Sharon Van Etten, Angel Olsen, and Julien Baker announce The Wild Hearts Tour, an epic co-headlining tour that sees these three legendary songwriters, all known for their incredible, cathartic live performances, playing across North America this July and August. The tour consists of mostly outdoor venues, with the exception of the legendary Ryman Auditorium in Nashville and Massey Hall in Toronto. Each artist will play with their own respective band. Tickets are on sale this Friday, January 14th at 10am local time, and special guest Spencer. will support on all dates.
“I’m so thrilled to be traveling and playing music alongside Spencer., Julien Baker and Sharon Van Etten. It’s truly a dream, something to hold and share collaboratively as we get out from under the last few years. I know for fans it’s something different and special too, and for me, it’s sort of like a caravan summer camp-a chance to get to know other artists in a deeper way and talk about music and life and how it affects us all as we move forward. Most of all, I am excited to sing live again, in an open and real way, both alone and together with my tourmates.”
– Angel Olsen
“Sharon and Angel are artists that I have genuinely admired for many years and whose music has honestly informed much of my own writing and music making, and I’m thrilled to be sharing a stage with them every night. I think after interacting with their recorded work separately so much, it will be special to get to learn from them as we share the space of performance.”
– Julien Baker
“Our aim is to strengthen our respective communities and promote camaraderie in the music world in a safe and enjoyable environment while supporting, A New Way Of Life, an organization that we feel is making genuine impact for the underserved. We have carefully chosen the venues we think will deliver the best experience for us and our fans. I look up to Angel and have the deepest admiration for Julien and Spencer.. It is an honor, to say the least, to be able to share the stage with such talent on a tour across North America.”
– Sharon Van Etten
Last year saw Van Etten and Olsen collaborating on “Like I Used To,” a true knockout and one of 2021’s best songs. Additionally, Baker released Little Oblivions, one of 2021’s most praised albums.
The Wild Hearts Tour has partnered with PLUS1 so that $1 from every ticket will go to support people rebuilding their lives after incarceration.
The Wild Hearts Tour Dates
Thu. Jul. 21 – Vienna, VA @ Wolf Trap Center For the Performing Arts *
Fri. Jul. 22 – Asheville, NC @ Rabbit Rabbit *
Sat. Jul. 23 – Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
Mon. Jul. 25 – Austin, TX @ Moody Amphitheater *
Fri. Jul. 29 – Los Angeles, CA @ Greek Theatre *
Sat. Jul 30 – Berkeley, Ca @ Greek Theatre *
Tu. Aug. 2 – Troutdale, OR @ McMenamins Edgefield Amphitheater *
Wed. Aug. 3 – Redmond, WA @ Marymoor Amphitheater *
Fri. Aug. 5 – Boise, ID @ Idaho Botanical Garden *
Sat. Aug. 6 – Salt Lake City, UT @ TBA *
Sun. Aug. 7 – Denver, CO @ Sculpture Park *
Tue. Aug. 9 – Minneapolis, MN @ Surly Brewing Festival Field *
Wed. Aug 10 – Chicago, IL @ TBA *
Thu. Aug. 11 – Kalamazoo, MI @ Bell’s Eccentric Cafe *
Fri. Aug. 12 – Toronto, ON @ Massey Hall
Mon. Aug. 15 – Shelburne, VT @ The Green at Shelburne Museum *
Tue. Aug. 16 – LaFayette, NY @ Beak & Skiff Apple Orchards *
Thu. Aug. 18 – Boston, MA @ Leader Bank Pavilion *
Fri. Aug. 19 – Philadelphia, PA @ Skyline Stage at The Mann *
Sun. Aug. 21 – New York, NY @ Central Park Summerstage *
Larimer Lounge presents a day of music and art to kick of the holiday weekend. The music is:
Waiting Room – The new pop project from former Corner Girls Brenna Ahlgren & Jessica Mendez. #waiting.room.band
Iz Divine – This pop & R& B artist just released her new single “End Scene.” #izdivine
Princess DewClaw – Pop, Industrial, Glam and more. Amanda Gostomski of Glass Records brings this over the top act to life. Read FEMMUSIC’s 2018 interview at:
Our Women’s Only Camp is a safe, non-competitive environment for women of all ages to take their skills and confidence to the next level, realize their dreams are possible, and create bonds and friendships for life with fellow aspiring musicians. “Camp becomes an emotional and life changing experience for both campers and rockstars, as you witness transformations in people both musically and emotionally”, says counselor Britt Lightning. As Roger Daltrey says of Camp, “It’s an amazing experience and it makes you remember where you came from.”
