Tag: Rock

Psychedelic Revival: The Brian Jonestown Massacre Drops a Hypnotic New Single

The new release sets the tone for a massive North American tour this fall. Photo: Joe Eley, used with permission.

The Brian Jonestown Massacre announces a new single, ‘Makes Me Great / Out Of Body,’ on red transparent 10” vinyl, due to be released on April 25th via Anton Newcombe’s record label A Recordings. Fans can pre-save it here. (Magnum PR, 2025)

Following a hugely successful UK and Europe tour earlier this year, the band will return to North America this fall for an extensive run of live shows, including two dates with special guests, Cast, making their first US appearance in nearly 30 years. Tickets on sale now. 
 
It’s been over 30 years since Anton Newcombe – frontman, songwriter, composer, studio owner, multi-instrumentalist, producer, engineer, father, force of nature – and his band The Brian Jonestown Massacre released their first single She Made Me / Evergreen. Released in 1992, as the British music press descended on the US to anoint the next US guitar band as flavor of the month and major labels were on the hunt for the compliant hopefuls to be their latest quick fix, Anton Newcombe had an idea: say no.

As leader of the Brian Jonestown Massacre, Newcombe had already established himself as a visionary songwriter, a man to whom making music wasn’t a lifestyle choice or a hipster haircut but the very fabric of existence itself, and he had observed in silent horror as his peers meekly consented to everything – yes to contracts, yes to management, yes to suggestions, yes to this, yes to that, yes, yes, yes. But he was different. Anton Newcombe was going to say no to everything. “I just knew I would be more successful in a certain way by saying no, just being contrary because I figured that if people liked me they were gonna like me anyway,” he says. “Or dislike me. It doesn’t matter.”
 
Much of this was documented on the controversial documentary ‘Dig!,’ which is still hailed as one of the best rock documentaries ever made, and celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year with the remastered, expanded version “Dig! XX.”
 
Brian Jonestown Massacre’s shoegazing-tinged debut album Methodrone was released in 1995 and since then numerous band members have joined Newcombe on his sonic escapades, but he has remained the sole constant, the creative mastermind at the centre of one of music’s most fascinating bands. There have been a further 20 albums under the Brian Jonestown Massacre moniker since then, each embarking on their own mind-expanding adventure and exploring the outer realms of rock’n’roll; psychedelic rock, country-blues, snarling rock’n’roll, blissed-out noise-pop and more.
 
Along the way, Newcombe has established himself as a once-in-a-lifetime talent who saw the direction in which mainstream indie-rock was heading and opted to take the long way round. He’s emerged as a revolutionary force in modern music, an underground hero. There was no other way, this was how it had to be. “My only option with everything in life has always been that you just jump into the fire,” he declared. “It doesn’t matter what it is.”
 
It’s with that spirit that he’s hopped around the globe, from the West Coast to New York, from Manhattan to Iceland, and then to Berlin, where he’s lived for 15 years and has two flats, one to live in and one that’s been converted into his studio.

Brian Jonestown Massacre released their 20th full-length studio album The Future Is Your Past, in February 2023 on Anton’s record label, A Recordings. In 2022 / 2023, they completed a massive world tour that saw them play 34 dates in North America, 25 dates across Europe and 16 dates in the UK. Towards the end of 2024, they released ‘Don’t Look At Me’ ft. Aimee Nash. It is a delicious slice of hypnotic shoegaze with Nash lyrically casting a spell with the mantra “Do No Harm.”
 
There is no such thing as a defining statement in Anton Newcombe’s world anymore, just more chapters that contribute to the tale. “Nobody can stop me, I’m not asking somebody, I’m not making the rounds at Warners, saying ‘please put out my record!’ It’s just for me,” he says. He hopes he can be an inspiration to others. “I would love to see more groups, people playing music in the UK and everywhere else because I really enjoy it. That’s the only reason I need. It’s the only reason to do stuff.” That hits to the core of what makes Anton Newcombe and Brian Jonestown Massacre tick. He’ll keep jumping in that fire. That’s how he rolls. Savor it.

