Tag: musician

Concert Reviews, Music

HARRY STYLES: Live On Tour 2018 | Ft. Lauderdale, FL – 6/9/18

by KristinLeave a Comment on HARRY STYLES: Live On Tour 2018 | Ft. Lauderdale, FL – 6/9/18

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Hey there, music lovers!

I’m back with another concert review, and this time it’s for the highly anticipated “HARRY STYLES: Live On Tour” from his stop in South Florida on June 9, 2018.

We bought the tickets last year for my niece’s birthday when they were first released and had to wait a whole year for the show, but I have to say it was worth the wait! I’ve been to a lot of live shows and this, hands down, was the loudest I’ve ever been to. It all started when we arrived at the BB&T Center. We got there about 45 minutes prior to doors opening and this is the view we were greeted with:

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With that being said, I don’t think it’s necessary to arrive any earlier than the time the doors actually open. Especially if you have an actual seat. If you have general admission, however, I would advise getting there EXTRA early, unless you’d like to wait for a crowd like this to get in before you do. Also, take into consideration that everyone in front of you has to get through metal detectors, bag checks, etc. Another observation was that there were several merch tables set up inside the BB&T Center and each one had extremely long lines.

After braving the lines for merch, we sat in our seats and waited and waited. At one point, they played “Olivia” by One Direction and the crowd went nuts. They sang every word at the top of their lungs — you would’ve thought 1D was out on that stage singing with them. My niece decided she wanted more merch, so her mom and I went out to brave the lines again and missed the start of Kacey Musgraves’ set. We got to see her halfway through though and she was great. She even sang “Tearin’ Up My Heart” by *NSYNC, so she had my vote lol.

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Via Harry Styles on Twitter | Ft. Lauderdale, FL 6/9/18

Once the lights went down the crowd went crazy once again. Harry’s first song began to play and then . . . silence. There must have been some technical difficulties, so the spotlights cut off, the music stopped playing and all the lights came back on. Once everything was sorted out, the show went on without a hitch. It was actually very good! At one point, Harry walks down the middle of the crowd to a B Stage in the back of the venue. Here’s what that looked like:

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His stage set-up was great, the lights were fantastic and the vocals were on point the entire time. There was a nostalgic vibe to the whole set-up that fits the vibe of the album.

At certain points throughout the show, he would take some time to talk to people in the crowd and thank everyone for supporting him and the music, which was nice. During one of his songs, the crowd held up the flashlights on their phones and the whole venue lit up in rainbow colors. I was kinda salty that we weren’t informed about it lol, but it was a really special moment in the show. Here’s our view of what it looked like:

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Here’s the set-list for our show here in South Florida:

  1. Only Angel
  2. Woman
  3. Ever Since New York
  4. Two Ghosts
  5. Carolina
  6. Stockholm Syndrome (One Direction cover)
  7. Just a Little Bit of Your Heart (Ariana Grande cover)
  8. Medicine
  9. Meet Me in the Hallway
  10. Sweet Creature (on B Stage)
  11. If I Could Fly (One Direction cover – on B Stage)
  12. Anna
  13. What Makes You Beautiful (One Direction cover)
  14. Sign of the Times
  15. From the Dining Table
  16. The Chain (Fleetwood Mac cover)
  17. Kiwi

 

I highly recommend making it out to one of the remaining shows on the tour. This one was really special because we were there for my niece’s 14th birthday. The crowd was amazing and the whole vibe was positive and supportive. Not to mention that this album was actually fantastic and Harry does a great job performing it.

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Music

THE KING’S PARADE Release ‘Woman’ EP

by KristinLeave a Comment on THE KING’S PARADE Release ‘Woman’ EP

THE KING’S PARADE

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WOMAN
BRAND NEW EP OUT NOW
LISTEN HERE

SUMMER FESTIVALS ANNOUNCED

The King’s Parade have released their brand new EP ‘Woman’. The four-track EP features the acclaimed title-track, the new single ‘The Look’ and previously unreleased tracks ‘Mirror’ and ‘Lemon Zest’.

Regarding the new EP frontman Olly Corpe says, “This EP is a reflection of the past year together as a band, but also an insight into how our writing has evolved since we started. We’ve grown with our sound and as we’ve felt more comfortable with the music, we’ve managed to let loose and be more expressive in this record. ‘Woman’ is a cry out for change. ‘The Look’ revisits past jealousy and bad habits. ‘Mirror’ is about realising you’re the only person in the way of your own success and ‘Lemon Zest’ is a comment on how artists are doing anything and everything to get their voice heard. All of these tracks have formed an EP which introduces ‘our sound’ but more importantly announces the start of something much bigger.”

The EP’s title track was released earlier this year and addressed the issue of gender imbalance, which led the band to be featured as BBC Introducing’s ‘Artist Of The Week’ and shortlisted for the ‘UMA Choice Award’ at the forthcoming Unsigned Music Awards 2018.

The Woman EP follows from the highly praised Haze EP last year, which saw them receive support from the likes of The Independent, Wonderland and BBC 6Music among many others.