Featuring Nancy Wilson, Kathy Valentine, Melissa Etheridge, Orianthi, Mai Leisz, Jennifer Batten, Jennie Vee, Rhonda Smith, Gretchen Menn, Roxy Petrucci, Ashley Reeve, Eva Gardner, Britt Lightning, Samantha Maloney and more.
“Music For Paradise: A Benefit For Western KY Tornado Relief,” a concert event supporting the Muhlenberg County Disaster Relief Fund and Team Western KY, will take place Saturday, January 1 at The Burl in Lexington, KY with a simultaneous livestream broadcast presented by Oh Boy Records. The fundraiser will support those affected by the devastating tornado that crossed the region last week and feature performances from artists with close ties to the area, including Abby Hamilton, Brit Taylor, Brother Smith, Cole Chaney, Eric Bolander, Grayson Jenkins, John R. Miller, Justin Wells, Kelsey Waldon, Leah Blevins, Logan Halstead, Magnolia Boulevard, Nicholas Jamerson, Scott T. Smith, Senora May, Wayne Graham and Wolfpen Branch.
Of the event, Oh Boy Records’ Jody Whelan shares, “We are heartbroken at the devastation that has hit Muhlenberg County and so much of Western Kentucky. It’s a place that the whole Prine and Oh Boy Records family holds dear to their heart. But it’s been incredible to see how many people have come together, so quickly, to help in any way they can. In particular, John’s fans have continually shown us how willing they are to honor him by their acts of generosity for those in need. ‘How lucky can one man get.’ The folks at The Burl have put a lot of work into putting this show together, and we’re really grateful to be able to help out in any way.”
In continued support of the community, Oh Boy is offering several additional ways to raise money for Kentucky Tornado Relief including new merchandise—such as Muhlenberg County and “Kentucky Is Pretty Good” t-shirts and “Paradise” prints. https://store.johnprine.com/
There were quite a few photographers on L.A.’s early punk scene, but Melanie Nissen’s pictures have always stood apart. The legendary photographer shot for illustrious punk rock fanzine Slash from 1977-1980 and will release the first official collection of her work with HARD + FAST, a hardbound art book published by Blank Industries due out February 1, 2022.
In its early years, the L.A. punk scene was egalitarian, and the mix of people in her pictures is astonishing. Senior citizens, people of every race, children, swells in fancy clothes, people in rags – everyone was welcome. “The early years were special,” Nissen reflects. “There was a real sense of camaraderie and everyone was generous with their work.”
Immersed in the burgeoning scene herself, Nissen was friends with most of the people she photographed. This created a unique trust and comfort for her subjects to act naturally, injecting a biting sense of humor and extravagant body language into her photographs. There are also elements of formal portraiture evocative of work by Richard Avedon; like Avedon, Nissen sometimes prints her portraits framed with rough outlines of thick black ink that give them an unconventional edge.
“I can see that these are also documentary pictures because they include elements of Los Angeles that have disappeared,” concludes Nissen. “The Tropicana Motel, bars and cocktail lounges, newsstands, nightclubs, the street life on Hollywood Boulevard, boutiques run by and for punks, burger stands, phone booths – these things are gone today, and they represent an aspect of L.A. history that shouldn’t be forgotten. The entire city had the familiarity of a neighborhood then, and that’s no longer the case. L.A. is my home, though, and I’ll always remain loyal to it; I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.”
Melanie Nissen – Devo
“I did the first Devo photo shoot in LA at the Slash Magazine studio,” reflects Nissen. “I’m a big fan of theirs but had no idea what to expect. We hadn’t met yet. It was very exciting to photograph them. They brought a lot of energy, interesting things to work with and are very creative. Soon they were in their underwear and so it began. I loved it and will never forget it. To listen to their music is a bonus for the photos.”
A special hardbound edition of the book will come with a 7” including 3 singles: Devo, the Go-Go’s and a Dangerhouse Records split single. Devo’s 1977 singles for “Praying Hands” & “Too Much Paranoias” are included:
GREENWICH ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS CHARLI XCX: ALONE TOGETHER – AN INTIMATE PORTRAIT OF ISOLATION, CREATIVITY AND COMMUNITY – IN THEATERS AND ON-DEMAND ON JANUARY 28
FILM DOCUMENTS THE GLOBAL POP STAR’S CONNECTION WITH HER “ANGELS” AND MAKING OF how i’m feeling now ALBUM DURING COVID-19 LOCKDOWN
Opening in select theaters and on-demand January 28th, Charli XCX: Alone Together, a new documentary film presented by Greenwich Entertainment and starring and executive produced by Charli XCX, exposes the international pop superstar’s inner self in ways that have never been seen before.
