Tag: Rock

The Seldom Scene Reimagines a Classic: A Bluegrass Twist on Bob Dylan’s ‘Farewell, Angelina’

The Seldom Scene gives fans a new take on a long-beloved Bob Dylan Song. Photo: Jeromie Stephens, used with permission.

Bethesda, MD -This month, The Seldom Scene released their delicate and masterful version of the timeless classic “Farewell, Angelina.” Written by Bob Dylan for his widely-lauded album Bringing It All Back Home (1965) and famously recorded by Joan Baez, the haunting waltz is still being resurrected six decades later. And not just by US-based songwriters like Jeff Buckley and John Mellencamp—the song has been carried through France and Italy (“Adieu, Angelina,” “Addio Angelina”), India, Sweden, and beyond. The Seldom Scene’s elegiac interpretation glides through intimate conversation between words and strings. (IV PR, 2025)

“This song, written in 1964, is another gem by Bob Dylan,” says Seldom Scene bassist Ronnie Simpkins, whose daughter insisted the band give the song their own treatment. “I’m glad we listened!” he laughs. Basing their arrangement more on Mellencamp’s 1997 Rough Harvest version than the original, the 53-year-running quartet originally from Bethesda, Maryland, gives “Farewell, Angelina” space to breathe and blossom. The track opens with Ron Stewart deftly picking the guitar in duet with Bluegrass Hall of Famer Dudley Connell’s rich, soft voice. One by one, dobro, fiddle, mandolin, and acoustic bass add subtle new layers to the story without overtly announcing themselves. The Seldom Scene’s poignant arrangement gives depth and texture to the song’s surreal poetry.

“Farewell, Angelina” is the latest single from the Seldom Scene’s forthcoming album, Remains to Be Scene—out March 14 on Smithsonian Folkways. Continuing their long-running legacy of pulling gems from outside of and within the bluegrass canon and reimagining them in what is now the Seldom Scene’s signature style, Remains to Be Scene features an interpretation of Jim Croce’s “A Good Time Man Like Me Ain’t Got No Business (Singin’ the Blues),” a pair of songs by Bob Dylan: “Walking Down the Line” and, of course, “Farewell Angelina,” while also revisiting a fan-favorite, “White Line,” from the iconic Live at the Cellar Door album and paying tribute to their inspirations, Flatt & Scruggs, with “Hard Travelin’.”

Americana UK shared an early listen. Today, fans can stream or purchase “Farewell, Angelina” and pre-order or pre-save Remains to Be Scene ahead of its March release here.

Remains to Be Scene tracklist:
Last of the Steam-Powered Trains
Crossroads
A Good Time Man Like Me Ain’t Got No Business (Singin’ the Blues)
Hard Travelin’
Farewell Angelina
Walking Down the Line
Lonesome Day
I Could Cry
White Line
Show Me the Way to Go Home
The Story of My Life

Self-produced with engineering and mixing by Jim Robeson at his studio The Bar in Rockville, Maryland, Remains to Be Scene caps the end of an era for the group in many ways. The album is dedicated to the memory of Bluegrass Hall of Famer and Seldom Scene cofounder Ben Eldridge, who retired from the group in 2014. But Eldridge remained a major presence and friend to the band, penning heartfelt liner notes for this album before his passing in April 2024. 

Also notable is that Remains to Be Scene marks the final album for Dudley Connell, another Bluegrass Hall of Famer as a member of the Johnson Mountain Boys. Connell wrapped up a Seldom Scene tenure of nearly three decades on guitar and vocals with his retirement at the end of 2024. “Twenty-nine years, dude, that’s a long, long time,” Connell says with a laugh. “No regrets, I’ve loved every minute of it, and it’s been a real joy working with these guys for so long. But I want to get out while I still have my mobility and can travel, walk my dog, things like that.”

