Elina’s ‘A Place I Recognise:’ A Conversation on Healing, Growth, and a Transformative Year

Sweden’s Elina returns to the rural landscapes of her hometown in ‘A Place I Recognise,’ an outpouring of songs born from a year of brave decisions, a soft rediscovery of self, and her way back to an inner place she’d long been circling. 

In this exclusive conversation with the songwriter, she reflects on moments that reshaped her, healing, and finding the clarity and courage to begin again…

The EP follows a narrative of returning home – partly inspired by your move back to your rural hometown in Sweden, and partly shaped by personal experiences. Could you share which events influenced the lyrics in this collection?

I went through quite a few big changes last year that was a really long time coming. Unfortunately, pursuing a career in music took a toll on my mental health in so many ways because of many different reasons. It wasn’t until last year that I finally gathered the strength and courage to start a new chapter and it turned out to be the best decision I’ve made in ages. It led me to healthier relationships personally, professionally, and with myself.

Which song on the record was your favourite to write, and what made it so special?

I’d say ‘Scars.’ It was my first session in ages earlier this year in London, and I was super nervous because I’m such a big fan of James’s music. But it turned into one of those rare experiences where everything just felt easy, from writing the song to recording it, and throughout the whole collaboration with James and his team. It was all pure joy to me. 

There’s such an uplifting energy throughout the EP; it feels like you were in a positive creative space. Would you say the songs reflect your healing journey and path toward self-discovery as it unfolded?

Thank you, that’s such a big compliment! They definitely do, and I’d say I’ve come home creatively with these songs in a way I haven’t really felt before. As an artist, it’s a constant process of navigating and reinventing and this time we were all completely in sync in the process when it came to production, sound, and the overall soundscape – which was really uplifting and inspiring. Lyrically and emotionally, the songs are so closely tied to recent experiences that they feel like an extension of myself at this point. That’s all you ever hope to achieve, really, so it feels like I’ve shared something that’s 100% me.

How do you hope listeners will connect emotionally with the songs? Are there particular themes you feel are woven throughout the EP?

My constant hope is that listeners will feel seen and inspired when they hear my songs. This EP comes from a place of personal reflection, growth and choosing myself after a long period of challenges. If these songs can encourage others to do the same and to prioritize their own happiness, trust their instincts and embrace the courage it takes to create a life that feels true to them, then it’s more than I could wish for. All the themes throughout the EP, like self-discovery, resilience, freedom and coming home to yourself, are all tied together with that sense of empowerment and hope, if that makes sense. 

You’ve blended indie folk and pop so beautifully, all while staying true to your signature sound. Were there any musical influences that guided you during the making of this record?

That makes me really happy. I feel like I finally got to bring in some band influences and full arrangements this time, something I’ve longed to do since the beginning. I’ve dipped my toes into it on previous records, but never fully explored it. My heart has always, and will always, beat for rock music and bands. It’s the music I grew up with and the music that inspired my writing. So this EP became a way to blend that lifelong bank of influences with my original, softer soun,d and that’s been incredibly fun! 

Listen To ‘A Place I Recognise,’ Out Now 

Vienna Vienna’s ‘Buzz’ Turns Existential Chaos Into a Glimmer-Rock Adrenaline Shot

“Buzz” is the sound of your brain melting in real time, and Vienna Vienna is standing over the pot stirring with a neon-pink tambourine, grinning like he knows exactly what he’s doing to you. This isn’t a song—it’s an electrical short circuit dressed up as indie rock, the kind of thing you blast at 2 a.m. when you’re still vibrating from the world’s nonsense and your own nervous system is staging a coup.

From the first fuzzy guitar scrape, Vienna Vienna makes it clear we’re not here for serenity. No, “Buzz” is an ode to the modern condition: everything’s too loud, too fast, too stupid, and somehow too bleak and too hilarious at the same time. The drums punch like they’ve been up for three days on caffeine and catastrophic headlines. That tambourine? It’s the little voice in your head going, “Why is everyone like this?” except now it’s keeping time.

Vienna Vienna sings like a man who’s seen the abyss, took notes, and decided the only reasonable response was to write a banger. “I’ve seen a devil, I’ve seen a devil buzz,” he mutters, tossing off lines about eight-dollar despair and societal decay like he’s reading coupons for the apocalypse. It’s bleak poetry wrapped in party lights, and that’s the brilliance of it—he’s not escaping reality, he’s dancing in the wreckage, kicking up dust, laughing because crying is too predictable.

https://viennavienna.ffm.to/buzz 

There’s a ramshackle glory to the whole thing, the same spirit that drove punk kids to scream about alienation except now the alienation has Wi-Fi and a subscription model. Vienna Vienna taps into that jittery youth-doomerism vibe without turning it into a costume. This isn’t nihilism—it’s survival by groove. The man understands that if the world insists on bombarding us with existential static, the least we can do is turn the buzz into a hook.

“Buzz” joins earlier singles “Idle Hands” and “Company Hunting” in this expanding universe of glimmer rock, where queerness, chaos, humor, and heartbreak swirl together until they’re indistinguishable. But this track is the most potent hit yet. It feels like the EP Entertain Me tearing through its chrysalis, wings twitching, ready to thrash its way into every overstimulated ear.

Vienna Vienna isn’t trying to save you. He’s trying to make you feel alive in the middle of the noise. And with “Buzz,” he damn well succeeds.

https://www.facebook.com/viennaviennamusic 

https://www.tiktok.com/@viennavienna 

–Leslie Banks 

JD DAYS ANNOUNCES CHRISTMAS ANTHOLOGY — A CINEMATIC MUSICAL JOURNEY OF LOVE, FORGIVENESS & FESTIVE MAGIC

JD Days return this winter with Christmas Anthology, a ten-track festive project blending heartfelt songwriting with vivid, Pixar-style storytelling. The album features six original songs and four re-imagined holiday classics, each accompanied by its own short 3D-animated film.

From snowy New York romances to Santa’s rock-and-roll sleigh ride, Christmas Anthology invites listeners to rediscover the season through love, unity, renewal, and forgiveness.

