Rock 'n' Roll Truth

Sam Barber wins Breakthrough Country Artist at the 2026 American Music Awards

2026-05-28T08:38:53.553-07:00

Congratulations to acclaimed singer-songwriter Sam Barber on this well deserved honor. Make sure to catch the rising artist on tour this year too...Robert Kinsler

Photo credit: AMAs

SAM BARBER WINS BREAKTHROUGH COUNTRY ARTIST AT THE 2026 AMERICAN MUSIC AWARDS

SOPHOMORE ALBUM BROKEN VIEW RELEASED TO CRITICAL ACCLAIM; EXTENSIVE TOUR SET FOR 2026!

May 26, 2026—Last night, multi-platinum artist Sam Barber won Breakthrough Country Artist at the 2026 American Music Awards.

The accolade continues a breakout year for Barber, who released his sophomore album, Broken View, earlier this year via Atlantic Outpost (stream/purchase HERE) and performed an “incredibly moving set” (The Desert Sun) at Stagecoach last month.

Co-written and co-produced by Barber and Joe Becker (“Indigo,” “Straight and Narrow”) with additional songs co-produced with Aaron Dessner (Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan) at Long Pond Studio, Broken View serves as a sweeping and introspective reflection on life’s complexities, exploring themes of love, loss and self-discovery. Already receiving critical attention, All Country News praises, “a sophomore record that doesn’t just meet expectations, it stares them down and walks right past them…Fully realized, unmistakable, and impossible to ignore,” while Whiskey Riff calls the new 13-song collection “incredibly impressive.”

An acclaimed live performer, Barber is currently on his extensive “The American Route Tour” with confirmed stops at Los Angeles’ Greek Theatre, Boston’s Leader Bank Pavilion (two nights), New York’s The Rooftop at Pier 17 (two nights), and a sold-out show at Morrison’s iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre, among many others. See below for complete tour itinerary.

One of the genre’s fastest-rising and “most in-demand artists” (Rolling Stone), Barber has built a devoted global audience through deeply personal songwriting and an unfiltered perspective that resonates across generations. Raised on a farm in southeast Missouri, Barber began playing music as a teenager after picking up his great-grandfather’s Gibson guitar. Guided by his commitment to making music on his own terms, Barber has risen rapidly as a generational voice in country music and now lives in Bozeman, Montana.

With more than 3.4 billion Restless Mind, received widespread critical acclaim, with Grammy.com declaring, "The double LP shows the true breadth of his artistry, which is grounded in raw, narrative songwriting...and gritty, spare production" and Country Central raving, "a voice poised for stardom, there's not a message too powerful to be uttered from his lips." The album earned RIAA Gold certification and features standout singles, including "Straight and Narrow" and Platinum-certified "Indigo (featuring Avery Anna)," the latteer of which has amassed moree than 728 million global streams and earned Barber a top 40 placement on Billboard's Hot 100.

To see Barber's upcoming tour dates, visit SamBarberMusic.com.

New music: Peter Frampton, Jason Aldean, The Corner Laughers

2026-05-19T09:47:34.785-07:00

In this column I highlight the highly-recommended returns from Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Peter Frampton, country music great Jason Aldean and indie folk-pop quartet The Corner Laughers.

Artist: Peter Frampton
Title: Carry the Light (UMe)
You might like if you enjoy: Peter Frampton, Sheryl Crow, Bill Evans, H.E.R.

Tell me more: Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Peter Frampton is back with Carry the Light, his first album of all-new material in 16 years. Co-written and produced with his son Julian Frampton, Carry the Light features guest appearances from singer Sheryl Crow, saxophone player Bill Evans, guitarists H.E.R. and Tom Morello, singer Graham Nash and keyboardist Benmont Tench. But make no mistake, it are Frampton's top-tier talents as singer and guitar master that anchor the outstanding 10-track effort. The depth and range of material on the album is impressive to be sure, from the intoxicating world music-flavored title track, fiery blues rocker "Lions At The Gate," the gorgeous "I'm Sorry Elle" (the latter featuring Nash on guest vocals) and confessional "Breaking The Mold" are all early standouts. The nuanced "I Can't Let It Be," jazzy "Can You Take Me There," genre-blending "Tinderbox" and expressive instrumental "At The End Of The Day" are among the highlights on the last half of the LP. My favorite cut on the album is "Buried Treasure," a blistering rocker that is actually a tribute to Tom Petty's SiriusXM radio show of the same name that forcefully showcases Frampton's signature vocals and virtuoso lead guitar work. Information: peterframpton.com.

Artist: Jason Aldean
Title: Songs About Us (BBR Music Group)
You might like if you enjoy: Jason Aldean, Daughtry, Southern rock

Tell me more: Country music great Jason Aldean is back with his 12th studio album, Songs About Us, an ambitious disc that finds the Macon, Georgia native continuing to deliver infectious rock-flavored lived-in modern country tracks that touch on themes of romance and heartbreak, determination in the face of defeat and independence with a masterful touch. The parade of alluring songs includes the stellar anguish-mining opener "Anytime Soon," rocking "Drinking About You," tender "How Far Does A Goodbye Go," surefire sing-along "Good Thing Going," reflective "Backroads Of My Memory," soaring "Easier Gone," and luxurious love song "Her Favorite Color." Information: jasonaldean.com.

Artist: The Corner Laughers
Title: Concerns Of Wasp And Willow (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Belle And Sebastian, XTC, Kate Bush, Neko Case

Tell me more: There is something both decidedly different and wonderfully familiar in the inviting sound of Northern California-based The Corner Laughers. The indie-pop quartet has returned after a five-year absence with the wonderful Corners Of Wasp And Willow, an album that showcases the stellar talents of Karla Kane (lead vocals, ukulele), Khoi Huynh (bass, vocals), KC Bowman (guitar, vocals) and Charlie Crabtree (drums) with aplomb. The 10-song disc features a myriad of wonderful originals including the environmental-minded opener "Terra Mia," shimmering melodic gem "Dusking," dream-swept retro folk sortie "Rainbow Cardigan," beautiful "The Harvestman," tuneful Halloween-aimed nugget "Dark Matter," luxurious "Victoria Sponge" and evocative album closer "Larkspur Landing." The Corner Laughers have crafted a marvelously literate album that would have sounded great if it had been issued a generation ago and one that will undoubtedly resonate with listeners decades from now. Information: bigstirrecords.com.

Robert Kinsler

The Rolling Stones unveil video for their latest single "In The Stars" featuring actress Odessa A’zion

2026-05-14T09:11:40.630-07:00

Not only have The Rolling Stones released a rocking new track ("In The Stars"), but the band is back with a cool new music video that doubles as a bona fide time machine!..Robert Kinsler

THE ROLLING STONES

UNVEIL VIDEO FOR THEIR LATEST SINGLE “IN THE STARS”

DIRECTED BY FRANCOIS ROUSSELET AND FEATURING ACTRESS ODESSA A’ZION – WATCH HERE!