When Los Angeles announced a five-week stay at home order in the early days of Covid-19, Charli announced to her ‘Angels’ online fan community that she would create a new album from scratch during that time. Directors Bradley & Pablo (Lil Nas X, Dua Lipa, Rosalia, Kanye West, Cardi B), were so inspired by the announcement that they proposed she document the process for what would become their feature-length film debut. Over 39 days of shooting, Charli amassed some 5000+ clips which required over a year of editing. The result is Alone Together – an intimate portrait of creativity and community which has already been hailed as “a love story between Charli and her fans” (Variety) and “an intimate examination of community in a time of isolation” (The Wrap).
From the outset, Charli opened up to her Angels, creatively and emotionally. As she was making what would become her 2020 album how i’m feeling now, she collaborated with them on selecting lyrics, the album’s cover, scenes for her music videos and more. She also opened up to those fans – many of whom identify as LGBTQ+ and face stigma and feelings of alienation on an everyday basis – about her own struggles. In the process, she gained a new understanding of her emotional limits and mental health issues.
By the end of the film, what starts out with uncertainty blossoms into a statement of strength, hope and completion and a project that had started with one person’s idea had grown to touch the lives of thousands.
“The film solidified what we already knew about Charli: she is a true innovator,” say directors Bradley & Pablo. “She saw an opportunity to experiment and that drives her artistically. Her boldness to create during this time was incredibly inspiring.”
“We hope that audiences walk away seeing the value of human connection and the importance of community. We live in a highly individualized society but we have seen that as human beings we thrive when we work, talk, move, love and support collectively. For both Charli and the fans, we see the power of togetherness to heal and creatively push boundaries during an incredibly difficult time period.”
Riddy Arman’s self-titled debut album was recorded in 6 days at Mississippi Studios in Oregon. She worked with Bronson Tew of Dialback Sound to record the 9 tracks.
Arman has traveled the country from Ohio, Virginia and California working as a ranch hand and learning livestock agriculture. She found herself in Fayetteville, Arkansas, where many of the songs that would make up her self-titled debut record first came to life. Arman writes with a minimalist approach that conveys deep emotion. She can be compared to S.G. Goodman or Colorado’s own Erika Ryann for enrapturing spirits in the music.
Riddy Arman opens her debut album from La Honda Records with a song called “Spirits, Angels, Or Lies” inspired by the true story of her father’s passing. In the lyrics, she examines the human tendency to interpret the unknown. The story she weaves details the final moments and visual hallucinations experienced when Johnny Cash visited her father on his deathbed.
“Recording these songs brought me back to the times that inspired them, but instead of reliving the pain, the studio magic empowered me to overcome it,” Arman says of her experience.
“Most people would try to find a therapist, but at the time that wasn’t something that I had access to, so I just started playing music because it was cathartic,” she explains. “It’s very, very meditative for me.”
Best of 2021 – Last year we missed doing our annual “Best Of.” This year we present it after a year of quarantine albums galore. Tours didn’t start until May but new music was flowing from the start of 2021. 2022 is already aiming to be a busy year. Here are our choices for the Best of 2021.
We’ve evolved from Phoebe Bridgers, Megan Thee Stallion and others of last year to a new crop of artists.
Best Label – Fire Talk Records – Home to Bnny, Mamalarky, Packs and more this boutique label is setting up to be the next Saddle Creek Records.
Secretly Group @secretlygroup, Saddle Creek Records @saddlecreek, Fire Talk Records @firetalkrecs, Don Giovanni Records @DonGiovanniRecs
Nest New Artist – “New” is always relative. Georgia Maq has been part of Camp Cope, and Isabella Manfredi was part of The Preatures. Our winner is Ashe who album Ashlyn was hard to put down this year.
Georgia Maq @goldsoundz_, Allison Russell @allisonrussellmusic, S.G. Goodman @s.g.goodman, Ashe @ashemusic, Jillette Johnson @jillettejohnson, Hawxx @hawxxmusic, Noa Kirel @noakirel, Kill Birds @killbirdsmusic, Killboy @killboy , Sloppy Jane @sloppyjanebandd , Ydegirl @ydegirl, The Linda Lindas @the_linda_lindas, Allison Ponthier @allisonponthier, Isabella Manfredi @isabellamanfredi, Pom Pom Squad @pompomsquad
Best Local (Colorado) Artist – Local artists can often be touring or even national acts. This category was very competitive with the amount of quarantine albums that came out. Our winner is Companion who mesmerized us in the Spring. They will quickly become a national act.
Best Dance – Dance is also electronic and electro pop. Magdalena Bay & Sofi Tukker are the 800 lb gorillas in this category. Kito is our winner for surprising collaborations.
Magdalena Bay @magdalenabay, Sofi Tukker @sofitukker, Kito @kito
Best Pop – Pop like Indie is often open to interpretation. It is often what dominates at venues. Our winner is Charlotte Cardin whose Phoenix album was one of the best albums this year.