Alongside the new EP release The King’s Parade have been announced to play a string of summer festivals across the UK and Germany. Full details can be found below:

THE KING’S PARADE FESTIVAL DATES
May 26 – Elderflower Fields Festival, Uckfield
June 2 – Camden Rocks, London
June 3 – Hillfest, Guildford
July 26 – Duckstien Festival, Hamburg
July 29 – Clarence Park Festival, Wakefield
August 7 – Sidmouth Fringe Sessions Festival, Devon

“A soulful blend of indie textures, ‘The Look’ is about the more destructive elements in their psyche, and how they can move past them.”
Clash

“It’s alt-soul melding classic blues influences with more of a modern pop vibe”
The Independent

“Elegant guitar riffs and heart melting vocals”
Wonderland

“The King’s Parade intertwine alternative and soul on this new single”
Alternative Press

“A rich slice of alt-soul”
Mahogany

“The four-man band is one of the most naturally talented groups out there”
EARMILK

“Sure to leave a major mark across the indie music scene.”
Happy Magazine

Music

NEOROMANTICS Premiere New EP “Homecoming”: OUT NOW

by KristinLeave a Comment on NEOROMANTICS Premiere New EP “Homecoming”: OUT NOW

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Rock band NeoRomantics blend well-structured indie rock with emo elements on their brand new EP “Homecoming,” out TODAY on all streaming platforms. The 5-track collection acts as a beautiful contrast of sorts; while arranged much like a pop record, it is far from one. The record’s lyricism delves into an array of personal topics about relationships, including abandoning those that are toxic, growth, and parental influence on trust. “Homecoming” is the perfect display of the band’s eclecticism, particularly the lead single “Concentrated,” initially released in January. A well-produced and sleek combination of 2000’s emo and mainstream indie rock elements, “Homecoming” is sonically pleasing to the ear, heavy on the heart, and simultaneously thought provoking.

Based in Tulsa, OK, NeoRomantics, four piece rock outfit, was founded by Hagen Pavey and Daniel Anthony Castleberry, in the summer of 2014. Along with staking a claim in their hometown, becoming the first local band to sell out the Tulsa venue, The Vanguard, they have created a following throughout the Midwest and other parts of the country with their shimmery, textural rock sound. Ever since they began touring in the spring of 2016, following the release of their first record ‘Dearly Beloved’, the band has served as ambassadors to the Tulsa scene on the road as well as lending a hand in building the DIY scene at home. In January, 2018, NeoRomantics resurfaced with their single ‘Concentrated’, a darker, more mature take on their previous work which landed them a nod from Alternative Press. Their new EP, ‘Homecoming’ (2018), as unconventional as it is pop-structured, floats somewhere in the space between indie-rock and the emo revival. “Homecoming” is available NOW.

NEOROMANTICS Official Channels:

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Bandcamp | Spotify

 

Movies, Music

Deadpool 2 | Welcome To The Party

by KristinLeave a Comment on Deadpool 2 | Welcome To The Party

Cue the music! Check out the official music video for Diplo, French Montana, Lil Pump and Zhavia Ward’s “Welcome To The Party” from the Deadpool 2 soundtrack!

Check it out at columbiarecords.com/party

Directed by Jason Koenig and filmed in Los Angeles, the action-packed official video for “Welcome To The Party” is released on the heels of Deadpool 2 becoming the #1 movie in the World.

“Welcome To The Party” is available now on Deadpool 2: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, along with viral hit “Ashes” by Celine Dion. Full track list is below.

  1. Ashes – Celine Dion
  2. Welcome To The Party – Diplo feat. French Montana, Lil Pump, and Zhavia Ward
  3. You Can’t Stop This Motherfucker (Choir Only Mix)  Tyler Bates*
  4. DEADPOOL RAP (X-FORCE REMIX)  TEAMHEADKICK*
  5. Nobody Speak – DJ Shadow feat. Run The Jewels
  6. In Your Eyes – Peter Gabriel
  7. Take On Me (MTV Unplugged – Summer Solstice) – a-ha
  8. If I Could Turn Back Time – Cher
  9. 9 to 5 – Dolly Parton
  10. All Out Of Love – Air Supply
  11. We Belong – Pat Benatar
  12. Tomorrow – Alicia Morton
  13. Mutant Convoy – Tyler Bates
  14. Bangarang (feat. Sirah) – Skrillex

*available on streaming album only

DEADPOOL 2 – SYNOPSIS: After surviving a near fatal bovine attack, a disfigured cafeteria chef (Wade Wilson) struggles to fulfill his dream of becoming Mayberry’s hottest bartender while also learning to cope with his lost sense of taste. Searching to regain his spice for life, as well as a flux capacitor, Wade must battle ninjas, the yakuza, and a pack of sexually aggressive canines, as he journeys around the world to discover the importance of family, friendship, and flavor – finding a new taste for adventure and earning the coveted coffee mug title of World’s Best Lover.

 

DEADPOOL 2 Official Channels:

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | #Deadpool

Music

ALICE IN CHAINS Release New Single ‘The One You Know’

by KristinLeave a Comment on ALICE IN CHAINS Release New Single ‘The One You Know’

ALICE IN CHAINS

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FIRST NEW RELEASE IN 5 YEARS
‘THE ONE YOU KNOW’
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

*SOLD OUT JUNE UK DATES*

ALICE IN CHAINS (vocalist/guitarist Jerry Cantrell, drummer Sean Kinney, bassist Mike Inez and vocalist/guitarist William DuVall) have released ‘The One You Know’, their first new track in five years – click HERE to listen/purchase and HERE to watch the Adam Mason-directed video.