NEW STUDIO ALBUM FOREIGN TONGUES RELEASED JULY 10, 2026 VIA CAPITOL RECORDS

*In The Stars video still*

May 14, 2026 – Today, The Rolling Stones have released the video for the upbeat and infectious lead single “In The Stars” from their newly announced studio album Foreign Tongues. Directed by Francois Rousselet, whose credits include work with Nike, Diesel, Pharrell Williams, and on the Stones' “Angry” from Hackney Diamonds and "Ride 'Em On Down," from Blue & Lonesome, the new video features acclaimed actress Odessa A’zion (Marty Supreme, I Love LA). The video, which was created by Deep Voodoo using groundbreaking deepfake technology, models the Stones from the 70’s performing “In The Stars” amongst musicians, singers, dancers from different eras, different cultures and subcultures.

On working with The Rolling Stones, Odessa A’zion said “Are you kidding me? It's my dream. The first record that I ever got that I listened to from start to finish was Tattoo You. I'm obsessed with the Rolling Stones. This is in my bucket list for sure.”

Foreign Tongues, arriving July 10^th from Capitol Records, is an incredibly vibrant 14-track collection that follows less than three years after the band’s universally acclaimed, Grammy Award-winning Hackney Diamonds, which topped charts worldwide and achieved multi-platinum success. “In The Stars” track was released last week in conjunction with the band’s album announcement and is available digitally alongside the album’s opening track “Rough and Twisted.” “In The Stars” receives a physical release on May 15^th.

In the lead-up to the announcement of Foreign Tongues, the band have been subtly building anticipation for the new project, including the limited white label release of the track “Rough and Twisted” only on vinyl under the name The Cockroaches. Circulating among fans and collectors, the release has already sparked excitement and speculation around the sound and direction of Foreign Tongues, offering an early glimpse into the album’s raw and exploratory energy.

Recorded during an exceptionally creative period, Foreign Tongues was brought to life in under a month at Metropolis Studios in West London, with Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood reuniting with Grammy-winning producer Andrew Watt, who also helmed Hackney Diamonds. The result is a dynamic and forward-looking record that captures the band’s unmistakable sound while pushing into new sonic and lyrical territory, further cementing their unparalleled legacy.

Foreign Tongues Tracklisting;

1. Rough and Twisted

2. In The Stars

3. Jealous Lover

4. Mr Charm

5. Divine Intervention

6. Ringing Hollow

7. Never Wanna Lose You

8. Hit Me In The Head

9. You Know I’m No Good

10. Some of Us

11. Covered In You

12. Side Effects

13. Back In Your Life

14. Beautiful Delilah

Foreign Tongues will be available on a wide range of formats, including CD, deluxe CD editions, cassette, multiple vinyl variants (standard and limited colour pressings), exclusive retailer editions, and special box sets, alongside the single “In The Stars” on CD and vinyl formats.

PRE-ORDER FOREIGN TONGUES HERE

Old Crow Medicine Show & Molly Tuttle share gorgeous new single "Last American Waltz"

2026-05-14T07:15:13.646-07:00

Start your day with good news and great music courtesy of a super collaboration between Old Crow Medicine Show and Molly Tuttle...Robert Kinsler

Old Crow Medicine Show's Gorgeous New Single
"Last American Waltz" featuring Molly Tuttle
Rooted In The Great Tradition Of American Song

New Album Union Made Releasing June 5, 2026 featuring Maggie Rose, Evan Felker, Del & Ronnie McCoury, Jesse Welles, Lee Oskar, John Carter Cash and Ana Cristina Cash

L to R: PJ George, Cory Younts, Ketch Secor, Morgan Jahnig, Joe Andrews, Chance McCoy
Photographer Credit: Ed Rode

May 14, 2026 – Today Old Crow Medicine Show shares the gorgeous new single "Last American Waltz" feat. Molly Tuttle, the latest from the band's upcoming album Union Made which releases on June 5 with Hartland Records via Firebird Music. Accompanied by a music video filmed in the dancehall of Nashville's American Legion, "Last American Waltz" unfolds with the kind of warmth and emotional resonance that has long defined American roots music.

Watch the "Last American Waltz" music video

Stream "Last American Waltz" Feat. Molly Tuttle

Pre-order / Pre-save Union Made

"'Last American Waltz' is a love song to America in 3/4 time," says bandleader Ketch Secor. "We wanted it to feel timeless - the kind of song that could drift across a dancehall floor at midnight or echo through an old American Legion hall after the lights come up. Having Molly Tuttle join us on this track brought even more heart and soul to the recording.”

"Last American Waltz" follows the band's previous single "My Side Of The Mountain," a generation-spanning collaboration co-written by Secor, Tuttle and Luke Combs, and featuring bluegrass legends Del McCoury and Ronnie McCoury. The song has garnered early attention from The Bluegrass Situation, Relix, Whiskey Riff, MusicRow, AmericanaUK and more. Produced by longtime bandmember Morgan Jahnig and recorded in the band's own East Nashville studio, Union Made is Old Crow Medicine Show's most collaborative project to date, featuring appearances from nearly a dozen guests including Maggie Rose, Turnpike Troubadours' Evan Felker, Jesse Welles, Lee Oskar, John Carter Cash and Ana Cristina Cash.

Union Made finds the two-time GRAMMY-winning string band reflecting upon the people, places, and stories of a country on the brink of its 250th birthday. Inspired by Old Crow Medicine Show's nearly 30-year trek from the street corners of Western North Carolina to the nation's most celebrated stages, the album is a love letter to the America that was, the America that is, and the America that could be. The band has spent more than a quarter century blending the vernacular traditions of old-school America – including mountain music, bluegrass, old-time, and folk – into modern songs that continue to resonate across generations and geographies. Their music acts as a cultural bridge, connecting the past with the present.

Union Made follows Old Crow Medicine Show's first-ever holiday album OCMS XMAS, which released in December to widespread acclaim from The New York Times, NPR’s Fresh Air and Billboard, with appearances on CBS This Morning, The Kelly Clarkson Show and World Cafe. Last summer, Ketch Secor released his first solo album Story The Crow Told Me and made his debut as the new host of the long-running Nashville PBS travel and culture series Tennessee Crossroads. He spoke about both projects on Rolling Stone's Nashville Now podcast and gave more insight into his Louder Than Guns documentary, which is in select theaters and just premiered on PBS as part of the REEL SOUTH documentary series.

After several main stage performances at Merlefest last month, Old Crow Medicine Show will hit the road this week on a tour across the country with stops in Boston, Pittsburgh, Salt Lake City, Boulder, Louisville and more. See a full list of dates below and find more information here: crowmedicine.com/tour.

