The action thriller Sunray: Fallen Soldier is coming to digital platforms and select cinemas next month. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Military themed action thrillers captivate audiences with their thrilling storylines, high-stakes conflicts, and intense combat sequences. These films often explore themes of heroism, sacrifice, and camaraderie, resonating with viewers who admire resilience and bravery in the face of adversity. They include gripping narratives where soldiers confront dangerous missions, engage in epic battles, and navigate moral dilemmas. Audiences are drawn to the raw emotional intensity of these stories, as well as the adrenaline-pumping action that showcases tactical precision, creating a powerful connection to the characters and their struggles.
Sunray: Fallen Soldier is an action thriller that will be available on digital platforms and select cinemas across the UK and North America on January 24, 2025. It is now available for pre-order on digital download in the UK and US. (Strike Media, 2024)
Sunray: Fallen Soldier – A war veteran calls on friends from his past to hunt down those responsible for the death of his daughter. Along the way, he learns more about himself than he anticipated as a violent crime syndicate unravels in his wake.
After dedicating his entire life to service in the armed forces, Andrew Coleman now struggles to slot back into a world he no longer recognizes. Forced to confront the death of his daughter following a fatal encounter with drugs, he becomes hell-bent on finding those responsible.
With nothing to lose, a violent criminal underworld unravels in his wake. Set against a backdrop of realistic, fast-paced action, guided by high-quality military drills; and created by UK Armed Forces veterans, Sunray challenges the perceptions of mental health and the struggles that soldiers face when re-integrating back into civilian life.
A film by James Clarke and Daniel Shepherd and starring Tip Cullen, Tom Leigh, Steven Blades, and Daniel Davids, Sunray is created by and stars a collective of former British Royal Marines Commandos – the UK’s elite amphibious special operations capable commando force.
Written, directed, produced, edited, and acted by UK Armed Forces veterans, the Sunray team has lived and experienced the direct effects of conflict including the loss of friends.
Veterans were employed across the production both on and off screen. The film is supported by a multi-national veteran and active armed forces community who want more awareness for the sacrifices made by soldiers and the effects of PTSD.
Couture on Tour: An Emily in Paris Experience. The beloved Netflix series Emily in Paris is going on tour with a theatrical Parisian fashion show event. Photo: ATG Entertainment, used with permission.
San Antonio, TX – Bonjour Emily in Paris lovers! Couture on Tour: An Emily in Paris Experience is bringing the fan-favorite Netflix series, produced by MTV Entertainment Studios and creator Darren Star (Beverly Hills, 90210, Sex and the City, Younger), across the country with 25+ tour stops this Spring and Summer 2025. From their fashion to the dreamy Parisian scenery, this unique sidewalk-to-stage event, brought to you by Atomic Venus Media in partnership with Paramount, is coming to San Antonio on May 19,2025. Tickets are now on sale. (ATG Entertainment, 2024)
“My own adventures deeply inspired my journey in crafting Emily in Paris in Paris during my 20s,” said Darren Star. “I am thrilled that fans will be able to enjoy an experience that will transport audiences into Emily’s enchanting world. As we celebrate the fourth season now streaming on Netflix and the exciting renewal for a fifth season, the profound connection fans have with the characters is what gives this series its enduring appeal. I am excited for this elevated live event for Emily in Paris enthusiasts across the nation.”
Atomic Venus Media (AVM), founded by former WME agent ElizBeth Jones, produces custom content, tours, and experiences around popular film and TV properties. AVM brings over 100 years of combined entertainment expertise to the stage. “I could not be more thrilled to launch AVM’s first large tour with Emily in Paris,” says Jones. “Bringing Darren Star’s incomparable writing and character development to life through a female-led production company is deeply meaningful. As he has proved time and time again, Fashion is Art and Art is for Everyone. This tour will captivate audiences in ways they haven’t seen before. As live experiences become the future bedrock of our industry, we are creating Couture on Tour to be a unique standout, offering fans a chance to journey into Emily’s world.”
The theatrical fashion show will have theaters across the country pulsing with the ambience of La Trompette Bleue while pieces from Emily in Paris, inspired by costume designer – and Couture on Tour Creative Consultant – Marylin Fitoussi take the stage. Beyond the fashion show, the Emily in Paris Experience will bring to life the streets of Paris and transport visitors into Emily’s world. Visitors will also have the opportunity to dip into Emily’s wardrobe, immerse themselves in scenes from the show and take home a piece of Paris with items from on-site displays and shops.
