasing appearance.

Cannibal & the Headhunters at the end of the troupe's Jan. 23, 2026 set at NAMM.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

John Wayne Townsend performing at NAMM.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Later that afternoon on the DAS Audio Arena Plaza Stage, a "Legends Concert" featuring Cannibal & the Headhunters celebrating the classic rock era had attendees dancing, cheering and enjoying a number of rock radio staples; the highlight was seeing John Wayne Townsend play keys and sing his enduring 1977 hit "Smoke From a Distant Fire."

The 2027 NAMM Show will take place from Jan. 26-30, 2027 in Anaheim, CA.

PRODUCTS AND PERFORMANCES APLENTY

Below is a photo gallery of more images captured at the 2026 NAMM Show.

Chinese-made Caraya banjos on display.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Singer-songwriter-guitarist Ron Artis II in action on Jan. 22.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Traveler Guitars make quite an impression.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

A close-up look at the Ed Sheehan Cosmic Splash Limited Edition
instrument showcased by Stevensville, MD-based PRS Guitars.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

The Retablo Art Guitar crafted by John Page. Learn
More via johnpageguitars.com.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

An attention-grabbing Guitar Capo.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

A casual get-together on the floor - an impromptu jam at NAMM.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Cannibal & the Headhunters performing on Jan. 23, 2026.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

From left, Matt Starr, Phil X and Billy Sheehan tearing it up at the
NAMM Show on Jan. 23.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Legendary bassist Billy Sheehan.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

Phil X shredding at NAMM.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

No ordinary picks. United Kingdom-based Timber Tones offers the
"largest selection of luxury Guitar Picks in the world."
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

A look at the Boutique Guitar Showcase.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

NAMM stickers.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Famed harmonica virtuoso Lee Oskar (famed for his stint with
WAR), left, with yours truly at the NAMM Show. The Lee Oskar
Harmonicas booth was a must-see at the 2026 NAMM Show.

A closer look at road-ready Traveler Guitars.
Photo credit: Robert Kinsler

Performances have become a key part of the NAMM experience. Here is
Tom Griesgraber playing the Chapman Stick.
Photo credit: Bob Steshetz

VIDEOS FROM THE 2026 NAMM SHOW

MusicUCanSee was also at the NAMM Show and has posted a number of great videos available now:

An interview with the John Lennon Bus Educational Tour Bus co-founder Brian Rothschild HERE.

If you play guitar, check out this video on Casio's new Dimension Shifter HERE.

Watch Molly Tuttle's full-length performance of her song "San Joaquin" HERE.

Watch Molly Tuttle's performance of her song "Rosalee" HERE.

Watch a bit of Hannibal & The Headhunters' performance of "Land of 1,000 Dances" HERE.

Finally, here is an interview of me by MusicUCanSee host Tino Anglade on Jan. 21.

Toad The Wet Sprocket Present "RINGS: The Acoustic Sessions" available January 30, 2026

2026-01-29T07:41:00.000-08:00

I am definitely looking forward to listening to this new title! Robert Kinsler

TOAD THE WET SPROCKET PRESENTS “RINGS: THE ACOUSTIC SESSIONS”
New Album Features Reimagined, Acoustic Versions of Pillar Tracks and Fan Favorites

from their Nearly Four-Decade Career

“In the end, with RINGS: The Acoustic Sessions, Toad The Wet Sprocket reaffirms the veracity of a longstanding maxim: the proof of a good song is the extent to which it will accommodate a variety of arrangements. With artful and engaging nuance, Toad the Wet Sprocket at once reasserts the validity of its lifeline and transcends it.”

- Glide Magazine

RINGS: THE ACOUSTIC SESSIONS

PURCHASE / LISTEN / WATCH

SANTA BARBARA, CA—Toad the Wet Sprocket, announces the release of their new record, Rings: The Acoustic Sessions, a fourteen-track collection of organically re-imagined versions of their most powerful and enduring songs. It will be released on Friday, January 30, and available on special color double vinyl, CD and digital formats.