Union Made Tracklist
1. Howdy Do America ft. Jesse Welles
2. Lincoln Highway
3. My Side Of The Mountain ft. Del McCoury, Ronnie McCoury & Molly Tuttle
4. Revolution Now ft. Evan Felker
5. Last American Waltz
6. Merrimack & Monitor
7. Rainbow Stew
8. Rye Whiskey
9. Beautiful Land ft. Maggie Rose & Lee Oskar
10. Lewis and Clark
11. Y'all All Come ft. John Carter Cash & Ana Cristina Cash
12. For What It's Worth

Old Crow Medicine Show 2026 Tour Dates:
May 14 – Salina, KS @ The Stiefel Theatre
May 15 – Bellvue, CO @ Mishawaka Amphitheatre *
May 16 – Aztec, NM @ Tico Time Bluegrass Festival
May 17 – Boulder, CO @ Boulder Theater *
May 28 – Cary, NC @ Koka Booth Amphitheatre +
May 29 – Richmond, VA @ Music at Maymont +
May 30 – Columbia, SC @ Songbird Festival - Finlay Park
June 4 – Ridgewood, NY @ Gottscheer Hall
June 6 – Paris, TN @ Tennessee River Jam
June 19 – Vitoria-Gasteiz, ES @ Azkena Rock Festival
June 20 – Grolloo, NL @ Holland International Blues Festival
June 25 – Prior Lake, MN @ The Great Midwest Ribfest
June 26 –Bloomington, IL @ Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts =
June 27 – Cedar Rapids, IA @ Paramount Theatre =
June 28 – Louisville, KY @ The Louisville Palace Theatre =
July 13 – Salt Lake City, UT @ The Twilight Concert Series - The Gallivan Center #
July 14 – Colorado Springs, CO @ Pikes Peak Center %
July 15 – Casper, WY @ Ford Wyoming Center %
July 17 – Whitefish, MT @ Under The Big Sky
July 18 – Emigrant, MT @ The Old Saloon
July 21 – Ketchum, ID @ Argyros Performing Arts Center
July 23 – Phoenix, AZ @ Arizona Financial Theatre ^
July 24 – Albuquerque, NM @ First Financial Credit Union Amphitheater ^
July 25 – Morrison, CO @ Red Rocks Amphitheatre ^
July 26 – Omaha, NE @ Steelhouse Omaha
July 31 – Albany, NY @ MVP Arena ^^
August 1 – Port Chester, NY @ Capitol Theatre ~
August 2 – Boston, MA @ Fenway Park ^^
August 5 – Erie, PA @ Rebich Investments Amphitheater **
August 6 – Lynchburg, VA @ Academy Center of the Arts **
August 8 – Myrtle Beach, SC @ Alabama Theatre **
August 13 – Pittsburgh, PA @ PPG Paints Arena ^^
August 14 – Columbus, OH @ Nationwide Arena ^^
August 15 – Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post ^^
August 28 – West Fargo, ND @ Buckaroo Festival - Lights Ampitheatre
September 13 – Bristol, TN & VA @ Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion
September 15 – Red Bank, NJ @ Count Basie Center for the Arts $
September 17 – Patchogue, NY @ Patchogue Theatre $
September 18 – Shelburne, VT @ Ben & Jerry's Concerts on the Green - Shelburne Museum $
September 19 – Hammondsport, NY @ Concerts at Point of the Bluff $
September 20 – Morgantown, WV @ The Metropolitan Theatre $
October 1 – Reno, NV @ Grand Sierra Resort
October 9 – Eureka Springs, AR @ Hillberry Music Festival
October 15 – Franklin, NC @ Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts $
October 16 – Charleston, WV @ Clay Center $
October 17 – Jim Thorpe, PA @ Penn's Peak $
October 18 – York, PA @ Appell Center for the Performing Arts $
October 27 – Milwaukee, WI @ Riverside Theater
October 29 – Kansas City, MO @ Knuckleheads
October 30 – Oklahoma City, OK @ The Jones Assembly
October 31 – San Antonio, TX @ Stable Hall
November 1 – Dallas, TX @ Majestic Theatre
November 11–15 – Miami, FL @ Moon River At Sea

* with Madeline Hawthorne
+ with Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives
= with Trey Hensley
# with Big Richard, Michelle Moonshine
% with Big Richard
^ with Darius Rucker, Austin Williams
^^ with Zac Brown Band
~ with Deadgrass
** with Presley Haile
$ with Palmyra

Follow Old Crow Medicine Show:
Website - Instagram - Facebook - Twitter

Deep Purple release first single and video for “Arrogant Boy” from new album ‘Splat!’

2026-05-13T06:46:00.795-07:00

Deep Purple has released the first advance track from the band's forthcoming album 'Splat!' and it's great. Make sure to check out the video for "Arrogant Boy" as well...Robert Kinsler

DEEP PURPLE

RELEASE NEW SINGLE AND OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO

FOR “ARROGANT BOY”

FROM NEW ALBUM ‘SPLAT!’

OUT JULY 3

LISTEN TO ARROGANT BOY WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO

ACCESS THE ALBUM SPLAT!

Album Cover

DEEP PURPLE have debuted the first single and video for the powerful, fast-paced hard rock tune “Arrogant Boy.” It’s the initial musical statement from SPLAT! the band’s new studio album set for a July 3 release on earMUSIC. The official music video for the track is a live performance clip which premiered last night (May 12) on YouTube. Watch it HERE.

DEEP PURPLE—Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Ian Paice, Don Airey, and Simon McBride—are currently featured on the cover of Classic Rock Germany, where the magazine highlights “Arrogant Boy” as “an electrifying song in the style of ‘Space Truckin’ or ‘Highway Star,’” adding that it “doesn’t copy these classics; rather, it cleverly varies them.”

“‘Arrogant Boy’ is the story of Billy who couldn’t read or write,” says DEEP PURPLE frontman Gillian. “He is unhappy with things, so he speaks up, and finds a way of irritating, one way or another, the elite. And I can’t think of anything more fun than irritating the elite. It would be a joyous exercise for me every morning after coffee.”

The single arrives one week after DEEP PURPLE announced their new studio album SPLAT! Once again, the band has teamed up with producer Bob Ezrin, continuing a collaboration that has shaped the band’s recent studio albums, all of which reached #1 on the album charts in multiple countries.

On the touring front, DEEP PURPLE have just completed shows in Asia and the band is set to continue touring with a run of European summer dates in June before officially launching the SPLAT! World Tour in North America in August. The upcoming touring schedule includes 86 shows across 28 countries, bringing DEEP PURPLE back to major arenas across Europe in autumn before the year ends with shows in South America in December.

SPLAT! will be released on July 3 on earMUSIC and is available for pre-order in multiple formats including CD, vinyl, and limited editions. Further exclusive fan items are only available on the official SPLAT! shop.

At the heart of SPLAT! is an idea conceived by Ian Gillan. Rather than treating the end as destruction, the album imagines it as transformation: SPLAT! explores the end of humanity not in any crude apocalyptic sense but as a metamorphosis beyond physical existence.

ACCESS THE ALBUM SPLAT!

Track listing (CD/2LP):

Side A

Arrogant Boy

Diablo

The Rider

The Lunatic

Side B

The Only Horse In Town

Sacred Land

The Beating Of Wings

Side C

Guilt Trippin'

Scriblin' Gib'rish

Jessica's Bra

Side D

Third Call

My New Movie

Splat!