The Seldom Scene has mostly stayed close to home in the greater Washington, D.C. vicinity for most of its 53 years of existence. Even as the progressive bluegrass quintet’s lineup has turned over multiple times from those early days, The Scene has maintained an admirably high standard of musicality and artistry, on record as well as onstage at live-residency venues like The Birchmere in Alexandria, Virginia.

The band makes old songs sound brand new while putting a bluegrass spin on some of the least-likely cover songs in the genre. Those virtues are all in place on Remains to Be Scene, their 24th album, released on Smithsonian Folkways, on which they cover everybody from Bob Dylan to The Kinks with customary flair. The album is also another milestone effort for the Scene — the first since the passing of co-founder Ben Eldridge (who penned liner notes before his death in April 2024) as well as the last for longtime Scene member Dudley Connell, who is retiring after 29 years in the band. As usual, the rest of the Scene is taking those departures in stride. One way or another, The Seldom Scene will go on. 

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Groovy Vibes and Twangy Tunes: Joel Timmons’ Psychedelic Surf Country

Joel Timmons takes bad dreams and turns them into rock and roll with new single End of the Empire from his forthcoming new album Psychedelic Surf Country. Photo: Joel Timmons

Charleston, SC – Joel Timmons is a dynamic songwriter, musician, and journeyman. Growing up on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, Timmons developed a deep connection to both music and the ocean, influences that permeate his artistic work. His early years were marked by a passion for surfing and a love for music, cultivated in part by his mother, a photographer and park ranger at Fort Moultrie, a vibrant local arts scene, and a close community of aspiring young musicians. The lead vocalist and guitarist for Sol Driven Train, founded by Timmons and his friends during college in 2000, Timmons also plays guitar with Maya de Vitry and makes music with his life-partner and wife, Shelby Means, under the name Sally & George. Psychedelic Surf Country, out February 7, marks the long-time collaborator’s first solo-work. (IV PR, 2025)

Within the patchwork of Joel Timmons’ debut solo album, Psychedelic Surf Country, lies a kaleidoscopic view of the career sideman and band leader’s striking self-awareness. Both in lyricism and musicality, Timmons has adopted an easy-going and reflective view of the world, creating unencumbered and accessible songs from even the most left-field subjects like lighting old Christmas trees ablaze, the highway patrol K9 who paid his band a visit between tour stops, and the tight jeans and Stetson hats that took over his former neighborhood. But it’s in the heavier subject matter, like his latest single, End of the Empire, where Timmons’ upbeat musical attitude shines.

“My wife, Shelby Means, started writing this song on a small boat in the Virgin Islands while surfers rode waves across a nearby reef,” remembers Timmons. It sounds picturesque, but the initial idea brought about an undercurrent of influence from a wildly different place. “My recurring dreams of doom and nightmares of being hunted by an unknown predator—as well as a sense of apocalyptic loss—figured into the co-write.” Ethereal and dreamy from the onset, End of the Empire floats between images of inescapable crashing waves and desperate hiding, looking for escape, but it might take listeners a couple of passes to recognize these as the song itself feels uplifting and borderline anthemic; a testament to Timmons’ positive spin. With the help of Psychedelic Surf Country producer Maya de Vitry, End of the Empire turns into a huge wash of harmonies and a wall of rhythm section. “The recording ended up being a rocker,” says Timmons, “and the guitar is howling.”

Fans can stream and purchase End of the Empire, check out the premiere on Glide Magazine, listen to Timmons’ previously-released singles, The Swimming Song, Guitars, Guns, and Pickup Trucks, Turbo, and The Bullfighter featuring Shovels & Rope’s Cary Ann Hearst, at their respective links, and pre-order or pre-save Psychedelic Surf Country ahead of its February 7th release.

