By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a pleasure to welcome Queen Sydney Segal to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

The Beverly Hills native-turned-New York City transplant began her Reality TV journey on Survivor 41. She was part of the dominant Luvu tribe, which avoided Tribal Council throughout the pre-merge portion of the game. After the apparent merge, Sydney won immunity, but a twist allowed eventual winner Erika Casupanan to revoke it, putting the future Challenge star in danger of being voted out. At Tribal Council, Sydney feared for her safety and played her “Shot in the Dark,” sacrificing her vote. Sadly, the risk didn’t pay off, and she was voted out 5-4-3.

Four years later, Sydney Segal found herself on the long-running Reality TV show, The Challenge. During The Challenge 41: Vets and New Threats, she formed the nucleus of the New Threats alliance with fellow Survivor alum Dee Valladares, Canada’s Ultimate Challenge alum Leka Sodade, and the show’s eventual male winner (and The Amazing Race alum) Yeremi Hykel.  Sydney won both the Runes My Life (with fellow New Threat Leo Dionicio) and Cyclone (with Yeremi) daily challenges, and for the second half of the season, she teamed up with The Challenge: War of the Worlds winner Turbo Camkiran [T]. The duo defeated show icon Ashley “Millionaire” Mitchell and Leo in the Weigh Me Up elimination and won the final two daily challenges, which secured their spot in TJ Lavin’s final; ultimately, they placed second, and she earned $25,000.

When Sydney returned for The Challenge 42: Cutthroat (2026), she was on an island as none of her closest allies returned. However, this season was a team format. Gray Team captain (and Survivor winner) Chris Underwood recruited her second and found herself on a team with fellow Vets vs. New Threats alumni Leo and Adrienne Naylor, newcomer Keanu Soto, and fan favorites Cassidy Clark, Cory Wharton, and Nurys Mateo. While the Gray team won two daily challenges, an ACL injury forced her out of the season.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Sydney Segal took us behind her gameplay on both The Challenge: Vets & New Threats and The Challenge: Cutthroat (2026). Sydney also spoke about traveling to all seven wonders of the world!

You can connect with Sydney Segal on social media! Visit her Instagram & Twitter (X) channels!

The post Jake’s Take Podcast – Sydney Segal appeared first on Jake's Take.

Welcome to the latest installment of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews of 2026! (Bitmoji property of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar)

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Welcome to the second October 2026 edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews! We’ve got a lot of new music to unpack, so let’s start this party!

Sadly, Sheryl Crow’s Pick You Up isn’t for the record books! (Album cover property of Old Green Barn Productions)

Pick You Up by Sheryl Crow

Sheryl Crow dropped her thirteenth studio album, Pick You Up. The “Soak Up the Sun” songstress decided to explore the Americana genre with fellow songwriter and album producer Jeff Trott. I love Sheryl Crow, but some of the songs on Pick You Up nearly made me fall asleep. I miss the pop-rock anthems that made me smile and tap my toes; sadly, Pick You Up isn’t for the record books! C-

 Tracks to Download or Stream: “Miles Around” & “Pick You Up.”

Troye Sivan’s She’s The Best has some timeless tracks, and I hope this album grows on me. (Album property of Tokky’s Music & Interscope Records)

She’s The Best by Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan continues to ignite the dance music world with his fourth studio album, She’s the Best. The “Rush” performer collaborated with hitmakers such as Allie X, Cirkuit, Jack Antonoff, and Oscar Gorres to co-pen new tunes, while he sampled Madonna’s “Music” in his single, “Party.”  Lily-Rose Depp is the project’s only featured artist who appears on “Lost Time.” She’s The Best has some timeless tracks, and I hope this album grows on me. B-

 Tracks to Download or Stream: “Party,” “Canada Dry,” “FF,” & “Embarrassingly.”