Hana Vu @hanavuuu, Lucy Dacus @lucydacus, Japanese Breakfast @jbrekkie, Baby Queen @queenofthebabies, Charlotte Cardin @charlottecardin, Jess Chalker @jess_chalker_, May-A @mayacumming, Ashe @ashemusic, Girl In Red @girlinred, Angèle @angele_vl, Sloppy Jane @sloppyjanebandd, Nadia Vaeh @nadiavaeh, Olivia Rox @oliviarox, Number One Popstar @numberonepopstar, Bahari @bahari, Noga Erez @nogaerez, Lola Lennox @lolalennex
Best Rock – Rock is often the guitar driven beat that keeps you going. Kill Birds, who have been touring with Foo Fighters are our winner.
Royal and the Serpent @royalandtheserpent, Amyl and the Sniffers @amylandthesniffers, Mattiel @mattielworldwide , Upsahl @upsahlmusicl, Self Esteem @selfesteemselfesteem, Kill Birds @killbirdsmusic, Nadia Sheikh @nadiasheikhmusic, Red Hook @weareredhook, Pom Pom Squad @pompomsquad
Best Indie – Indie always means both a sound but also a level of development. These are the artists at the small venues touring to survive. We have a diverse selection this year. Bnny is our winner.
Best Experimental – There is always a “flinch” moment when you saw experimental. It involves a great deal of risk as personified by our winner Fifi Rong who is working on her dual album set with one album all in English, and one all in Chinese. She is crowdfunding now.
Insect Ark @insectark, Fifi Rong @fifirong, Sasami @sasamiashworth, Irreversible Entanglements @irreversibleentanglements, Haru Nemuri @haru_nemuri
Best Hip Hop – This is the first year that FEMMUSIC has this category. There may be some arguments as to whether all these artists fit it. Coi Leray is the best newcomer in this area. Ray BLK is our winner.
Bia @bia, Tones and I @tonesandi, Doja Cat @dojacat, Sza @sza, Cardi B @iamcardib, Megan Thee Stallion @theestallion, Coi Leray @coileray, Ms Banks @msbanks, Ray BLK @rayblk, Remi Wolf @remiwolf, Tinashe @tinashenow
Best Jazz – We will admit to not hearing as much jazz this year. Laufey is the winner with original interpretations of classics.
Laufey @laufey, Nnenna Freelon @officialnnenna
Best Country – Brandi Carlile is a favorite in this category and will take home more GRAMMYs. Allison Russell wins for being new and original.
Brandi Carlile @brandicarlile, Allison Russell @allisonrussellmusic, Yola @iamyolaofficial, CMAT @cmatbaby, Jackson & Sellers @jacksonsellersmusic, Ingrid Andress @ingridandress
Best Heavy Metal – Infected Rain is a former winner in this category. Jinjer, Halestorm & The Pretty Reckless dominate. The Velveteers are this year’s winner.
Hawxx @hawxxmusic, Edge of Paradise @edgeofparadise, Jinjer @jinjer_official, The Velveteers @thevelveteers, Infected Rain @infectedrain_official, The Pretty Reckless @theprettyreckless, Halestorm @halestormrocks
Best R & B – This category includes powerhouses like Arlo Parks and Dawn Richard. Alewya is our winner for new and original music this year.
Muni Long @munilong, India Shawn @indiashawn, Dawn Richard @dawnrichard, Alewya @alewya11, Arlo Parks @arloparks, Tkay Maidza @tkaymaidza, Danielia Cotton @danieliacotton, Saleka @saleka
Best Surprise – A “surprise” for us is that unexpected performance when it was not expected. It includes some risky performances such as LVXURI and Big Klit. S.G. Goodman is our hands down winner. We caught her as an opener and she garnered as much reaction as the headliner. She is a blunt, and emotive songwriter.
S.G. Goodman @s.g.goodman, Kiesza @kiesza, LVXURI @mx_lvxuri, Big Klit @klitoriusmaximus
Best Comeback – This has been a surprisingly competitive category. Whether it’s the return of ABBA after a long time to Adele’s new album. The big surprise this month is Taylor Swift taking the world with the longest song. She is our winner.
Kylie Minogue @kylieminogue, Avril Lavigne @avrillavigne, Deborah Gibson @debbiegibson, Liz Phair @LizPhairOfficial, Taylor Swift @taylorswift , ABBA @ABBA, Adele @adele, Lorde @lorde
Paving the way for the much-anticipated return of live music, MMW will see over 300 acts return to the stage for headline gigs, day parties, industry talks, DJ sets, live film scores, and much much more. From the Label showcases to the Live Music Safaris MMW is setting the stage. The Carlton International Jazz Festival will take place on December 4-5, and The Music Victoria Awards will take place on December 8.