A PIXAR-STYLE CELEBRATION OF THE HOLIDAYS

Each track forms part of a wider narrative, brought to life through cinematic animation and JD Days’ signature pop-rock and folk influences. Together, the songs and visuals create a warm, immersive experience designed to “light the dark” during the winter season.

TRACK HIGHLIGHTS

• Evergreen Christmas – A glowing winter love story

• Angel Woman – A dawn-lit ballad of grace, hope, and renewal

• Here Comes Santa – JD Days’ upbeat modern-rock Christmas anthem

• All You Need Is Love – A luminous finale celebrating togetherness and forgiveness
  

RELEASE & AVAILABILITY

• Digital Album + Video Anthology: 5 December 2025 on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music

• 4K Video Premiere: Vimeo & YouTube – 20 December 2025

• Radio Campaign: Holiday rotation begins late November 2025 (Adult Contemporary / Holiday formats)

• Sync Licensing: Seasonal placements via Sony Music Publishing, Warner Chappell Music & Universal Production Music
  

BRIDGE VIDEOS — CONNECTING THE STORY

The project features 10 cinematic bridge videos, each narrated by a warm American female voice, seamlessly guiding listeners through the Anthology’s emotional arc.

Featured Bridge Videos:

• Mistletoe
• Evergreen Christmas
• Shape of My Heart
• Angel Woman
• Somewhere
• Two Lovers
• Here Comes Santa
• Live for Today
• Happy Xmas (War Is Over)
• All You Need Is Love
• Evergreen Christmas (Instrumental)
  

All bridge videos are available in 1080p MP4 with professional voiceover.

ABOUT JD DAYS

JD Days is a UK-based creative collective led by singer-songwriter James, blending pop-rock, folk, and cinematic visual storytelling. Their mission is to create timeless music and imagery that celebrate love, forgiveness, and the shared humanity at the heart of the holiday season.

“At Christmas, music and love can still light the dark. This anthology is our gift to anyone searching for hope, connection, and a reminder that every heart deserves forgiveness.”
– James, JD Days

Follow JD Days
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jd_days/
Website: https://www.jddaysproductions.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4eF2rwiLVjQu1cETNJF7WS

India International Music Week 2026 Sets the Stage for a New Era of Global Music Exchange

Amber Sauer Isn’t Rising—She’s Erupting

Some artists arrive with a whisper. Amber Sauer showed up with a full-force, goosebump-inducing, spine-tingling presence that refuses to be ignored. There’s something almost unfair about a voice like hers—raw power wrapped in warmth, precision balanced with soul, and an emotional truth that cracks you open before you even realize what’s happening.

Amber doesn’t chase trends. She chases honesty. That’s why her vocals hit with such impact—she’s not performing atyou, she’s letting you inside the story. One moment she’s unleashing Aretha-level fire, the next she’s gliding with a Whitney-smooth tenderness, and then—just when you think you’ve figured her out—she drops the kind of modern sparkle you’d expect from Lizzo or Adele. And through all of it, she’s unmistakably Amber. Bold. Radiant. Completely unfiltered in the best possible way.

What makes her shine isn’t only the voice (though, let’s be real, the voice is insane). It’s the soul behind it. She’s warm, hilarious, generous, and deeply connected to the people who listen to her. Fans don’t just love her—they feel her. In a business that runs on manufactured personas, Amber is the real thing, and audiences latch onto that instantly.

Her live shows? Forget it. Those are their own universe. When Amber steps on a stage, the energy shifts. She creates this kind of electric intimacy—big, bright, and emotional enough to stick with you for days.

Season 14 of The Voice—Kelly Clarkson’s first year—was where the rest of America caught a glimpse of what the industry had already been whispering about. Originally from Paradise, California, she made her way to Los Angeles and quickly became the secret weapon for Grammy-winning music directors like Shep Crawford, Printz Board, Kim Burse, and Ray Chew, who trust her to elevate anything she touches.

She’s backed some heavy hitters: Jennifer Lopez, Patti LaBelle, Eric Benét, Sheryl Lee Ralph, B. Slade, and more. She’s toured with legends—Faith Evans, Kelly Price, Nik West, Kenny Lattimore, Angie Stone, and the incomparable Natalie Cole.

Her TV résumé is stacked too:
Dancing with the Stars (ABC), I Can See Your Voice (FOX), Celebration of Gospel (BET), Your Honor (Showtime), NCIS: Origins (CBS), Smashing Glass (CMT), The T.D. Jakes Show, and on and on.

Anyone who’s seen her live will tell you the same thing: she’s lightning in human form. A rare mix of power and peace, grit and grace.

And now? She’s standing right on the edge of the moment where everything clicks. Music is shifting toward authenticity, toward artists with something real to say—and Amber Sauer has been doing that her entire life. Her voice can’t be mimicked. Her artistry doesn’t fit a mold. She’s exactly the kind of force this generation is overdue for.

Amber isn’t just rising—she’s about to lift the whole room with her. If greatness is measured by impact, connection, and the ability to move people at their core, then she’s not “on her way.” She’s already there. And she’s only getting started.

Follow Amber Sauer on social media: @AmberSauer

Introducing Dougla Boi: Kalpee’s New EP Honoring Heritage, Healing, and Home

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Kalpee returns with Dougla Boi, a powerful new EP available now, led by the single “Under.” Blending New Calypso with touches of dancehall, R&B, and afrobeats, the Trinidad & Tobago artist continues to carve a space that is less about genre and more about emotion. Named after the Trinidadian term for someone of mixed African and Indian heritage, Dougla Boi explores the complexities and harmonies of identity with honesty and pride. Across six tracks—including the chart-topping “Everybody” featuring Full Blown, as well as “No Denying”, “Breathe,” “Under,” and “Heaven So Close”—Kalpee reflects on courage, healing, joy, and the harmony between the cultures that shaped him.