“Don’t Chart” by Cardi B

Grand Theft Auto VI: The Album continues to drop singles from this massive soundtrack. One of rap music’s Queens, Cardi B, released “Don’t Chart.”  The “Bodak Yellow” rapper collaborated with Timbaland, Jordan Thorpe, and Anderson Hernandez on the single. “Don’t Chart” shows that, nearly a decade into the public eye, Cardi B isn’t slowing down and continues to dominate. A-

“Bright Lights, Big City” by Keith Richards

Music legend Keith Richards tackled Jimmy Reed’s 1961 classic “Bright Lights, Big City” for Grand Theft Auto VI: The Album. This cover was a pure masterclass! A+

“Goodbye to You” by Michelle Branch & Maren Morris

Michelle Branch is celebrating 25 years of her recording career by releasing re-imagined versions of her massive hits. After collaborating with the New Radicals on “The Game of Love,” the “All You Wanted” singer-songwriter partnered with country-turned-pop recording artist Maren Morris for a new version of “Goodbye to You.”  While I miss the powerful guitars that gave the song its punch, Michelle and Maren’s vocals blend well. B

“Expectations” by Olivia Rodrigo & Chappell Roan

Throughout pop music’s history, fans have always enjoyed when two recording artists of the same stature teamed up.  For Generation Z members, they must have screamed when two of their biggest recording artists – Olivia Rodrigo and Chappell Roan – dropped “Expectations.” The duo co-wrote the tune with their mutual collaborator Dan Nigro and Amy Allen.  “Expectations” is one of pop music’s biggest event songs this year! A

“The Greatest Show on Earth” by U2

U2 is marching towards the November 13 release of its sixteenth studio album, Carnaval de Luz. The “One” rock band has dropped the record’s third single, “The Greatest Show on Earth.”  The song reminds me of the band’s early 2000s material such as “Beautiful Day” and “Walk On,” where the tune gradually grows in loudness and meaningfulness throughout the listening process. B+

Artists to Watch:

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are the recording artists that are going to shake up the music world!

Eric Nam’s Confessions of a Lonely Heart features some of the slickest production and superb vocals I have heard so far in 2026. (Album cover of the Eric Nam Company)

Confessions of a Lonely Heart by Eric Nam

To be honest, I hadn’t heard of Eric Nam until he was cast on the popular Peacock Reality TV series The Traitors US. Now, the recording artist is back with his fourth studio album, Confessions of a Lonely Heart. He told The Today Show that this record is full of optimism.  The Traitors US alum’s latest record features some of the slickest production and superb vocals I have heard so far in 2026. B+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Psycho,” “Miss Me More,” “Sober Up,” & “How the Fire Started.”

MADHOUSE by Noshows

New York-based alternative rocker Noshows (the musical project of singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Max Sadow) released his first full-length studio album, MADHOUSE. The record explores life’s unpredictability through relationships, addiction, and self-discovery. Noshows’ lyrics and superb guitar and drum arrangements tugged at my heartstrings, and it could be this decade’s American Idiot. A

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Madhouse,” “The Loop,” “I Don’t Want It,” “Fall Apart,” “Don’t Look Down,” & “Who.”

“Maya” by Cherokee Social

Frontman Julian Navarro and guitarist Alex Creighton make up the Denver-based indie pop duo Cherokee Social.  Their latest song, “Maya,” pays tribute to Jeremy’s mother. The superb guitar riffs and driving drums will put listeners in a trance, and it reminds me of mid-2010s pop rock. B+

“Santa Sucks” by Jamie Alimorad

Los Angeles-based pop rocker Jamie Alimorad wraps up this edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews! He released his anti-Christmas anthem, “Santa Sucks.”  The song focuses on how Santa made Christmas miserable. “Santa Sucks” will remind long-time pop-rock music lovers of a combination of Adam Sandler’s “Love Stinks” and Fountains of Wayne’s “Stacy’s Mom.” Bravo, Jamie! A-

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The post Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of October 23, 2026 appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a pleasure to welcome Jennifer Fraser to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Jennifer is the creative and driving force behind Creative Canine Productions, bringing over four decades of experience in canine training, performance, and innovation. She is the first to develop and execute the integration of elite canine performance with acrobatics, dance, and theatrical staging at this level, building the concept from the ground up into a large-scale production.

Through this process, Jennifer developed advanced canine training systems designed specifically for choreography, stage movement, timing, and seamless integration with human performers. She has personally trained the entire canine cast for performance, developing the trust, stability, and interaction required for complex live theatrical work.  Each canine performer is raised and developed within Jennifer’s home and training environment as part of her daily life and family.