Psychedelic Surf Country tracklist:
Just A Man
Turbo
The Bullfighter
Guitars, Guns, and Pickup Trucks
Edge of the Empire
Cottage by the Sea
Say It To My Face
The Swimming Song
East Nashville Cowboy
Here We Are
Tryin’

Catch Joel Timmons on Tour:
2/8 – Charleston Pour House – Charleston SC
2/12 – Analog at Hutton Hotel – Nashville TN
2/15 – House Concert – Charleston SC ^
2/28-3/2 – Green Parrot Bar – Key West, FL *
3/15 – Charleston Pour House – Charleston SC *
3/19 – Tractor Tavern – Seattle, WA +
3/20 – Showdown – Portland, OR (co-bill w/ Love, Dean) +
3/22 – The Talent Club – Ashland, OR +
3/26 – The ’58 @ Eastside Bowl – Nashville, TN
4/24 – Parlor Room – Northampton, MA +
5/4 – Sundays on the River – Asheville, NC +
5/23-5/25 – Rooster Walk Festival – Martinsville VA *
5/30 – Party At the Point – Mt Pleasant SC *

  • = with Sol Driven Train
    ^ = with Sally & George
  • = with Maya De Vitry

The Power of Music and Charity: Gibson’s Role in Helping Communities Affected by Wildfires

Gibson and Gibson Gives join forces with music brands and humanitarian aid organizations to provide immediate assistance to wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles. Photo: Gibson Gives

NASHVILLE, TN – In the wake of the devastating wildfires in Southern California, Gibson, the iconic American-made instrument brand,and its philanthropic division Gibson Gives, have joined forces with multiple music brands to help support the recovery of music programs and musicians impacted by the fires, as well as raise immediate funds for relief efforts and humanitarian aid organizations across Los Angeles. Gibson has pledged an initial $250,000 across its nonprofit partners for wildfire relief. Gibson Gives is taking action–independently and in partnership with other brands–to make the largest possible impact. For more details and to donate directly, visit here. (Gibson/Gibson Gives, 2025)

To maximize this effort, Gibson, Gibson Gives, and Guitar Center–the world’s largest retailer of musical instruments–as well as its charitable organization The Guitar Center Music Foundation have enlisted the assistance and support of many prominent manufacturers from the music instrument (MI) industry including AKG, AlphaTheta/Pioneer, Audio-Technica, Eastman, ESP Guitars, Hoshino (Ibanez Guitars/TAMA Drums), JBL Professional, C. F. Martin & Co., Pearl Drums, Remo Inc., Roland, DW, Saga, Schecter Guitar Research, Shure, Sony Music, Universal Audio, Vater Percussion, Yamaha, and Avedis Zildjian Co, in a massive and unprecedented donation relief effort.

For musicians, music professionals, or a nonprofit music program based in the Los Angeles area affected by the fires, the Guitar Center Foundation and Gibson Gives are donating a special one-time grant to replace instruments and gear. Los Angeles musicians who lost their instruments and gear can reach out and apply HERE now through February 28th 2025. Proof of loss or address may be required.

“The recent wildfires have deeply impacted our artists and friends in Los Angeles. Gibson is committed to donating directly to these incredible organizations and working together with the music community to deliver immediate and impactful aid, and to help communities rebuild.” – Cesar Gueikian, CEO of Gibson.

“I am deeply grateful to see such an outpouring of support from everyone coming together to assist musicians who have tragically lost their instruments in the fire. This collective effort is not just about replacing instruments; it’s about restoring the power of music in people’s lives—a vital source of healing, renewal, and strength as they navigate the journey of rebuilding their lives and communities.”  –Myka Miller, Executive Director of The Guitar Center Music Foundation

Gibson and Gibson Gives, Fire Relief 2025:

1. Community and Shelter Support: Gibson Gives is partnering with local organizations and brands to deliver essential life resources such as food, water, and apparel to all wildfire affected communities. In partnership with Vans, Liquid Death, and more Gibson will provide supplies including Gibson t-shirts, Vans socks, shoes, Liquid Death water, and more to help meet immediate needs at shelters around Los Angeles.