Kalpee’s rise has been fueled by self-taught creativity and a distinct Caribbean voice. From early performances in national festivals to years fronting a local band, he eventually transitioned from marine biology graduate to full-time artist, producing and creating his own visual world. His viral early singles and introspective HOME EP established him internationally, supported heavily by BBC Introducing. In 2020, he founded Island Wave, now an official SXSW Caribbean stage amplifying regional talent worldwide.

His music has earned support from BBC Radio 1, BBC 1Xtra, Capital Xtra, Wonderland, Clash, and Notion, alongside chart success with “Island Gyal” reaching No. 4 on the UK Music Week Black Chart and standout performances at the Singapore Grand Prix and SXSW London 2025. Multiple tracks have been championed across BBC Introducing, with “Heaven So Close” receiving repeated spins, and his single “Everybody” surging to No. 1 on the UK Music Week Black Chart. 

With collaborations ranging from Stefflon Don to Mortimer and work with Grammy-winning producers, Kalpee continues to push the boundaries of modern Caribbean music. His releases have appeared on Apple Music’s New R&B, Spotify’s New Music Friday, and viral rankings across Southeast Asia—all while building toward his debut album.

Reflecting on the EP, Kalpee shares: “Dougla Boi is a reflection of my identity… These songs hold the moments where I had to stop, breathe, heal, and remember who I am. It’s me celebrating my roots and finding peace in every part of my heritage.”

Heartfelt and expansive, Dougla Boi captures an artist stepping into his truth—offering music that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant.

Tracklist:

• Everybody (feat. Full Blown)
• Heaven So Close
• No Denying
• Under
• Breathe
• Everybody (EP Edit)

Follow Kalpee | Apple | Spotify | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | Website

Judy Pearson Channels Heartbreak and Honesty in New Single About One-Sided Love

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Rising singer-songwriter Judy Pearson returns with her most vulnerable release yet — a poignant new single that captures the ache of loving someone who never quite loved you back. With tender vocals and piercingly relatable lyrics, Pearson lays bare the heartbreak of being someone’s second thought in a song that’s as gut-wrenching as it is beautifully cathartic.

Set against warm, folk-infused production and delicate storytelling, the track perfectly embodies Pearson’s signature style — emotionally raw, melody-driven, and refreshingly honest. Fans of Taylor Swift’s lyrical detail, Gracie Abrams’ quiet confessions, and Olivia Rodrigo’s bittersweet intensity will find themselves right at home.

Her previous singles, including the historical-inspired ‘Remember Me’, revealed a writer unafraid to dig deep — and this new track is no exception. It’s a song for anyone who has ever loved hard, lost harder, and still found a way to keep going.

Already featured in Notion, Clout and Earmilk and with more than four million streams across platforms, Judy has become a touchstone for listeners seeking solace during life’s uncertain moments. With her debut EP on the horizon for next year—and several singles, including a seasonal Christmas track, set to arrive beforehand—she’s entering her most exciting chapter yet.

Stream ‘Heart On The Wall’ on all platforms now.

Follow Judy | Spotify | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok | YouTube

Speaking the Quiet Truths: A Conversation with Bob Augustine

Bob Augustine has always written like a man with nothing to hide and everything to understand. His songs—unvarnished, tender, and steeped in lived experience—carry a kind of quiet honesty that feels rare in a world of noise. With his new LP Folk IndieBob, the Pittsburgh-born singer-songwriter digs deeper than ever, tracing the contours of loss, resilience, and grace with a storyteller’s steady hand. In this intimate conversation, Augustine reflects on the roots of his craft, the city that shaped him, and the truths he can only reveal when he has a guitar in his hands.

Bob, when people listen to your music, they hear a quiet honesty—an intimacy. When did you first realize that songwriting was the place where you could speak the truths you couldn’t say out loud?
As soon as I picked up the guitar as a kid. There is comfort in putting my thoughts and feelings to music.

You grew up in Pittsburgh, a city known for its grit and heart. How did that environment shape the storyteller you became, the man who now writes songs that seem to come from the very center of lived experience?
The people I grew up around were plain-spoken people who spoke their mind. It caused friction at times, but you always knew where everyone stood. I started out trying to write flowery “code,” but soon realized it didn’t convey what I needed. I found my footing by writing in a plain-spoken style.

Folk music has a long tradition of turning ordinary lives into extraordinary stories. When you look back at your journey, what moments or memories from your Pittsburgh upbringing do you find yourself returning to again and again?
A lot of my writing has to do with missing the loved ones I have lost and the moments and memories we shared. They are all extraordinary people in my eyes, so I return to the memories of them often as subject matter for my songs.

Your new LP, Folk IndieBob, feels deeply personal—almost like a journal set to melody. Was there a moment during its creation when you realized you weren’t just making a record, but telling a chapter of your life?
Yes. A few songs in, I noticed that the writing was releasing emotions I had been carrying around without even realizing it.

Many of the songs on this album deal with vulnerability, resilience, and quiet reflection. What was the hardest truth for you to write about… and what gave you the courage to share it?
The hardest was the loneliness I deal with. The courage came from not being able to find something to alleviate it and hitting rock bottom. There really was nowhere else to turn but to my music.

https://open.spotify.com/album/4VyJadDxod7PaKxtmH5HQR?si=29c8507d0e4e4fcb 

Listeners often say your songs feel like conversations with an old friend. Who were the musical figures—local or legendary—who first made you feel seen, and how do their voices echo in your work today?
I like that analogy. I don’t like to single out specific songwriters because after 50-plus years of listening, I have this musical “salad” in my head. I don’t really know who gave any specific influence to what I may be writing at the moment. I don’t set out to write in a certain style—I just let whatever happens happen. I’d rather let listeners enjoy discovering influences on their own and decide what the conversation will be.

Pittsburgh artists often carry a sense of community with them wherever they go. How has your hometown supported you or influenced your identity as an artist, even as your music reaches beyond its city limits?
The open stagers I know, and the members of the Pittsburgh Songwriters Circle, the Pittsburgh Poetry Exchange, and the Caliope Song Circle have become more like friends. We meet regularly, and I carry their influence, critique, and inspiration with me every time I perform.