“The beauty and fashion of Emily in Paris will make for a unique and whimsical in-person experience for fans,” said Marie Marks, SVP of Themed Entertainment, Paramount. “We are thrilled to partner with Atomic Venus to bring the style of Paris to the streets of the US.” Couture on Tour: An Emily in ParisExperience will kick off in Spring of 2025 and will travel across the states to cities such as Denver, Atlanta, Nashville, Kansas City, St Louis, Milwaukee, Ft Lauderdale, and more. Tickets are now available for purchase and start at $40 in select markets. All markets will include a VIP ticket which will include a fully curated experience and keepsake items.
Banjo player, songwriter, and author Max Wareham announces debut, Peter Rowan-produced album Daggomit! Photo: Sasha Pedro, used with permission.
Whether on archaeological digs or translating medieval poetry, the past has always been a north star for banjo player, songwriter, and author Max Wareham. His commitment to early innovators of the banjo shines on Daggomit!, his debut album of soulful original songs, highlighted by the hard-driving chemistry of Nashville’s preeminent bluegrass stars. Wareham tours nationally with the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band, bringing his creativity to the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Ryman Auditorium, Merlefest, Green Mountain Bluegrass Festival, IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards, and many more, as well as with his own band, Max Wareham and the National Bluegrass Team. (IV PR, 2024)
“It brings me back to my childhood,” says Max Wareham of his new single “Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home,” “camping in the woods of New York state and longing for a simpler time.” Forever a student of bluegrass tradition, Wareham has tapped into a very real feeling that can be found all the way back before the genre had its name; part nostalgia, part yearning.
“I wrote this one a while back,” says Wareham. “Then I took it to Peter Rowan, who proceeded to disassemble it completely and put it back together in a way that made more sense.” The tutelage of his bandleader boss Rowan helped to hone Wareham’s arrangement into a beautifully simple melody with ample room for instrumental embellishment and crystalline harmonies by former members of the Grammy-nominated band, Po’ Ramblin’ Boys, Laura Orshaw and Josh Rinkel.
MAGNET Magazine shared an early premiere of “Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home.” Fans can stream or purchase “Lonesome Blues” at this link.
“Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home” is the latest single from Wareham’s upcoming debut album, Daggomit!, which was produced by Rowan and is due out on February 21. Fans are encouraged to check out Wareham’s previously released single “Hard Times Are Far Behind” at this link and pre-order or pre-save Daggomit! ahead of its February release right here.
Wareham is currently touring with Max Wareham & the National Bluegrass Team, featuring international mandolin prodigy Jean Baptiste Cardineau, singer and guitarist Walker Russell, and Boston bass stalwart Emma Turoff. Tour dates for Warham & the National Bluegrass Team as well as Wareham’s appearances with the Peter Rowan Bluegrass Band can be found online.
Produced by legendary grasser Peter Rowan and recorded by multi-Grammy-winning engineer Sean Sullivan, Daggomit! features Chris Eldridge and David Grier on guitar, Laura Orshaw on fiddle, Chris Henry on mandolin, Mike Bub on bass, and Larry Atamanuik on snare drum; a group of stars making the initial listen of the album worth the price of admission, alone. But fans will undoubtedly stick around for the stories Wareham tells throughout the 13-song collection. Stories from a lifetime of experiences and feelings that together tell the story of exactly what makes Max Max.
Daggomit! tracklist: Walking In Jerusalem Lonesome Blues, I’m Coming Home The Black & Gold That’s Just Part Of It Heartaches Rexford Falls Gone, Baby, Gone I Remember Hard Times Are Far Behind Cattails Bar Blues Drifting Too Far From The Shore Miles
WhataWedding! Say ‘I Do’ with Whataburger in Vegas on Valentine’s Day 2025. Photo: Whataburger, used with permission.
Valentine’s Day is still a couple of months away, but it’s never too early to start making plans. If you’re a big Whataburger fan, there’s an upcoming contest for the ultimate prize: a Las Vegas Whataburger wedding. That’s right! This month, you can enter a contest to win a Las Vegas wedding.