SPLAT! will be available July 3in multiple formats:

Limited Box Set, containing:
2LP Gatefold (180g)
12-page vinyl-sized booklet
CD Digisleeve
3 exclusive 10-inch vinyl records featuring live recordings from the DEEP PURPLE Tour 2024
Exclusive 7-inch single featuring the bonus track “GUINNESIS” (not included on the studio album and available exclusively in the box set!)

CD (Digisleeve)

2LP Gatefold (black, 180g) + 12-page vinyl-sized booklet

Limited Purple 2LP Gatefold (180g) + 12-page vinyl-sized booklet

Limited Transparent Yellow 2LP (180g) + 12-page vinyl-sized booklet

All LP editions include a rich 12-page LP-sized booklet with illustrations and all song lyrics – available exclusively with the first pressing.

Further exclusive items are available via the official artist store, including:

Limited 2LP Picture Disc + 12-page vinyl-sized booklet

Limited Cassette

A strictly limited canvas signed by all band members and limited to just 199 copies worldwide

Additional apparel and merchandise items

ACCESS THE NEW ALBUM HERE

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ABOUT DEEP PURPLE

There simply aren’t enough superlatives to properly acknowledge the contribution DEEP PURPLE has made to rock music. Having sold more than 120 million albums and filled global arenas for decades, there’s little wonder that the respected British radio station Planet Rock named the group the “5th Most Influential Band Ever.” The band were also presented the “Legend Award” at the 2008 World Music Awards and were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016. DEEP PURPLE truly are “rock royalty.”

With a body of work spanning seven decades, DEEP PURPLE have helped pioneer and define the hard rock genre while progressively moving into new areas, both keeping their sound fresh and attracting new fans to the legions who have remained loyal since the band’s inception. The celebrated MKII line-up of Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Ian Paice, Jon Lord and Ritchie Blackmore was responsible for creating many of the defining rock albums of the early ’70s, including Made in Japan universally accepted as one of the most important and influential live albums of all time.

Known as one of the hardest working bands ever, DEEP PURPLE have continued to release No. 1 albums and tour globally since forming in 1968, with little rest.

DEEP PURPLE have stayed true to their musical roots, drawing from an eclectic mix of styles to create a distinctive sound that defines the band today and, in turn, has created a legacy that very few bands could ever hope to replicate. The band has written and produced so many “classic,” well-known songs that its audience ranges widely in age and background—something the band has readily embraced.

DEEP PURPLE’s recent studio album =1 (2024) followed their worldwide chart-topping albums Whoosh! (2020), inFinite (2017) and NOW What?! (2013). 2026 sees the release of their brand-new album SPLAT! On these albums, DEEP PURPLE joined forces with producer Bob Ezrin, who has worked with the likes of KISS, Pink Floyd, Lou Reed and Alice Cooper.

Furthering their collaboration with Ezrin, in 2021 and during the pandemic the band recorded a collection of cover songs from their own homes (normal for most bands nowadays, revolutionary for a band that records everything together in the studio), creating an eclectic and celebratory history of their roots in music, in the shape of Turning to Crime.

Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Ian Paice, Don Airey and Simon McBride continue with renewed vitality, pushing the boundaries of hard rock to audiences around the globe, proving that DEEP PURPLE are very much here to stay.

New music: Kacey Musgraves, The Knack, Duke Robillard

2026-05-11T09:48:00.000-07:00

In this column I showcase the latest album releases from celebrated country music great Kacey Musgraves, power pop heroes The Knack and legacy blues singer-songwriter/guitar master Duke Robillard.

Artist: Kacey Musgraves
Title: Middle of Nowhere (Lost Highway/Interscope)
You might like if you enjoy: Kacey Musgraves, Miranda Lambert, Willie Nelson, Billy Strings

Tell me more: Kacey Musgraves is back! The acclaimed country music artist's seventh studio album has been met with widespread acclaim and for good reason. The 13-track album chronicles life's ups and downs with authenticity, heart and an infectious musical soundscape that will keep discerning listeners coming back again and again. There are so many highlights on the album, country music lovers will want to dive into the track listing with abandon. Musgraves wrote many of the songs after a painful divorce and period of isolation so the songs have a heft that will resonate with a single listen. The reflective ballad "Back On The Wagon," accordion-drenched two-stepping duet with Willie Nelson titled "Uncertain, TX," steamy "Mexico Honey," irresistible "I Believe in Ghosts" and aptly-titled "Loneliest Girl" are among the great originals on the disc. The playful "Horses and Divorces" is a winning duet teaming the top-tier vocal talents of Musgraves and Miranda Lambert. Based on the strength of her fantastic performance at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April, fans will want to catch her in concert this fall. Musgraves' forthcoming "Middle of Nowhere" Tour includes dates in Phoenix, AZ on Oct. 17 and in Los Angeles on Oct. 18 and Oct. 19. Information: kaceymusgraves.com.

Artist: The Knack
Title: Knackology: The Zen Recordings (Omnivore Recordings)
You might like if you enjoy: Cheap Trick, The Knack, Badfinger, Matthew Sweet

Tell me more: The power and excitement of The Knack's explosive power pop-meets-New Wave sound shines across the 19 studio, live and demo tracks featured on the newly-released Knackology: The Zen Recordings. From the ferocious opener "Let Me Out" (recorded live in Los Angeles in 1978), intoxicating rockers "Pop Is Dead" and "Ambition" (the latter two cuts from the band's essential 1998 LP Zoom) to a terrific cover of Badfinger's 1970 Pete Ham-penned hit "No Matter What," a breezy 1973 demo of "That's What The Little Girls Do," power pop perfection courtesy of "Can I Borrow A Kiss" and a hard rocking "Shine" captured at Leeds in 1991, magic abounds on this must-have collection. Among the other standouts are energetic live takes on some of The Knack's most beloved originals; inspired readings of "(She's So) Selfish" and "My Sharona" captured at a concert in Mountain View, California in June 1994 as well as the affecting "One Day At A Time" recorded in 2002 will thrill new and long-time fans of the Doug Fieger-led troupe. Mastered by Grammy-winning engineer Michael Graves, the package also includes liner notes from Grammy-winning set co-producer Lee Lodyga. Information: omnivorerecordings.com.

Artist: Duke Robillard and His All Star Band
Title: Blast Off! (Nola Blue Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Dr. John, Tommy Castro, Fabulous Thunderbirds, Allen Toussaint

Tell me more: Duke Robillard, who recently celebrated his 77th birthday, is firing on all cylinders across his latest album Blast Off! Indeed, the legendary singer-songwriter/guitar great along with his All Star Band explore his love of blues, soul, R&B, jazz and more American roots genres across the 12-song collection. The album's parade of inviting cuts includes the exuberant Floyd Dixon-penned opener "When I Get Lucky," the jump blues sortie "I'll Be Glad When You're Dead (You Rascal You)," Chicago blues-styled ballad "Feel My Cares" showcasing Robillard's guitar chops and signature vocals, the instrumental swing foray "Play Boy Hop," soulful "Confusion" and lead guitar-anchored instrumental blues track "Galactic Grease." The album was produced by Robillard, and was recorded and mixed by John Paul Gauthier at Lakewest Recording in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. Information: nolabluerrecords.com.