PRESS FROM THE BJM’S JAN / FEB UK TOUR
 
“Brian Jonestown Massacre have a cult following big enough to warrant the publication of an acclaimed memoir by percussionist Joel Gion and big enough that this large UK tour includes a date at Brixton Academy… Newcombe is really adept at coming up with melodies and guitar figures that sound immediately familiar, as if you know them already from a song you can’t quite place – a genuine skill.” – Guardian
 
“The Brian Jonestown’s ability to create an immersive live experience remains unparalleled and this Brixton gig was a masterclass in psychedelia, intensity, and raw musical craftsmanship.” – Music News
 
“A night of hypnotic grooves, kaleidoscopic guitars, and the kind of immersive psychedelia that only they can provide… The Brian Jonestown Massacre’s live show is not just a performance – it’s an experience. At the O2 Institute Birmingham, they proved once again why they remain one of the most compelling acts in modern psychedelic rock. Newcombe’s vision, combined with the band’s tight musicianship, created a night of sonic transcendence that few in attendance will soon forget.” – RockShot

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Raw, Real, and Relentless: De’Wayne Delivers with ‘highway robbery’

De’Wayne ushers in a new era with electric single ‘highway robbery,’ out now via Fearless Records. Photo: Shai Lev, used with permission.

Los Angeles, CA – Houston-born and Los Angeles-based rock star De’Wayne is ushering in a new era of music with the electric single “highway robbery.” Accompanied by a striking music video that brings the song’s rebellious spirit to life, De’Wayne is setting the stage for a bold new chapter. (Big Picture Media, 2025)

This song is a high-energy anthem that captures De’Wayne in his purest form, blending shimmery guitars, soulful funk-infused vocals, and irresistible, two-step-ready drums. Produced in collaboration with Dylan Bauld (flor) the track channels influence from Ohio Players to Nina Simone to Bruce Springsteen while remaining unapologetically modern and true to himself.

“The title was inspired by a heartfelt connection with my partner. She didn’t literally steal my heart—but I left the door wide open for it. I wrote this song as a poem first, and it evolved into this rock’n’roll soul influence. It feels good to be locked in!” – De’Wayne

Following the release of his 2024 EP I Want You More Than Anybody Wants You, De’Wayne has solidified himself as a force to be reckoned with. Constantly pushing boundaries, he is redefining Black rock music one song at a time.

With “highway robbery,” he establishes himself as a fearless trailblazer in rock, fusing genres with raw authenticity. De’Wayne is on a mission to show the world that neither people nor music should be confined to one box.

Shedding any and all creative inhibitions, De’Wayne plays rock ‘n’ roll spiked with funk, R&B, alternative, and magic. Accessing the duality of humanity, he harnesses the divine feminine through musicality manifested loud with no shortage of soul, sex, sweat, and style.

Emerging in 2017, the Houston-born and Los Angeles-based singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer has amassed tens of millions of streams across Stains [2021], My Favorite Blue Jeans [2022], and I Want You More Than Anybody Wants You EP [2024].

In the wake of the latter, UPSET placed him on its cover and urged, “it’s time to sit up and pay attention” to De’Wayne. KERRANG! went as far as to christen him “one of the most electrifying new performers in the alt. world today.” He has established himself as the rare force of nature equally comfortable on a track with either Chase Atlantic and Masego, IDKHOW, Waterparks, grandson, WILLOW, Good Charlotte, and Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine.

Beyond headlining packed shows on multiple continents, De’Wayne and his band have ignited festival stages at Gov Ball, Lollapalooza, Reading & Leeds, Bonnaroo, and BottleRock.

His music may have brought him close to the divine feminine in the past, but he finally learned how to open his eyes and gently embrace it—which is exactly what he does on his new music. Inspired by Lenny Kravitz, Parliament Funkadelic, Marvin Gaye, Ohio Players, Bill Withers, Nina Simone, Prince, Brandon Flowers, and Bruce Springsteen, he levels up as a proud black man, a son, a friend, a leader, an artist, and lover.

Alternative Rock Band Downward Unveils Surprise Album

Downward’s new album Downward (LP2) is available now. Photo: Downward/Audiotree

The Oklahoma-based alternative rock band Downward recently unveiled a surprise LP, Downward (LP2). It’s available to stream and can be purchased through New Morality Zine. (Big Picture Media, 2025)

Formed in 2015 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Downward began as a collaborative project among friends aiming to blend their diverse musical tastes. The band is made up of Drew Richardson on Guitar/Vocals, Tollie Pugh on Drums, Hunter Senft on Guitar, and Severin Olsen on Bass.