Say “I do” with a Whataburger in hand and love in the air! This Valentine’s Day, Whataburger is making hearts—and taste buds—swoon by giving one lucky couple the ultimate prize: a Whataburger wedding at its Las Vegas location on Friday, February 14, 2025. From the ceremony to the reception, and a few surprise touches along the way, Whataburger will cover the details. You just bring the love! (Whataburger, 2024)
To enter for a chance to win this unforgettable Whatawedding, eligible fans are invited to submit a 30-to 45-second video sharing their unique love story and how Whataburger became part of it. Did you meet your soulmate in the drive-thru? Fall head over heels during a Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit date? Or maybe Whataburger was there for your late-night snack runs? Whatever your story, Whataburger wants to hear it.
Fans can submit their videos here from December 20 to December 30. The winner is expected to be announced before January 14—just in time to plan the Whatawedding of their dreams.
For more information about Whatawedding, how to enter, and official contest rules, visit Whataburger online. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Whataburger serves up Goodness 24/7. Our original recipes are made to order, just like you like it, and we pride ourselves on extraordinary hospitality and meaningful connections in our communities. That’s what’s led fans to Whataburger since Harmon Dobson served our first customer in 1950. Headquartered in San Antonio, we’ve stayed close to our roots while building systemwide revenue of more than $4 billion annually across our 16-state footprint and over 1,070 restaurants. Even with our exceptional menu, we know that people make the difference at Whataburger. That’s why we’re among QSR Magazine’s Best Brands to Work For in 2023 and consistently win culture excellence awards, including Top Workplaces 2023.
Emma Ruth Rundle announces her debut poetry book “The Bella Vista.” Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Poetry books offer a powerful blend of emotion, imagination, and expression in concise, rhythmic forms. They invite readers into intimate worlds where language dances and meanings are layered, offering both intellectual stimulation and emotional resonance. The beauty of poetry lies in its ability to distill complex experiences into few words, allowing for deep reflection and personal interpretation. Whether through vivid imagery, striking metaphors, or simple truths, poetry books captivate readers by fostering a sense of connection to universal themes, emotions, and the human condition, making them timeless treasures.
There’s a new poetry book coming out February 11, 2025 by Emma Ruth Rundle – “The Bella Vista.”
“rip up this book, my love / i wrote it for you” So opens Emma Ruth Rundle’s book of poetry, entitled “The Bella Vista.” The multidisciplinary visual artist and musician has now released six solo albums over the past decade to commercial and critical acclaim. The release of “The Bella Vista” will mark her literary debut. (another side, 2024)
With “The Bella Vista,” Emma Ruth Rundle turns to language as the best and perhaps only tool suitable to express, in her words, “the tenderness and brutality of romantic love.” The collection of poetry is a concept, an addiction memoir, a family tree, and a love letter all at once—to music, mistakes, and humanity; to cross-country drives and other artists and the long road to finding oneself.
“Written on the road over the course of a year, ‘The Bella Vista’ is equal parts travel-log, love story and journal of dark existential reflection. It is what I have spent the last two years of my creative life working on and I am both relieved and excited to finally be sharing it.”- Emma Ruth Rundle
“The Bella Vista” will be published by Unnamed Press and available at bookstores and online on February 11, 2025 – pre-order here. To coincide with the book, Rundle will release a limited edition audio album consisting of minimalistic, contemplative piano sketches à la Harold Budd of whom the book was named in honor of, and was highly influential to “The Bella Vista.” Copies will be limited to 300 and available in a signed first edition hardcover + exclusive vinyl bundle here.
Early praise for “The Bella Vista”
“Emma Ruth Rundle’s debut collection of poems, The Bella Vista, is a gorgeous, fierce, and devastating account of romantic love. Rundle has found a new form for her prodigious lyrical gifts; here is a lucid and haunting collection that moves with a kind of dream logic to ‘summon the unseen.’” – Deborah Landau, author or Skeletons and Soft Targets
“Emma Ruth Rundle’s The Bella Vista is more than a poetry collection—it’s a memoir charted by stars, an autobiographical scrapbook and lyrical compass that helps us navigate our everyday lives through its wisdom, beauty, and fingerprint specificity.” – Brandon Stosuy, author of Sad Happens and the Make Time for Creativity series
‘Jeddah Bride’ is the new memoir by Patricia Bonis. Photo: Barnes & Noble
Memoirs offer a unique and personal perspective on life, drawing readers into the intimate experiences of an individual’s journey. Unlike autobiographies, which often focus on public achievements, memoirs highlight specific moments, emotions, and reflections, making them more relatable and human. Their appeal lies in their authenticity and vulnerability, allowing readers to connect with the author’s struggles, triumphs, and growth. They offer a sense of shared experience and a reminder of our common humanity, sparking empathy and introspection in readers.