There are many familiar names here from Banofee, Alice Skye, Elle Shimada, Zig Zag and more. Here are a few of our favorite picks for the festival.
Espresso Depresso – Aptly named for their crippling coffee addiction and heavy heart, Espresso Depresso emerges from small-town Yackandandah into the Aussie music scene with the new track “Self Control.” Part of the Push Records Presents.
@espressodepresso
Georgia Maq – Since her signing we’ve been waiting for more music and live performances from Georgia Maq @goldsoundz
It Thing – Formed in Hobart’s beloved Brisbane Hotel beer garden in early 2019 over a thirst for classic punk rock and not much else to do. @itthingband
Jazz – Jazz is a host at PBS 106.7FM. She is also an emerging artist in the electronic scene. @rasminejose
Kardajala Kirridarra – Kardajala Kirridarra translates to ‘Sandhill Women.’ Kardajala is the name of the mysterious bush woman from the sandhills behind the community of Malinja, NT. @kardajala_kirridarra
Lupa J – Lupa J is a multi-discliplinary artist. She is a producer, songwriter, video editor, and more. Her style is an industrial mix of dance and goth. @lupa.j
M8riarchy – m8riarchy is a singer, songwriter, producer, and sound engineer based in Melbourne. @m8riarchy
PINCH POINTS – Melbourne four-piece Pinch Points have signed with Mistletone Records (Australia/New Zealand) and Exploding in Sound (USA) for their new album Process, to be released on March 18, 2022. @pinchpointsband
Sophiya – Sophiya has already been booked for Yours and Owls 2022. She’s part of the Writing on the Wall at MMW. @sophiyamusic
Tiana Khasi – Future-Soul artist Tiana Khasi came to scene with her debut EP Maghalaya in 2019. @tianakhasi
To celebrate our FINAL ISOL-AID OF THE YEAR we’re digging out our favourite Ausmusic band tee and joining forces with all our pals for AUSMUSIC T-SHIRT DAY on Friday November 19th.
We’re partnering with SUPPORT ACT, AUSTRALIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS and TIKTOK to present a lineup of star Australian artists, via livestream to audiences across Australia. It’s all about spreading the word and raising funds for the work Support Act does in helping those in need in the music industry.
CARLA WEHBE merges current pop melodies with an edgy 80s nostalgia, teleporting you to another era. Beneath her tough exterior lies a pure pop heart, a captivating voice that floats over ever more vintage sounding production. Having first dipped her toe into the water as collaborator on a Tyron Hapi track that’s since garnered millions of streams, Carla’s solo work has seen her stake her claim as one of the country’s brightest new artists. @carlawehbe
ASHWARYA creates dark and romantic RnB tinged pop with dashes of the classic Bollywood music she grew up surrounded by and an undercurrent reminiscent of early 2000s So Fresh CDs. With music that never fails to excite, Ashwarya is an ardent performer, weaving melodies that take you on a journey and speak to the vulnerabilities in us all. @ashwaryahhh
ISAIAH FIREBRACE whose undeniable voice and creative ability have seen him become one of the most streamed artists in Australia. It’s been a busy few years, chock full of winning X-Factor, competing at the Eurovision Song Contest, touring across the country, and a turn in the Masked Singer, and now his dulcet tones will be streaming straight to our screens, a true treat. @isaacfirebrace
SPACEY JANE was no longer able to perform and are being replaced by LIME CORDIALE.
@spacey_jane @limecordiale
We love that our festival is free to watch, but we do ask online attendees to help support musicians and music workers if you can. 100% of whatever you donate will go directly to Support Act. Please donate directly to our fundraising page on the Ausmusic T-Shirt Day Website: https://www.ausmusictshirtday.org.au/teams/isol-aid-festival-2
As you know, the loss of touring and live performance income has caused financial strain and even strife for many in our music community. Throwing in even what you’d normally pay for a beer or two at the show will make a huge difference. And we’ll be eternally grateful, too!
Amyl & the Sniffers, the Melbourne, Australia rock band fronted by Amy Taylor, released their sophomore album Comfort To Me a few weeks ago via ATO Records/Rough Trade. Now, after a triumphant release from the world’s longest lockdown in Australia, Amyl & the Sniffers announce their long-awaited return stateside for a North American 2022 tour. In addition to the band’s previously announced show at Music Hall of Williamsburg in December which sold out in less than one day, the Sniffers will tour Spring 2022.
