Category: new releases

Upcoming album release: Fear of Falling Stars – Kristen Grainger & True North

Kristen Grainger & True North launch new album Fear of Falling Stars – due out November 10, 2023. Photo: Kristen Grainger & True North

In a world thirsting for authenticity and genuine connection, Kristen Grainger & True North offers a wellspring of soul-stirring songs. Led by the enchanting vocals of Kristen Grainger and drawing on elements of bluegrass, country, and Americana, the Pacific Northwest string band writes songs that connect us, illuminating universal truths with haunting beauty. The band is made up of three champion instrumentalists, Dan Wetzel, Martin Stevens, and Josh Adkins, and is fronted by lead vocalist Kristen Grainger, a storied songwriter who has taken top honors at some of the nation’s most prestigious songwriting competitions, including Telluride Bluegrass Festival, MerleFest, and the USA Songwriting Contest. Kristen Grainger & True North launch their new album with the first single Across the Mountains. The new album, Fear of Falling Stars, will be out November 10, 2023. (IV-PR, 2023)

In the first four measures of Kristen Grainger & True North’s new tune Across the Mountains, listeners experience the full range of what sets the award-winning Americana quartet apart; tried and true musicianship and songcraft steeped in both the old and new. With equal focus on compelling songwriting and excellent instrumental execution, this new album offers ten songs that nestle in the ear on the way to the heart. From heart-wrenching ballads to foot-stomping anthems, Fear of Falling Stars reveals a series of musical zoom shots through the windows of modern life.

Fans can stream or purchase Across the Mountains, watch the lyric video, premiered by The Bluegrass Situation, and stay up to date on Fear of Falling Stars ahead of its November release.

Fear of Falling Stars track list:
Don’t Take Me Back
Go-Nowhere Town
Extraordinary Grace
Memories and Moments
Across the Mountains
It’s the Little Things
The Avalanche
Pent-Up
What Might Have Been
Stop Me If I Told You This Before

Catch Kristen Grainger on tour:
November 4 – Seattle, WA – Concerts At Our House Series
November 10 – Portland, OR – PNC Live Studio Concert
November 18 – Portland, OR – Alberta Rose Theatre
November 29 – Sisters, OR – The Belfry

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New book release: ‘Cliff’ by John M. Spagnoli

‘Cliff’ is the new novel by John M. Spagnoli. Photo: Barnes & Noble.

Detective and crime novels are so interesting to read because they tend to include elements of suspense and investigation. Today’s new book release combines the best of investigations with an unexpected botanical subplot. If you are a fan of both, may I recommend “Cliff” by John Spagnoli. Seasoned detectives Skull and Violet are hot on the trail on a new case when the unexpected happens. If good old detective stories are your favorite read, give this one a try. It is available on Barnes & Noble as an e-book.

John Spagnoli, author of the psychological thriller novel “Shadowed Soul” and a botanical primer, “How to Grow Worsleya Seeds,” is both a storyteller of suspenseful tales and botanist. An avid gardener with experience in hybridization, he created new day lily and clivia plant crosses. A New York City native, he is the proud father of two ‘seedlings’ of his own. He underpins his new detective novel, “Cliff,” with his own skilled research about rare and common plants. (John Spagnoli, 2023)

“Cliff” – Told through the eyes of two seasoned detectives, Skull and Violet, this story has as many twists and turns as the sinuous cliff side roads where mysterious murders occur. When Skull returns from military service with PTSD, Violet covers for him as they sleuth out cold cases in the seaside metropolis where they grew up as besties. The duo struggles with unrequited love for each other while scrambling to investigate a new rash of murders masquerading as suicides. From women dropped over cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean to paranormal apparitions in the twilight hours, nothing make sense to the detectives until rumors of a cult lead to unexpected botanical revelations. Colorful characters spice the treacherous hunt to catch the perpetrators before the next victim is sacrificed. Will Skull’s PTSD compromise the investigation before they can bring the serial killers to justice?