This past summer, Jennifer Fraser and the Acro Canine Crew took center stage on NBC’s long-running talent competition, America’s Got Talent (AGT). The Acro Canine Crew combined jaw-dropping acrobatics with synchronized dog tricks that not only had the Pasadena Civic Auditorium audience on the edge of their seats but also received a standing ovation from judges Howie Mandel, Mel B, Sofia Vergara, and (series creator) Simon Cowell. They also received a Golden Buzzer from host Terry Crews and a spot in the AGT: Season 21 live shows.

Throughout the season, Acro Canine Crew set the standard for future animal acts, as Jennifer and her team delivered jaw-dropping, eye-pleasing performances that captured the nation’s hearts.  Eventually, the team made the Top 10 and performed in the Season 21 Finale.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Jennifer Fraser recapped Acro Canine Crew’s AGT journey and previewed Creative Canine Productions’ future.

For more information about Creative Canine Productions, visit their website.

You can connect with Acro Canine Crew on social media. Visit their Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube channels.

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Jennifer Fraser appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Happy Halloween Season, everyone!

This year, I have the privilege of welcoming the cast and creative team of the rising YouTube horror trivia game show, Better Luck Than Chuck, to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Produced by Scotchworthy Productions and created by Tony Wash and Meredith Tummillo, Better Luck Than Chuck stars Alexis Allotta as the Widow, the self-proclaimed “Wittiest Witch of the Midwest,” and Adam Michaels as her sarcastic undead husband, Charlie. Better Luck Than Chuck combines horror knowledge, outrageous comedy, and nostalgic game show fun into a one-of-a-kind competition. Each episode features horror superfans battling through inventive “cate-GORY” challenges inspired by the films, monsters, and moments that have defined the genre.

New episodes of Better Luck Than Chuck debut every Thursday on the show’s official YouTube channel, inviting horror lovers everywhere to test their genre knowledge alongside contestants competing for awesome prizes. The grand prize is a trip to experience Universal Halloween Horror Nights at either Universal Studios Hollywood or the Universal Orlando Resort.  But the scares don’t stop when the credits roll. Each episode will contain a hidden clue that viewers can spot while watching. Once they uncover the clue, fans can visit https://betterluckthanchuck.com/UniversalSweeps/ to submit that week’s entry for a chance to win the grand prize vacation.

Adding to the excitement, each episode features special guest question readers from some of horror’s biggest names, including acclaimed filmmaker Mike Flanagan, producer Chad Villella (Radio Silence), music video and film director BJ McDonnell, and additional surprise guests from across the horror community. Their appearances help bring an extra layer of authenticity and fun to every episode while celebrating the creators and personalities who have helped shape modern horror.

On this Halloween edition of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Tony, Meredith, Alexis, and Ashley shared the origin story of Better Luck Than Chuck and its partnership with Universal Destinations and Experiences.

For more information about the show, visit the Scotchworthy Productions’ website!

The post Jake’s Take’s Halloween 2026- Better Luck Than Chuck appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome Atlanime Fest founder Tolden “Troop” Williams and CMO and Managing Partner Eli Watkins to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

Atlanime Fest celebrates Black identity and expression through anime. For a generation of Black fans raised on Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and Atlanta rap, anime was never just something they watched. It shaped how they dress, how they talk, and the music they make. Atlanime Fest puts that culture on the main stage: cosplay next to streetwear, anime openings next to trap beats, and Black artists, animators, and creators telling their own stories. It’s a space built by the community it serves, in the city that has shaped hip-hop for decades.

The festival grew out of Trap Sushi, the Atlanta party that Tolden and Stephanie Williams founded in 2020. The first event drew 25 people. Within three years, Trap Sushi was drawing crowds of around 2,500, made up of Black anime fans, gamers, and creators who hadn’t found a home at traditional conventions. In October 2025, the first Atlanime Fest brought more than 3,500 people to Center Parc Stadium. This year, it became a full weekend.