“Jeddah Bride” is a new memoir out this month by Patricia Bonis that recounts her experiences with Rahman Abbar, a man from Saudi Arabia.
Patricia Bonis runs her own interior design firm and has designed the homes, offices, and embassies of CEOs, ambassadors, and international financiers for over 30 years. She has an equally long standing and passionate career as an equestrian, actively competing in the World Equestrian Festival, the Hampton Classic, and numerous other horse shows across America. Her first book is “Jeddah Bride,” a memoir about a smart, free-spirited girl who fell in love with Rahman Abbar, son of a wealthy Saudi Arabian family
Synopsis:
“Jeddah Bride” – When Rahman suggested they marry, it was the happiest day of her life. But Patricia was not prepared for life as a Saudi woman-a life spent looking through curtains and veils at the world outside, a life that of necessity was curtailed and protected from the toxic masculinity of the culture, a life that, for an American girl used to sneaking out and hitchhiking, was dangerous and frightening and foreign. She was not prepared to give up all her freedom: freedom to drive herself, to go where she wanted when she wanted, to read books and listen to music she wanted, even to give up making a career for herself. (Meryl Moss Media, 2024)
After years in Jeddah, Patricia and Rahman moved to America, where Patricia gave birth to two children and started her own successful career. She thought their family was complete and that they would stay in America to raise their children in freedom and security.
Until Rahman starts talking about leaving America and moving back into the jet-set lifestyle-regardless of Patricia’s needs and wishes. After previous disappointments, Patricia is ready to divorce him and strike out on her own. But she is not ready for her children to be kidnapped.
Review:
The story begins in 2002 as Patricia is reuniting with Karim, her oldest son, after fourteen harrowing years of looking for him. He was just a boy when their father took him and his sister Sultana out of the United States during a court appointed visitation. She tracks down Karim and introduces herself to a grown man and proceeds to attempt to get back into his and Sultana’s life.
From there, it goes back to the 70s when a young Patricia meets Rahman while out partying one night. She is instantly drawn to his magnetic personality and exotic good looks and finds it impossible to resist the fast life filled with parties, money, and connections. But not everything that shines is gold, and when she makes a trip to Jeddah to meet his family, she is introduced to a world that she had only heard about. Despite the culture shock, she continues the relationship but the years ahead will alter her life in ways she could have never seen coming.
In “Jeddah Bride,” Patricia Bonis offers a deeply personal and poignant memoir that chronicles her life as an American woman married to a Saudi man. The book captures her journey of navigating cultural divides, familial expectations, and her evolving identity while living in Saudi Arabia.
The narrative is introspective and engaging, providing readers with a window into the complexities of cross-cultural marriage and the challenges of living in a society with strict cultural norms. She contrasts the freedom of her American upbringing with the constraints of Saudi society, particularly as she experiences the difficulties of life in Jeddah. Her honesty about the emotional and personal sacrifices required to integrate into her husband’s world is compelling, yet she never shies away from addressing the difficulties and moments of isolation she faced.
The language is down to earth and even though there are some tense moments, the tone doesn’t get too dark and depressing. Since the focus is on her early experiences, the chapters on her divorce and custody battles are brief and towards the end.
Overall, “Jeddah Bride” is an honest portrayal of marriage and culture clash as well as an exploration of identity and belonging. It’san insightful and heartfelt memoir that will resonate with readers intrested in the complexities of cross-cultural relationships, making it a thought-provoking read for those curious about the nuances of love, tradition, and change. A fast and easy read, it is recommended for fans of women’s memoirs.
“Never wavering in my efforts to reach my children in Saudi, I did attempt to rebuild my life. I had no choice. Fourteen years is a very long time and I needed to soothe the ever present pain in my heart.”