Robert Kinsler

Jason Scott & The High Heat commit “Highway Robbery” on raucous new single

2026-05-08T07:04:00.000-07:00

Check out the rousing new single from Jason Scott & The High Heat, and learn more about the troupe's upcoming appearances...Robert Kinsler

Jason Scott & The High Heat commit “Highway Robbery” on raucous new single

Listen to “Highway Robbery” HERE

Playing CMA Fest, Bourbon & Beyond, Born & Raised, The Long Road festivals and more this summer

May 8, 2026 - Jason Scott & The High Heat come swaggering back with their new single “Highway Robbery,” out today via Leo33. Over an insistent beat, barrelhouse piano and classic twangy guitar, Scott and the band showcase how their sound is the perfect encapsulation of a little bit country and a little bit rock & roll. Actually, a lot of rock & roll.

The new song comes as the band prepares for a busy Summer. They’ll play CMA Fest next month in Nashville before heading out on a run opening for Morgan Wallen on his “Still The Problem Tour.” Scott & The High Heat will then play a slew of festivals this Summer, including Bourbon & Beyond, Born & Raised, Peacemaker, FloydFest and The Long Road among others.

“I've been driving or in the back of the van for the last 10 years touring the country,” says Scott. “Sometimes it’s fun to steal a little something to add a little thrill of going down the road.”

Born and bred in Oklahoma City, Jason Scott & The High Heat have been blazing their own trail since their debut album, Castle Rock, lit up critics at NPR, The Boot, BBC Radio, and beyond. With a sound that fuses blue-eyed soul, heartland rock muscle, and country grit, they don’t just blur genre lines—they stomp right over them.

On stage, the band is pure wildfire - raw, unfiltered, and impossible to ignore, lighting up festivals like Stagecoach, Born & Raised, and Mile 0 Fest and opening for acts such as Wyatt Flores and 49 Winchester. Their 2025 album American Grin turned the heat up even further, marrying groove and grit with sharp, lived-in storytelling. As Rolling Stone puts it, the Oklahoma band are “taking an honest, and often humorous, look at a U.S. existence,” while Holler calls American Grin “a masterpiece not only in sound but in substance… a roadmap for this weird and wonderful ride of existence.”

###

Deep Purple announces release of 'Splat!'; new album coming July 3, 2026

2026-05-07T05:52:00.000-07:00

Deep Purple has just announced the release of the hard rock band's forthcoming album Splat!, set for release July 3, 2026. I am really looking forward to this album. Read a review of one of my favorite hard rock shows ever when Deep Purple and Blue Öyster Cult performed on the same bill in Costa Mesa, CA in 2014...Robert Kinsler

ANNOUNCE NEW ALBUM

OUT JULY 3 ON earMUSIC

“MUSIC FOR THE END OF HUMANITY

(…BUT NOT AS GRIM AS IT MAY SEEM)”

PRE-SAVE THE NEW ALBUM HERE

Pictured above: Album Cover

DEEP PURPLE will release their new studio album SPLAT! July 3 on earMUSIC. The band—Ian Gillan, Roger Glover, Ian Paice, Don Airey, and Simon McBride—has once again teamed up with renowned producer Bob Ezrin (KISS, Pink Floyd, Lou Reed, Alice Cooper) and together, they have crafted an album that draws on the sound and attitude that has always set DEEP PURPLE apart from the rest. SPLAT! is the heaviest DEEP PURPLE album in many years, with the band playing together in the studio—the way DEEP PURPLE have always recorded. Pre-order starts today; click HERE.

“I have to say, now we are very much back in with material that is compatible with ‘Highway Star,’ ‘Smoke on the Water,’ and ‘Lazy,’ the dynamics, the balance, and the fun of the music we made from ’69 to ’73,” says frontman Ian Gillan. He adds: “Where we are now with this incarnation of DEEP PURPLE feels very much like a very ‘now’ version of DEEP PURPLE as it was in the seventies.”

At the heart of SPLAT! is an idea conceived by Gillan. Rather than treating the end as destruction, the album imagines it as transformation: SPLAT! explores the end of humanity not in any crude apocalyptic sense but as a metamorphosis beyond physical existence.

L-R: Ian Paice, Don Airey, Roger Glover, Ian Gillan, Simon McBride

Photo Credit: Olaf Heine

Additional details about the album concept will be revealed in the weeks leading up to its July 3 release. New music from SPLAT! is on the way and DEEP PURPLE invite fans to follow the journey at DEEP PURPLE and earMUSIC on socials.

To celebrate the release, DEEP PURPLE will continue their extensive 2026 touring schedule with no fewer than 86 shows across 28 countries on three continents.

With more than 120 million albums sold since forming in 1968, DEEP PURPLE have long secured their place in rock history. Rather than simply preserving their legacy, they continue to extend it, driven by the same spirit that defined their earliest work.

Ian Gillan sums it up: “DEEP PURPLE is in a great place right now.”

Track listing (CD/2LP):

Side A

1. Arrogant Boy

2. Diablo

3. The Rider

4. The Lunatic

Side B

5. The Only Horse In Town

6. Sacred Land

7. The Beating Of Wings

Side C

8. Guilt Trippin'

9. Scriblin' Gib'rish

10. Jessica's Bra

Side D

11. Third Call

12. My New Movie

13. Splat!

SPLAT! will be available July 3in multiple formats:

· Limited Box Set, containing:

o 2LP Gatefold (180g)

o 12-page vinyl-sized booklet

o CD Digisleeve

o 3 exclusive 10-inch vinyl records featuring live recordings from the DEEP PURPLE Tour 2024

o Exclusive 7-inch single featuring the bonus track “GUINNESIS” (not included on the studio album and available exclusively in the box set!)

· CD (Digisleeve)

· 2LP Gatefold (black, 180g) + 12-page vinyl-sized booklet

· Limited Purple 2LP Gatefold (180g) + 12-page vinyl-sized booklet

· Limited Transparent Yellow 2LP (180g) + 12-page vinyl-sized booklet

All LP editions include a rich 12-page LP-sized booklet with illustrations and all song lyrics – available exclusively with the first pressing.

Further exclusive items are available via the official artist store, including:

· Limited 2LP Picture Disc + 12-page vinyl-sized booklet

· Limited Cassette

· A strictly limited canvas signed by all band members and limited to just 199 copies worldwide

· Additional apparel and merchandise items

ACCESS THE NEW ALBUM HERE

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ABOUT DEEP PURPLE

Known as one of the hardest working bands ever, DEEP PURPLE have continued to release No. 1 albums and tour globally since forming in 1968, with little rest.