Downward’s first self-titled debut LP came out in 2018, laying the foundation for their evolving sound—balancing ethereal melodies with crushing heaviness. They followed up in May 2020 with 2 Songs, a two-track 7″ that further explored the interplay between light and heavy sonic textures. Their 2022 EP, The Brass Tax, marked a significant step forward. Incorporating bold sonic experimentation, the EP saw the band incorporating near pop-like sensibilities while maintaining their signature weight and atmosphere. In 2023, Downward teamed up with Texas-based band Trauma Ray for the release of Split, further expanding their sound while moving beyond their slowcore influences.

In their sophomore self-titled album, Downward (LP2), the band has fully stepped beyond the confines of any singular scene, delivering a rock record that feels undeniably modern. Having refined their signature balance of airy melancholy and crushing weight, LP2 sees Downward embracing a newfound sense of expansiveness. While the influence of post-hardcore and alternative remains, this album is a bold statement of evolution—one that showcases a band no longer bound by expectations. It carries a sonic clarity that enhances its depth, making each moment resonate with intention.

Standouts on the album include the self-reflecting track “Perfect Food,” which blends abstract imagery with emotional vulnerability. The song speaks to a complex relationship where connection and distance intertwine, exploring the push and pull of desire and resistance.

“‘Perfect Food’ is one of the last couple of songs we wrote for the album, and in the grand scheme of the record, it might be the most ‘business as usual’ song for us. In the back of my head I knew we needed a song like this in the tracklist somewhere. We played through it a couple of times, and I just got hit with this “Oh yeah, I’m definitely in the right band” feeling. It really changed my mood and gave me a bit of confidence when we went in to record.”-  Drew Richardson, Downward guitarist and vocalist

Kendal Osborne and the band recorded the new album, and they tapped into collaborators including Dave Collis and Sean Hallock from Slow Mass (IL). LP2 was mixed and mastered by Corey Coffman from Gleemer (CO). It carries a sonic clarity that enhances its depth, making each moment resonate with intention, boasting a total of ten tracks.

Downward (LP2) tracklist:

  1. Request Made
  2. Wind Up
  3. Absolute Value
  4. Line
  5. Darkscreen
  6. Ibex
  7. Out of Luck
  8. Perfect Food
  9. The Waltz
  10. Rival

Downward’s dedication to their craft has cultivated a devoted following, with multiple vinyl pressings selling out and thousands of listeners engaging with their music online. Their commitment to authenticity and quality continues to set them apart, solidifying their place as one of the most compelling forces in modern alternative music.

There’s A Whole World Out There: Arm’s Length’s Journey Through Love and Loss

Arm’s Length announces the release of their sophomore album There’s A Whole World Out There. Photo: Pure Noise Records

March 12, 2025 – Arm’s Length’s highly anticipated sophomore album There’s A Whole World Out There will be released on May 16 via Pure Noise Records and is available for pre-order here. The first single and music video for “Funny Face” is out now. (Big Picture Media, 2025)

The band has announced a special headline run of album release shows taking place in major cities like Chicago, Cleveland, Toronto, Philadelphia, and New York City. Tickets are available online. Shows will kick off on June 8 and support comes from Charmer and Wakelee.

The album release shows will follow the band’s spring headline tour taking place in May which feature support from Prince Daddy & The Hyena, Riley! and Bike Routes.

Arm’s Length Live Dates

Spring headliner
with Prince Daddy & The Hyena, Riley! and Bike Routes

May 2 – Columbus, OH – King of Clubs
May 3 – Indianapolis, IN – Deluxe at Old National Centre
May 4 – Milwaukee, WI – Vivarium
May 6 – Minneapolis, MN – Varsity Theater
May 7 – Iowa City, IA – Gabe’s
May 8 – Omaha, NE – Waiting Room
May 10 – Austin, TX – Mohawk
May 11 – San Antonio, TX – Stable Hall
May 12 – Houston, TX – White Oak Music Hall
May 14 – Birmingham, AL – Saturn
May 15 – Charleston, SC – Music Farm
May 16 – Carrboro, NC – Cat’s Cradle
May 17 – Richmond, VA – The Broadberry
May 18 – Washington, DC – 9:30 Club
May 21 – Worcester, MA – The Palladium
May 22 – Asbury Park, NJ – The Stone Pony
May 23 – Amityville, NY – Amityville Music Hall
May 24 – Albany, NY – Empire Live
May 25 – Buffalo, NY – Electric City