*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
Learn how the serviceberry can guide you towards growth and gratitude in the new book by Kim Lewitt. Photo: Amazon.
Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.) is a small deciduous tree or shrub known for its sweet, edible berries. Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, it supports immune health and skin repair. The berries have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Additionally, serviceberries are a good source of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health. Native to North America, serviceberry also provides various ecological benefits, attracting pollinators like bees and birds. Its leaves, bark, and roots have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes by indigenous peoples.
“The Serviceberry Way: Gratitude, Growth, and DIY Practices for Everyday Living” is the new book by Kim Lewitt where she writes all about its uses for health and better living.
It is a comprehensive and enlightening guide to the often-overlooked serviceberry plant. Through this book, Lewitt introduces readers to the rich history, versatility, and numerous benefits of the serviceberry, making a compelling case for its place in gardens and landscapes.
It is divided into sections that explore the plant’s history, from its use by Indigenous peoples for food and medicine, to its growing popularity in modern gardening. Lewitt provides an in-depth look at how to cultivate serviceberries, offering practical advice on planting, caring for, and harvesting this hardy shrub. The author emphasizes the plant’s adaptability to various climates and its ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions, making it a sustainable choice for gardeners.
There are two major parts:
Part One: Lessons from Nature Includes sections such as The Hidden Life of Plants, The Wisdom of Animals, and The Indigenous Perspective: Connection and Community.
Part Two: DIY Practices Includes sections such as Preparing Your Garden for Serviceberries, Pest and Disease Management, and Cooking with Serviceberries: Recipes and Ideas.
Highlights include:
Part One: Lessons from Nature Lessons from the Serviceberry: Adaptability and Resilience – it explains the characteristics of the serviceberry and the lessons it teaches us, like Thriving in Diverse Environments and Rapid Recovery and Renewal.
Part Two: DIY Practices Crafting with Serviceberries and Other Uses – it shares uses for serviceberries beyond the usual jams and pies, such as making natural dyes and other craft ideas.
A big plus for me is the celebration of the many uses of the plant. Lewitt covers everything from incorporating the berries into delicious jams and pies to using the tree’s wood for crafting. The book serves as both a practical gardening resource and a celebration of the serviceberry’s cultural significance.
Overall, for plant enthusiasts, gardeners, and anyone interested in sustainable living, “The Serviceberry Way” is an invaluable resource that highlights the enduring charm and utility of this underrated plant.
“Adaptability is about finding ways to thrive in less-than-ideal circumstances. Just as the serviceberry makes the most of the resources it has, we can learn to be flexible, assess our surroundings, and use what’s available to us creatively and efficiently.”
*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.
Aladdin 3477: The Jinn of Wisdomis the debut feature of renowned pop culture artist Matt Busch. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
Science fiction and adventure fantasy movies transport audiences to imaginative worlds filled with futuristic technology, epic battles, and extraordinary creatures. These genres allow viewers to escape the confines of reality and explore limitless possibilities, where anything from time travel to magical realms can exist. The sense of wonder and excitement in discovering new, uncharted worlds appeals to our natural curiosity. Themes of heroism, personal growth, and the triumph of good over evil resonate deeply, providing both thrilling entertainment and profound emotional connections. Through visually stunning effects and immersive storytelling, these films ignite our imagination and inspire awe.
There’s a new movie coming out on video on demand in January that combines adventure with futuristic elements: Aladdin 3477: The Jinn of Wisdom.
Los Angeles, CA – Following a long career as a pop culture artist, Matt Busch is stepping behind the camera for the debut of his first film in his own franchise: Aladdin 3477: The Jinn of Wisdom. Busch brings over three decades as an artist for Star Wars, Indiana Jones, Lord of the Rings, and more to the table as he takes the Arabian Nights tale into the far future and across the world. On January 3, 2025, audiences across North America will be able to rent or own Aladdin 3477: The Jinn of Wisdom on Cable VOD and Digital HD, including Apple TV, Prime Video, and Fandango at Home from Buffalo 8. (Justin Cook PR, 2024)
Aladdin 3477: The Jinn of Wisdom. The epic sci-fi adventure stars Erik Steele, Christi Perovski, Aaron Golematis, Lin Zy, Jon Rick, Tony Miello, Brian Dalling, Jerry Hayes, Irfan Sheikh, Robert Shannon, and Sydney Solomon.
