Smirk Announces New Album ‘Speculative Fiction,’ Shares New Single ‘Abide’

New album Speculative Fiction out July 3 via Smoking Room. Photo: another side

Track Premiere: Smirk Shares Melancholic New Single & Video “Abide” Ahead of New Album

Smirk has released the melancholic single and video “Abide” ahead of his highly anticipated new album, Speculative Fiction, due out July 3 on Smoking Room. Pre-order/pre-save here. (another side, 2026)

The indie-leaning track feels like a lost B-side from Surfer Rosa-era Pixies mixed with the twang of Gun Club and a solo straight out of the J Mascis playbook. Lyrically, the track slides right into the album’s overarching theme: abandoning longstanding ties for a fresh start and a new future on the horizon.

“‘Abide’ is based on an old British hymn that I reworked to be about the looming end of a long friendship. It’s about that slow drift where nothing really happens, but you can feel it fading and you aren’t trying to fix it.” — Nick Vicario, Smirk Mastermind

Unrest in the Suburbs: Facing the Past

Growing old sucks, but there comes a point in life when it becomes a necessity to ignore the pull to constantly wild out.

“When this band started in LA, it was a crazy time in my life,” Vicario admits. “I was crashing cars, doing drugs—I was doing horrible things and destroying my life.”

On Speculative Fiction, Vicario deals with a new twist on an age-old theme for punk rock: unrest in the suburbs. Instead of youthful rebellion, this version of unrest deals with looking back on past indiscretions and dealing with their repercussions—the disruption of the old life, settling into the new, and the reflection that comes with it. These thoughtful lyrics and themes, when paired with Vicario’s guitar-pop confection, make for a unique juxtaposition.

“When I was writing ‘Speculative Fiction’, a lot of that dealt with the ‘old me’ and some of the crazy life choices I made while abusing substances. So while the record is partially about the ‘old me,’ it’s also very much about putting them in my current world and the new set of problems that come from that.”

From Portland Hardcore to Solo Vision

Vicario has a deep history with punk rock. Growing up in Portland, Oregon, in the early 2000s, he was ingrained in the legendary scene that birthed Poison Idea and Wipers. He began playing in bands at an early age, hobnobbing with members of Tragedy and Criminal Damage in cover bands and even on the gridiron. At just 12 years old, his first band, The Diskords, were the toast of the Maximum Rock ‘n’ Roll illuminati, leading to several releases and having The Exploding Hearts take them under their wing.

His musical journey spans an impressive array of genres and projects:

Hardcore & Indie Pop: Playing in hardcore bands like Cower eventually led him to the indie pop outfit Wild Ones, who released two records across eight years (the latter landing on Topshelf Records).
Collaborations & Touring: Stints with Public Eye, Cemento, Crisis Man, and others, alongside touring with Surfer Blood and Dreamdecay.
The Birth of Smirk: Vicario eventually decided to focus his energies on his solo project, Smirk, dropping a self-titled album in 2021 and Material in 2022.

A New Sonic Blueprint

On Speculative Fiction, Vicario is restarting both personally and musically. Smirk is slowing things down, taking a more measured, power-pop approach that strays away from the speedy punk marking earlier releases. The result is decidedly more mid-paced, reflecting the works of Big Star and The Paul Collins Beat as much as early Stiff Records releases, all filtered through the DIY spirit of Guided by Voices.

Written entirely by Vicario, Speculative Fiction is Smirk’s third full-length album. To round out the record, he called upon a stellar cast of old friends and live bandmates, including:

Ross Farrar (Ceremony)
Max Smadja (RIXE)
Ryan Mangione-Smith (Advertisement)
Current members of Smirk’s live lineup (who play in Hotline TNT, Poison Ruin, and Pardoner)

Production Credits

Recording: Mainly recorded in Vicario’s home studio, with additional tracks captured by Ian Rose at Daisy Chain Studios in Brooklyn.
Mixing: Handled for the bulk of the record by Andy Oswald.

Life Imitates Art

With Speculative Fiction, life imitates art. Smirk slows things down, retools, and gets meticulous—making deliberate decisions with respect to songwriting, approach, and collaboration to execute a new vision.

The final result is a refined, focused, and less chaotic approach to punk with an eye on pop-sensibility. It perfectly mirrors Vicario’s new lifestyle: outside of the fast lane and behind a white picket fence.