‘The One You Know’ is the first track from the band’s upcoming album and their first release on their new label home BMG. Cantrell discussed the eagerly-anticipated album in a recent interview, saying, “It’s a record we haven’t done yet, but it’s also a record that has all the elements of anything you would expect from us. It’s got our fingerprint. And we’re really proud of the material we wrote and the performances we captured. There’s some really heavy sh*t, some really ugly stuff, some really beautiful stuff, some weirdo trippy sh*t…it’s good.”

As for the span between albums, he adds, “We wait until we’re ready and until we have material that’s up to the Alice In Chains standard and then we do what we do. This is the racket we make when we get together.”

The yet-to-be-titled album is the third straight Alice In Chains studio release recorded with producer Nick Raskulinecz and engineer Paul Figueroa following 2013’s The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here and 2009’s Black Gives Way To Blue, both of which achieved commercial and critical success.

The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here entered Billboard’s Top 200 chart at No. 2 and debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Alternative Albums, Top Rock Albums, Hard Rock Albums charts and the iTunes Rock Album Chart and its first two singles, ‘Stone’ and ‘Hollow’, both hit No. 1 on the rock charts. Black Gives Way To Blue debuted at No. 5 on Billboard’s Top 200, spawned two No. 1 hit singles with ‘Check My Brain’ and ‘Your Decision’ and garnered two Grammy nominations. Along the way, the band drew praise from the likes of Rolling Stone, USA Today, Metal Hammer, Kerrang, NME, Q and many more.

Alice In Chains are currently on a worldwide trek that will take them across North America and Europe including two sold out UK shows at Leeds O2 Academy on June 16th and O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire on June 17th. All dates and ticket info can be found HERE.

Over the course of their remarkable career, ALICE IN CHAINS have garnered multiple Grammy nominations, sold more than 30 million albums worldwide and amassed a diehard international fanbase whose members number in the millions. They remain one of the most successful and influential American rock bands of all time.

Don’t miss Alice In Chains live – UK & Europe dates are as follows:

June 16 – Leeds, UK – O2 Academy *SOLD OUT*
June 17 – London, UK – O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire *SOLD OUT*
June 20 – Stockholm, Sweden – Grona Lund
June 21 – Halden, Norway – Tons of Rock Festival
June 22 – Copenhagen, Denmark – Copenhell
June 24 – Clisson, France – Hellfest
June 25 – Zagreb, Croatia – INmusic Festival
June 28 – Padua, Italy – Sherwood
June 30 – Bezirk-Landstrasse, Austria – Arena Open Air Wien
July 1 – Budapest, Hungary – Budapest Park
July 3 – Berlin, Germany – Huxley’s Neue Welt
July 4 – Cologne, Germany – Live Music Hall
July 5 – Werchter, Belgium – Rock Werchter
July 7 – Montreux, Switzerland – Montreux Jazz Festival
July 8 – Belford, France – Les Eurockeennes 30
July 10 – Milan, Italy – Ippodromo Snai San Siro
July 13 – Madrid, Spain – Mad Cool Festival
July 14 – Lisboa, Portugal – NOS Alive

ALICE IN CHAINS Official Channels:

Official Site | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram| YouTube | iTunes | Spotify

Entertainment News, Music, TV

Multi-Platinum International Superstar LUIS FONSI Joins As Coach For The First Season Of TELEMUNDO’S Newly Announced LA VOZ (THE VOICE)

by KristinLeave a Comment on Multi-Platinum International Superstar LUIS FONSI Joins As Coach For The First Season Of TELEMUNDO’S Newly Announced LA VOZ (THE VOICE)

The Twelve Time Billboard Latin Music Awards Winner, and Seven Time Finalist at the Upcoming 2018 Billboard Music Awards Singer and Songwriter, Known for his Worldwide Hit “Despacito,” and Latest Smash Single “Échame La Culpa” is the First Coach to Join the Highly-anticipated Hit Singing Competition Coming for the First Time to U.S. Spanish-Language Television

Auditions for “La Voz” Will Begin this Summer in Miami, Puerto Rico, New York, Chicago, San Antonio and Los Angeles

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Telemundo announced that Global Latin pop singer Luis Fonsi, is the first Coach to join the newly announced La Voz, the Spanish-language version of NBC’S hit singing competition The Voice, coming for the first time to U.S. Hispanic television in 2019. Three other Coaches will join the multi award-winning artist in the first non-scripted program to be produced at Telemundo Center in Miami, where Coaches will be in search for the nation’s most promising unknown Hispanic vocalists and make their decisions based solely on one factor, La Voz (The Voice).

“I feel honored to join Telemundo’s La Voz as a Coach for the U.S. Hispanic audience.” said Fonsi. “I have been fortunate to be a Coach on the show in other countries, and I am extremely happy to finally be able to do it at home in the U.S., because it’s always been a wonderful experience. There is so much talent in our community and nothing makes me happier than being part of a platform that promotes Latin music’s new artists,” he concluded.