This year’s Atlanime Fest will run from Thursday, October 15 to Sunday, October 18, and will take place at Monday Night Garage (on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday). Meanwhile, Saturday’s festivities will take place at the Underground Atlanta. Funny Marco and Pudgieee will host the main stage activities and performers such as Slim Jxmmi, Proper Frequency, Troop Brand, and Super-Duper Kyle are expected to take the main stage.

In addition to performances, attendees can see jaw-dropping anime-wrapped cars, JDM classics, and custom rides at the Car Show Showcase. Gamers can compete at Sole Play-presented Gaming Lounge, while attendees can explore Artist Alley and vendor booths.  The weekend will conclude on Sunday with a two-hour Celebrity Soccer Game and a massive closing party.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Troop and Eli shared Atlanime Fest’s origin story, how this festival stands out in the convention circuit, and previewed the Celebrity Soccer Game.

For more information about the 2026 Atlanime Fest, visit their website!

Connect with Atlanime Fest on Instagram!

The post Jake’s Take Podcast – 2026 Atlanime Fest Preview appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com  

It is a pleasure to welcome Buzz Lear to The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!

Buzz is the creator and host of The Vertical Buzz, a weekly media platform  dedicated exclusively to the rapidly growing world of vertical entertainment.  A veteran television host, actor, voice artist, and media professional with decades of experience in front of the camera, Buzz has appeared in more than 40 vertical drama  productions while interviewing many of the industry’s most influential creators, executives, producers, directors, actors, and innovators.

As Hollywood undergoes one of its biggest storytelling shifts since the rise of streaming, Buzz offers a unique insider’s perspective on how mobile-first entertainment, creator-driven storytelling, and new distribution models are reshaping the future of film  and television.

Through The Vertical Buzz, Buzz has built relationships across the entire vertical  entertainment landscape from streaming platforms and studios to producers, directors, actors, writers, investors, technology companies, and industry organizations—giving  him a broad view of one of the fastest-growing sectors in entertainment.

Buzz enjoys conversations that help audiences understand not only where the entertainment industry is today, but where it’s headed. Drawing on decades of  experience in television, hosting, acting, and media, he connects emerging trends with real world stories from the people building this new entertainment ecosystem.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Buzz Lear shares lessons he learned on the sets of Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., and House Detectives; gives us the 4-1-1 on vertical entertainment; and shares some of The Vertical Buzz’s most viral interviews.

You can connect with Buzz Lear on Instagram & YouTube!

For more information about The Vertical Buzz, visit the Glendale Podcast Studio’s website!

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Buzz Lear appeared first on Jake's Take.

Welcome to the latest installment of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews of 2026! (Bitmoji property of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar)

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Welcome back to the latest Fall 2026 edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews!

We have a lot of new music to unpack, so let’s start this party!

I hate to admit this, but Drake’s Habibti (FOMO) bored me to tears. (Album cover property of OVO & Republic Records)

Habibti (FOMO) by Drake

Drake continued to shock the music world by dropping a third studio album in the same calendar! Habibti follows Iceman and Maid of Honor, which were released this past May simultaneously. I hate to admit this, but Habibti (FOMO) bored me to tears.  The “God’s Plan” entertainer used seven different songs to sample and interpolate into new music, which is extremely uncreative.  D+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Solar Eclipse,” “Quebec,” & “Cold Shoulder.”

Crisco features some of Miranda Lambert’s best material in years! (Album cover property of Vanner Records)

Crisco by Miranda Lambert

Country music queen Miranda Lambert dropped her tenth solo album, Crisco, at a very particular time. Her collaboration with Ella Langley, “Choosin’ Texas,” which she co-wrote, in the number one spot on Billboard’s Hot 100 for nearly half the year. Back to Crisco, Ms. Lambert co-wrote all but one track on her new offering. This album’s collaborators include featured artists Chris Stapleton (“A Song to Sing”) and Ella Langley (“Snakeskin Boots”), as well as Ashley Monroe, Brendan McLoughlin, David Garcia, Jesse Frasure, Josh Osborne, and Natalie Hemby. Crisco showcases Ms. Lambert’s mastery of a country music kaleidoscope. The title track and “A Song to Sing” have disco elements, while “Till the Going’s Gone” feels like the millennials’ successor to Willie Nelson’s iconic “On the Road Again.” Crisco features some of Miranda Lambert’s best material in years! A-

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Snakeskin Boots,” “Crisco,” “A Song to Sing,” “Cuttin’ Onions,” & “Till the Going’s Gone.”