Comfort To Me, which was co-produced by the band and Dan Luscombe, is the follow-up to Amyl & the Sniffers’ critically acclaimed 2019 self-titled debut album, which won Australia’s esteemed ARIA Award for Best Rock Album and saw the band tour their anarchic and ridiculously fun live show internationally for the past two years. With its lyrics largely written during the Australian Bushfire season, when The Sniffers were already wearing masks to protect themselves from smoke in the air, Comfort To Me came together in a 3-bedroom apartment where the four band members quarantined together during COVID-19 lockdown. The result is a less spontaneous and more darkly considered record that masterfully captures the essence of the band like never before. “This album is just us — raw self expression, defiant energy, unapologetic vulnerability,” says Taylor. “It was written by four self-taught musicians who are all just trying to get by and have a good time.”
Tour dates
12/6/2021 – Brooklyn, NY @ Music Hall of Williamsburg
4/26/2022 – Austin, TX @ Hotel Vegas
4/27/2022 – Austin, TX @ Hotel Vegas
5/6/2022 – San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
5/ 7/2022 – San Francisco, CA @ Great American Music Hall
HYBE and Universal Music Group (UMG) have officially kicked off their historic joint venture by announcing the first-ever HYBE x Geffen Global Girl Group Audition. Under their jointly created alliance, these two industry powerhouses aim to launch a global, diverse, and multi-talented girl pop group made up of artists around the world who are deeply passionate about music and aspire to be the next global superstar.
The collaboration between HYBE and UMG notably sets a precedent for the entire industry. It marks the first time a U.S. record label and a K-pop entertainment company have united to combine their expertise in artist discovery and development, and music production to assemble, develop, and introduce a group from ground zero. HYBE and UMG will collectively emphasize artist development through components such as music and performance training as well as life skills training, including mental wellness and music business and financial literacy, to lead a rewarding and sustaining career.
This also notably represents the first time a U.S.-based pop girl group will be created and modeled based on the world-renowned K-pop training and development system—a full production that combines everything from music, performance, fashion, music videos, and communications with fans. Preparation will take place in Los Angeles, where the pop girl group will also debut.
Aspiring artists must be female, between the ages of 15 and 19 (16 to 19 for EU residents), and exhibit talent in singing, rapping, dancing and/or producing. Audition submissions should be at least a one-minute video or music file showcasing their performance, alongside a clear upper body and full body frontal photo. Potential candidates can submit audition videos online now through November 28 at 11:59 PM PT
Upon its final formation and completion of the audition and training process, the new girl group’s music will be released under the forthcoming JV label created by HYBE, the global powerhouse team behind the phenomenal worldwide success of Grammy-nominated group BTS. The forthcoming JV label will partner with UMG’s Geffen Records, a historic label that has helped shape global youth and musical culture over the past 40 years, through iconic artists including: Nirvana and Guns N’ Roses, alongside 2021’s breakthrough global pop artist Olivia Rodrigo, to name a few.
HYBE will utilize its global expertise to lead the discovery, training and development of the group, fan content production processes, and engagement with fans around the world. The team at Geffen Records will leverage their extensive industry network and partners to oversee the music production, marketing and global distribution operations.
Kacy Hill is beginning her first headlining tour on November 2. This LA artist, formerly of Phoenix has released multiple albums including Like A Woman, Is It Selfish If We Talk About Me Again and Simple, Sweet and Smiling.
KACY HILL—SIMPLE, SWEET, AND SELFISH TOUR
November 2 Constellation Room Santa Ana, CA
November 3 Brick + Mortar San Francisco, California
November 5 Holocene Portland, OR
November 6 Vera Project Seattle, Washington
November 9 Kilby Court Salt Lake City, UT
November 11 Lost Lake Denver, Colorado
November 12 Slowdown Omaha, NE
November 16 A&R Bar Columbus, OH
November 18 Schubas Chicago, Illinois
November 19 El Club Detroit, MI
November 21 Mercury Lounge New York, New York
November 23 Metro Gallery Baltimore, Maryland
November 27 The End Nashville, TN
November 28 The Masquerade—Purgatory Atlanta, Georgia
November 30 Ruins Dallas, Texas
December 1 The Secret Group Houston, TX
December 4 Rebel Lounge Phoenix, Arizona
December 5 Moroccan Lounge Los Angeles, California
Simple, Sweet, and Smiling is a document of Hill working through hardship—her dad suffered a heart attack right as she was beginning the album, and her own latent anxiety disorder began to surface. She confronts these feelings of powerlessness in the face of her own mind and mortality, while giving thanks to the partners, friends and family who have helped her through. Simple, Sweet, and Smiling, has many meanings—it’s genuinely aspirational; an acknowledgement of gratefulness for those moments in which clarity briefly breaks through mental anguish; and a tongue-in-cheek admission of something which for many of us never quite feels possible.