With numerous awards and unprecedented achievements, Luis Fonsi continues to break world records, cross borders and make history with his music. Recently, “Despacito” completed 52 weeks at #1 on Billboard’s Hot Latin Song list, one year being the most listened-to single of Latin music, another historic milestone worthy of celebration. His latest global hit “Échame La Culpa” featuring Demi Lovato, continues to dominate Top 10 charts, has certified Gold and Platinum in multiple countries and the video has accumulated more than 1.2 billion views to date. The Puerto Rican singer and songwriter, has won a total of five Latin Grammy Awards, and most recently seven 2018 Billboard Latin Music Awards and is a finalist in seven categories at the 2018 Billboard Music Awards. Fonsi recently completed his first tour in Brazil, and will continue the successful “Love & Dance World Tour” in several countries including Panama, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic and Ecuador.

Castings for the first season of La Voz will begin in Miami on Saturday, June 23, followed by Puerto Rico (June 30), New York (July 7), Chicago (July 14), San Antonio (July 21) and Los Angeles (July 21 & 28), for vocalists 18 years of age an over. For further details on locations and rules, please visit http://www.lavozcasting.com/.

For more information about Telemundo, please visit nbcumv.com and connect on Facebook, Twitter, telemundo.com and YouTube.

“La Voz” is a presentation of Telemundo, Talpa Media USA, Inc. and Warner Horizon Unscripted & Alternative Television. The series is created by John de Mol, who serves as an executive producer along with Cisco Suarez (for Telemundo), Stijn Bakkers and Tim van Rongen.

Music

Artist to Watch | Part Two : AMBER RUN

by KristinLeave a Comment on Artist to Watch | Part Two : AMBER RUN

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Three years ago, my niece introduced me to a song called “I Found” by a band I’d never heard of. I was immediately hooked on the sound they had together, so I checked out their EP’s and looked up their name, AMBER RUN.

I decided to feature Amber Run as my “Artist to Watch” back when I was first starting my blog around the same time (you can read that original post HERE). Fortunately, I didn’t have to wait long for a full-length album because their first was released on April 27, 2015. Their debut album, 5AM, doesn’t have one weak song on it, and I definitely think you should check it out! Here’s the track listing for the deluxe version of 5AM:

  1. Found
  2. M.F. (Interlude)
  3. Spark
  4. Hurricane
  5. Noah
  6. Pilot
  7. C.F. Interlude
  8. 5AM
  9. Just My Soul Responding
  10. Good Morning
  11. Shiver
  12. See You Soon
  13. Don’t Wanna Fight
  14. Where Do We Go From Here
  15. Little Ghost
  16. Heaven
  17. Kites

Their second full-length album, For a Moment, I Was Lost, was released in 2017 and here’s the track listing for that one:

  1. Insomniac
  2. No Answers
  3. Island
  4. Stranger
  5. Fickle Game
  6. Haze
  7. White Lie
  8. Perfect
  9. Dark Bloom
  10. Machine
  11. Are You Home?
  12. Wastelands

IMG_0366As you can see, Amber Run is definitely NOT holding back any punches. One of their songs, “Fickle Game,” was featured on the finale of Suits and today they announced that they’re finally making their way over to the US for a show on December 8 in Brooklyn, NY. All I need is for them to travel a bit south (to Florida) and I’ll be one happy, music-loving woman!

If you haven’t heard them yet, do yourself a favor and check them out. You can thank me later. Also, if that weren’t enough, they have an EP titled The Assembly that will be released on May 11, 2018!

You can find more information about Amber Run by visiting their website HERE.

Here’s the video for the song that got me hooked on this incredibly talent band. Check it out and let me know what you think!

 

Music

CATHERINE MCGRATH Releases ‘Wild’ & Announces Debut Album

by KristinLeave a Comment on CATHERINE MCGRATH Releases ‘Wild’ & Announces Debut Album

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RELEASES DEBUT ALBUM TALK OF THIS TOWN
ON JULY 27TH ON WARNER BROS. RECORDS

ALSO SHARES BRAND NEW TRACK ‘WILD’
HER 10TH CONSECUTIVE SPOTIFY NEW MUSIC FRIDAY UK PLAYLISTED TRACK LISTEN HERE

PLAYS SOLD-OUT LONDON SHOW AT BUSH HALL, MAY 2ND

“A hint of early Taylor Swift and a country-pop sound strengthened by serious songwriting chops.” Rolling Stone

“She’s gonna be a big star.”  Sir Elton John

“A promising young artist poised to join the best of the UK’s growing country music scene.”  The Independent

“One to watch.” The Times

“One of the brightest emerging talents in country music.” Music Week

At a time when country music is exploding into the mainstream with huge collaborations between Justin Timberlake and Chris Stapleton, and Bebe Rexha and Florida Georgia Line, Catherine McGrath is poised to become the first international crossover star from the burgeoning UK country scene.

Raised in Rostrevor, a small rural village in Northern Ireland, Catherine McGrath is the personification of how country music is opening its borders to talent from far outside of its epicentre in Nashville. In fact, Catherine was immediately embraced by the community upon her first visit.

Working with a kindred spirit in the shape of producer Steve Robson – a Geordie who became a force within the scene after co-writing Rascal Flatts’ smash hit ‘What Hurts The Most’ – Catherine went onto collaborate with a number of Nashville powerhouse producers and co-writers such as Jimmy Robbins (Keith Urban), Liz Rose (Taylor Swift), Forest Glen Whitehead (Kelsea Ballerini) and Sam Ellis (Hunter Hayes).