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New horror movie release: The Curse of Willow Song

Karen Lam’s highly anticipated horror movie is out now on digital platforms. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Karen Lam‘s highly-anticipated The Curse of Willow Song, starring Jennifer Body’s Valerie Tian, has been picked up by Uncork’d Entertainment. The horror picture, receiving great early buzz thanks to its strong special effects, is now available on digital formats including iTunes, Amazon, Vudu, Google, YouTube movies, and more. (October Coast, 2023)

The Curse of Willow Song – Willow Song, a recovering addict, is released on probation after serving her prison term for arson. Struggling to start over, she faces systemic racism and eviction. Willow finds herself in a concrete wasteland. Facing isolation and displacement, shadows creep into Willow’s mind and her nightmares become too real. Against the backdrop of a city seen in vacant properties and people left behind. Willow can’t escape the nightmares, as the shadows come to life.

“The Curse of Willow Song has so much to offer. It will appeal for the genre audience but also the Asian community – as represented in front of and behind camera”, said Keith Leopard, President Uncork’d Entertainment. “Karen Lam is truly one of the most exceptional filmmakers out there, and The Curse of Willow Song reiterates that.”

The Black Lillies’ Cruz Contreras turns the page with psychedelic solo debut Cosmico

Cosmico is Cruz Contreras’ debut album. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, songwriter, and producer Cruz Contreras has impacted Americana music worldwide with projects Robinella and the CCstringband (1998-2007) and The Black Lillies (2009-2019). While in college, Contreras co-founded Robinella and the CCstringband, lending his initials to the string band that featured vocalist and guitarist Robinella, Billy Contreras on fiddle, Taylor Coker on upright bass, Steve Kovalcheck on electric guitar, and Contreras as bandleader on mandolin. A split from his work and life with Robinella in 2007 led to new beginnings for Contreras, who founded The Black Lillies in 2009. The Black Lillies cemented his reputation as an insightful songwriter and a powerhouse vocalist. With the release of his debut album Cosmico, Cruz Contreras is born again, able to express himself with pure artistic integrity and proud to put out this release using his own name; his family’s name. (IV-PR, 2023)

Following a too-long period of self-doubt, both personally and in his songwriting—“It was so confusing because it seems to be what I’ve always been best at and has brought me so much joy,” he reflects—Contreras used the writing and recording process of Cosmico to center himself, push out his musical demons, and open the door for a fresh chapter. The resulting album feels pure; a cosmic amalgamation of influences and personal styles from Contreras’s entire career. Introspective lyrics, inventive musicianship, and a notable psychedelic edge on the production of the album define Cosmico, almost as much as a confident-as-ever Cruz, whose voice has matured into a rich instrument for his elevated lyrics. “These songs are fresh, timely, and especially relatable during these strange times,” Contreras says. “I made Cosmico because the world needs music that brings people together, from all walks of life, more than ever.” Engineered by Craig Alvin, Cosmico is a sonic journey that features Contreras on keyboards in his most intimate vocal and lyrical setting while taking his traditional musical stylings to epic astral regions.

Fans can stream or purchase Cosmico in its entirety by following this link.

Cosmico track list:
Flashing Light
Doin’ Time
Stop Giving Your Heart Away
Call Me Crazy
Separate Minds
Let Somebody Love You
Time Stand Still
Breaking A Habit
Road That Has No End

Catch Cruz Contreras on tour:
October 4-6 – Sevierville, TN – Dollywood’s Harvest Festival
October 26 – Troy, VA – Yarnival 2023
November 3 – Thomas, WV – The Purple Fiddle
December 15 – Roanoke, VA – 5 Points Music Sanctuary

New book release: ‘The Influencer’ by Christopher M. Jones

‘The Influencer’ is the new suspense thriller by Christopher M. Jones. Photo: Christopher M. Jones, used with permission.

I remember the pre-internet days, but nowadays, having an online presence has become the norm. Have you ever wondered what it would be like to suddenly have no digital presence; and worse of all, to have no one remember you? If you like suspense thrillers with a techno twist as much as I do, today’s new book release might just be your next big read. It imagines a world where a mysterious organization controls and influences every aspect of society. Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? I am talking about Dr. Christopher M. Jones’ new novel “The Influencer,” that promises to captivate readers with its touching exploration of a hyper-connected world. Order your copy today.