Qromelife features jaw-dropping tracks such as “Hit-A-Lik,” “Baby Breath,” “Trance (Walk It Down),” and “Sweep.” (Album property of Quality Control Music & Motown Music)

Qromelife by Quavo

Rapper Quavo teamed up with Pharrell Williams for his third solo studio album, Qromelife. The Migos alum and the former Voice USA coach’s latest offering features an all-star group of pop and rap music’s finest in the studio. Fellow former Migos member Offset, T.I., Tyler, the Creator, ASAP Rocky, and Justin Timberlake all appear throughout the album. Qromelife features jaw-dropping tracks such as “Hit-A-Lik,” “Baby Breath,” “Trance (Walk It Down),” and “Sweep.”  Quavo and Pharrell are an impeccable team, and this duo could be this decade’s Michael and Quincy! A

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Backwards,” “Hit-A-Lik,” “Baby Breath,” “Trance (Walk It Down),” “Sweep,” & “House Music.”

Despite “Patient Zero” and “Pink Clouding’s” brilliance, Taylor’s release of The Encore was unnecessary. (Album cover property of Taylor Swift)

The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore by Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift expanded The Life of a Showgirl era by adding four additional songs, which she re-released under The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore. However, to get to these new tunes, Swifties and music lovers have to re-listen to the album in its entirety. Don’t get me wrong, Taylor Swift, Max Martin, and Shellback are a superb songwriting team, but listening to all 12 songs again is just redundant. As for the four tunes, it feels like the “…Ready for It” singer dug into the vault and decided to put them in The Encore. Despite “Patient Zero” and “Pink Clouding’s” brilliance, it was so unnecessary for Taylor to release The Encore. C-

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Patient Zero” & “Pink Clouding.”

The album’s lyrics hit listeners in the gut, and Wynonna’s heartbreaking honesty makes The Hard Truth an impeccable album and a guide to dealing with grief. (Album property of Anti Records)

The Hard Truth by Wynonna

It has been a decade since Wynonna dropped a new studio album. A lot has changed in a decade, including Naomi Judd’s passing in 2022, her alleged rift with her sister Ashley, and her daughter’s personal drama that has been tabloid fodder. The Hard Truth is Wynonna’s tenth solo record, and it is the most personal yet. Indie rocker Iron & Wine, southern rocker Patterson Hood, and country music duo War & Treaty help the “What the World Needs” performer make a comeback. The album’s lyrics hit listeners in the gut, and Wynonna’s heartbreaking honesty makes The Hard Truth an impeccable album and a guide to dealing with grief. A

 Tracks to Download or Stream: “All Downhill from Ashland,” “Everything,” “Am I Missing Out,” “Hear Me Out,” & “Kentucky Queen.”

“World’s Greatest!” by Lil Nas X

The past few years have been rough for the rapper-singer Lil Nas X, as the world saw him go through an alleged mental health crisis in tabloid headlines. Now, the “Old Town Road” superstar released a new single, “World’s Greatest!” Rolling Stone reported that the song is his first new single in two years. “World’s Greatest!” has elements of Outkast’s “Hey Ya!” mixed with Reggae and an addictive guitar hook. This was a superb surprise, and Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar continues to send good vibes to Lil Nas X. B+ 

“Flying Blind” by Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators

Next year, Slash featuring Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators will celebrate their 15^th anniversary with a tour and their fifth studio album! The rockers released “Flying Blind,” the title track from the fifth record. Slash’s impeccable guitar licks and solos continue to deliver, while Myles Kennedy’s powerful vocals blend well with the iconic guitarist. “Flying Blind” is definitely one of 2026’s best rock anthems and sets an exciting tone for what is to come!  A-

Artists to Watch:

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are four recording artists that are ready to rock the music world!