Country music is of course rooted in Irish folk, so it feels natural that Catherine is at the forefront of a new wave of country. It’s fitting on a personal level too. Catherine was raised in a music loving family, and has regularly performed at her parents’ spirited Fiddler’s Green festival, which attracts musicians from as far afield as North America and Germany. And when Catherine was ready to reach a wider audience, she posted covers of her favourite country songs to YouTube which resulted in her obtaining management and signing a deal with Warner Bros. Records.

Hailed as a major new talent by Sir Elton John, Catherine McGrath’s ascent has been backed by Radio 1 support from Adele Roberts, Scott Mills and Cel Spellman; a playlist at Radio 2, where Bob Harris has been a long-term fan.

Now Catherine McGrath is set to make the biggest statement of her career to date with the July 27th release of her debut album Talk Of This Town. To coincide with the album’s launch, Catherine today releases her new single ‘Wild’, a lovelorn country-flavoured pop smash that was inspired by her experiences at a Coldplay show, and is her tenth consecutive New Music Friday UK playlisted track on Spotify.

Catherine explains:  “This song is one of my favourites I’ve written. It’s about a guy who I liked but who still wasn’t over his ex. He took me to a Coldplay concert that he was meant to go to with his ex and half the time he was holding my hand, the other half he was texting her. Every time we were together he was only ever halfway there and the day after the concert I went into the studio and ended up writing about the whole thing. It’s really honest and I think that’s what I love most about it.”

Catherine co-wrote the song with Steve Robson as well as Lindy Robbins (Dua Lipa) and Jeffrey Steele (Rascal Flatts).

Recorded at various locations in Nashville and London, Talk Of This Town affirms Catherine’s credentials as an artist and songwriter to be reckoned with. It features three tracks which have each exceeded a million streams at Spotify in the shape of the ‘Cinderella’, ‘Thought It Was Gonna Be Me’ and ‘Just In Case’ as well as a wealth of new material.

Other highlights include ‘Don’t Let Me Forget’, a duet with the American country sensation Hunter Hayes; the anthemic ‘Lost In The Middle’, a celebration of the escapist qualities of country music; and the closing ‘She’ll Never Lose You’, a stripped-back ballad which showcases the power and finesse of Catherine’s vocal.

‘Talk of This Town’ will be released on digital and CD formats. The album is now available to pre-order from https://wbr.ec/tott_album with the tracks ‘Wild’, ‘Talk Of This Town’, ‘Thought It Was Gonna Be Me’ and ‘Just In Case’ all provided as instant downloads.   Catherine McGrath is quickly building a reputation in the live area too, with highlights including two performances at Country 2 Country, further festivals including Latitude and Wilderness, and tours with Dan & Shay and The Shires. Her debut London headline show at Camden Assembly was sold-out, while next month’s Bush Hall gig also sold-out within two hours and her Manchester show at the Deaf Institute soon followed suit. Ticket sales are also strong in Glasgow, which looks set to sell-out imminently.

ALBUM TRACKLISTING
1. Talk of This Town
2. The Edges
3. Lost In The Middle
4. Wild
5. Thought It Was Gonna Be Me
6. ‘Don’t Let Me Forget’ with Hunter Hayes
7. Enough For You
8. Dodged A Bullet
9. Good At Love
10. Cinderella
11. Just In Case
12. Good Goodbyes
13. She’ll Never Love You

 

LIVE DATES
MAY
1st – Manchester, Deaf Institute (SOLD OUT)
2nd – London, Bush Hall (SOLD OUT)
4th – Glasgow, King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut
5th – Live At Leeds
27th – Coventry, Radio 2’s The Biggest Weekend

JUNE
23rd – Isle of Wight Festival

JULY
15th – Oxford, Cornbury Music Festival

AUGUST
25th – Portsmouth, Victorious Festival

SEPTEMBER
7th – Leicester, The Long Road Festival

 

CATHERINE MCGRATH Official Channels:

Website | Spotify | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

 

Music

THE RAVEN AGE Reveal New Vocalist & ‘Surrogate’ Video

by KristinLeave a Comment on THE RAVEN AGE Reveal New Vocalist & ‘Surrogate’ Video

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REVEAL NEW VOCALIST MATT JAMES
&
RELEASE FIRST SINGLE WITH NEW LINEUP
‘SURROGATE’
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE 

UK TOUR WITH SAVAGE MESSIAH STARTS TODAY
INCLUDES THE UNDERWORLD, LONDON – APRIL 19TH

MAIN STAGE APPEARANCES AT HELLFEST & VOLT FESTIVAL

Dubbed as “the UK’s next brightest metal hope” (Metal Hammer) and Planet Rock’s ‘Best New Band 2017’ award winners, The Raven Age have today announced the addition of former Wild Lies vocalist Matt James who takes over frontman duties as the band continue their path to global stardom.

“I’m feeling incredibly honoured and excited to become part of ‪The Raven Age family. It’s been such a natural fit for me, and has made me see that the possibilities are endless for the future of this band,” says Matt.

The first taste of the new line up, completed by guitarists George Harris and Tony Maue, bassist Matt Cox and drummer Jai Patel, comes with the brand new single ‘Surrogate’.