2. Assistance to Individual Artists: To support individual artists affected by the disaster, Gibson Gives will contribute a cash donation to MusiCares, helping provide essential necessities and aiding in their stabilization and recovery. MusiCares provides short-term disaster relief,including$1,500 in financial assistance and a $500 grocery card, to music professionals impacted. MusiCares disaster relief is intended to cover short-term costs, should you incur costs from evacuating (hotel, food, supplies).

3. Instrument and Gear Replacement: In collaboration with Guitar Center and the Guitar Center Foundation, Gibson and Gibson Gives will jointly promote and manage instrument replacement requests. Additional music manufacturers contributing to this effort so far include AKG, AlphaTheta/Pioneer, Audio-Technica, Eastman, ESP Guitars, Hoshino (Ibanez Guitars/TAMA Drums), JBL Professional, C. F. Martin & Co., Pearl Drums, Remo Inc., Roland, DW, Saga, Schecter Guitar Research, Shure, Sony Music, Universal Audio, Vater Percussion, Yamaha, and Avedis Zildjian Co. Our priority is to assist professional artists, schools, and nonprofit music programs and organizations that have lost instruments, helping to restore creativity and continuity.

4. Fundraising for First Responders and Community Assistance: We are providing funds raised to support and address broad community needs, ensuring that resources are effectively directed to where they are most needed. For the next two months, Gibson Gives will channel online and onsite donations at our Gibson Garage Nashville flagship store location, and disaster relief donations to the following foundations below:

  • The LAFD Foundation provides vital equipment and funds critical programs to help the LAFD save lives and protect communities.
  • The SoCal Fire Fund provides immediate and long-term support for community-centered recovery initiatives that aid students, school employees, and families impacted by the January 2025 fires.
  • Eaton Fire Relief and Recovery Fund The Pasadena Community Foundation Eaton Fire Relief and Recovery Fund provides flexible support to local nonprofit organizations as they respond to the local Eaton fire.
  • The American Red Cross is working 24/7 with partners in Southern California to make sure people have the support they need in the face of the Palisades Fire, Eaton Fire, Hurst Fire, Lidia Fire, Sunset Fire and Kenneth Fire.

5. School Music Programs: Gibson Gives is supporting Music Rising, a disaster relief fund administered by the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation that rebuilds school music programs and replaces student instruments lost in natural disasters.

6. Gibson Employees: Gibson’s GoldTop Foundation assistance is available for all Gibson employees directly affected by the Los Angeles area wildfires.

7. Animal Relief: As a company of animal lovers, Gibson is supporting a variety of animal shelters and veterinarian clinics alongside Gibson artist, Miranda Lambert through her foundation, MuttNation. The MuttNation–Tractor Supply Relief for Rescues Fund is supporting shelters in the California region impacted by the fire.

Last Leg of the Human Table: Cloakroom’s Masterpiece of Introspection and Atmosphere

Cloakroom, L-R Doyle Martin (Lyrics, Guitar), Tim Remis (Drums), Bobby Markos (Bass), announces new album on Closed Casket and shares ‘Bad Larry’ video and single. Photo: Vin Romero, used with permission.

For Cloakroom, an American shoegaze band from Northwest Indiana, the world of modernity is in polycrisis and America has lost its soul. Narrative fetishism is all too usual of a literary mechanism for Cloakroom. If you listen closely you can hear the concern; not just for the teetering social structure but for what it means to be human and the high cost of the human experience. (another side, 2025)

The Indiana three return next month with their next studio album, Last Leg of the Human Table – the follow up to 2022’s post-apocalyptic space western Dissolution Wave, and label debut for Closed Casket Activities. Each song showcases Cloakroom’s genre-bending capabilities and seemingly vast array of influences; whether it be the sampling of the post-disco Detroit group Was (Not Was) or the lifted NASA recording of the humming of Saturn’s rings. Recorded in December of 2023 at Electrical Audio in Chicago and Rec Room Recording in Des Plaines, Illinois, engineer Zac Montez (Whirr, Turnover) aided in smoothing out the rough and turning up the quiet.