To celebrate the release of Rings: The Acoustic Sessions, Toad will be premiering a special video for “Jam (Acoustic)” on Friday, January 30 at 2 p.m. E/11 a.m. P on their official YouTube Channel. The video features recently "found" (and never before seen) rare footage of the band's "fear" recording sessions in Reno, NV in January, 1991.

With Rings, Toad delivers more than an ‘unplugged’ greatest hits collection; more than a remastered retrospective glazed over with nostalgia. Rather, they’ve captured the concentrated power of their best hits and deep cuts as they exist in this moment, performed by the band as they are today.

“People always think of an acoustic record as stripped down” says bassist Dean Dinning, “but what if it wasn’t?”

These new recordings, produced by the band (Dinning, singer Glen Phillips and guitarist Todd Nichols) with Sean McCue, reflect Toad’s commitment to taking their songs as seriously as their fans did when they fell in love with the quirky Santa Barbara based band (with the very un- serious name) 35 years ago, walking into their local record store to buy the band’s Fear album on CD.

And speaking of Fear, its opening track, “All I Want” is the perfect starter for Rings, leveraging their biggest hit to establish the new sonic and emotional landscape they’re about to explore. This new arrangement captures the essence of the song that made it a hit in 1992 not by triggering fond memories of flannel and corduroy, but rather by re-delivering the heart of the song as it exists in the present.

“It was a lot of fun figuring out how the original electric parts would work on the acoustic guitar”, says Todd Nichols, “Sometimes that meant changing up the parts or even playing different solos so everything felt right in these new versions.”

Glen Phillips’ vocals capture the same longing and hope they did when he recorded the album version in 1991—but now, in 2026, his performance makes it clear that the longing he sang of thirty-four years ago hasn’t yet been satisfied, but the hope that accompanied it is still alive. Perhaps, his vocals seem to say, the longing was the point all along.

In addition to re-introducing familiar hits like “Walk On the Ocean” and “Something’s Always Wrong,” Rings broadens and deepens the listener’s experience of the band by re-contextualizing deep cut fan favorites like “Inside” and “Little Heaven,” giving these songs another chance to burrow into the hearts of a now more mature audience.

Rings also breathes new life into songs from Toad’s earliest days, like “Jam” and “Scenes From a Vinyl Recliner,” as well as giving fans a new taste of their more recent era with new takes on “California Wasted" and “Transient Whales,” proving that the newer songs can live alongside the old without being overshadowed, even without the advantage of time and the early-life neuroplasticity that easily ingrains songs in listeners’ hearts and minds.

“I love that we were able to take songs from every album and find a way to bring them together to work as a unified piece” says Phillips.

Rings is a tour through nearly forty years of Toad the Wet Sprocket, but this latest recording leans not on nostalgia, but evolution, to deliver the power of the band’s musical journey over time.

Toad the Wet Sprocket will continue to tour in support of the Rings: The Acoustic Sessions throughout the year. In summer 2026, they will join Men at Work for a U.S. tour in July / August with Shonen Knife opening. Headline dates have been added with more to be announced. Confirmed dates as follows:

JUL 12 / BETHLEHEM, PA @ MusikFest Cafe

JUL 14 / CHARLESTON, SC @ Charleston Music Hall

JUL 16 / POMPANO BEACH, FL @ Pompano Beach Amphitheater*

JUL 17 / ST. AUGUSTINE, FL @ The St. Augustine Amphitheatre*

JUL 18 / CLEARWATER, FL @ The BayCare Sound*

JUL 21 / ATLANTA, GA @ Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre*

JUL 22 / SOUTHAVEN, MS @ BankPlus Amphitheater at Snowden Grove*

JUL 23 / NASHVILLE, TN @ The Pinnacle*

JUL 24 / DETROIT, MI @ Masonic Temple*

JUL 26 / COHASSET, MA @ The Music Circus*

JUL 28 / DURHAM, NH @ The Whittemore Center*

JUL 29 / BANGOR, ME @ Maine Savings Amphitheater*

JUL 31 / ATLANTIC CITY, NJ @ Borgata Hotel Casino Event Center^

AUG 1 / HARRINGTON, DE @ Delaware State Fair*

AUG 6 / BLOOMINGTON, IL @ Grossinger Motors Arena*

AUG 7 / NEW LENOX, IL @ Performing Arts Pavilion @ The Commons*

AUG 8 / COUNCIL BLUFFS, IA @ Stir Cove At Harrah’s Casino*

AUG 10 / SALINA, KS @ Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts*

AUG 14 / CARNATION, WA @ Remlinger Farms*

AUG 18 / RENO, NV @ Silver Legacy Resort Casino*

AUG 20 / LOS ANGELES, CA @ The United Theater on Broadway*

* date with Men at Work, Shonen Knife opening

^ date with Men at Work

Rings: The Acoustic Sessions Tracklisting
ALL I WANT (3:23)
WOODBURNING (4:11)
GOOD INTENTIONS (3:07)
INSIDE (4:08)
JAM (3:36)
WALK ON THE OCEAN (3:15)
CALIFORNIA WASTED (3:53)
SOMETHING’S ALWAYS WRONG (3:51)
FALL DOWN (3:37)
LITTLE HEAVEN (4:19)
TRANSIENT WHALES (3:39)
NANCI (2:53)
SCENES FROM A VINYL RECLINER (4:26)
RINGS (3:09)

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New music: Yes, The Jack Rubies, Mud Morganfield,

2026-01-19T05:35:00.000-08:00

In this column I review several essential titles set for release on Jan. 23, 2026, as well as a fantastic under-the-radar blues title issued last year.

Artist: Yes
Title: Symphonic Live (Mercury)
You might like if you enjoy: Yes, Asia
Tell me more: Captured in 2001 following the release of their Magnification album, Yes' Symphonic Live concert recording is set to be released in two formats: Blu-ray+2CD (reviewed here) and via a 4LP package (the latter is presented via a 180g Half Speed Mastered 4LP package). The high-definition concert film and related audio recording captured vocalist Jon Anderson, bassist Chris Squire, lead guitarist Steve Howe and drummer Alan White performing a dazzling 14-track set with the European Festival Orchestra under the direction of Wilhelm Keitel along with American keyboardist Tom Brislin. The legendary virtuoso talents of Yes are a perfect fit with the backing of a full symphony orchestra as evidenced across the performance. The title features a mix of material off the Magnification album (which was recorded with an orchestra and marked Anderson's final studio album with Yes) as well as many of the pioneering English progressive rock band's best known originals. The sumptuous "Close To The Edge," majestic "Long Distance Runaround," Howe's impressive extended guitar solo and harmonies-bolstered "Don't Go" are among the many highlights on Symphonic Live. The concert roars to an incredible finish with a trio of the band's most beloved hits; the anthemic "I've Seen All Good People," crowd-pleasing rocker "Owner Of A Lonely Heart" and glorious "Roundabout."

The special edition reissue of Symphonic Live is packaged in a CD-sized clamshell box including the Blu-ray and two audio CDs, each housed in their own slipcase along with a booklet, folds out poster and five art cards. Additionally, the Blu-ray includes the promotional video for "Don't Go" and a 30-minute documentary ("Dreamtime"). While 25 years have passed since the Symphonic Live recording was captured, the power and precision of this performance is as powerful as ever.. Information: YesWorld.com and MercuryStudios.co.

Artist: The Jack Rubies
Title: Visions In The Bowling Alley (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Big Audio Dynamite, New Order
Tell me more: The Jack Rubies' forthcoming album Visions In The Bowling Alley (set for release on Jan. 23 courtesy of Big Stir Records) marks another high mark for the celebrated UK postpunk quintet. The band returned from hiatus with the release of 2024's comeback album Clocks Are Out Of Time and continues to showcase its roaring blend of post-punk, '80s alt rock and power pop across the 12-track Visions In The Bowling Alley. The goth-tinged "Greedy," introspective "My Perceptron," genre-defying "Dead Man," haunting "Flying Machine," intoxicating '80s-minded rocker "This Is Not A Joke" and instantly infectious "Boat Rocker" are among the stellar cuts on the terrific album. Information: BigStirRecords.com.