Smirk’s new album Speculative Fiction arrives July 3 via Smoking Room. Stream the new single “Abide” now.

Speculative Fiction tracklist:

01 – Greetings
02 – Victimry
03 – Cheap Greed
04 – Going Off To Die
05 – Sistine Junk
06 – Dog Years
07 – I Shall Be Released
08 – Perfect World
09 – Abide
10 – Ritual Torture
11 – Interlude
12 – Shit Song
13 – Crime Pays

Uwe Boll’s Citizen Vigilante (2026): Armie Hammer Stars in Gritty New Revenge Thriller

Armie Hammer in Citizen Vigilante. Photo: Axel Stock, used with permission.

New Movie Alert: Uwe Boll’s Controversial Thriller Citizen Vigilante Hits Streaming

The wait is over for indie thriller fans. A man takes justice into his own hands, hunting down criminals. His vigilante crusade makes him a social media star but puts him right in the crosshairs of the law.

Explosive, provocative, and inspired by real events, Citizen Vigilante is the latest high-intensity thriller from internationally recognized filmmaker Uwe Boll. Starring Armie Hammer and Costas Mandylor (SAW franchise), the film is officially available in North America on all major digital and streaming platforms courtesy of Quiver Distribution. (High Roads PR, 2026)

The Controversy Behind the Release

Citizen Vigilante has already sparked intense international debate. Director Uwe Boll publicly claimed the film was effectively blocked from release in Germany following heated disputes surrounding its classification by the country’s FSK ratings board. Because of this, the North American release has quickly become part of a broader conversation surrounding censorship, artistic freedom, and the film’s heavy themes of vigilantism, crime, and public outrage.

Heralded by Boll as “an action film inspired by real events, based on real cases and a commentary about injustice,” the story delivers a brutal, modern vigilante thriller. Produced by Event Film in association with Borvel Film, it blends large-scale action, gritty realism, and emotionally charged storytelling designed for fans of crime sagas, revenge thrillers, and politically charged cinema.

Movie Synopsis

The Story: Sanders (Armie Hammer) is a wealthy American businessman living in Zagreb who inherited a massive real estate empire from his late father. Intelligent, isolated, and emotionally scarred, Sanders transforms himself into a feared underground vigilante. His targets? Violent criminals, rapists, and corrupt judges who escaped meaningful punishment through the legal system.

As his brutal campaign gains traction online and across social media, Sanders becomes both a wanted criminal and an unlikely public hero. But not everyone sees him as a savior. Interpol Chief Henry (Costas Mandylor) believes Sanders represents a dangerous threat to society and launches an aggressive international pursuit to stop him before his influence spirals completely out of control.

Quick Facts & Where to Watch

Detail	Information
Genre	Action / Thriller
Runtime	1h 29min
Director	Uwe Boll
Starring	Armie Hammer, Costas Mandylor
Availability	Rent or Buy (As of June 19, 2026)

Where to Stream (Rent/Buy):

Amazon
Google Play Movies
Apple TV
Fandango at Home

About Director Uwe Boll

Known for his fiercely independent approach to filmmaking, Uwe Boll has directed more than 35 films and produced over 50 features throughout an international career spanning decades.

Boll has worked with major Hollywood stars—including Jason Statham, Ben Kingsley, J.K. Simmons, Christian Slater, Ray Liotta, Ron Perlman, Michelle Rodriguez, Burt Reynolds, and Dominic Purcell—while building a reputation for unapologetically intense films that blend action, controversy, and social commentary. His cult filmography includes POSTAL, the RAMPAGE trilogy, ATTACK ON DARFUR, ASSAULT ON WALL STREET, ALONE IN THE DARK, and IN THE NAME OF THE KING.

Boll has described his filmmaking philosophy as continuing to “explore the new possibilities of innovative technology,” while creating films designed to confront audiences with difficult conversations surrounding violence, politics, injustice, and power. Throughout his career, Boll has frequently sparked international debate for tackling controversial subject matter drawn from real-world anxieties, social unrest, and political division.

Girls’ Generation Icon Tiffany Young Celebrates 10-Year Solo Anniversary with ‘Summer’s Not Over’

Tiffany Young celebrates 10 years as a solo artist. Photo: Pacific Music Group, used with permission.