When you look at Folk IndieBob not just as an album, but as a portrait of who you are right now, what do you hope listeners will understand about the man behind these songs?
That there is bad luck but also a lot of blessings. Both are reflected in almost every song, and I continue hoping for and working toward my peace.

R2ViolinCello Announce New EP Mission Impossible and Celebrate a Remarkable Journey from the World’s Biggest Stages to Bangkok’s Rising Classical Scene

Dynamic husband-and-wife duo R2ViolinCello — violinist Rhys Watkins and cellist Rowena Calvert — are proud to announce the release of their highly anticipated EP Mission Impossible, arriving December 5, 2025, with a special launch concert at the Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok on December 7.

Blending virtuosic classical performance with cinematic sound design, R2ViolinCello present a bold re-imagining of film music’s most iconic scores — condensed into the rare and intimate pairing of violin and cello, elevated by large-scale electronic sound architecture.

A Cinematic EP Built for the Future of Classical Crossover

The EP features four legendary scores:

• Mission Impossible

• Duel of the Fates

• Imperial March

• Schindler’s List
  

Originally commissioned during the COVID lockdowns, the duo asked composer/arranger Simon Parkin to adapt epic Hollywood orchestral works into technically dazzling duets — a challenge that led to innovative new possibilities for the violin-cello format. The project was later expanded with sound designer Albin Dominic (India), who crafted powerful electronic backdrops to restore the “orchestral scale” of the originals.

“This project revealed a completely new identity for us,” says Rowena. “It proved that two instruments, when supported by bold sound architecture, can compete with the power of a full orchestra.”

EP Launch Concert

Date: December 7
Venue: Chatrium Hotel Riverside, Bangkok
Program: Film-score arrangements with immersive backing tracks
Tickets: Via R2ViolinCello website and social platforms

A Story Born from Lockdown, Reinvented in Thailand

The duo’s journey began at the height of the pandemic. When concert halls closed, Rhys and Rowena performed together for the very first time — livestreaming for the London Symphony Orchestra’s Coffee Concerts. Their chemistry was immediate, and R2ViolinCello was born.

A year later, they relocated to Bangkok for what was meant to be a sabbatical. There, they met Chris Craker — record producer, former Vice President of Sony Music (New York), and ex-LSO clarinettist — who invited them to record at his world-renowned Karma Studios. The collaboration solidified their new artistic direction and opened the door to large-scale international work, including the launch of the R2 International Concert Series.

World-Class Musicians Behind the Music

Rhys Watkins

Welsh violinist, Royal Academy graduate, and former member of the London Symphony Orchestra for 17 years, Rhys has toured the world performing in major halls and has appeared extensively as a studio musician. His violin can be heard on blockbuster films including:

Harry Potter, Star Wars, Thor, The Avengers, Twilight, The Imitation Game, Cinderella, The Shape of Water, Brave, Zero Dark Thirty, The King’s Speech, and many more.

He has performed with iconic artists such as Sir Paul McCartney, Queen, Elton John, Bryan Adams, Eric Clapton, Annie Lennox, Tom Jones, Tony Bennett, and Phil Collins.

Rowena Calvert

British cellist and former member of the internationally acclaimed Cavaleri String Quartet, Rowena has performed at the Royal Albert Hall, Wigmore Hall, Royal Festival Hall, and regularly on BBC Radio 3 and Classic FM. Her studio work includes soundtracks for Mission Impossible, Wonder Woman, Spider-Man, Pixar’s Up, and more.

Her collaborations include Billie Eilish (BRIT Awards), Hans Zimmer, Nigel Kennedy, Ralph Fiennes, and Sir Paul McCartney. She currently serves as Head of Strings at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok, and artistic director of two international concert series.

A Life Rich in Stories: From Houseboats to Hollywood

Beyond their musical prestige, the duo’s personal history reads like a documentary:

• They lived for five years on two houseboats on the River Thames, running candle-lit concerts with 30-person audiences who rowed out by boat.

• Rowena once managed two music schools in India during a gap year.

• Their daughter races ostriches on school sports day and holds baby alligators at birthday parties in Thailand.

• Rhys is the son of Welsh rugby legend Stuart Watkins, capped 26 times for Wales.

• Rowena’s family was featured in the BBC series This Farming Life, documenting their self-sufficient life in the Scottish Highlands.

• Between them, they have performed on the soundtracks of over 100 major films.
  

“We have lived in orchestras, on rivers, in India, in studios, and now in Bangkok. This EP feels like the culmination of everything we’ve learned,” says Rhys.

Looking Ahead: A Duo With Big Ambitions

Alongside the EP release, the duo is currently developing their Virtuoso Academy, a platform to support the next generation of young instrumentalists. They also hope to attract a patron to support Rowena in acquiring a much-needed Stradivarius cello — the final piece in their artistic evolution.

Follow R2ViolinCello

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/R2ViolinCello

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/R2ViolinCello

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/gb/artist/r2violincello/1844338663

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/r2violincello

Website: http://www.r2violincello.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@r2violincello283

Alyson Faith embraces positivity and self-worth with new single “Abundance” on December 12th

New York, NY — Singer-songwriter Alyson Faith is set to release her uplifting new single “Abundance,” a radiant and playful anthem that reminds listeners to celebrate who they are and appreciate the beauty that already surrounds them. Preview Attached!

Infused with an upbeat rhythm and bright, organic instrumentation, “Abundance” delivers a joyful message about rejecting comparison and embracing gratitude. Alyson’s expressive vocals and heartfelt lyrics invite listeners to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the world around them, a theme that feels both timely and timeless.

“This song is meant to be a playful, light, upbeat reminder that we don’t need to compare ourselves to anyone else,” says Alyson. “When we take a moment to bask in the gifts of Mother Nature and truly believe in ourselves, we realize that we are enough, and we have enough.”

“Abundance” captures Alyson Faith’s signature blend of soulful sincerity and pop-infused optimism, creating a sound that is both grounding and liberating. The song encourages listeners to shift their mindset toward possibility and self-love, celebrating life’s simple moments of joy and connection.