Simple, Sweet, and Smiling, which Hill made largely with collaborators John Carroll Kirby (Frank Ocean, Solange), Ariel Rechtshaid (Adele, Vampire Weekend, Charli XCX) and Jim-E Stack (Caroline Polachek, HAIM, Dominic Fike).
Today she releases the latest single from the album, “Easy Going”
Catch Hill in an intimate show at Lost Lake on Veteran’s Day.
It’s been a long time since Wolf Alice has been in Denver. Things have changed. There has been a worldwide epidemic and Wolf Alice has released their 3rd album Blue Weekend. Blue Weekend was written during COVID and marks the songwriting evolution of Ellie Rowsell. The album is about love in its myriad forms from discovery, loss, and strength for it and more. Singles include “The Last Man On Earth”, “How Can I Make It Ok?” and “Smile.”
The album was produced by Markus Dravs who has worked with Mumford & Sons and Arcade Fire. Wolf Alice is Ellie Rowsell, Joff Oddie, Joel Amey & Theo Ellis.
Wolf Alice has been to Denver many times playing Globe Hall and the Bluebird. In 2015 they played Lost Lake and brought the house down touring for their first album My Love Is So Cool. This wild night of crowd surfing and an audience singing every word is worth repeating for 2 nights in November.
Fast-rising and critically acclaimed singer/songwriter FLETCHER has announced a headlining tour of North America for early 2022. The long-awaited 22-date run will include much-anticipated shows in New York City and Los Angeles, as well as stops in major cities like Seattle, San Francisco, Nashville, Toronto, and Chicago.
Kicking off on February 22 in Vancouver and wrapping up on April 4 in Englewood, Colorado, FLETCHER’s upcoming run will mark her first North American tour since her breakthrough in 2019. Fletcher is known for singles “Undrunk”, “Bitter”, and a reimagining of Katy Perry’s “I Kissed a Girl.” Fletcher has released an EP called the S(EX) TAPES. Her latest single is “girls girls girls”
Dates for FLETCHER’s 2022 North American Headlining Tour:
ISOL-AID returns for the final edition of it’s Homegrown series on Wednesday October 20th. Having served up the freshest local talent over the past few weeks we’re up to the last dish and it’s never been better. Going out with a bang the 62nd week sees everything from bubblegum pop to infectious indie rock gracing our screens.
Since teaming up with 99DESIGNS BY VISTAPRINT for the Homegrown series to offer creative and financial support to emerging local artists, Isol-Aid has featured the brightest bunch of Australian and New Zealand talent. With a whopping total of 975 nominations received from artists, friends and fans, Isol-Aid has presented us all with a chance to get to know some of our best homegrown acts and in turn has supported them on their journey with creative support for their next merch, poster or artwork needs.
Sweet and savoury Sydney outfit THE BUOYS kick things off this week. A combination of a fizzled out tinder date, gumtree ad and a million mutual friends, the band have been churning out infectious tracks since 2019. Inspired by workplace feuds, people who walk slowly in front of you and a tonne of bad dates, The Buoys explore themes of uncertainty, disappointment, curiosity, determination and the everyday. @thebuoys
VETTA BORNE melds elements of RnB, soul and pop into one as a vehicle to authentically explore Melbourne producer, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Maribelle’s creative capabilities. Cutting her teeth working with some of the country’s best producers such as Djemba Djemba and Styalz Fuego, Maribelle combines her production mastery with world-class vocals, staking her claim as one of Australia’s most impassioned artists. @vettaborne
Rounding out the night is iconic queer bubblegum punk duo CRY CLUB. As gentle in spirit as they are ferocious on stage, the pair’s empowering, danceable anthems have seen them play stages across Splendour In The Grass and Gaytimes and tour with the likes of Waax and Bec Sandridge. Exploring their vulnerabilities through spectacle and the weaving of pure pop and noise rock, Cry Club have won the hearts of many, and are set to claim more this Wednesday. @cryclubmusic
Digital marketing platform PROPELLER works at the crossroads of culture and social good and have teamed up with NOISE FOR NOW to launch a large-scale fundraising and awareness-raising campaign in support of Reproductive Rights. The campaign features artists offering one-of-a-kind prizes to incentivize fans to stand up and take action including Bon Iver, Daniel Rossen of Grizzly Bear, Demi Lovato, IDLES, St. Vincent, Tove Lo and Yeah Yeah Yeahs, with additional artists to be added in the coming weeks.
NOISE FOR NOW’s Reproductive Freedom campaign will raise money for the already overburdened heroes on the ground: Independent Reproductive Healthcare / Abortion Clinics (Keep Our Clinics –https://keepourclinics.org ) and Abortion Funds (National Network of Abortion Funds –https://abortionfunds.org ), as well as the Center For Reproductive Rights – https://reproductiverights.org who will be the legal defense in the Supreme Court case challenging Roe v. Wade this fall.