K-Pop Icon Tiffany Young Drops New Single “Summer’s Not Over” & Announces Global 360 Partnership

HONG KONG – Global icon Tiffany Young officially marks a major milestone in her career with the release of her new single, “Summer’s Not Over,” out now worldwide. (Miller PR, 2026)

The track arrives as Tiffany celebrates the 10th anniversary of her solo debut and offers the first glimpse into her highly anticipated upcoming full-length album.

A New Era with Pacific Music Group

The track also signals Tiffany’s first release under Pacific Music Group (PMG) and its flagship label, Pacific Records, following her landmark global 360 partnership with the company. As the flagship artist leading PMG’s Korean expansion, Tiffany’s return represents both a personal achievement and a pivotal strategic moment for the rapidly growing entertainment powerhouse.

Best known as a member of Girls’ Generation, one of the most influential groups in global pop history, Tiffany Young has spent over a decade shaping the global reach and evolution of K-pop. Now, 10 years into her solo career, she steps confidently into a new era defined by:

Creative independence
Global vision
Artistic growth

The Sound of “Summer’s Not Over”

“Summer’s Not Over” perfectly embodies her evolution. Built on warm synths and polished electronic production, the mid-tempo pop track captures the feeling of a love that feels like home—where time slows, joy lingers, and moments stretch endlessly.

The song beautifully blends nostalgia with forward momentum, mirroring Tiffany’s own journey as an artist celebrating her past while stepping boldly into the future.

With this release, Tiffany sets the tone for a defining chapter, one that celebrates her journey while embracing bold new directions. The single also carries a deeply personal message of love for her fans around the world, while sparking curiosity about the exciting direction her artistry will take next.

Meet the Artist & The Label

About Tiffany Young

Born in Los Angeles, Tiffany Young moved to Seoul alone at just 15 to pursue her dream of becoming a performer, ultimately debuting as a member of the legendary K-pop group Girls’ Generation.

As one of the most influential girl groups in pop history, the group has achieved:

16 No. 1 singles
1.8 Billion+ YouTube views
120+ awards worldwide
15 album releases

After years of global tours and millions of records sold, Tiffany launched a highly successful solo career, debuting at No. 5 on the Billboard Next Big Sound chart and earning the Best Solo Breakout award at the iHeartRadio Music Awards. Now entering a new chapter with Pacific Music Group, Tiffany is gearing up for a major year with new music, global collaborations, and exciting projects on the horizon.

About Pacific Music Group

Pacific Music Group is a next-generation music company founded by industry heavyweights NE-YO, Sonu Nigam, MC Jin, and Jonathan Serbin. Headquartered in Hong Kong with a Pan-Asian presence, the company is committed to developing global careers from Asia and fostering cultural exchange between East and West. The label supports emerging and established artists through world-class production, strategic promotion, and mentorship from industry icons.

Maya de Vitry Announces New Album ‘All My Faith’ and 2026 Tour Dates

Maya de Vitry offers rhythms of time, love, & self-acceptance in self-produced 5th studio album. Photo: Ethan Jodziewicz, used with permission.

Maya de Vitry Announces Fifth Studio Album ‘All My Faith’ & Summer/Fall Tour

Energized by the spontaneity of live performance and a revelatory pursuit of truth in her lyric writing, Maya de Vitry returns with her fifth full-length album, All My Faith. Prioritizing presence and grit over studio polish, she sounds joyously at home in the alt-country and indie-folk realms. (Dreamspider Publicity, 2026)

Recorded and mixed by 5-time Grammy Award-winning engineer Sean Sullivan and self-produced by de Vitry, All My Faith is a buoyant gathering of songs brought to life by a cast of her closest confidantes and collaborators.

Release Date: All My Faith will be released on de Vitry’s own Mad Maker Studio label on July 24 and it’s available for pre-order.

Capturing the Magic in Real Time

From canyons to kitchens, from cold lakes to highway truck stops, the songs form a vibrant collage of joy, sorrow, and gut-wrenching honesty. Whether spinning an inspirational tale about hungover bachelorettes at the Nashville airport or exploring the prison of our own adaptations, de Vitry brings a grounded confidence and quiet charisma rooted in her belief in the power of song to change us.

All My Faith consists of 10 original songs written by Maya over the last year. Forgoing the technology often used to “perfect” studio recordings, de Vitry chose instead to fully trust the moment-to-moment musical conversations of the players and singers gathered around her.