“Having grown up a product of the Lucas/Spielberg golden era, I’ve always been obsessed with telling fantastical stories. The theater experience of epic adventure, sprinkled with magic on the big screen was a direct link to my creative childhood brain. I knew if my sci-fi trilogy of films were ever going to happen, I would have to step back and create them independently, my magnum opus as a true artist. Through the grueling amount of work, 12-year-old me was beaming the entire time, creating the kind of films I used to camp out in line for.” – Matt Busch
Aladdin 3477: The Jinn of Wisdom – In a futuristic Hong Kong, Aladdin, a street-smart orphan with dreams of ascending to the elite class, fixates on Princess Kamala of India. His life takes an unexpected turn when he’s lured into a treacherous quest to Cambodia in search of a fabled lamp. Along for the unpredictable ride is Oomi, a homeless girl whose presence inadvertently thwarts Aladdin’s every scheme.
Their journey introduces them to a captivating sage who claims to be the Jinn of Wisdom. Together, they venture into the vibrant landscapes of Thailand, where Aladdin confronts his haunting past. As they navigate narrow escapes and magical encounters, Aladdin is faced with a pivotal choice: pursue his selfish desires or embrace the unwavering loyalty of Oomi, whose devotion transcends all bounds.
Aladdin 3477- I: The Jinn of Wisdom: 118 minutes Sci-Fi / Fantasy/ Adventure English, Hindi, Cantonese & Thai w/ English subtitles Producer: Kaleidoscope Koi Entertainment
Shiner Beer’s Home for the Holidays variety pack. Courtesy photo, used with permission.
The holiday season is the perfect time to gather with family and friends, celebrating warmth, joy, and togetherness. One delightful way to enhance the festivities is by enjoying seasonal flavors of beer, which add a unique twist to holiday traditions. Rich, spiced winter ales, smooth cinnamon-infused stouts, or crisp apple ciders bring out the flavors of the season, complementing hearty meals and sweet treats. Sharing these festive brews fosters connection, as everyone toasts to good times and memories made. Whether gathered around the tree or relaxing by the fire, seasonal beers make every holiday moment a little more special.
Shiner Beer is bringing back its Home for the Holidays Collection to make every celebration this season extraordinary.
The Home for the Holidays collection, a 12-pack of iconic and seasonal favorites from Shiner Beer is back this season with two new brews, FM 966, a sweet and spicy ale, and S’more, a dark ale brewed with chocolate & marshmallow. (Shiner Beer, 2024)
Available for a limited-time only, this festive collection of brews includes 12 of Shiner’s iconic flavors, perfecting for holiday celebrations and entertaining.
Shiner Home For The Holidays (SRP: 12-pk/$17.99 | 24-pk/$28.99)
Make this holiday season merry and bright with the Shiner Home For The Holidays variety pack. This festive bundle is available in 12 or 24-packs and is now available on shelves or for purchase online at select retailers.
FM 966 (ABV: 5.7%): A tribute to the European tradition of Springtime brews, this ale uses Golding, Sterling and Meridian hops for a sweet yet lightly spiced flavor.
S’more (ABV: 5.0%): This is an easy-drinking deliciously dark ale brewed with chocolate & marshmallow with hints of graham cracker and vanilla.
Frost (ABV: 5%): This deliciously distinctive dortmunder-style (German-style, relatively light bodied) ale brings a hint of malty sweetness that fades quickly to show a crisp, hoppy character.
Holiday Cheer (ABV: 5.4%) This Shiner seasonal classic is an old-world Dunkelweizen brewed with Texas peaches and roasted pecans.
Hefenweizen (ABV: 5.4%): A slight spin on the classic German brew with a touch of honey and citrus that serves as the perfect tribute to Shiner’s Texas-German roots.
Candied Pecan (ABV: 6%): Brewers with praline pecans, this robust porter provides subtle notes of roasted pecan, vanilla, caramel and brown sugar.
Golden Ale (ABV: 4.6.%): Dry hopped with Mosaic hops, this ale has a unique tropical aroma and a flavor that’s balanced by sweetness from the malt.
Dunkelweizen (ABV: 5.4%): A Hefeweizen with a dark side and notes of clove and banana.