WATCH ‘SURROGATE’ VIDEO HERE

“The morale and excitement of ‪The Raven Age has been sky high since Matt joined the band” comments George Harris. “He is an incredible vocalist and has brought a new lease of life to our sound. We can’t wait to show everyone what we’ve been up to in the studio and ‘Surrogate’ is just a teaser of what Matt is bringing to the table.”

With an already impressive portfolio of over 250 live shows played worldwide, including their first European headline run and support slots with acts including Anthrax, Gojira, Mastodon, Ghost, Iron Maiden and Tremonti as well as appearances at Wacken Open Air, Rock Am Ring/Rock Im Park, Download UK and Graspop festivals, The Raven Age have a huge year of touring planned in 2018.

To kick things off, the band will join Savage Messiah on their six-date UK tour, which starts tonight at Nottingham Rock City and visits Manchester, Glasgow, Newcastle and Birmingham before concluding at The Underworld in London on April 19th. “We can’t wait to get back on the road to play some of our new material for the first time!” adds Harris.

Their live schedule will continue this summer with main stage appearances at this year’s Hellfest and Volt Festival and European dates supporting Iron Maiden, with more high profile tours soon to be announced.

With a second album in the works, to follow their acclaimed debut Darkness Will Rise, and the US in their sights, The Raven Age head things up for the new generation of British metal bands breaking through.

APRIL UK TOUR W/ SAVAGE MESSIAH
Fri 13th – Nottingham, Rock City
Sat 14th – Manchester, Academy 3
Sun 15th – Glasgow, Cathouse
Tue 17th – Newcastle, Academy 2
Wed 18th – Birmingham, Academy 3
Thu 19th – London, The Underworld

Music

ESCAPE THE FATE Release ‘Broken Heart’ Video Ahead Of New Album

by KristinLeave a Comment on ESCAPE THE FATE Release ‘Broken Heart’ Video Ahead Of New Album

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RELEASE THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR
 ‘BROKEN HEART’
 WATCH HERE

TAKEN FROM THE BRAND NEW ALBUM
I AM HUMAN
OUT MARCH 30TH VIA BETTER NOISE RECORDS
(PRE-ORDER)

American rock band Escape the Fate are excited to share the music video for their latest single ‘Broken Heart’, which features on the forthcoming studio album I Am Human, out March 30th via better Noise Record/Eleven Seven.

Directed by Frankie Nasso (Body Count, Steel Panther) and featuring an array of stunning camera work, the video for ‘Broken Heart’ pairs its slick production quality with the intense theme of the track which tackles the inner, emotional tug-of-war of a romantic breakup and the gratifying relief of finally moving on.

WATCH ‘BROKEN HEART’ ON YOUTUBE HERE

Having recently completed their UK/European headline tour, Escape The Fate are now set to return to Northern America for a number of headline appearances, dates supporting labelmates Papa Roach, as well as a run of shows in Australia and New Zealand celebrating the 10-year anniversary of their classic album, This War Is Ours. Tickets for all dates are on sale now with more info to be found on Escape the Fate’s official website HERE.

The new album I Am Human was produced by GRAMMY® Award-nominated producer Howard Benson [My Chemical Romance, Adam Lambert], and sees an evolution of Escape the Fate’s sound that brings the band back to the excitement of their roots.

People will always undoubtedly bond over the experiences of love, loss, and life. On the new album, Escape The Fate transmit a raw, real, and relatable narrative through airtight songcraft, lyrical honesty, and stadium-worthy delivery indicative of a shared human experience.

“I hope this album can be the soundtrack to good times and memories our fans create,” says lead vocalist Craig Mabbit. “I hope they get their own emotions out singing these songs with us at shows. I hope it’s part of the healing process. That’s what these stories do for us.”

I Am Human is available to pre-order now HERE, and you can check out the lyric videos to the new tracks ‘Do You Love Me?’, ‘I Am Human’ and ‘Empire’ below.

WATCH: ‘DO YOU LOVE ME?’ (YOUTUBE)
WATCH: ‘I AM HUMAN’ (YOUTUBE)
WATCH: ‘EMPIRE’ (YOUTUBE)

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CONNECT WITH ESCAPE THE FATE HERE:

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Music

Death Team’s MAYKA Releases Debut Single ‘Rich’

by KristinLeave a Comment on Death Team’s MAYKA Releases Debut Single ‘Rich’

MAYKA

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‘RICH’
DEBUT SINGLE OUT NOW
VIA WARNER MUSIC
LISTEN ON SPOTIFY / SOUNDCLOUD

FIRST SOLO RELEASE FROM THE SINGER OF ELECTRO POP DUO
DEATH TEAM

Swedish producer and singer MAYKA has today released her debut single ‘Rich’ through Warner Music.

Opening with sultry future bass before breaking into a huge anthemic pop chorus, ‘Rich’ finds MAYKA celebrating the true finer things in life including love, relationships and friendships while casting away materialistic ideologies. The single is produced by LIOHN who also was behind Axwell & Ingrosso’s smash hits ‘More Than You Know’ and ‘Renegade’.