A Commitment to No Edits

“When the band realized that I was planning to do no edits whatsoever on these tracks, the level of commitment from everyone just soared. It was a really exciting atmosphere in the studio,” de Vitry recalls.

True to her vision, everything you hear on this record was captured in real time and recorded over three days at The Tractor Shed in Goodlettsville, TN, from November 23 to 25, 2025.

The All-Star Studio Lineup

To bring this raw energy to life, de Vitry assembled an incredible crew of musicians:

Spencer Cullum & Ethan Ballinger (Miranda Lambert’s touring band) – Pedal steel and guitar
Jo Schornikow (Phosphorescent) – Keys
Ethan Jodziewicz – Bass
Dominic Billett – Drums
Shelby Means & Joel Timmons – Harmony vocals

Inspiration and Themes

A profound connection to nature runs throughout the record, not as a passing metaphor, but as an elemental and transformative force shaping both her voice as a songwriter and her orientation as an artist. At its heart, the album reflects on the ways human beings choose to care for one another in myriad forms and on the generative healing and wisdom that emerge from our relationships with each other and with the natural world. There’s also a common thread running through this record of being willing to name the painful and difficult parts of human relationships.

First Single: “Confidence of the Sun”

With her armor fading and her fire burning from within, “Confidence of the Sun” is bold and bright. It is the album’s first single and is one of several songs on All My Faith that Maya wrote at Blue Rock Artist Ranch & Studio in Wimberley, Texas, where she had been gifted a weeklong songwriting residency in April 2025.

Catch Maya de Vitry on Tour

Maya continues to tour in North America and Europe, whether solo, with her band, as part of other projects, or supporting artists like The Wood Brothers, Aoife O’Donovan, John Craigie, and Mighty Poplar. Tour dates are available online.

More About Maya de Vitry

Originally from the green rolling hills of Lancaster, PA, Maya de Vitry is a Nashville-based fiddler-turned-songwriter whose music blurs the lines of folk, indie rock, and Americana.

Her earliest years in the music industry are represented by the 4 full-length albums and 2 EPs with the roots-Americana trio The Stray Birds, with whom she toured year-round for 7 years throughout the USA, Canada, and Europe.

After this formative chapter, she launched her solo career with her 2019 album Adaptations, earning praise from Rolling Stone Country, NPR Music, and No Depression. Since then, she has released three more full-length albums—How to Break a Fall (2020), Violet Light (2022), and The Only Moment (2024)—and an EP, Infinite (2023).

When she is not on the road, she works as a record producer for other artists within her musical circle (Joel Timmons, Shelby Means, Hannah Delynn). Maya’s songs have also been recorded by The Milk Carton Kids, Nicholas Jamerson, Lindsay Lou, Steve Poltz, and Bronwyn Keith-Hynes.

The result is music that is, quite literally, the intoxicating sound of faith in action, a bandleader fully trusting in her life experiences, her craft, her collaborators, and the moment. It captures the exact presence she has been cultivating in her live shows, and hearing it magnified on record is its own revelation.

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Live-Action Masters of the Universe is Now in Theaters

Idris Elba, Kristen Wiig, Tom Wilton, Nicholas Galitzine, and Camila Mendes star in He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, now in theaters. Photo: Amazon MGM Studios.

By the Power of Grayskull! Masters of the Universe Hits the Big Screen This Month

I grew up watching the He-Man animated series. For more than four decades, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe has remained a beloved staple of pop culture.

Debuting in 1983, the original animated series captivated audiences with its colorful characters, epic battles, and the timeless struggle between good and evil. Fans were drawn to Prince Adam’s transformation into He-Man—the heroic defender of Eternia—and to deeply memorable villains like Skeletor. The show’s core themes of courage, friendship, and responsibility continue to resonate with viewers of all ages, while pure nostalgia has helped introduce the franchise to entire new generations.

Now, He-Man returns to the big screen in the live-action Masters of the Universe, arriving in theaters this month! Directed by Travis Knight and starring Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man, the film promises an action-packed adventure that brings the legendary world of Eternia to life for a new era of fans.

It’s now playing in theaters everywhere!

🎬 New Movie Release: Masters of the Universe

Masters of the Universe is an epic sword-and-sorcery film based on the iconic media franchise by Mattel. Mark your calendars, because this marks the second live-action film adaptation since the cult-classic 1987 film.