Artist: Mud Morganfield
Title: Deep Mud (Nola Blue Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, Willie Dixon
Tell me more: The son of legendary blues great Muddy Waters, singer-songwriter/bassist Mud Morganfield is a strong proponent of traditional blues. On his 2025 major label debut album, Deep Mud, Morganfield conjures up Chicago blues across a stellar 14-track disc. Standouts on the album (recorded at JoyRide Studio in Chicago) include the infectious opener "Bring Me My Whiskey," blues-harp adorned "Big Frame Woman" (featuring the harmonica blasts of Studebaker John), the slow Chess Records-era Waters track "Strange Woman" (the latter a terrific showcase for Morganfield's rich baritone vocals and Rick Kreher's stylish guitar work), uptempo R&B gem "She's Getting Her Groove On," fiery aptly-pegged blues sortie "Strike Like Lightning," dance-minded "Carolina" and emotional closer "A Dream Walking." Information: nolabluerecords.com.

Robert Kinsler

Singles shine spotlight on forthcoming LPs

2026-01-16T13:59:00.000-08:00

Just over two weeks into 2026, a number of highly-anticipated albums loom on the horizon. Here is a roundup of several advance tracks out now that shine a light on forthcoming high-profile album releases.

Artist: Jason Aldean
Song titles: "Her Favorite Color," "Easier Gone," "What's A Little Heartache" (BMG)
You might like if you enjoy: Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw
Tell me more: On Jan. 9, country music great Jason Aldean released not one, not two, but three advance tracks from his highly-anticipated album Songs About Us. All three of the outstanding cuts appear to foreshadow another top-tier release from the Macon, Georgia native. "Her Favorite Color" is an emotional love song painted with atmospheric sonics, Aldean's signature lead vocals and poetic lyrics that tap into romance celebrated against an American landscape. The bewitching duet "Easier Gone" features Aldean sharing lead and harmony vocals with his wife Brittany Aldean; the third song "What's A Little Heartache" is a decidedly modern track that blends dance, country and pop into its infectious run. Songs About Us will feature 20 new tracks, and will be available on April 24. Information: JasonAldean.com.

Artist: Mumford & Sons
Title: "The Banjo Song" (Glassnote Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Mumford & Sons, The Jayhawks
Tell me more: Those looking forward to hearing Mumford & Sons' forthcoming sixth album Prizefighter (due Feb. 20) are in luck; the band has just released the sumptuous new song "The Banjo Song." The song was co-written by Aaron Dessner and Jon Bellion, with the track's probing and hopeful message detailed via a luxurious mix of vocal harmonies and nuanced Americana musicianship. "The Banjo Song" follows the previously-issued introductory tracks "Rubber Band Man" and the album's title track. Information: mumfordandsons.com.

Artist: The Jack Rubies
Title: "Boat Rocker" (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: New Order, The Church, power pop music
Tell me more: One of many strong cuts pulled from the Jack Rubies' 21st century reunion album Visions In The Bowling Alley (due Jan. 23 via Big Stir Records), "Boat Rocker" is an upbeat cut that blends '80s indie rock with modern-day power pop. The driving cut recalls the magic of vintage New Order, but comes wrapped in the United Kingdom-based Jack Rubies' own postpunk pop soundscape first established during their 1980s and 1990s run on TVT Records. Information: bigstirrecords.com.

Robert Kinsler

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Singles shine spotlight on forthcoming LPs

Omnivore Recordings Announces
The Knack’s Knackology: The Zen Recordings
Out May 8

19-Song Collection Features Rare Studio, Live
and Demo Recordings from the “My Sharona”