Regarding the single MAYKA says, “From the beginning ‘Rich’ was about a relationship scenario – I pictured hanging with someone who’s just showing off, bragging and being fake. But lately the song feels more like a message from my subconscious to myself – that I’m the one who should stop aiming for superficial goals like money and success. Either way it’s about being more real and authentic, focusing on the joy of living, sharing and creating instead of chasing highs and trying to be something you’re not. Soundwise I think it feels like a perfect mix between MGMT, Lorde and Britney Spears. But with a little nice bass, hip-hop and trap stuff going on.”

The single marks the first release of the solo project from Mayka Edd, one half of the acclaimed electro-pop-rap duo Death Team, who have gained high profile support from the likes of Charli XCX, The Guardian, Noisey, SPIN Magazine, DIY among many others over a string of fantastic singles.

Before Death Team, Mayka first rose to prominence in dance music as a DJ and producer playing at parties across the US and Asia, while also running her own show on Swedish Radio P3.

She became obsessively dedicated to learning everything she possibly could about production, mixing and DJing, but being a female in the male-dominated electronic music scene meant that she was all too often considered to be a novelty rather than an artist who deserved equal respect. Rather than break in the face of adversity, Mayka resolved to battle back against a culture ruled by mansplaining DJs.

Now as a solo artist she hopes to inspire a new wave of young female talent to pursue their own passion projects in the arts and beyond. The essence of her message is simple:

Follow your dreams, don’t be afraid to fail, be who you want to be, and carve out your own place in society.

Music

Nahko Announces New Acoustic EP ‘Hamakua’

by KristinLeave a Comment on Nahko Announces New Acoustic EP ‘Hamakua’

NAHKO

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ANNOUNCES NEW ACOUSTIC EP
HAMAKUA
OUT 13TH APRIL
LISTEN TO THE TITLE TRACK HERE


AN ACOUSTIC EVENING WITH
NAHKO & TREVOR HALL
LONDON, GLASTONBURY, COPENHAGEN & LEEDS
**SOLD OUT**
PLUS VENUE UPGRADES

Following the release of his critically acclaimed album My Name Is Bear last year, Nahko has announced he will release a new three track EP, Hamakua, on April 13th.

‘Hamakua’ is the third single to be taken from My Name Is Bear and is joined on the EP by brand new acoustic versions of the singles ‘Dragonfly’ and ‘Be Here Now’, shedding a more intimate and touching light on these tracks which trace his formative years as an artist, and give a flavour of the forthcoming European acoustic tour.

A hugely accomplished pianist and guitarist, the shows will bring a different interpretation to both his new solo work and his catalogue with Medicine For The People.

After selling out London, Glastonbury and Leeds, an extra matinee show was added in Glastonbury and venues were upgraded to higher capacities in Copenhagen and Stockholm. With huge demand, the matinee show has now sold out, as has the upgraded date in Copenhagen.

UK/EUROPEAN TOUR APRIL 2018

18th – Whelans, Dublin
19th – Phoenix, Exeter
20th – Belgrave, Leeds **SOLD OUT**
21st – Assembly Rooms, Glastonbury (Matinee) **SOLD OUT**
21st – Assembly Rooms, Glastonbury **SOLD OUT**
23rd – Omeara, London **SOLD OUT**
24th – Komedia, Brighton
25th – Nalen, Stockholm *VENUE UPGRADED*
26th – Kuudes Linja, Helsinki
28th – Parkteatret – Oslo
29th – Vega, Copenhagen **SOLD OUT**

Tickets are available here: myticket.co.uk/artists/nahko-trevorhall

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Music

X AMBASSADORS Release Brand New Track ‘Don’t Stay’

by KristinLeave a Comment on X AMBASSADORS Release Brand New Track ‘Don’t Stay’

X AMBASSADORS

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Photo Credit: Luis Gispert

RELEASE NEW SONG
 ‘DON’T STAY’
LISTEN ON SPOTIFY / YOUTUBE

NEW ALBUM OUT SPRING 2018
VIA KIDINAKORNER/INTERSCOPE RECORDS
PLAYING LONDON’S BRIXTON ELECTRIC
MARCH 19TH

Multi-platinum selling rock band X Ambassadors have released ‘Don’t Stay’, the second of two new songs following the powerful ‘Joyful’ which they launched last week. Both tracks will be featured on X Ambassadors’ new album, JOYFUL, which is set for release this spring on KIDinaKORNER / Interscope Records.

The band have also announced details of their JOYFUL spring headline tour, which finds the band joined by a number of different and exciting artists along the way including Jacob Banks, Misterwives, Mondo Cozmo, Now Now, Son Little and The Aces among others during dates in the US and Europe.

The massive three-month trek will see the band come to the UK on March the 19th for a show at London’s Brixton Electric, forming part of the European leg of the tour.

X Ambassadors will be showcasing new material from JOYFUL along with fan favourites such as their double-platinum single ‘Unsteady’ and platinum hit ‘Renegades’ – which spent 12 consecutive weeks at No. 1 at Alternative Radio in the US.