Quick Facts:

Director: Travis Knight
Writers: Chris Butler, Aaron Nee, Adam Nee, and David Callaham
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 2 hours 20 minutes

🎭 The Star-Studded Cast

The new film brings together an incredible ensemble cast to bring Eternia to life:

Nicholas Galitzine as Prince Adam / He-Man
Camila Mendes * Jared Leto * Alison Brie * James Purefoy * Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson * Charlotte Riley * Kristen Wiig * Morena Baccarin * Idris Elba

📜 Official Synopsis

In the furthest regions of space, the kingdom of Eternia is threatened by the villainous Skeletor and his mischievous armies of darkness. To save his father’s kingdom and protect the lives of those he holds dear, young Prince Adam must retrieve a mythical sword and become the fabled warrior known only as “He-Man.” (IMDb, 2026)

Are you planning to see it? Whether you’re a die-hard fan from the ’83 cartoon era or brand new to Eternia, let me know your thoughts on the new live-action look in the comments below!

Boone Creek’s 1977 Debut Reissued with Vince Gill & Unreleased Tracks

The genre-defining 1977 album: Boone Creek’s self-titled debut returns. Photo: Craft Recordings, used with permission.

Lost Bluegrass Treasure Unearthed: Boone Creek’s Legendary 1977 Debut Returns with Unreleased Tracks

The wait is finally over for bluegrass purists and progressive roots fans alike. Craft Recordings and HighTone Records have announced the long-awaited return of Boone Creek, the self-titled 1977 debut from the boundary-pushing supergroup. (Craft Recordings, 2026)

Featuring future bluegrass luminaries Ricky Skaggs, Jerry Douglas, Wes Golding, and Terry Baucom, this landmark album is stepping out of the vault and into the modern era.

A Historic Reissue Across All Formats

Long out of print and previously unavailable outside its original release, Boone Creek is making a massive comeback on June 26.

First Vinyl Pressing in nearly five decades.
Debut Releases on CD and all streaming platforms (including hi-res digital).
Pre-orders are available.

🎧 First Listen: “I’m Gonna Settle Down”

To celebrate the announcement, you can stream or download Boone Creek’s soul-stirring take on the Flatt & Scruggs classic, “I’m Gonna Settle Down,” right now. The track perfectly showcases the dazzling musicianship and fiery chemistry of these four masters.

50 Years in the Making: The Mystery of the Lost Tapes

In 1976, fresh off their tenure with J.D. Crowe & the New South, Ricky Skaggs (mandolin, fiddle, guitar, vocals) and Jerry Douglas (Dobro, vocals) joined forces with songwriter Wes Golding (guitar) and Terry Baucom (banjo). Together, they created a daring new sound that honored bluegrass tradition while boldly expanding its possibilities with elements of jam-band looseness, timeless pop, and 1970s soft-rock.

But for decades, a piece of that history was missing.

“When it came time to collect the tapes, it was found that the engineer had absconded with them.” — Jerry Douglas

Nearly five decades later, the tapes were finally tracked down, but they were moldy and badly damaged. Following an intense restoration effort, four previously unreleased session recordings were rescued. These bonus tracks reveal an even bolder, more experimental side of Boone Creek, including the freewheeling “Hitchhiking to California” and the horn-laced, subtly psychedelic “Dream Song.” One of the recovered tracks, “Misty Wind,” even features harmony vocals from country legend Vince Gill, who briefly played bass for the band.

What the Legends Are Saying

“It’s been over 50 years since Boone Creek made these recordings and it’s great to hear them remastered. They sound better than ever, and I never thought the previously unreleased cuts would see the light of day. A big thanks to my bandmate, brother Jerry Douglas, for assisting in the remastering process—great job!” — Ricky Skaggs

Where Are They Now? The Boone Creek Legacy

Boone Creek only put out one more album (One Way Track in 1978) before disbanding, but its members went on to shape the face of American roots music:

Ricky Skaggs: Just 23 during Boone Creek, he went on to join Emmylou Harris’ Hot Band and forged a legendary career, earning 15 GRAMMY Awards.
Jerry Douglas: Recognized as one of the most influential Dobro players in history, Douglas has garnered 16 GRAMMY Awards and is a featured member of Alison Krauss and Union Station.
Wes Golding: Later performed with the beloved Shenandoah Cut-Ups and co-founded Wes Golding & Sure Fire.
Terry Baucom: A founding member of Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver and IIIrd Tyme Out, Baucom passed away in 2023, receiving a Distinguished Achievement Award at that year’s IBMA Bluegrass Music Awards.