MAD IN EUROPE TOUR DATES

11 JUN 2026 – Espoo, Finland – Espoo Metro Arena

12 JUN 2026 – Tampere, Finland – Nokia Arena

14 JUN 2026 – Kristiansand, Norway – Dirty Old Town Live – Odderoya Amfi

18 JUN 2026 – Clisson, France – Hellfest – SOLD OUT

20 JUN 2026 – Meppen, Germany – Emsland Open Air

24 JUN 2026 – Mönchengladbach, Germany – SparkassenPark

27 JUN 2026 – Coburg, Germany – HUK Coburg Open Air, Schlossplatz

28 JUN 2026 – Ulm, Germany – Klosterhof Wiblingen

02 JUL 2026 – Vigo, Spain – Conciertos de Castrelos, Auditorio Castrelos

04 JUL 2026 – Gredos, Ávila, Spain – Músicos en la Naturaleza

05 JUL 2026 – Pamplona, Spain – Navarra Arena

07 JUL 2026 – Valencia, Spain – Jardines de Viveros

09 JUL 2026 – Marbella, Spain – Starlite

10 JUL 2026 – Cádiz, Spain – Tío Pepe

13 JUL 2026 – Montreux, Switzerland – Montreux Jazz Festival

16 JUL 2026 – Pisa, Italy – Pisa Summer Knights – Piazza Dei Cavalieri

17 JUL 2026 – Este, Italy – Este Music Festival – Castello Carrarese

19 JUL 2026 – Munich, Germany – Tollwood Festival

SPLAT! WORLD TOUR DATES

04 AUG 2026 – Raleigh, NC – Red Hat Amphitheater

06 AUG 2026 – Memphis, TN – Memphis Botanic Garden

08 AUG 2026 – Clearwater, FL – The BayCare Sound

09 AUG 2026 – Hollywood, FL – Hard Rock Casino

12 AUG 2026 – Wantagh, NY – Jones Beach Theater

13 AUG 2026 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center

15 AUG 2026 – Halifax, NS – Scotiabank Centre

17 AUG 2026 – Laval, QC – Place Bell

18 AUG 2026 – Toronto, ON – RBC Amphitheatre

19 AUG 2026 – Ottawa, ON – Canadian Tire Centre

21 AUG 2026 – Detroit, MI – Pine Knob

22 AUG 2026 – Salamanca, NY – Seneca Allegany Casino

24 AUG 2026 – Indianapolis, IN – Everwise Amphitheatre

25 AUG 2026 – Highland Park, IL – Ravinia

27 AUG 2026 – Prior Lake, MN – Mystic Lake Casino

29 AUG 2026 – Winnipeg, MB – Canada Life Centre

31 AUG 2026 – Calgary, AB – Scotiabank Saddledome

02 SEP 2026 – Abbotsford, BC – Abbotsford Centre

04 SEP 2026 – Lincoln, CA – Thunder Valley

05 SEP 2026 – Mountain View, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre

06 SEP 2026 – Highland, CA – Yaamava Theatre

08 SEP 2026 – Chula Vista, CA – North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre

10 SEP 2026 – Las Vegas, NV – Planet Hollywood

11 SEP 2026 – Long Beach, CA – Long Beach Amphitheater

12 SEP 2026 – Sparks, NV – Nugget Event Center

29 SEP 2026 – Sofia, Bulgaria – 8888 Arena

01 OCT 2026 – Cluj, Romania – BT Arena

02 OCT 2026 – Budapest, Hungary – Laszlo Papp Arena

04 OCT 2026 – Bratislava, Slovakia – Tipos Arena

05 OCT 2026 – Vienna, Austria – Stadthalle

07 OCT 2026 – Prague, Czechia – O2 Arena

08 OCT 2026 – Lodz, Poland – Atlas Arena

10 OCT 2026 – Belgrade, Serbia – Stark Arena

11 OCT 2026 – Skopje, North Macedonia – Boris Trajkovski Arena

13 OCT 2026 – Athens, Greece – Telekom Centre Arena

16 OCT 2026 – Zurich, Switzerland – Hallenstadion

17 OCT 2026 – Milan, Italy – Unipol Forum

19 OCT 2026 – Barcelona, Spain – Sant Jordi Club

20 OCT 2026 – Madrid, Spain – Movistar Arena

22 OCT 2026 – Paris, France – Adidas Arena

23 OCT 2026 – Antwerp, Belgium – Lotto Arena

25 OCT 2026 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Royal Arena

26 OCT 2026 – Stockholm, Sweden – Avicii Arena

28 OCT 2026 – Oslo, Norway – Spektrum Arena

29 OCT 2026 – Gothenburg, Sweden – Scandinavium

31 OCT 2026 – Leipzig, Germany – QI Arena

01 NOV 2026 – Hamburg, Germany – Sporthalle

03 NOV 2026 – Dortmund, Germany – Westfalenhalle

04 NOV 2026 – Berlin, Germany – Uber Arena

06 NOV 2026 – Frankfurt, Germany – Festhalle

07 NOV 2026 – Nuremberg, Germany – Arena

09 NOV 2026 – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Ziggo Dome

10 NOV 2026 – Strasbourg, France – Zénith

12 NOV 2026 – Bordeaux, France – Arkéa Arena

13 NOV 2026 – Nantes, France – Zénith

15 NOV 2026 – Lyon, France – LDLC Arena

18 NOV 2026 – Newcastle, UK – Utilita Arena

19 NOV 2026 – Glasgow, UK – OVO Hydro

21 NOV 2026 – Birmingham, UK – BP Pulse Arena

22 NOV 2026 – Manchester, UK – AO Arena

24 NOV 2026 – London, UK – Eventim Apollo

25 NOV 2026 – London, UK – Royal Albert Hall

05 DEC 2026 – São Paulo, Brazil – Suhai Hall

08 DEC 2026 – Santiago, Chile – Movistar Arena

10 DEC 2026 – Buenos Aires, Argentina – Movistar Arena

13 DEC 2026 – Monterrey, MX – Arena Monterrey

16 DEC 2026 – Guadalajara, MX – Arena Guadalajara

19 DEC 2026 – Mexico City, MX – Estadio Fray Nano

Tickets are available at www.deeppurple.com.

The Rolling Stones announce release of 'Foreign Tongues'

2026-05-05T09:37:00.000-07:00

The Rolling Stones have just announced the release of a new album, Foreign Tongues (you can see the album cover artwork on the right), set for release on July 10, 2026.

This will mark the British band's 25th studio album! The album is reportedly set to include guest appearances from Paul McCartney, Steve Winwood and even Robert Smith (The Cure). The lead single "Rough and Twisted" is the lead single from the album and was recently released under the pseudonym The Cockroaches. Another track, "In The Stars," has also been released. Visit the band's website store HERE to learn more.

New music: Ringo Starr, Peter Case, Rick Vito, Wormstew

2026-05-04T06:46:00.000-07:00

In this column I showcase four fantastic new audio titles available now.