Last Leg of the Human Table sees its release on February 28 via Closed Casket. Fans can pre-order/pre-save here.

Pop, shoegaze, doom, post-punk, folk only scratch the surface on Cloakroom’s shortest yet most essential release to date. Its title Last Leg of the Human Table may sound sardonic in its nature, but this group has always found some wonder in the scurrying chaos of modern life. In 37 minutes, the album imbues a sense of responsibility to the listener as if one leg were to falter, the whole table will fall. 

Cloakroom shares the lead single and video “Bad Larry.” Lyricist and guitarist Doyle Martin explains, “It was written about a fabled character out of folklore like ‘Diamond Joe’ composed by Baldwin ‘Butch’ Hawes.. if that’s who even wrote that song first. Bad Larry roams free and wants for nothing; living a life of experience and lives by his own rules and dying on his own terms; a life to vilify or envy.” 

After wrapping an extensive North American tour with Full of Hell last month, Cloakroom has announced a special Chicago album release show happening April 12 at Empty Bottle. More dates and news to come.

Last Leg of the Human Table tracklist:
01 – The Pilot
02 – Ester Wind
03 – On Joy and Unbelieving
04 – Unbelonging
05 – The Lights Are On
06 – Bad Larry
07 – The Story of the Egg
08 – On Joy and Undeserving
09 – Cloverlooper
10 – Turbine Song

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Skeleten Unleashes His Boldest Sound Yet with ‘Let It Grow’—A Glimpse into Mentalized

Skeleten shares ‘Let It Grow’ single from new album Mentalized, out on February 7, 2025. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Eora/Sydney-based artist Skeleten (aka Russell Fitzgibbon) unveils his final single “Let It Grow” from his forthcoming second album, Mentalized, out February 7 via 2MR / Astral People Recordings. (another side, 2025)

Amidst a record absorbed in the ways we’re disconnected from ourselves every day – “mentalized for better or worse” – “Let It Grow” immerses in a dissociative surrender. Over a sensual synth line, Skeleten breathes life into the inexplicable weight of intimate connection. It’s a submission to that feeling of an “it” that cannot be denied. The song hangs heavy in the air, unmoving like the heat of an overpacked club, and the only way out is up.

“‘Let It Grow’ was so natural it just kinda started existing without me even realising it. Which I guess is the whole vibe of the song. Surrender and acceptance??”- Skeleten

“Let It Grow” completes a lineup of adored singles “Deep Scene”, “Love Enemy”, “Viagra,” and “Bodys Chorus” alongside respective remixes by Axel Boman and Spray, in laying the foundations for Mentalized. The releases have earned tastemaker nods from Pitchfork, Stereogum, Paste, Brooklyn Vegan, KEXP, KCRW, BBC 6Music, FBi Radio, Apple Music’s ‘Best of 2024’ playlists, and more.

This month Skeleten will complete a 3-month residency at Sydney’s Pleasure Club, spotlighting local talent across the city’s different scenes, alongside Skeleten and his full live band. Having already united acts like Hugh B and the Modern Pop Ensemble, Dylan Atlantis, Scruffs. and Killian, stay tuned via Skeleten’s socials for the final surprise announcement. Skeleten will also perform at Golden Plains Festival in March, alongside esteemed artists PJ Harvey, Fontaines D.C, Kneecap and more.

Mentalized tracklist:
1 – These People
2 – Love Enemy
3 – Bodys Chorus
4 – Crack In The Shell
5 – Deep Scene
6 – Raw
7 – Let It Grow
8 – Viagra
9 – Ravers Dream
10 – Mindreader

Skeleten Live Dates:
Mar 8 – 10, 2025: Golden Plains Festival, Meredith Supernatural Amphitheatre, VIC

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‘On My Own’: Harrison Lipton’s New Anthem of Self-Discovery

Harrison Lipton masks post-breakup sadness with cheeky humor on ‘On My Own.’ Photo: Eciaus Booth, used with permission.