A Snapshot of Bluegrass History

Today, Boone Creek stands as both a time capsule and a revelation: a snapshot of four extraordinary musicians at the start of their journeys, unafraid to test the limits of their craft.

Are you excited to spin this progressive bluegrass classic on vinyl? Let me know in the comments below, and don’t forget to pre-order your copy today!

Choir Boy Teams Up With Producer Jorge Elbrecht for New Track ‘I’ll Always Let You Down’

Choir Boy L-R: Chaz Costello, Adam Klopp, Michael Paulsen, Jeff Kleinman
Photo: Kris Kirk, used with permission.

Ethereal Indie Darlings Choir Boy Triumphantly Return With New Single, “I’ll Always Let You Down”

Ethereal indie darlings Choir Boy have triumphantly returned with their brand-new single, “I’ll Always Let You Down,” produced by the legendary Jorge Elbrecht (Sky Ferreira, Japanese Breakfast). (another side, 2026)

Marking their first taste of new music since 2020, the track hit just in time for their support tour with AFI. The single is available now via Dais Records and is accompanied by a charmingly bizarre, self-directed animated music video.

Sensual, Sinister, Sardonic

“I’ll Always Let You Down” finds Choir Boy at the height of their powers, taking their nostalgia-laced, romantic dream pop to thrilling new depths. The track manages to sound simultaneously sensual and sinister, equal parts delight and sorrow.

Musically, drum machines shuffle over a dirty synth bass while bright bells blossom under the light of frontman Adam Klopp’s angelic vocals. When pressed to describe the deeper meaning behind the track, Klopp offers a grin:

“(I’ll Always) is an anti-love song—a sardonic self-indictment of a failing lover.”

Watch the official music video below:

“Just Say That We ‘Got Lost'”

“Triumphantly return?” Time is a notorious trickster, and the band is jovial when confronting the four-year gap since their last major release.

“Just say that we ‘Got Lost,'” they joke.

Over the past four years, Choir Boy hasn’t exactly been idle. They have continued making surrealist music videos, sharing avant-garde updates on social media, and playing live across North America and Europe. Yet, for their dedicated fanbase, the lack of new music has felt like an eternity.

“Tell everyone the delays are my fault,” Klopp asserts through laughter. “Blame everything on me.”

Following the end of their run with Provoker, Choir Boy’s momentum was at an all-time high. After kicking off 2026 with a series of one-off shows in Las Vegas and Los Angeles, a creative rebirth took place, leading directly to the recording of “I’ll Always Let You Down.”

The Jorge Elbrecht Connection

The final piece of the puzzle fell into place when the band tapped Jorge Elbrecht, a renowned songwriter and stalwart of Los Angeles’s underground music community, to produce the new single.

Together, the band and producer immediately clicked, finding a harmonious workflow and “a shared sense of humor about the bleakness.”

“In [the song’s] previous incarnation, before we were working with Jorge, there was something missing,” the band reflects. While producing the track, Elbrecht contributed fresh sounds and arrangements, encouraging the band to dive even deeper into the depths.

The result? A new day, carrying on right where they belong. Serendipitously, the themes of their upcoming music and the greater arc of Choir Boy are finally coming together.

Their ultimate takeaway? “Redemption.”

About Choir Boy

The Origin

“Choir Boy” was what kids called singer/songwriter Adam Klopp in his early teens when he fronted punk cover bands in Cleveland, Ohio. Though intended as an insult, the label seemed fitting given Klopp’s religious upbringing and angelic voice. After high school, Adam left Ohio for college in Utah. While his academic career was short-lived, he seamlessly integrated into Provo and Salt Lake City’s underground music and art scenes, left religion behind, and officially named his new project Choir Boy. (Dais Records, 2026)

The Evolution

Since their debut album, Passive With Desire, the dream-pop outfit has gained a massive cult following in underground circles. Choir Boy’s signature sound relies on a perfect blend of nostalgia-laced romantic pop music, brought to life by a stellar lineup:

Adam Klopp – Stunning vocal range, lyrics, and melodies
Chaz Costello – Bass (Fossil Arms, Sculpture Club, Human Leather)
Jeff Kleinman – Saxophone and Keyboards
Michael Paulsen – Guitar

“I’ll Always Let You Down” is out now on Dais Records.