Artist: Ringo Starr
Title: Long Long Road (Ringo Starr)
You might like if you enjoy: Ringo Starr, The Beatles, Molly Tuttle, Billy Strings

Tell me more: Beloved singer-songwriter/drummer Ringo Starr is back with yet another wonderful studio album, the aptly titled Long Long Road. The 10-track Nashville-mining album features a slew of musical heavyweights who add their talents to bolster the T Bone Burnett-produced LP. Indeed, Sheryl Crow, Sarah Jarosz, Molly Tuttle, St. Vincent and Billy Strings are among the notables featured on Starr's 22nd solo album; the original songs on the disc were co-written by Starr alongside Burnett as well as with Daniel Tashian and Bruce Sugar. Early highlights on the album abound; the breezy Appalachia-tinged "Returning Without Tears" finds Starr's signature vocals a perfect fit with harmony vocals courtesy of Tuttle's lovely soprano (she also plays acoustic guitar on the track). The breezy "Baby Don't Go" (the latter featuring some flashy acoustic guitar work from Strings), the driving "It's Been Too Long" with Starr's masterful drumming front and center (his outstanding lead vocals blend perfectly with backing vocals provided by Tuttle and Jarosz), and the buoyant gem "Why," the latter featuring stellar acoustic guitar work from both Tuttle and Strings are fantastic. The last half of Long Long Road continues to cast its magic via the shimmering "You and I (Wave of Love)," lovely "My Baby Don't Want Nothing" and Beatlesque "Choose Love." Bringing it all home is the pedal-string swept title track that finds a grateful Starr looking back at his incredible life and how — no matter the challenge — he continues to live each day with purpose, love and strength. Long Long Road is available on audio CD, vinyl LP, "Ultraviolet Dream" color vinyl and via all streaming/download services. Ringo Starr and his All Starr Band have a number of upcoming concert dates on the West Coast this spring, including a performance at Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott Valley, AZ on Sunday, May 31, 2026. Information: ringostarr.com.

Artist: Peter Case
Title: My Life To Live: Peter Case At McCabe's (Sunset Blvd Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Peter Case, Bob Dylan, The Nerves, The Plimsouls
Tell me more: Three-time Grammy nominated artist Peter Case's stellar legacy is celebrated across the new commercial concert recording My Life To Live: Peter Case At McCabe's. Recorded during a sold-out two-night stand at McCabe's in Santa Monica, CA, the stellar songwriting and top-tier vocal delivery of Case shines across the recording that highlights material from across his celebrated discography. Highlights include the melodic "Estella Hotel," nuanced "Ain't Gonna Worry No More," blues-folk political sortie "Water From A Stone," poetic "Underneath The Stars," piano-anchored "Oldest Story In The World" and literate thought-provoking cut "Every 24 Hours." Nothing captures the "unplugged" magic of the album's sweep like the authentic take of "Somebody Told The Truth" which features Case's a cappella vocals and blues harmonica blasts perfectly framed by the spot-on clapping accompaniment of the entire audience. Information: petercase.com.

Artist: Rick Vito
Title: Slidemaster (MoMojo Records)
You might like if you enjoy: Bonnie Raitt, Derek Trucks
Tell me more: If you love slide guitar, you are going to absolutely love Grammy-nominated guitarist Rick Vito's aptly-titled Slidemaster. This truly unique album features Vito's all-instrumental selections played exclusively on slide guitar. Standouts on the dozen-track collection include the fiery opener "Vegas Jump," emotive slow Chicago blues-flavored "Steal Away," the moody '60s-mining "The Danger Zone," and "Soul Shadows," sumptuous reading of Peter Green's "Albatross," a nuanced version of Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come" and ambitious original "River Of Blues." Information: rickvito.com.

Artist: Wormstew
Title: The Last Days Of Loma (Big Stir Records)
You might like if you enjoy: They Might Be Giants, Del Amitri, The Kinks, sparkle*jets u.k.
Tell me more: Released on April 24, Wormstew's debut album The Last Days Of Loma is loaded with originals that are artful, melodic, intelligent and never less than alluring. Mike Schnee (lead vocals, guitars, keyboards, percussion), Teresa Cowles (bass, vocals, keyboards) and Michael Simmons (drums, vocals, electric guitar, keyboards and more) are a formidable trio, conjuring up past masters while bravely crafting a sonic palette all their own. The melodious jazz-tinged opener "Spinning," tuneful "Sheriff Brody" (a literate look back at the protagonist from the classic movie "Jaws"), shining harmonies sortie "Letters On The Wall," delightfully driving Americana nugget "Movin' Along" and haunting "J.P. McCartney" are among my early faves on the 14-track disc. The exuberant bluegrass gem "Assholes," wistful "Irony At Its Finest," melancholy-filled Kinks-flavored "When Cats Are Sad," soaring "When Our Worlds Collide" and sophisticated "Another Stupid Song" thrill on Side 2 of the masterwork. The Last Days Of Loma is available on vinyl, audio CD and via streaming services worldwide. Information: bigstirrecords.com.

Robert Kinsler

Coachella Festival 2026 Weekend 2 Recap

2026-04-23T08:20:00.000-07:00

"Visage Brut" by the Los Angeles
Design Group

What: Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival

Who: The xx, Lykke Li, David Byrne, Sombr, Alex G, Foster the People, more

When: April 17-19, 2026

Where: Empire Polo Club in Indio, CA

Review and photography by Robert Kinsler

Editorial note: You can read coverage on the Desert Local News website that includes writer George A. Paul's favorite performances of Weekend 2 HERE

Additionally, George A. Paul's complete coverage of his experience at Weekend 2 of Coachella is available on his Music Minded blog HERE

Artist Kyriakos Chatziparaskevas' "Starry Eyes" art installation made quite an
impression with Coachellagoers this year.

Friday, April 17

My Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival Weekend 2 experience began with a chance to get an authentic flavor of the Coachella Valley's rich history via an outstanding performance by Cahuilla Bird Singers and Dancers (as seen in the image above). While a large group of men stood on stage and sang/chanted and told stories behind the selections sung in their original language, about a dozen women stood in the area in front of the Gobi Stage and danced throughout the 30-minute performance.

Following that, the Bob Baker Marionettes brought bona fide fun to the Gobi Stage. The fast-moving variety show blended a number of musical styles as elaborate string puppets were brought to life by skilled marionettists. What's more, Irish singer CMAT (Ciara Mary-Alice Thompson) joined the Marionettes to singer her own song "Take a Sexy Picture of Me" during the 40-minute set. She joined the principal marionette, "Pink Cat," to sing the song. You can learn more about the Los Angeles area-based Bob Baker Marionette Theater HERE.

Lykke Li performing in front of a large crowd gathered in front of the
Outdoor Theatre on Friday afternoon.

One of the genuine joys of my more than 20 years of attending Coachellafest is the discovery of groundbreaking artists new to me. On Friday, April 17, I caught Swedish singer-songwriter Lykke Li's 50-minute set on the Outdoor Theatre stage. An artist whose ambition is matched equally by her on-stage persona and originality blending electropop, dance pop and indie stylings, her performance was never less than compelling. The songs had strong dynamics and even when the intent may have simply been to get concertgoers to move in rhythm to the music, there was emotional weight to the originals. My favorites included the introspective ballad "Highway To Your Heart," synthesizer-swept "Sick of Love," and romance-minded dance "Little Bit."

The xx thrilled throughout their fast-moving set on April 17. Pictured on the big
screens, from left, are guitarist Romy Bradley Croft and bassist Oliver Sim.