With over fifteen years of experience in multiple aspects of the tech industry, Dr. Christopher M. Jones combines his professional insights with a passion for storytelling. His comprehensive understanding of technology, strategic planning, and the dynamics of a tech-centric society infuses depth and realism into his literary creations. A seasoned professional with a rich background in technology and computer science management, he unveils his latest work, “The Influencer.” This sci-fi thriller explores the fragile line between online fame and anonymity, blending themes of digital dystopia, existential crises, and high-stakes pursuit. For a deeper insight into “The Influencer” and exclusive updates, visit the official book website. 

Author Christopher M. Jones. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

“The Influencer” –  At the heart of the tale is Ira Bode, a globally celebrated social media star. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she awakens to a reality where her entire digital footprint has vanished, propelling her into a life on the run from ‘The Council.’ This mysterious organization, with its tight grip over media, commerce, and politics, dispatches its ominous enforcers—the Hat Men—to capture Ira. Amidst this chaos, she finds an ally in Owen, the only person who remembers her existence.

“The Influencer” is not just a work of fiction; it is a mirror reflecting our contemporary society, where online validation often overshadows real-life connections. It challenges readers to ponder upon the intricacies of our digital identities and the potential consequences of a life deeply entwined with the online realm. Dr. Jones has meticulously weaved themes that resonate with today’s digital age, touching on topics of online identity, tech-driven control, and the societal implications of a digital-first existence. His background in technology and education provides depth to the narrative, making it as thought-provoking as it is engaging. (Dr. Christopher M. Jones, 2023)

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Courtesy photo, used with permission.

New book release: ‘Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1’ by Stephanie Tyo

‘Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1’ is the new paranormal fantasy novel by Stephanie Tyo. Photo: Amazon

Nothing beats an enchanting love story with a touch of the paranormal and that is exactly what today’s new book release is all about. If you like romance novels with complex characters and a complicated fairy tale love story, consider “Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1” by Stephanie Tyo. With highly descriptive language and an intense storyline, it is sure to please the romance lover in everyone. It is book one in the Eternally Yours series and is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Goodreads, and other book retailers.

Stephanie Tyo resides in Cornwall, Ontario and brings a unique blend of empathy and intellect to her writing. Trained as a medical assistant and personal support worker, she is now pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Women and Gender Studies. Her ultimate aspiration is to become a therapist and eventually a psychologist. Stephanie is enthusiastically exploring various genres. Her love for storytelling is deeply entwined with her commitment to lifelong learning, a value she aims to inspire in her readers. At the heart of Stephanie’s life are her two teenage daughters, their experiences providing a wealth of inspiration for her narratives. Her stories, infused with authentic emotions and experiences, reflect her fascination with the diverse spectrum of human life. Stephanie’s work promises to resonate with readers who share her love for compelling narratives and continuous learning. In her new book “Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1,” Quinn’s world is about to change forever as she is faced with having to make a choice that will shape her future. (Amazon, 2023)

“Love Beyond Age: Eternally Yours Book 1” – Set in the small city of Cornwall, Ontario, Quinn is determined to become a psychologist. She leads a simple life with her father, saving for her dreams. However, everything shifts when she meets James, a captivating and enigmatic young man by the river. Their connection grows, and as they embark on their university journeys, Quinn finds herself torn between the mysterious James and her competitive friend, Jasper, for whom she develops feelings. Secrets and revelations unfold, and Quinn discovers the shocking truth about James’ hidden secret. As danger looms and relationships are tested, old feelings resurface, and a love triangle ensues, pushing Quinn to the edge.

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Upcoming new horror movie release: Grieve

From Terror Films, Grieve will be out on digital platforms on Friday October 6, 2023. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

It’s officially spooky season! Looking for a horror movie to stream next weekend? Here is a new one from Terror Films.