Legendary Tony Rice 1977 Self-Titled Album to Be Reissued for 75th Birthday

Tony Rice’s 1977 self-titled album returns on vinyl and digital. Photo: Craft Recordings, used with permission.

Bluegrass Legend Tony Rice’s 1977 Masterpiece Returns for 75th Birthday Celebration

Los Angeles, CA — In celebration of what would have been influential bluegrass guitarist Tony Rice’s 75th birthday, Craft Recordings has announced the return of his seminal 1977 self-titled album. (Craft Recordings, 2026)

Out of print for more than 40 years, Tony Rice captured a pivotal shift in bluegrass toward a more expansive, ensemble-driven sound. Featuring a “who’s who” of bluegrass legends, the record remains a cornerstone of the “new acoustic” genre, seamlessly blending bluegrass standards with contemporary compositions.

The Definitive Reissue

For the first time in decades, fans can experience this foundational recording in its purest form.

Release Date: June 5
Format: Vinyl (featuring AAA mastering) and Digital (Standard/Hi-Res)
Audio Quality: Cut from the original tapes with all-analog (AAA) mastering by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio.
Packaging: A faithful replication of the original 1977 jacket design.
Listen Now: Rice’s take on the traditional folk ballad “Banks of the Ohio” is available to stream today.

Pre-save/Pre-order the album here

A Revolutionary Force in Bluegrass

Tony Rice (1951–2020) was more than just a guitarist; he was an innovative force who shaped the very sound of modern bluegrass.

Born in Virginia and raised in Los Angeles, Rice first rose to prominence in Louisville, KY, as the lead vocalist and guitarist for J.D. Crowe’s legendary group, The New South. In the mid-’70s, Rice returned to California to join the David Grisman Quintet, where he began incorporating jazz, classical, and other sophisticated styles into his playing.

The Birth of “New Acoustic”

Released during his tenure with Grisman, Tony Rice was the guitarist’s third studio album and his first for Rounder Records. It stands as a prime example of the “new acoustic” style—an improvisation-driven blend of bluegrass, jazz, and prog-rock played on wholly acoustic instrumentation.

The album features an incredible lineup of collaborators:

Larry Rice: Mandolin
J.D. Crowe: Banjo, Backup Vocals
Jerry Douglas: Dobro
David Grisman: Mandolin
Darol Anger: Fiddle
Todd Phillips: Bass
Richard Greene: Fiddle

Together, they artfully blend tradition with progression, moving from Bill Monroe’s “Big Mon” to contemporary compositions like Grisman’s “Rattlesnake.”

An Enduring Legacy

Rice’s influence cannot be overstated. Ricky Skaggs once hailed him as “the single most influential acoustic guitar player in the last 50 years.”

Over a four-decade career, Rice released over a dozen solo albums—including the acclaimed Church Street Blues (1983)—and over two dozen collaborative titles. A GRAMMY® Award winner and International Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame inductee, Rice’s distinctive touch and harmonic complexity continue to influence generations of pickers worldwide.

Tony Rice Track Listing (Vinyl)

Side A:

Banks of the Ohio
Rattlesnake
Mr. Engineer
Plastic Banana
Don’t Give Your Heart to a Rambler
Farewell Blues

Side B:

Way Downtown
Stoney Creek
Hills of Roane County
Eighth of January
Big Mon
Temperance Reel

John Mailander’s Forecast Announces New EP ‘Little Wheel // Hope Looming’

John Mailander’s Forecast has unveiled its spellbinding adaptation of Buffy Sainte-Marie’s ‘Little Wheel Spin and Spin.’ Photo: Steph Heath with Smiling Eyes Media, used with permission.

New Music: John Mailander’s Forecast Announces New EP Little Wheel // Hope Looming

NASHVILLE — Acclaimed multi-instrumentalist John Mailander and his visionary collective, Forecast, have announced the independent release of their new 3-track EP, Little Wheel // Hope Looming, arriving May 8, 2026. (Dreamspider Publicity, 2026)

Following their 2025 full-length album Let The World In, this latest offering marks a poignant exploration of historical cycles, post-rock textures, and adventurous improvisation.