Breakup songs hold a unique appeal for listeners, offering emotional catharsis and a sense of solidarity. These songs often explore themes of heartache, loss, and personal growth, providing an outlet for listeners to process their own emotions. The relatable lyrics and powerful melodies resonate deeply, allowing individuals to feel understood and less alone in their struggles. Whether through soulful ballads or upbeat anthems, breakup songs help listeners navigate the pain of relationships ending while offering hope for healing and new beginnings. The universal nature of heartbreak makes these songs timeless and comforting during times of emotional turmoil.

The Brooklyn-based musical jack-of-all-trades Harrison Lipton recently released his cheeky new breakup anthem “On My Own” via Amuse. The facetious, 70s-inspired dad rock song uses the all too familiar coping mechanism of poking fun at inherent sadness to make it through the day. His voice full of smooth earnestness, Lipton ushers listeners towards the greener grass on the other side. (Big Hassle, 2024)

“The song started in a small bedroom studio in Carroll Gardens during a session with Aidan Ludlam of the booyah! kids, who uses lyrics like an impressionist painter uses paint. He helped me balance the dissonance between being dumped and finding how to be okay with it.” – Harrison Lipton

Shot on 16 mm film, the official music video was directed by Yishen Wang. An ode to the city and people of New York, Lipton finds himself lost in a sea of recognizable faces, even Times Square’s Naked Cowboy.

“…feels like a rarity, transposing of-the-moment sounds into a dusted-off paean to a romance lost in memory and feeling.” – NPR

“An artist whose stylistic tenacity is fabulously muddled, Lipton floats between genres, brushing against indie, alternative and bedroom pop with a driven psychedelic influence flowing through the hazy soundscapes.” – The Lines of Best Fit

Fresh on the heels of landing songwriting and production credits for indie-rock sensation Yot Club and Atlantic Records six-piece MICHELLE, among others, Lipton has made a name for himself as a rapidly ascending, go-to creative collaborator. His recent work as a songwriter and producer has earned him shoutouts in HYPEBEAST, The Line of Best Fit, and Sirius XM’s Life with John Mayer.

Now with the focus shifted to his own releases, Lipton unveiled “Synchronized Swimming,” with its captivating accompanying music video, back in September. Exploring romance coyly nestled within the metaphor of synchronized swimming, listeners witness Lipton’s proven songwriting and production talent in raw form. Complete with dusty piano, laid-back Khruangbin-like drums, and an underwater guitar solo, the final touch is the perfect pairing of background vocals from MICHELLE’s Layla Ku. 

“On My Own” keeps building the world “Synchronized Swimming” started, putting forth a distinctly clean and modernized late 70s aesthetic.

Harrison Lipton is a 30-year-old singer, songwriter and producer. The Brooklyn artist’s musical flair resides in the intersection of indie, R&B and 70s soft rock. Lipton prides himself on fully realizing a track from start to finish, leading the charge with songwriting, producing, and mixing, as well as creative direction. Lipton’s music is a product of his singular imagination, presenting a style that is sincere, authentic and all his own. His music has been featured in NPR and Early Rising as well as on numerous editorial playlists such as Apple Music’s Late Night Menu and Spotify’s Fresh Finds and Chill Vibes. Now focusing on new singles leading toward a larger project, Lipton emerges as a promising and unique voice, blending soulful vocals with singular and catchy production.

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

John Mailander’s ‘Let The World In’: The Soul-Stirring New Album

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.