The artists participating in the campaign have generously offered prizes including:
Daniel Rossen of Grizzly Bear: Signed guitar played on the Grizzly Bear “Painted Ruins” tour
Demi Lovato: Select clothing items from their closet
St. Vincent: Two music man signed guitars
Tove Lo: Two signed copies of rare Blue Lips vinyl
Yeah Yeah Yeahs: Six signed original photo proofs from an early and classic Spin shoot by Danielle Levitt
Look for additional artists and items to be added in the coming weeks. In addition to artist prizes, music fans can support Noise for Now by purchasing one of their signature 1973 Pro Roe Tee for Reproductive Freedom –https://propeller.la/rewards/18903/1973-pro-roe-tee-for-reproductive-freedom All proceeds benefit Noise For Now’s Reproductive Freedom Campaign with the organization retaining 10% of proceeds to help cover operational costs.
ISOL-AID is back with more fresh tunes streaming straight to your screens on Wednesday October 6th. The 61st edition is in full bloom with an abundance of silky soul vocals and bunches of songs straight from the heart, a true mixed seed packet sprouting bright musical goodness. We’re in for a treat!
Since teaming up with 99DESIGNS BY VISTAPRINT to offer creative and financial support to emerging Aus and NZ artists, Isol-Aid has featured a whole bunch of sweet local talent. With a staggering total of 975 nominations received over the past few weeks, Isol-Aid has presented a primo opportunity to get to know some of our best homegrown acts all while supporting them on their creative journeys.
First up this week is LARA ANDALLO who while being a relatively new member of Australia’s swelling R&B renaissance has already established herself as one of the country’s pivotal performers. Reminiscent of the golden era of early 2000s R&B, Lara has a keen ability to write emotive, club-ready tracks that translate her energy and own dance floor skills expertly. Combined with the play between her rapid-fire and honeyed soul vocals, Lara weaves catchy trap-influenced beats that will get you up and dancing.
@laraandallo
In egoless yet unapologetic discourse, BLESSED seeks to break the pattern and provoke the most powerful form of human expression: honesty. After kickstarting the careers of some of the country’s biggest rappers, including The Kid Laroi, Blessed has stepped out on his own with an amalgamation of RnB, Punk and a little lo-fi Rock sprinkled in for good measure. @blessedtunes
BOOKA NILE rounds out the night with her jointly heartfelt and satirical tunes. When not playing in metalcore band Make Them Suffer (or appearing on Married at First Sight) Booka’s stripped back and straight to the point solo music is infused with humour, charming each and every one of us. @bookanile
Mipso is a 4 piece band originally from North Carolina. The band is Jacob Sharp on mandolin, Libby Rodenbough on fiddle, Wood Robinson on bass and Joseph Terrell on guitar. In 2020 Mipso released their self-titled, and sixth album found the band working with a new label, Rounder Records and producer Sandro Perri. Their latest single is “Every Drop.”
Mipso, the album marks a statement of being. With finely layered vocal harmonies and spacious arrangements that gently illuminate the idiosyncratic details and refined musicianship at the heart of every song, Mipso furthers the band’s ever-growing reputation as a potent musical force.
Levitate Events presents High Ground Music & Arts Experience, Denver’s first one-day festival that centers on melodic, live-performed electronic music and the natural beauty of the Colorado outdoors. The inaugural 18+ event takes place on October 2nd, 2021 in the grass amphitheater of Levitt Pavilion at Ruby Hill Park, minutes away from the heart of Denver. Attendees (referred to as “Revelers”) will enjoy two stages with local and international musical performers, as well as installations and activations to highlight Colorado’s culture, food, cannabis, and art.
On the High Ground Stage, headliners Snakehips and Kasbo will join acts like Louis Futon, Haywyre, Chet Porter, and Pluko alongside Colorado favorites Bass Physics, JackLNDN, Lucy Daydream, Shae District, and Who’s Calling. The Levitate Stage will feature 12 additional entertainers including Kid Astronaut, Laszewo, w/out, and more, with the majority of performances to be live. With 23 acts playing, High Ground Music & Arts Experience is set to be Colorado’s largest single-day independent music festival this year.
Created by Noah Levinson of Levitate Events, High Ground Music & Arts Experience is a culmination of his extensive and varied background as a music industry entrepreneur. A recent graduate of NYU’s Clive Davis Institute, Levinson honed his skills as a promoter and event producer at Insomniac Events. Together with his business partner (and mother) Jobi Halper, he developed the idea for an outdoor music festival that celebrates his love for the environment and chill electronic music.
Spin Magazine