“Abundance” will be available on 12/12 on all streaming platforms.

Pre-Save here!

Alyson Faith returns to The Bitter End on December 14th to celebrate the release of her new music, following the drop of her first single, “Abundance” on December 12th across all platforms. Get tickets here! A singer-songwriter known for soulful-raspy rock, emotional storytelling, and dynamic live performances, Alyson brings her newest songs to the stage with an all-star band featuring:

• Oz Noy – producer and electric guitar, internationally acclaimed jazz-fusion innovator

• Henry Hey – keyboards, worked with David Bowie and many other top artists

• John Putnam – guitar, credits include Madonna and Broadway productions

• Brian Delaney – drums, played with Melissa Etheridge and the New York Dolls

• Mike Visceglia – bass, longtime collaborator with Suzanne Vega

• Shy Kedmi – composer and keyboard

• Andrea Watts & Scout Ford – soulful backing vocals

Alyson has performed nationally and internationally, shared stages with icons such as Pete Seeger and Paul Shaffer and collaborated with Bakithi Kumalo (“Let’s Be One”, featured in Rolling Stone India), and is the creator of Funkytown Playground, a widely-loved children’s music program.

This will be a live unveiling of Alyson’s newest music, powerful, heartfelt, and not to be missed.

The album ” Let’s Find Out” will be released in the spring.

Stay connected with Alyson Faith for release updates and new music:
Spotify | Facebook

Baking Joy and Burning Cookies: DPB’s “The Wonders of Christmas” Finds the Sweet Spot of the Season

There’s a place where nostalgia, innocence, and soul collide, and on DPB’s new holiday single, “The Wonders of Christmas,” that place smells like gingerbread, glows with Christmas lights, and—if you listen closely—crackles with the same vintage charm that made doo-wop ballads immortal. This isn’t just another seasonal spin. It’s a cinnamon-dusted postcard from a simpler universe, where wonder isn’t manufactured but baked slowly, sweetly, in the warmth of a family kitchen.

The song opens with a scene so pure you can almost feel the cold on your cheeks: “Snow is falling, snow bells ringing, I’m filled with cheer, so much joy, I’m happy for this time of year.” These aren’t the words of a cynic. They’re the words of someone rediscovering childlike awe, the kind you thought you lost somewhere between adulthood and the last unpaid bill. DPB knows exactly what he’s doing—inviting you to lower your guard, tugging you back to that December when the world still felt enchanted.

And then comes the refrain that functions as both hook and philosophy: “It feels like wonders of Christmas time, in this heart of mine, so let’s bake some gingerbread cookies, something sweet.” That repeated invocation of “something sweet” becomes a mantra, a reminder that joy isn’t elusive. It’s simple. It’s intentional. Sometimes it even comes covered in icing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A-rfPO44UfU 

Journey Eiland and Ouiwey Collins help wrap this sonic gift with ribbons of doo-wop harmonies and a touch of modern sparkle. But the magic lives in the details, those vignettes that flutter by like snowflakes: “People are laughing, people are caroling, so much love is in the air, so much giving, no one’s missing out this year.” For a moment, the world feels healed. The wounds quiet. The lights flicker gently instead of glaring.

The bridge reads like a Christmas card sent from a parallel universe where everything goes right: “Oh there’s cookies in the oven, gifts under the tree, such a joyful time for me. Snow angels in the snow, oh yeah I know, the blessings will follow me.” Blessings—not presents—become the currency. Faith sneaks in softly. Gratitude hangs like tinsel.

And just when the song risks floating away on its own idealism, DPB brings it back down to earth with one perfectly human moment: “Oh, I forgot my cookies in the oven.” It’s the wink, the smudge on the Hallmark painting, the reminder that even in seasons of wonder, we remain beautifully flawed.

I love artists who peel back the curtain to reveal truth wrapped in melody. DPB does exactly that here. “The Wonders of Christmas” isn’t just a holiday tune—it’s a gentle sermon on sweetness, simplicity, and the stubborn persistence of joy.

–Lonnie Nabors

Iuliano Unveils “The Place”: A Cinematic Return to Music Rooted in Personal Truth

The Place Streaming Link

The Place Snippets Streaming Link

Italian singer-songwriter and producer Iuliano returns with a bold new project, “The Place” — a deeply personal and cinematic exploration of identity, emotion, and sound. The eagerly awaited album is set for release in the first quarter of 2026, marking his most introspective and complete body of work to date.

Drawing from a lifetime immersed in music, formal training at Berklee College of Music, and a journey that spans Italy, Malaysia, and Thailand, Iuliano’s latest project reflects a rare combination of instinct, thought, and lived experience.

Hailing from the chaotic, magnetic city of Napoli, Iuliano grew up surrounded by music, which was an ever-present part of family life. Over the years, he’s moved beyond conventional definitions of “musician,” focusing instead on uncovering something essential—both in himself and in his art.

“I didn’t decide to follow music—it followed me,” says Iuliano. “Every step I’ve taken has been on my own terms. This project is about reconnecting with something deeper inside.”

Iuliano first captured international attention with his single “Who Knows”, which earned acclaim for its haunting and cinematic sound. His artistry was further recognized when he won the Independent Music Award in 2019, solidifying his place among the most promising independent artists of his generation.

Critics have praised his distinctive sound for its delicate balance of intimacy and experimentation:

“Who Knows blurs the line between indie-pop and alternative rock.” — Ink19

“Iuliano crafts something delicate yet cinematic, a haunting balance between intimacy and experimentation.” — Substream Magazine

“A rare ability to merge electronic minimalism with raw singer-songwriter sensibility.” — You Haven’t Heard This Music Yet

After a period spent producing music for others in Asia, personal upheavals—including the end of a long-term relationship and the isolation of COVID—rekindled his drive to create for himself. “The Place” represents that return, a project built within a studio that doubles as a community space for musicians who value presence, sound, and artistic integrity above trends and speed.

Fans of Jeff Buckley, Sufjan Stevens, and modern experimental indie pop will find in Iuliano’s new work a compelling mix of cinematic atmosphere, electronic minimalism, and introspective lyricism — a sound that feels both timeless and deeply human.