“Strength of a Woman” by Lee Newton

Country music singer Lee Newton released a new single, “Strength of a Woman.” The powerful tune focuses on the challenges that women and families face, including domestic violence, homelessness, and childhood cancer.  Lee’s vocals have a hint of Jennifer Nettles and Lee Ann Womack, which will delight listeners’ ears.  If “I Hope You Dance” is the top life-affirming song in country music, “Strength of a Woman” is an anthem for listeners to take life by the horns and overcome any obstacle in their path. B+

“Medicine” by OUT IN FRONT

Los Angeles alt-rock trio OUT IN FRONT is made up of lead vocalist Maddie Renner, bassist Ryen Wagner, and drummer Isaiah Volk have already opened for AJR, the All-American Rejects, and Yellowcard, and are looking to keep building their presence in the music world with their latest single, “Medicine.”  Wagner’s hypnotic bass, Volk’s superb drumming, and Renner’s vocals make this tune an impeccable banger! B+

“Rendezvous” by SUM SUN

New York City-based alternative pop duo SUM SUN (Nick Benton and Ilan Pomerance) are getting national attention thanks to major Spotify editorial support and opening for the Strike. The duo plans on dropping their debut album in early December. Their first single is the album’s title track, “Rendezvous.” The song is electric, driven by hypnotic melodies and a catchy chorus. SUM SUN have the potential to be this decade’s The Chainsmokers. A-

“The Great Unknown” by Tennyson King

Hong Kong-born, Toronto-raised Tennyson King concludes this edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s “New Music Reviews.” His latest single, “The Great Unknown,” showcases his mastery of fusing traditional Chinese instrumentation with Western folk music.  The lyrics and superb instrumental arrangements gave me chills.  “The Great Unknown “ is a beautiful, life-affirming song. A

Want to support me? Subscribe to my podcast & follow my YouTube channel!

Also, check out my 450th podcast episode starring Öwnboss & Scorsi!

The post Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of October 9, 2026 appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

A Note from Jacob: It is hard to believe that this is the 450^th  milestone episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast!  Thank you to all my incredible guests who took time out of their schedules to share their stories with my audience and the amazing publicists who trusted my platform.  I also want to thank you, my loyal listeners, for listening and watching each episode!  Cheers to another 450 episodes!

 It is an honor to welcome the musical project Immersed as guests for the 450^th episode!

Immersed is made up of producers and recording artists Öwnboss & Scorsi! The project emerged organically from the creative partnership between the two producers, who first collaborated under the Öwnboss & Scorsi name on their remix of Nari & Milani’s “Atom.” The remix quickly gained traction within the electronic community and entered the sets of artists including Steve Angello, where it remained a fixture for years. What began as a single collaboration soon revealed a deeper creative alignment, leading the pair to develop Immersed as a dedicated project built around groove, atmosphere, and a distinct sonic identity. The project has continued to gain momentum throughout 2026, recently taking the duo to New York City for a promotional run that included meetings at iHeartRadio headquarters, multiple on-camera interviews, and a pop-up DJ performance aboard the converted City Soul school bus, previously performed on by artists including Skrillex, Fred Again, and Four Tet.

Beyond Immersed, both artists have established themselves as prominent figures within global electronic music. Öwnboss is widely recognized for his breakout hit “Move Your Body,” which has surpassed 200 million streams worldwide and ranked as the fourth most-played track globally in 2022, according to 1001Tracklists. His music has been released on major labels including Spinnin’ Records, Monstercat, and Tiësto’s Musical Freedom, and he has performed at festivals such as Tomorrowland, Lollapalooza, Rock in Rio, Creamfields, and Ushuaïa Ibiza. Scorsi brings more than two decades of electronic music experience, with roots in drum & bass and a career spanning underground credibility and mainstream success, including releases and collaborations with artists such as ALOK, NGHTMRE, Autograf, and Tropkillaz.

On this milestone episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Öwnboss & Scorsi shared how they started Immersed, the stories behind some of their most-streamed Spotify songs, and where they see the future of EDM.

You can connect with Immersed on social media! Visit their Instagram & YouTube channels!

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Immersed (the 450th Episode!) appeared first on Jake's Take.

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

It is a privilege to welcome recording artist Trey Calloway to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.

North Carolina-grown and Nashville-based, Trey grew up singing in church and was a seasoned performer by the age of ten. Although southern and contemporary gospel were his first musical loves, as a teen, Trey developed a deep understanding and passion for the rocking, boot-stomping storytelling of ’90s country legends and has been writing and performing country music ever since.