The Tracklist: A Study in Light and Dark

The EP clocks in at 13 minutes and 18 seconds, weaving together a potent mix of vocal urgency and instrumental atmosphere:

“Little Wheel Spin And Spin” (Buffy Sainte-Marie cover)
“Hope, Looming” (Original instrumental)
“(turnstile)” (Ambient sample piece)

Breaking the Cycle: “Little Wheel Spin And Spin”

The EP opens with a timely rendition of Buffy Sainte-Marie’s 1966 classic, featuring guest Kristina Train on lead vocals. Recorded just days before the U.S. entered the conflict with Iran, the track serves as a chilling commentary on the “war machine.”

“It’s chilling to me how relevant these lyrics are today,” says Mailander. “I think our version, and Kristina’s delivery… is felt with a renewed urgency, anger, and resistance… We turned it into a jam vehicle for group improvisation.”

The B-Side: “Hope, Looming”

Inspired by post-rock giants like Godspeed You! Black Emperor and Sigur Ros, this instrumental piece explores the “grey areas” of emotion. It serves as a tonal counterweight to the opening track, a slow-building crescendo meant to signal a glimmer of hope on the horizon.

The Coda: “(turnstile)”

The project is tied together by an unsettling yet hopeful ambient piece, featuring a manipulated sample of a train station turnstile layered over synth improvisations.

Meet The Forecast

Recorded live at Southern Ground Studio by Dan Davis, the ensemble features some of the finest players in the Nashville scene:

Musician	Instrument(s)
John Mailander	Fiddle, Piano, Electronics
Ethan Jodziewicz	Upright & Electric Bass
Chris Lippincott	Pedal Steel Guitar, Wurlitzer
Dean Miller	Tenor Saxophone
Mark Raudabaugh	Drums, Percussion
Jake Stargel	Acoustic guitar

About John Mailander

Beyond leading Forecast, Mailander is a prolific collaborator and a current member of Bruce Hornsby & The Noisemakers.

A Berklee College of Music alumnus, his fiddle and multi-instrumental work have graced recordings by a “who’s who” of modern music, including:

Billy Strings (The Grammy-winning Home)
Noah Kahan
Dermot Kennedy
Lin-Manuel Miranda
Lucy Dacus

Moving to Nashville in 2015, Mailander formed Forecast to step outside the bounds of bluegrass and explore themes inspired by film scores and jazz-fusion greats like the Pat Metheny Group.

Little Wheel // Hope Looming is available on all major streaming platforms May 8, 2026.

Photo: Michael Weintrob, used with permission.

Exploring Supernatural Horror Cinema: New Movie ‘Hokum’

Adam Scott stars in Hokum, now in theaters. Photo: NEON

The Unseen Terror: Why Supernatural Horror Still Haunts Us

Supernatural horror films tap into fears that transcend the physical world. Unlike realistic horror, which relies on tangible threats like serial killers or survival scenarios, supernatural horror explores the unknown. It leans into ghosts, demons, curses, and otherworldly forces that defy both logic and human control.

This genre appeals to a deep-seated psychological unease: the unsettling idea that forces beyond our understanding are lurking just out of sight, watching and waiting.

The Evolution of the Eerie

Over the decades, the appeal of supernatural horror has evolved alongside our cultural anxieties:

Early Era: Films often reflected religious fears or moral consequences, portraying evil as a direct result of sin or a terrifying glimpse into the afterlife.
Modern Era: As society became more secular, the focus shifted toward internal struggles. Today, supernatural threats often serve as metaphors for trauma, grief, and the fragility of the human mind.

These movies stand the test of time because they confront us with the limits of human understanding. They invite viewers to imagine a world where the rules of physics and logic no longer apply, making the fear feel existential and lingering long after the credits roll.

New Movie Spotlight: Hokum

If you’re looking to test your nerves with the latest in supernatural cinema, Hokum is now playing in theaters.

Synopsis

Written by Damian McCarthy, the film follows novelist Ohm Bauman (Adam Scott) as he retreats to a remote inn to scatter his parents’ ashes. His stay takes a dark turn as he becomes consumed by local legends of a witch haunting the honeymoon suite. Before long, disturbing visions and a shocking disappearance force Bauman to confront the darkest corners of his own past. (IMDb, 2026)

Film Details

Category	Information
Director/Writer	Damian McCarthy
Starring	Adam Scott, Peter Coonan, David Wilmot
Genre	Supernatural Horror
Rating	R
Runtime	1h 47min

Bottom Line: Hokum promises to be a gripping addition to the genre, blending isolation with the psychological weight of the past. Catch it on the big screen… if you dare.

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