Follow Iuliano

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iulianomusicroot/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iulianomusicroot/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/

Youtube: http://bit.ly/iulianoYT

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/iuliano/1388538506

Jordan Seven Unleashes “7” – A Powerful, Emotive Rock Album Highlighted by Dream-Born Single “Zephyr Girl”

Orlando, FL – Indie rock artist Jordan Seven has released his electrifying new album 7, a raw, immersive, and deeply human body of work that blends classic rock DNA with modern alternative edge. Driven by vulnerability, grit, and Seven’s unmistakable vocal fire, 7 is a testament to rising above hardship with passion and purpose. The project puts special focus on the spellbinding track “Zephyr Girl.”

Written, performed, and produced almost entirely by Seven himself, 7 delivers a cohesive yet stylistically diverse experience. Each song stands on its own, but together they form a cinematic journey through resilience, longing, hope, and the relentless search for meaning. The emotional core arrives with “Zephyr Girl,” a song that was fittingly born out of a dream. Seven describes it as a track that “came to me in a dream, as my songs often do,” adding that he wanted to capture “the dreamlike sound I heard in my mind, something sultry, progressive, and universally relatable.” The song reflects the moment of finding someone who captivates and transforms you, even if you never realized what was missing.

Floating background vocals and atmospheric textures give “Zephyr Girl” an intoxicating quality, contrasting with Seven’s gritty and emotionally charged vocal performance. While tracks like “Solid Ground” explore themes of struggle and redemption, “Zephyr Girl” offers a sense of clarity, relief, and emotional completion, a rare softness surrounded by strength.

With influences ranging from David Bowie to Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and Cheap Trick, Seven infuses 7 with classic rock showmanship, introspective storytelling, and anthemic hooks. He plays every instrument himself with the exception of drums performed by longtime friend and acclaimed touring drummer Chris Moore, giving the album a deeply personal sonic identity. From the hard hitting guitars of “Solid Ground” to the high energy, convertible worthy rocker “Come Back, Jenny,” Seven brings both musical precision and emotional honesty to every track.

Jordan Seven’s artistic story stretches from suburban Long Island to California to settling in Orlando FL, shaped by early creative solitude, garage bands, theater stages, and a creative rebirth during the pandemic. His life has been marked by both painful loss and powerful resilience, and he channels those experiences into music that is hopeful, honest, and undeniably compelling. 7 stands as a testament to that spirit.

Now based in Orlando with his wife and twin boys, Seven is promoting 7 while simultaneously writing material for his next album, Mercury, slated for release in early 2026. For now, 7 remains the centerpiece of his artistic identity, with “Zephyr Girl” serving as its glowing emotional anchor.

ABOUT JORDAN SEVEN

Jordan Seven is an Orlando based indie rock artist known for his powerful vocals, timeless rock influences, and emotionally charged songwriting. His music merges alternative intensity with classic rock flair, offering listeners an experience that is nostalgic and unmistakably modern. Seven writes, produces, and performs almost all of his music himself, crafting songs that are personal and universally resonant.

Website | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Spotify | YouTube

Michal Gutman Unveils “War Boys” – Part of Bold New Singles Project 2025–2026

Michal Gutman Unveils “War Boys” – Part of Bold New Singles Project 2025–2026

Artist: Michal Gutman
Single: War Boys
Release Date: July 25 2026

Michal Gutman, the one-woman-band known for her intensely theatrical and sonically adventurous performances, announces the continuation of her 2025–2026 singles project with the release of “War Boys” the project’s second track.

A master of loops, polyrhythms, and unconventional harmonies, Gutman performs solo with bass guitar, loop station, two microphones, and a touch-pad synthesizer, creating a sound that drifts between cabaret theatrics, 80s club dance-floor energy, and dreamlike cinematic soundscapes. Each track in this singles project explores identity in times of catastrophe, the tension between personal and societal grief, and the pursuit of beauty within chaos.

“War Boys” follows her critically acclaimed 2024 solo album Never Coming Home and a decade of recording and touring with her band Whaling Snails, resulting in the albums ‘Songs For Yael’ (2015) and ‘The Wind Around Your Heart’ (2019).

Never Coming Home received high praise from critics:

“Not since Poe’s Haunted, have I heard an album straddle the line between fragile and confrontational so aptly… It’s as if she’s made this beautiful object and is now threatening to smash it to pieces. That’s the beautifully unhinged quality of Michal Gutman’s art, a musical glass cannon.” — Kendon Luscher, Bearded Gentlemen Music

“‘Never Coming Home’ is a darkly beautiful album; an album of twisted musical discovery… Musically stark and bewitching like an unused broken fairground ride. A bass guitar has never sounded so much like the faded remnants of an old lover’s final kiss. Quite simply stunning.” — Brian ‘Bordello’ O’Shea, Monolith Cocktail

Words and Music: Michal Gutman
Recorded and Mixed by: Yiftah Yeshurun at Salon Kalon Studios, Gan Shmuel
Personnel:

• Michal Gutman – Vocals, Bass, Korg Kaossilator

• Yiftah Yeshurun – Programming, Guitars

• Tuval Brown – Drums and Percussion

• Tamar Zinger – Backing Vocals

Follow Michal Gutman

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michal.e.gutman/

BandCamp: https://michalgutman.bandcamp.com/track/war-boys

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3llGE6fxw3VBHaYEMEDLGJ

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichalGutmanMusic

Alex Lopez Releases “Retro Revival”

With Retro Revival, Alex Lopez and his powerhouse trio ALX deliver the kind of blues-rock album that doesn’t just nod to the past—it reclaims it, rewires it, and fires it back into the present with a renewed sense of purpose. Due February 6, 2026, the record arrives with strong early buzz calling it a likely “blues-rock album of the year,” and for once, the hype feels earned. Lopez, long regarded as a revitalizing force in the modern blues scene, has crafted an 11-track set that functions as both a tribute and a forward push, an homage to the architects of the genre and a statement about where blues-rock can still go.