Let The World In Track Listing:

(open) (0:18)

Let The World In (6:52)

Gardener (4:40)

(improvisation 1) (1:15)

Chapters (2:55)

Heartland (6:22)

(improvisation 2) (1:44)

Road (9:25)

(reprise) (1:47)

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Ally Venable’s ‘Do You Cry’ Delivers Raw Emotion and Soulful Power

Ally Venable shares her new song ‘Do You Cry,’ a heartfelt exploration of lost love. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Texas blues-rock singer, songwriter, and guitarist Ally Venable is back with a poignant new single, “Do You Cry,” a soul-stirring ballad that dives deep into the emotional complexities of heartbreak and lost love. The song, which marks a raw departure into the more vulnerable corners of Venable’s musical identity, is available now on all streaming platforms. (Big Hassle, 2024)

“The song explores the raw, vulnerable experience of heartbreak and the complex emotions that come with it. I wrote ‘Do You Cry’ about the bittersweet reality of lost love. I hope this song can connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.” – Ally Venable

Known for her electrifying live performances, signature glitter dresses, and black knee-high boots, Ally Venable is a force in the blues-rock world. Guitar Player Magazine describes her as an artist who “pulls off a stunner of gritty and/or sultry blues rock tunes embellished with lots of tasty guitar solos.” With a musical journey rooted in the blues and nurtured through early influences like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Ally has steadily built a reputation as one of the most exciting and dynamic guitarists and songwriters of her generation.

Born in Kilgore, Texas, Ally Venable began singing at age four and picked up the guitar at age 12. By 13, she was leading her own band, already drawing from her deep love for the blues. Her early albums, No Glass Shoes (2016) and Puppet Show (2018), earned her local acclaim and charted radio play. However, it was her 2019 release, Texas Honey, which pushed her to international recognition, debuting at #2 on the Billboard Blues chart and establishing Ally as one of the brightest stars in the genre.

Her 2021 album Heart of Fire, which also charted on the Blues Billboard charts, featured collaborations with music legends like Kenny Wayne Shepherd and highlighted Ally’s ability to write about love, pain, and overcoming adversity.“On this album, I really wanted to create a tone of overcoming your struggles and persevering through them,” she shared.

Ally’s most recent release, Real Gone (2023), produced by Grammy-winning Tom Hambridge, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Blues Charts and included collaborations with blues icons Buddy Guy and Joe Bonamassa. This spring, she was named #2 on Guitar World’s list of “Top 15 Young Guns Making the Gibson Les Paul Cool Again” and received the Road Warrior Award at the Independent Blues Music Awards.

In addition to her solo tours, Ally’s band has supported legends like Buddy Guy, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, and Colin James, and she has performed alongside fellow guitar icons on the Experience Hendrix tour and at ACL Live in Austin, Texas.

Looking ahead, Ally Venable will be part of the highly anticipated Experience Hendrix Tour in 2025, where she will share the stage with musical heavyweights like Samantha Fish, Devon Allman, Eric Johnson, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, and many more.

With her new single “Do You Cry,“ Ally Venable proves once again that her artistry continues to evolve, offering her audience a more intimate and introspective side of her music. Fans old and new will find comfort in the vulnerability and soulfulness of this beautifully crafted song.

Gus Baldwin & The Sketch Drops New Single Ahead of The Sketch Album Release

Slacker’s Prom is Gus Baldwin & The Sketch’s new single from forthcoming album. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Austin band Gus Baldwin & The Sketch shares a new single from their forthcoming debut album The Sketch via PunkNews. – Slacker’s Prom. Available on DSPs and Bandcamp. (US/THEM group, 2024)

Gus Baldwin is a singer/songwriter/ex-hippie/part-time punk hailing from Austin, TX. After a stint holding down drums for Dallas surf punk legends Sealion in high school, Baldwin went on to form the Psych Pop combo Acid Carousel, which he led for 6 years and 20 something releases before departing the band on Halloween night 2021.

Since leaving Acid Carousel, Gus has made a name for himself as a solo artist in Austin, constantly performing as a singer/songwriter, one man garage band, or with his band The Sketch. Quickly releasing a string of titles on his own GetWithIt! Records imprint, including the EPs THRILLER II, and Live Bugs, as well as a slew of singles, Gus established himself firmly as the godson of Texas rock ‘n roll. Splitting his time as a frequent collaborator with The Black Angels, Baldwin also works with the likes of Christian Bland & The Revelators as well as The UFO Club with Night Beats frontman, Danny Lee Blackwell.