He has opened shows for Joe Diffie, Tracy Lawrence, McBride & The Ride, Pat Green, Edwin McCain, and Craig Campbell, and has played for audiences at the Charlotte Speed Street NASCAR Festival, the House of Blues, Billy Bob’s Texas, and the Tennessee State Fair Opry Stage.  Since mid-2023, Trey has won Songwriter of the Year at the Texas Country Music Awards, had a music video featured on CMT, been added to Spotify editorial playlists, and has over four million streams on Spotify alone.

On November 6, Trey will release his new extended play, Honkytonk Generation. Introducing a new chapter in his music alongside producer and co-writer Phil O’Donnell. With more than two decades in the business, O’Donnell has penned No. 1 hits for George Strait, Blake Shelton, and Montgomery Gentry, and has also worked with Cody Johnson, Chris Janson, Craig Morgan, Clay Walker, Aaron Watson, and Craig Campbell. His experience and traditional country roots bring an exciting new element to Trey’s upcoming project.

On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Trey Calloway spoke about the lessons he learned from opening for Craig Morgan, Edwin McCain, Joe Diffie, and Pat Green and shared the stories behind his most-streamed songs, “Miss Gone by Morning,” “Truck Around,” and “Your Love is Safe with Me.”

For more information about Trey Calloway, visit his website.

You can connect with Trey Calloway on social media. Visit his Facebook, Instagram, TikTok & YouTube channels!

The post Jake’s Take’s Podcast – Trey Calloway appeared first on Jake's Take.

Welcome to the latest installment of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews of 2026! (Bitmoji property of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar)

By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com

Happy New Music Friday, everyone! Welcome to the final September 2026 edition of Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews! We got a lot of new music to unpack!

Day & Night showcases Carly Rae Jepsen’s staying power as a force in the recording industry. (Album cover property of School Boy & Interscope Records)

Day & Night by Carly Rae Jepsen

Canada’s sweetheart Carly Rae Jepsen’s latest project, Day & Night, is her first full-length original music in three years. Her eighth studio album is a double album with 24 tunes.  The “This Kiss” music maker brought together a superb group of collaborators that included Billboard, husband Cole M.G.N., Christopher J. Baran, Joe Kirkland, and Vincent Pontare. The “Call Me Maybe” hitmaker has always intrigued pop music fans and Day & Night showcases Carly Rae Jepsen’s staying power as a force in the recording industry. A

Tracks to Download or Stream:

Disc 1 – “After All,” “Versailles,”  “Burning Heart,” & “Lonely Side of the Bed.”

Disc 2 – “Never Let a Good Thing Go,” & “Don’t Leave Me on the Dance Floor.”

On Chakzilla, Sia and Greg Kurstin do an incredible job letting Chaka showcase her legendary vocals, while introducing her to the next generation of music lovers. (Album cover property of EarthSong Records & BMG Rights Management)

Chakazilla by Chaka Khan

Music legend Chaka Khan dropped her first solo studio album in seven years: Chakazilla! The “Ain’t Nobody” vocalist teamed up with Sia and superstar producer Greg Kurstin to pen new songs. Fellow music icons Lenny Kravitz (“Bring the Party”), Sia (“Cool You Down”), and Snoop Dogg (“Boogie’s in My Soul”) joined Chaka in the studio. Sia and Greg do an incredible job letting Chaka showcase her legendary vocals, while introducing her to the next generation of music lovers. B

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Boogie’s in My Soul,” “Cool You Down,” “I Know You Can,” & “Bring the Party.”