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/alopezmusic4u

From the first crackling notes of opener “One More Time”, Retro Revival sets out its thesis clearly: emotion, storytelling, and guitar-driven firepower. Lopez’s Cleveland rock-and-roll roots are on full display in the track’s swagger, but so is his lifelong study of the British blues gods—Clapton and Page—whose influence infuses his phrasing without ever overshadowing his own voice.

“Your Lovin” brings a funk-tinged strut that recalls his genre-blending era on Yours Truly, Me…, proving that while ALX is currently working with a stripped-down three-piece format, they’re not interested in sonic minimalism. Lopez’s guitar fills the space with seasoned authority, bending and stretching the melody like a vocalist in its own right.

Traditionalists will gravitate toward “When I Sing the Blues,” a blues-rooted track built on the rich, emotive delivery that has earned Lopez comparisons to some of the genre’s most expressive singer-songwriters. This is where his mission—to inspire through emotive performance—comes through most clearly. It’s storytelling first, technique second, but the technique is undeniably formidable.

The heart of the album, though, lies in its wild card cuts. “What the World Needs Now” and “Angry” feel spiritually linked to the expansive narrative ambition of his 2022 concept triumph Nasty Crime. Lopez once again reflects on the world’s fractures: division, uncertainty, a society stretched thin. But instead of despair, he frames his observations with resolve. The blues is not just a genre—it’s commentary, catharsis, a call to stay awake…and even smile occasionally.

BUY ALBUM: https://alex-lopez-music-store.myshopify.com/

“Hey Little Sister” adds warmth and charm, while “Loving You Gave Me the Blues” dips into slow-burn heartbreak with the kind of precision only a veteran songwriter can deliver. “Name of Love” and “Black Hole” crank the rock energy up several notches, showcasing the muscular cohesion of the new ALX configuration. This three-piece format clearly brings out a rawer, more immediate side of Lopez’s playing.

The closer, “Keep on Living,” is an anthem with genuine uplift—an echo of Lopez’s long-standing blend of inspiration and electric blues grit. It’s the perfect note to end on, reflecting a career marked by evolution, resilience, and a relentless commitment to pushing the genre forward.

Retro Revival succeeds because it isn’t content to celebrate the past; it insists the blues still has something urgent to say. And with ALX behind the wheel, it does.

Gwen Waggoner 

NEW ALBUM. Yellow Majesty releases debut album ‘APHANTAZIA’

With his debut album APHANTAZIA, Yellow Majesty – the musical moniker of Amir

Haj-Bolouri, artist, producer, and professor based in Gothenburg – expands his artistic universe into full scale. Comprising 14 tracks, the album presents a sonic landscape where philosophy, technology, and art converge, moving between the monumental and the intimate, the electronic and the human, the cerebral and the visceral.

APHANTAZIA is a journey through illusion, desire, and the search for meaning. The title refers to the condition of aphantasia – the inability to form mental images – yet within Yellow Majesty’s world it becomes a metaphor for the fractured relationship between modern humans and reality itself. Through music, lyrics, and sonic intensity, Haj-Bolouri explores questions of body, perception, presence, and loss — not as abstract ideas, but as lived experiences.

The album unfolds through contrasts: vulnerability versus violence, spirituality versus machinery, beauty versus distortion. Tracks such as APHANTASIA, FORGET ABOUT IT, YOU ARE AN IDIOT, and STALKER serve as portals into the same world — one where the human struggle for meaning collides with the technological mirror.

All music is written, performed, and produced by Amir Haj-Bolouri, who stands alone behind every aspect of Yellow Majesty’s creative vision. The album was co-produced and mixed by Aaron Rubin (Blink 182) and mastered by Maor Appelbaum (Faith No More, Sepultura, Yes). Ilan Rubin (Foo Fighters, Nine Inch Nails) appears on the title track, and the striking artwork for singles are created by Inari Sirola, whose surreal visual language mirrors the album’s emotional and conceptual core. The album cover, however, is created by the New York based artist Dima Djurchin. Finally, the album is accompanied with a handful of music videos, one of them directed and animated by Inari, and three others directed and produced by Nicklas Lärka and his colleagues.

Yellow Majesty is more than an artist name – it is an artistic persona embodying Haj-Bolouri’s ongoing exploration of meaning, technology, and transformation. As a researcher and professor of informatics, he has long investigated how technology shapes human experience; through music, these inquiries take on another form — physical, poetic, and electrically alive.

APHANTAZIA is not merely an album, but an existential composition for our time — a work where sound becomes a way to reconnect with what we risk losing: presence, emotion, and the human pulse within the digital noise.

FOLLOW YELLOW MAJESTY

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Gareth Haze Bursts Presents Introspective Rock with Teeth in New EP ‘Stranger in a Strange Land’

South African-born, London-based Gareth Haze crashes onto the scene with his debut EP ‘Stranger in a Strange Land’, and honestly, it’s a bloody thrill ride. Fronted by the stunning single ‘Stars’, Haze fuses introspective folk vibes with the raw electricity of rock, pop, and blues, creating a sound that’s as emotionally charged as it is sonically expansive.

‘Stars’ hits like a cosmic gut-punch. Rough-edged vocals ride over shimmering guitars and airy synths, balancing eerie melancholy with sparks of hope. You can hear shades of The Smashing Pumpkins’ grit, Jimmy Eat World’s anthemic drive, and Radiohead’s atmospheric tension, yet Haze somehow makes it all feel uniquely his own. It’s cinematic, it’s haunting, and it lingers long after the last note fades.

The EP dives deep into themes of mortality, impermanence, and introspection, but never at the expense of heart. There’s a DIY, unpolished energy to Haze’s performances, passionate, raw, and alive, that makes you believe every word he sings. As he puts it, “It’s more important to leave a loving legacy for those close to you.” That personal touch shines through on every track, making this debut feel intimate and immediate.

Whether it’s just him and an acoustic guitar or a full-band wall of sound, Gareth Haze proves that he’s a restless, ambitious talent unafraid to wear his heart on his sleeve. Stranger in a Strange Land is a statement: emotion trumps perfection, and rock’s soul is alive and well.