The new atmospheric horror thriller Grieve, written and directed by Robbie Smith and starring Paris Peterson and Danielle Keaton, hits digital platforms Friday October 6 in North America. It will be available on JOBLO MOVIES, iTunes, and more.

Grieve – A man engulfed in the suffocating grip of loss finds his life fragmented. Struggling to navigate through his emotional fog, his mother suggests a retreat to her cabin – but an ancient entity that thrives on sorrow has taken root. The New England winter punctuates this love letter to creeping horror and slow cinema, like a marriage of Chantal Ackerman and Kiyoshi Kurosawa. (October Coast, 2023)

Courtesy photo, used with permission.
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New book release: ‘House One’ by Nina Wilson

‘House One’ is the new novel by Nina Wilson. Photo: Amazon

Who can resist a good mystery novel filled with suspense and spooky settings? These types of books have always been my favorite, and growing up, I would look forward to my next suspenseful read. Today’s new book release is a novel for young readers ages 15-18 that centers around the strange goings on in a summer camp for children. “House One” by Nina Wilson takes place at a summer camp and involves unexplained deaths and malevolent forces. Check it out for yourself. Suitable for all readers, it is available on Amazon.

Nina Wilson is an author, poet, and photographer from the middle of nowhere Iowa. She has a B.A. in History and Fiction, and an M.F.A. in fiction. She has published a handful of poems in various literary magazines. Her two previous novels, “Surrender Language” and “Malady,” were published by Adelaide Books, the editor of which unfortunately is now involved in a handful of class-action lawsuits for fraud. Personally, she is an avid cat-lover, history nerd, and spear-fighter in a Historical European Martial Arts group. She enjoys hiking with her cats and cemetery photography. Her novel “House One” is largely based on her experience working at a summer camp for six summers and all the mayhem and mystery that went along with it. (Nina Wilson, 2023)

“House One” – Deep in the hills of Greenville, Iowa sits a century-old summer camp for children—Camp Kellova. Throughout the various remodels over time, House One remains a mysterious entity. Danger still lurks and unexplained deaths continue with frequency. Long-time camp counselor, Laurel has always been leery of House One. This summer, after she pulls a body out of Lake Owaissa, she decides it is time to find out why the spirit of this cabin has become so merciless. What malevolent forces are behind the mysterious happenings at House One? More importantly, what can Laurel do to keep the children out of its shadowy grip?

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New bluegrass album: The Long And Lonesome Letting Go

Jim Lauderdale taps the ever talented Po’ Ramblin’ Boys for a new bluegrass album. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

On September 15, Jim Lauderdale and The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys released The Long And Lonesome Letting Go, a twelve-song LP of all-new Lauderdale co-writes—half of which was written with Po’ Ramblin’ Boys guitarist Josh Rinkel. Other co-writers include 10-time IBMA Award winner Becky Buller, North Carolina old soul Joe Newberry, well-traveled producer/songwriter Jimmy Ritchey, and rising young guns Logan Ledger and Alex Leach. Whether as co-writer, bandleader, master of ceremonies, or musical ambassador for musical styles or states, Lauderdale has been one of Americana music’s all-time great collaborators and The Long and Lonesome Letting Go stands as one of the best collaborative works in his 36-album discography. (IV-PR, 2023)

“When he came to ask about making an album, we were seriously blown away,” says C.J. Lewandowski, mandolinist of Grammy-nominated bluegrass outfit The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys. “It was really validating—Jim Lauderdale calling us to do a bluegrass album,” says Lewandowski. “We must be doing something right,” says one of the genre’s most promising young torchbearers who saw Lauderdale perform many times throughout his upbringing in Missouri.

Lauderdale and The Po Ramblin’ Boys shared the album’s lead-off track, “Long And Lonesome Letting Go,” another co-write, this time with prolific writer and seasoned multi-instrumentalist, Bob Minner. Joining the already-stacked lineup is one more unmistakable voice; that high tenor of Bluegrass Hall of Famer Del McCoury. Fans can hear the up tempo heartache of “Long And Lonesome Letting Go” here or at No Depression where “Long And Lonesome Letting Go” is in their Bonus Tracks column.