Tickets for the tour are on sale – www.xambassadors.com/tour

JOYFUL EUROPEAN TOUR 2018
Mar. 19 | Electric Brixton | London, UK
Mar. 20 | Alhambra | Paris, FR
Mar. 22 | Melkweg | Amsterdam, NL
Mar. 23 | Kantine | Cologne, GER
Mar. 24 | Grunspan | Hamburg, GER
Mar. 26 | Columbia Theater | Berlin, GER
Mar. 27 | Klub Stodola | Warsaw, POL

X Ambassadors “Don’t Stay” Single
Retail: http://smarturl.it/DontStay
Amazon: http://smarturl.it/DontStay/amazonmusicbuy
Apple Music: http://smarturl.it/DontStay/applemusic Google: http://smarturl.it/DontStay/googleplay
iTunes: http://smarturl.it/DontStay/itunes
Spotify: http://smarturl.it/DontStay/spotify

 

Stay Connected with X Ambassadors: www.xambassadors.com | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

 

Blog

ARTIST TO WATCH: @XAMBASSADORS

by KristinLeave a Comment on ARTIST TO WATCH: @XAMBASSADORS

Kristin's avatarAccording to Kristin

If you think you haven’t heard of this band yet, chances are you’re wrong.  Some of their songs have been featured in video games, commercials, TV show promos and movies.  If, by some odd chance, you haven’t heard said songs, I can guarantee you will soon.

xambassadors

X Ambassadors consists of members Sam Harris, Casey Harris, Noah Feldshuh and Adam Levin.  They’re an alternative band from Ithaca, New York who have an amazing, authentic sound to them.  Blending rock, soul and hip hop vibes that create an unconventional sound is what draws you in, and their lyrics get you hooked.  Thankfully (for us), they were discovered by Imagine Dragons lead singer, Dan Reynolds, after he heard an acoustic version of “Unconsolable” on the radio.  What makes them extra unique is that lead singer, Sam, and pianist, Casey, are brothers and Casey was born blind.  This didn’t stop him from living the dream…

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Entertainment News, Music

Soul II Soul Announce 30th Anniversary Tour

by KristinLeave a Comment on Soul II Soul Announce 30th Anniversary Tour

SOUL II SOUL

ANNOUNCE 30TH ANNIVERSARY UK TOUR

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Iconic British band Soul II Soul will embark on a landmark tour of the UK in 2018 marking 30 years of hugely influential success, paying tribute to their legendary debut album, ‘Club Classics Vol 1’.

The double Grammy Award winning and five-time Brit Award nominated band will play 12 dates in the UK in October and November 2018, including a date at London’s Palladium, featuring a stunning production.

With huge hits including ‘Keep On Movin’ (which sold over a million copies in the US alone) and the UK number one single ‘Back To Life (However Do You Want Me)’, Soul II Soul progressed from being one of the leaders of the 1980’s warehouse scene to pioneering British black music around the world, and securing commercial success for themselves and the huge amount of artists they have influenced.

During the course of their stellar career the band have sold over 10 million albums worldwide and main man Jazzie B was awarded an OBE for services to music in 2008, as well as winning an Ivor Novello Award for Inspiration, as “the man who gave British black music a soul of its own”.

Soul II Soul 2018
30th Anniversary Tour  Dates

Friday 19th October: Town Hall / Birmingham
Saturday 20th October: Royal Philharmonic / Liverpool
Sunday 21st October: Brighton Dome / Brighton
Tuesday 23rd October: Guildford G Live
Wednesday 24th October: City Hall / Hull
Thursday 25th October: De Montford Hall / Leicester
Friday 26th October: Town Hall / Leeds
Saturday 27th October: Albert Hall / Manchester
Sunday 28th October: London Palladium / London
Thursday 1st November: St David’s Hall / Cardiff
Friday 2nd November: Corn Exchange / Cambridge
Saturday 3rd November: SEC Armadillo / Glasgow
Sunday 4th November: Sage / Gateshead

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Tickets are available
On pre-sale 9am Friday 26th January:
souliisoul.seetickets.com/tour/soul-ii-soul/?pre=presoul
General sale from 9am Monday 29th January:
souliisoul.seetickets.com/tour/soul-ii-soul/

Movie Reviews, Movies

Jackie & Ryan – Movie Review

by KristinLeave a Comment on Jackie & Ryan – Movie Review

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Hey movie fans!! So, I decided to check out this film that was featured on Netflix and decided to write my first review of 2016 on it! Check it out:

Directed By: Ami Canaan Mann
Written By: Ami Canaan Mann
Starring: Ben Barnes, Katherine Heigl, Clea Duval, Emily Alyn Lind, Sheryl Lee
Rated: PG-13

SYNOPSIS:  A modern day train hopper fighting to become a successful musician, and a single mom battling to maintain custody of her daughter, defy their circumstances by coming together in a relationship that may change each others lives forever. 

 

REVIEW:  As a HUGE music fan, I have to say I enjoyed watching this movie.  Ben Barnes definitely surprised me with his vocal abilities, as he provides the majority of the vocals on the soundtrack.  The acting by Barnes and Heigl were great as well.  People can say what they want about Heigl as a person on set, but no one can deny that the girl can act!  Either way, Barnes plays a tattooed drifter who will play whenever and to whoever will listen.  Heigl, a conservative ex-recording artist, meets him by chance and the two opposites help each other in ways they couldn’t imagine.  The movie was shot in just 20 days and has a raw, gritty feel to it.  Personally, I enjoyed it because it wasn’t a complete sappy love story, but others might see a lack of content.  If you love folk music and small production, indie films, you might want to check this one out.

 

 

You can find the ‘Jackie & Ryan’ soundtrack on iTunes HERE