Kosmos Reserve (ABV: 4.98%): A full-flavored, dry-hopped lager that is an ode to Kosmos Spoetzl, a Barvarian who was recruited to join the brewery and is now the namesake of the home of the Spoetzl Brewery, home of Shiner beer.
Birthday Beer (ABV: 5%): Originally in honor of Shiner’s 106th birthday, this delicious stout is brewed with chocolate malt and real cocoa.
Kölsch (ABV: 4.9%): An ode to Shiner’s old-world roots, this classic style originating in Cologne, Germany has a refreshing effervescence and a clean finish.
Bavarian Amber (ABV: 4.9%):A complex beer featuring roasted malt and made using old-world techniques with a distinctive floral hop aroma and smooth finish.
John Mailander’s Forecast to independently release ‘Let The World In’ on January 24, 2025. Photo: Emily Walis, used with permission.
Nashville Tenn. — John Mailander’s Forecast is excited to independently release Let The World In on January 24, 2025,on CD, vinyl, and digitally. Forecast is a Nashville-based collective of visionary musicians led by acclaimed performer, producer, composer, educator, and recording artist John Mailander, known for his voice on the fiddle and other stringed instruments. (Dreamspider Publicity, 2024)
Forecast is John Mailander on fiddle, keys, and electronics; Ethan Jodziewicz on upright and fretless electric bass; Chris Lippincott on steel guitars, keys, and electronics; Mark Raudabaugh on drums and percussion, Jake Stargel on acoustic guitar, and David Williford on tenor saxophone and bass clarinet.
Produced by Mailander, Let The World In was recorded by Brook Sutton at The Studio Nashville, assisted by Will Tyson and Maeve Graham. It was mixed by Daniel Rice and mastered by Wayne Pooley. With nine tracks, four of which are shorter free improvs, all but “Road” are original instrumentals.
The songs show a crossover from the jazz side of things and more into the jam band world, especially with the first single—a Nick Drake song, “Road,” which is available to stream and buy now.
“‘Road’ has been a bit of a mantra to me over the past couple of years. I haven’t always considered myself much of a singer, but it felt important for me to sing this one myself on the album. Lyrically, I feel like it ties into the themes of the album as a whole, and it’s a great vehicle for jamming as a band. This track captures a lot of the vibe of what we do live.” – John Mailander
The song was described as “majestic and expansive” by JamBase, who debuted the Grouch Bucket-animated video that accompanied it. In their feature, they went into deeper detail with John about “Road” and the entire album.
Let The World In is the spiritual third in a trilogy of “Forecast” records and the second “true” album as a band since 2021’s Look Closer, which was recorded during the pandemic. Originally assembled for the live debut of John’s 2019 album Forecast, the group adopted the name for a series of residency shows in Nashville at Dee’s Lounge. John Mailander’s Forecast has since developed a dedicated following through their adventurous improvisations, singular collaborations, and genre-bending, exuberant musical explorations.
The album opens with 18 seconds of the band candidly gathering to warm up, culminating in the count-off to “Let The World In.” The title track is a Forecast sound collage in which Mailander explores on fiddle and Wurlitzer, and the ambiance is enhanced further with the addition of the“Let The World In Sound Freedom Expressionists” (Hannah Delynn, Maya De Vitry, Gibb Droll, Ella Korth, Lindsay Lou, and Royal Masat).
Other compositions include the bluesy, whimsical, and mysterious “Gardener,” the string-layered “Chapters,” and the peaceful Metheny/Hornsby-inspired “Heartland,” which showcases Stargel’s imaginative guitar solo along with a Jodziewicz arco bass feature and Mailander’s piano playing.
“(improvisations 1)” and “(2)” are short pieces that were spontaneously composed by Forecast during the end of their daily recording sessions. “(reprise),” bookends the album with a reinterpretation of the title track’s cinematic main melody, with Mailander again on piano. Let The World In is meant to be played as a whole listening experience. Play this album loud.
Along with “conducting” the Forecast, Mailander is a member of Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers. His playing can be heard on albums by Billy Strings (including the Grammy-winning album Home), Noah Kahan, Joy Williams, Lucy Dacus, Molly Tuttle, Joe K. Walsh, Chatham County Line, and many more. John is currently on tour with Sam Grisman Project.
SA Examiner 