Jim Lauderdale and The Po’ Ramblin’ Boys will both be headed to this year’s IBMA World Of Bluegrass conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, performing The Long And Lonesome Letting Go tunes together as well as separate sets of their own original songs. 

The Long And Lonesome Letting Go track list:
Long And Lonesome Letting Go (2:43)
She’s On A Different Train (2:31)
I’m Only So Good At Being Good (4:13)
You Fell Off The Face Of The Earth (2:51)
Last Resort (2:50)
Ghost Of A Rose (3:51)
Darkness Is The Other Side of Light (2:41)
If I Could Only Get My Heart To See (2:20)
That Was When We Were Together (2:40)
A Better Place (2:36)
She’s The Light (3:31)
Drop The Hammer Down (2:35)

Jim Lauderdale Tour Dates:
September 29 FRI IBMA Bluegrass Live Raleigh, NC
October 5 Suwannee Roots Revival Live Oak, FL
October 5 Boot Barn Hall at Bourbon Brothers Gainesville, GA
October 12Gram Parsons Guitar Pull and Tribute Festival Waycross, GA
October 17 Jim Lauderdale live at People’s Brewing Lafayette, IN
November 10 Center Austin, TX, United States
November 11 Jim Lauderdale with special guest Tony Ramey Richardson, TX
November 16 The Franklin Theatre Songwriter Series: Sierra Hull, Jim Lauderdale, Bobby Tomberlin, & Lillie Mae Franklin, TN, United States
November 17 Jim Lauderdale LIVE Paducah, KY, United States
February 4 Outlaw Country Cruise 2024 Andover, FL, United States
February 15 Tractor Tavern Sunny Sweeney Seattle, WA, United States

Po’ Ramblin’ Boys Tour Dates:
September 30 IBMA World of Bluegrass at Red Hat Amphitheater Raleigh, NC
October 16 Gatlinburg Craftsman’s Fair Gatlinburg, TN
October 17 Gatlinburg Craftsman’s Fair Gatlinburg, TN
October 18 Gatlinburg Craftsman’s Fair Gatlinburg, TN
October 19 Bluegrass Island Music Festival Manteo, NC
November 3 The Rex Galax, VA

New book release: ‘Rehab for Love: Through the Reflection’ by Dara Randall

‘Rehab for Love: Through the Reflection’ is the new self help book by Dara Randall. Photo: Amazon

There are many self help books out to help survivors of abuse and demand for these resources is growing. What makes today’s new book unique is that it combines workbook exercises, journaling prompts, and poetry to guide readers in their path to recovery. This combination self help and poetry book does more than dish out advice, it involves readers in their own recovery. If you or someone you know is looking for an interactive self help book, consider “Rehab For Love: Through the Reflection” by Dara Randall. It is available on Amazon.

Dara Randall is an Access Consciousness Practitioner, Pranic Healer, NLP Practitioner, and Reiki Healer, exploring multifaceted healing journeys for personal growth. As a solo entrepreneur, they nurture their creative vision, forging an impactful path that uplifts the lives of others through their forthcoming poetry book on healing love addiction. “Rehab For Love: Through the Reflection” caters to two intertwined groups: survivors of narcissistic abuse seeking healing and poetry enthusiasts. (Dara Randall, 2023)

“Rehab For Love: Through the Reflection” metaphorically explores the link between unhealthy love and substance abuse, intertwining a self-help workbook with a story written in poetry. As the pages turn, the story unveils the mesmerizing allure of falling into a narcissistic relationship, guiding readers towards profound self-discovery and healing. The poetry beautifully illustrates how, like the ever-flowing waters that make up most of our being, we often forget that we are, at our core, beings of love. We chase after external sources to quench a thirst that perpetually resides within us. This book is a reminder that we are not just in pursuit of love; we are love itself. Immerse yourself in this journey of remembering your connection to the infinite wellspring of love that dwells within.

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