I was no stranger to the magical power of The xx, having previously caught them at the Empire Polo Club grounds in 2017 (you can read my review of that event HERE). The band's appearance this year again proved why the acclaimed British trio is so compelling, with their distinctive approach the perfect fit with the magic of performing on the Coachella Stage at dusk. Atmospheric and dreamy standouts included the lovely opener "Crystalised" and followup "Say Something Loving" (with guitarist Romy Bradley Croft and bassist Oliver Sim sharing lead vocal duties on both tracks), "Angels" and tender "Shelter"; The xx was more forceful on the sweeping "Fiction" and aptly-titled "Loud Places." The soaring masterwork "Intro" closed out the bewitching 55-minute performance.

Saturday, April 18

Kacey Musgraves, lower left, performing in the Mohave Tent on April 18.

Weekend 2 attendees scored a musical jackpot with the addition of Texas country music superstar Kacey Musgraves who performed in a packed (and I mean packed!) Mohave Tent on Saturday afternoon; this also marked her first performance at Coachella in seven years. The beloved songstress made the most impressive entrance of the weekend when she rode a horse to the side entrance of the tent, and then proceeded to kill it with one of the most memorable sets of the weekend. Opening with the wistful title track off her forthcoming album Middle of Nowhere (due May 1, 2026), she treated concertgoers to several other nuggets from the album including the infectious "Uncertain, TX" (complete with country line dancers sharing the stage with Musgraves and her seven-man band), and beautiful pedal steel-swept "Back on the Wagon." Other highlights of the 53-minute set included the romantic kiss-off "Space Cowboy," mid tempo "Slow Burn," shimmering "Golden Hour," a rousing cover of George Strait's "All My Ex's Live in Texas" and playful "Dry Spell."

Alex G photo credit: Anna Downs
Photo courtesy of Coachella

The sonic echoes of Dinosaur Jr., Band of Horses, the Hooters and a slew of other personal faves seemed to emerge during singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Alex G's wide-ranging Saturday 50-minute afternoon set on the Outdoor Theatre stage. Some selections were super dense and heavy (the post-goth opener "Louisiana" comes to mind) or wonderfully melodic ("Gretel"), while others landed in a genre-defying area ("June Guitar" where Alex G played an extended solo on accordion) or even tapped into classic rock and punk territory.

Sombr photo credit: Alden Bonecutter
Photo courtesy of Coachella

Billy Idol photo credit: E Tantra
Photo courtesy of Coachella

If you have not yet heard of singer-songwriter Sombr (the moniker for New York City native Shane Michael Boose), you can be sure this mini-review will not be the last time you hear about the rising 20-year-old talent.

Armed with model looks, charisma aplenty and a terrific voice, the rising star impressed at every turn. And it didn't hurt that he brought Billy Idol and guitarist Steve Stevens to the stage to perform a great version of Idol's 1983 hit "Eyes Without a Face" about half way through his 50-minute performance. Other standouts in the set included a moving take on Radiohead's "Fake Plastic Trees," as we'll as his own "Back to Friends" and "Undressed." Don't be surprised if Sombr returns to Coachella soon.

Saturday night I caught two more great performances at the festival; both The Strokes (performing on the Coachella Stage) and David Byrne (at the Outdoor Theatre) afforded me to check off two artists from my bucket list I hadn't previously seen. New York-spawned quintet The Strokes rocked through a slew of their garage rock revival-styled originals including the speedy opener "Hard to Explain," the favorite "Someday," super catchy "The Adults Are Talking" and haunting "Selfless."

Singer-guitarist David Byrne performing on the Outdoor Theatre Stage.

Byrne brought a mix of beloved fide Talking Heads classics and outstanding solo material for an hour-long set that challenged and rewarded an enthusiastic crowd. Highlights abounded included an exuberant take on "And She Was" and "Psycho Killer," as well as a finale bringing both "Once in a Lifetime" and "Burning Down the House" fully to life via a large ensemble enhancing the '80s hits.

Sunday, April 19

Foster the People delivering a top-tier set of originals at Coachella on April 19.

I caught a handful of great performances on Sunday but my favorite was by Los Angeles-spawned outfit Foster the People. Led by frontman and founder Mark Foster, the band's winning blend of synth-pop, modern rock and indie pop resonated with the large audience gathered in front of the Outdoor Theatre for the fast-moving set. Dynamic state-of-the-art visuals and a modern stage design enhanced the 12-track set. Foster is a terrific singer, and used both his full voice and an expressive falsetto to bring depth to the dance-minded opener "Helena Beat," infectious "Houdini," disco-flavored "Lost in Space," sumptuous "Coming of Age" and tuneful "Sit Next to Me." The troupe had everyone moving (as well as capturing the musical proceedings with their cell phones) on the set-ending hit "Pumped Up Kicks."

Wet Leg singer Rhian Teasdale on the large project screens on the Coachella Stage.

Earlier that day I caught several other strong sets staged on the Coachella Stage, including Tijuana Panthers and an even more powerful turn from the hard rocking English outfit Wet Leg.

Check out a number of other images I captured during Weekend 2 below...Robert Kinsler

Artist Dedo Vabo's ambitious, thought-provoking "Network Operations."

What better way to celebrate Record Store Day than to browse at the Record
Safari that is part of Coachella's shopping options.

Coachella at night brings magic to the Empire Polo Club.

Kacey Musgraves and company during an outstanding performance of the new
song "Uncertain, TX" in the Mojave Tent on April 18.

Another compelling moment during David Byrne's April 18 performance.

What a line to get into Starbucks! No, I couldn't wait that long for my java fix and
I snagged my Americano elsewhere...

"Balloon Chain" offers Coachellagoers the
perfect photo op!

Music writer George A. Paul, on left, with yours truly on April 19 atop a
hill that overlooks the beautiful Empire Polo Club grounds in Indio, CA. You can read
George's coverage of this year's event HERE.

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

Rock 'n' Roll Truth

Sam Barber wins Breakthrough Country Artist at the 2026 American Music Awards

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The Rolling Stones unveil video for their latest single "In The Stars" featuring actress Odessa A’zion

Old Crow Medicine Show & Molly Tuttle share gorgeous new single "Last American Waltz"

Deep Purple release first single and video for “Arrogant Boy” from new album ‘Splat!’

New music: Kacey Musgraves, The Knack, Duke Robillard

Jason Scott & The High Heat commit “Highway Robbery” on raucous new single

Jason Scott & The High Heat commit “Highway Robbery” on raucous new single

Deep Purple announces release of 'Splat!'; new album coming July 3, 2026

The Rolling Stones announce release of 'Foreign Tongues'

New music: Ringo Starr, Peter Case, Rick Vito, Wormstew

Coachella Festival 2026 Weekend 2 Recap

2026 Coachella Weekend 1, Day 1 recap

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

Omnivore Recordings AnnouncesThe Knack’s Knackology: The Zen RecordingsOut May 819-Song Collection Features Rare Studio, Liveand Demo Recordings from the “My Sharona”

Hitmakers

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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”