Verdict? A haunting, heartfelt debut that’s brimming with potential. Keep your eyes (and ears) on Gareth Haze, he’s one to watch.

Sleeper Signal Enters 2026 with Impact, Intensity and More Music on the Way!

Sleeper Signal continues to shape its identity within Nashville’s post-grunge and hard rock scene, and their 2025 output confirms that the band is operating with growing confidence and focus. Across several new singles, each paired with an official video, the group reveals a clear creative direction and the beginnings of a larger chapter that will culminate in their fourteen-song album slated for summer 2026.

“Gone Together,” introduces a tone of reflection paired with the intensity that defines their sound. The video offers a visual landscape that aligns with the band’s emotional undercurrent and reinforces why listeners are responding to their authenticity. “Say No More” follows with a force that reflects the band’s post-grunge roots, and the video underscores their ability to match narrative atmosphere with musical intention. “Leave You Alone” adds another dimension to their 2025 catalog and revealing the band’s continued growth as storytellers.

Nashville has always been a home for hybrid styles, and Sleeper Signal stands out by leaning into rock with sincerity rather than imitation. Their commitment to crafting songs that resonate is evident in all three of these gems and in the care shown in each accompanying video. If these early impressions are any indication, Sleeper Signal is positioning itself for a strong breakthrough year in 2026.

https://sleepersignal.com

Michel François Re‑Releases We Are One Family — A Global Anthem of Unity in English, French, and Spanish

International artist Michel François proudly announces the re‑release of his inspiring anthem We Are One Family, now available as a trilingual EP featuring English, French, and Spanish versions.  Accompanying the release is a new thirty‑second commercial that captures the song’s timeless message of unity, hope, and human connection.

In a world that often feels divided, We Are One Family reminds listeners that the spirit of togetherness transcends borders and generations.  More than a song, it is a movement that bridges cultures and hearts, inviting people everywhere to celebrate what unites rather than separates them.  Reminiscent of the iconic charity anthems We Are the World and Do They Know It’s Christmas?, Michel François’s We Are One Family carries forward the same spirit of compassion and collective hope that defined those timeless classics.  Yet, it speaks directly to today’s world, one marked by both global challenges and a renewed longing for connection.  The song’s message is universal: despite our differences, we share one humanity, one heart, and one home.

https://open.spotify.com/album/09kb5hzLU2ESHL7o3lmdoz?si=OCwdRYHCRM-5ycP1Y_Ky_Q

This campaign positions the track as both a universal anthem of unity and a holiday song of hope, echoing the emotional resonance of those legendary collaborations while offering a fresh, contemporary voice for a new generation.  The accompanying commercial brings this message to life through cinematic visuals and heartfelt storytelling, reinforcing the belief that music remains one of humanity’s strongest bonds.  As a holiday release, We Are One Family captures the essence of the season—warmth, generosity, and belonging.  It celebrates the shared humanity that defines the holidays, reminding audiences that family extends beyond bloodlines to include friends, neighbours, and communities across the globe.

Michel François’s trilingual approach ensures that the song’s message reaches audiences worldwide, reflecting the universal language of music and the enduring power of compassion.

About Michel François

Michel François is an international singer‑songwriter known for his uplifting, cross‑cultural music that blends heartfelt lyrics with global rhythms.  His work celebrates unity, love, and the shared human experience, inspiring audiences around the world.

Mountain Climer Announces New Single “Every Other Weekend,” Out December 5th

Colorado – December 5, 2025 — Indie rock singer-songwriter Mountain Climer, the solo project of Colorado-based artist Jeremy Climer, announces the release of his stirring new single “Every Other Weekend,” available on all streaming platforms Friday, December 5th. Preview Here!

Written in 2010 and held close for more than a decade, “Every Other Weekend” is one of Mountain Climer’s most intimate and emotionally layered songs to date. Inspired by a close friend’s near-separation and shaped by Jeremy’s own experience growing up as a child of divorce, the track explores the fragile edges of long-term love, complacency, and the fight to keep a family together.

“This song hung around for a reason,” Jeremy reflects. “My friend was going through a separation at the time. They ultimately worked it out, but as someone who lived through divorce as a kid, I told him to exhaust every possibility for the sake of his twin daughters. Their story was common. They kind of accidentally fell into a very good thing and then got complacent and almost lost it all.”

Produced and engineered by legendary producer Paul Mahern (John Mellencamp, Iggy Pop, Lily & Madeleine), “Every Other Weekend” showcases Mountain Climer’s signature blend of indie rock, alternative rock, and power pop. Mahern’s hands-on vocal work became pivotal to the song’s final emotional impact.

The single also features standout performances from Mountain Climer’s trusted collaborators, including Devon Ashley on drums and percussion, Shannon Hayden on guitar, and Heidi Gluck. Gluck’s harmonies and response vocals, recorded independently in her home studio, add depth and resonance to the song.

“It’s a crime Heidi isn’t a household name,” Jeremy adds. “Her harmonies lifted this song into something bigger.”

ABOUT MOUNTAIN CLIMER:

Mountain Climer is the solo project of Jeremy Climer. He is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose music blends decades of exploration across punk rock, indie, and Americana. A native of Columbus, Indiana, Jeremy has lived and created across Los Angeles, Chicago, Louisville, and Colorado. His work combines raw emotional storytelling with a refined approach to production, shaped through collaborations with notable figures such as Bill Stevenson, Paul Roessler, and producer Paul Mahern. His full-length album Before You Turn Out the Lights (May 2025) stands as his most ambitious and sonically expansive work to date.

CREDITS:
Written by Jeremy Climer
Produced and Engineered by Paul Mahern at Primary Sound Studios and Mahern Audio
Jeremy Climer – Vocals, Guitar, and B3
Devon Ashley – Drums and Percussion
Heidi Gluck – Bass, Piano, and Vocals
Shannon Hayden – Guitar

STREAM AND FOLLOW MOUNTAIN CLIMER:
Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

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