Bass Persuades is an intriguing record, to say the least, but I wish Miley Cyrus had a more coherent story to tell this go-around. (Album cover property of Atlantic Records)

Bass Persuades by Miley Cyrus

One year after dropping Something Beautiful, Miley Cyrus released her tenth studio album, Bass Persuades. This record is also significant as it is the first time that the entertainer dropped under her new mononym, “Miley,” which is a move I strongly disagree with, as gossip columnists alluded to the fact that the move insulted the person who put her in the entertainment industry – her father, Billy Ray Cyrus (Even though Variety reported that the “Achy Breaky Heart” recording artist endorsed the decision). For Bass Persuades, the “Wrecking Ball” singer recruited Gregory “Aldae” Hein, Kid Harpoon, Maxx Morando, Michael Pollack, and the Monsters & Strangerz to craft and co-produce the record. Meanwhile, Miike Snow’s Andrew Wyatt and Model/Actriz are the album’s featured artists, appearing on “Neon Signs” and “Different Religion,” respectively.  Bass Persuades is an intriguing record, to say the least, but I wish Miley had a more coherent story to tell this go-around. B-

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Bass Persuades,” “Let’s Get Married,” “Aftermath,” & “REDLIGHTS.”

Orville Peck and his collaborators do a phenomenal job weaving this tale of his rehab and coming out the other side. (Album cover property of Warner Records)

Mule by Orville Peck

So far this decade, Orville Peck has sung with music legends (Beck, Sir Elton John, and Kylie Minogue), performed on Broadway, and will star as Vega in the upcoming live-action film Street Fighter (2026). The “Daytona Sand” recording artist dropped his most personal album yet, Mule. In a conversation with The Guardian, Orville Peck said he made the album after surviving his darkest year. Orville Peck and his collaborators do a phenomenal job weaving this tale of his rehab and coming out the other side.  A+

Tracks to Download or Stream: “Already Gone,” “Rehab Blues,” “Ring the Bell,” “The Fall,” “Run Out of Road,” & “Too Little, Too Late.”

Crisco” by Miranda Lambert

Crisco, Miranda Lambert’s tenth studio album, will drop on October 2! The “Little Red Wagon” headliner dropped the title track that she co-wrote with Chill Fellacheck, Jesse Frasure, and Aaron Ratiere. “Crisco” is a campy country disco song that will put smiles on listeners’ faces. B

“Last Thing You Need” by Morgan Wallen

Grand Theft Auto VI is finally set to release on November 19. The long-awaited video game has released a soundtrack collection featuring original songs from fan-favorite artists across multiple music genres. One of the first singles off this soundtrack is Morgan Wallen’s “Last Thing You Need.” The “I’m the Problem” country music star teamed up with veteran collaborators John Byron, Chase McGill, Blake Pendergrass, and Ryan Vojtesak to co-write the tune, while Morgan’s go-to producers Joey Moi and Charlie Handsome engineered it. “Last Thing You Need” is one of Morgan’s rare ventures into pop music, and he knocked it out of the park. A-

“Party” by Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan is getting ready to release his fourth studio album, She’s The Best. “Party” is the latest single off the record. The “Rush” singer-songwriter teamed up with Luka Kloser, Elvira Anderfjard, Tove Burman, Leland, Tyde Levi, Rob Feher, and Styles Fuego to pen this tune, which also samples Madonna’s “Music.” “Party” is a hypnotic tune that will be a must-have for countless party playlists. B+

“Silencio” by U2

On November 13, U2 will drop Carnaval de Luz, its first album of original material in nine years! The band’s latest single, “Silencio,” is an edgy hard rock tune that features Bono’s swaggy vocals and impeccable guitar arrangements. I am looking forward to hearing the rest of the album. A-

 Artists to Watch:

Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s Artists to Watch is back! Here are two recording artists that are sure to shake up the music industry.

“Fight Me” by Brooklin Rich

Las Vegas singer, songwriter, and producer Brooklin Rich comes from music royalty, as he is the great-grandson of the legendary jazz drummer Buddy Rich. His latest single, “Fight Me,” is a hypnotic pop-R&B jam that has shades of classic eras of both Justins (Timberlake & Bieber). A-

“Shattered” by Laura Frotini

Aurora, Ontario-based singer-songwriter Laura Frotini wraps up this edition of Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar’s New Music Reviews. Her recently released single, “Shattered,” weaves a haunting tale of a family struggle Laura faced after her twin brother went through a difficult situation. I admire Laura’s courage in sharing this song with the public, and every lyric will tug at listeners’ heartstrings. B+

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The post Jake’s Take’s New Music Reviews: Week of September 25, 2026 appeared first on Jake's Take.