The Sketch is the full length debut of Gus’ partnership with The Sketch. The album was recorded in one day at Studio 22 in Los Angeles by engineer Joey Oaxaca (White Reaper, Starcrawler).

The Sketch will be available on LP, cassette and digital on January 31, 2025. Pre-orders are available.

Gus Baldwin & The Sketch‘s tour of Western U.S. states continues this month. Current dates below are below. Midwest & Eastern shows to follow in early 2025.

GUS BALDWIN & THE SKETCH LIVE 2024:
12/04 Reno, NV – Lo Bar Social
12/07 San Francisco, CA – Kilowatt
12/09 Palmdale, CA – Transplants Brewing
12/10 Las Vegas, NV – The Griffin
12/11 Visalia, CA – Cellar Door 101
12/12 Long Beach, CA – Alex’s Bar
12/13 San Diego, CA – The Tower Bar
12/14 Los Angeles, CA – The Redwood Bar
12/20 Austin, TX – Hotel Vegas

Artist: Gus Baldwin & The Sketch
Album: The Sketch
Label: Permanent Teeth Records
Release Date: January 31, 2025

01. Part I

02. Part II

03. Part III

04. Itch

05. Steady on It

06. Luxury Television

07. Slacker’s Prom

08. (She’s Gone) Arigato

09. Beautiful Delilah

10. What the Freaks Say

11. Sympathy for Sunday

Just goes to show you can still be catchy as hell while playing really fucking loud… I’m not entirely sure there’s a single that can capture the live energy the drips from the stage when Gus Baldwin & The Sketch are up there, but this brand new single is pretty damn close.” — Austin Town Hall

“Kick ass to bombastic levels.” — Cosmic Clash

“Noisy, fuzzy punk with a distinct pop sensibility… Full of energy and anger while also managing to be a lot of fun.”— New Noise Magazine

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Ghost Hounds Explore Raw Emotion in New Single ‘You’ll Never Find Me’

Ghost Hounds unleash You’ll Never Find Me, a powerful anthem of resilience. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Ghost Hounds is excited to share their newest single, “You’ll Never Find Me”–out via Gibson Records–along with its accompanying official music video. (Big Hassle, 2024)

“‘You’ll Never Find Me’ is a warriors anthem. This song is dedicated to anyone who has lost themself in a person or to a situation. Know that you can always reclaim your power and remember to stand strong in who you are. We needed the video to show that when your down grit and perseverance are all you need to make it. The idea that you literally need to get back on the horse 8 times when you’ve been thrown off 7.” – SAVNT

“You’ll Never Find Me” follows the release of “Long Ride Home feat. Patty Griffin,” and its accompanying official music video.

Ghost Hounds are a country rock band with a heavy blues influence that proves the genre is not only alive but thriving for the next generation of rock fans. Fronted by SAVNT and backed by guitarists Tyler Chiarelli and Thomas Tull, fiddler Kristin Weber, bassist Bennett Miller, and drummer Sydney Driver, the band has made significant statements with their four studio albums.

Ghost Hounds’ debut, Roses Are Black (2019), earned widespread acclaim from Billboard, American Songwriter, and more as well as millions of streams on streaming platforms. Their follow-up, A Little Calamity (2021), impressed with its classic rock sensibilities and the hit single “Good Old Days.” You Broke Me (2022) continued their tradition of blending classic blues rock with a modern flair. Their latest album, First Last Time (2023) via Gibson Records, features hit single “Last Train To Nowhere,” which racked up millions of hits via TikTok and Instagram, and was featured in Taylor Sheridan’s new TV show Special Ops: Lioness.

Ghost Hounds have honed their sound on the road, having supported legendary acts like The Rolling Stones, ZZ Top, Garth Brooks, Guns N’ Roses, and Bob Seger. With their chemistry at an all-time high, the band is set to bring even more blues-rock brilliance in the future.

Courtesy photo, used with permission.