Album Release Show Dates
w/Charmer and Wakelee

June 9 – Chicago, IL – Bottom Lounge
June 10 – Cleveland, OH – The Roxy
June 11 – Toronto, ON – AXIS
June 13 – Philadelphia, PA – Ukie Club
June 14 – New York, NY – Bowery Ballroom

Building on the emotional rawness and introspection of their debut, Never Before Seen, Never Again Found, There’s A Whole World Out There finds the band pushing their boundaries, offering a deeper exploration of personal trauma, love, loss, and the resilience that emerges from navigating life’s darkest moments. Their debut album marked them as an indie band to watch, conjuring praise from writers at SPIN, Stereogum, Brooklyn Vegan, Exclaim!, and Loudwire, among others.

Produced once again by Anton DeLost, who worked with the band on their previous releases, There’s A Whole World Out There marks a significant evolution for Arm’s Length. While Steinberg wrote the bulk of the material solo, the full band—guitarist Jeremy White, bassist Ben Greenblatt, and drummer Jeff White—helped bring these songs to life in the studio, with additional contributions from Bonnie Brooksbank (strings) and Alex Scalzo-Brown (piano).

Steinberg’s personal struggles, which he openly addressed in his songwriting, are central to the album’s creation. He confesses that during the period leading up to the writing of this record, he was “the most mentally ill” he had ever been. Yet, it was precisely through confronting these intense experiences that the album came to life with such urgency and honesty. “The songs aren’t written for anyone else at all,” he says, emphasizing the raw, unfiltered emotion that drives the record’s sound and lyrics.

There’s A Whole World Out There tracklist:

  1. The World
  2. Fatal Flaw
  3. Funny Face
  4. The Weight
  5. Palinopsia
  6. The Wound
  7. You Ominously End
  8. Early Onset
  9. Genetic Lottery
  10. Attic
  11. Halley
  12. Morning Person

Arm’s Length pull no punches on There’s A Whole World Out There. From the moment “The World” starts proceedings, the album unfolds with the dual torment and exhilaration of what it means to be alive—but with the knowledge and understanding that everything is also always lost.

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311’s Action Packed 2025 Tour includes Long Beach Warped Tour

311 announces new tour and the 30th anniversary re-issue of their iconic self titled Blue Album. Photo: Brian Bowen Smith, used with permission.

311 is an alternative rock band known for their signature blend of rock, reggae, and funk influences. With a devoted fan following and a legacy spanning three decades, the band continues to innovate and bring fresh energy to the music scene. Formed in 1990 in Omaha, Nebraska, 311 features Nick Hexum (vocals/guitar), Chad Sexton (drums), Tim Mahoney (guitar), SA Martinez (vocals/dj), and P-Nut (bass). 33 years later, the band is still regarded as one of the most entertaining and dynamic live bands in the U.S. 311’s celebrated live shows and touring schedule have earned them a vast and dedicated following nationwide. (Big Picture Media, 2025)

Following the release of their long awaited 14th studio album Full Bloom, the Grammy nominated, platinum certified rock band is gearing up for an exciting 2025. This year marks their fifth appearance at the revival of Van’s Warped Tour, set for July 26–27. Additionally, the band will headline major festivals, including Pointfest in St. Louis, Point Break Festival in Virginia, and the recently announced Minnesota Yacht Club Festival.

Upcoming 311 Dates
March 21 – The Fillmore – New Orleans, LA
March 22 – The Moon – Tallahassee, FL
March 24 – House of Blues Orlando – Orlando, FL
March 26-31 – 311 Caribbean Cruise – Miami, FL
May 17 – Pointfest – St. Louis, MO
June 22 – Point Break Festival – Virginia Beach, VA
July 20 – Minnesota Yacht Club Festival – St. Paul, MN
July 26-27 – Van’s Warped Tour – Long Beach, CA

On the heels of the release of Full Bloom, the group was recently crowned one of NPR Tiny Desk’s Best Performances of 2024 and continues to thrive after more than three decades on the road. From performing at halftime during the Las Vegas Raiders’ final home game to a run of recently announced US dates, 311 continues to redefine what it means to be one of the longest-running touring bands.

311 commemorated their legacy with the announcement of a 30th anniversary reissue of their iconic self titled Blue Album out July 11. The Blue Album reissue will feature a 2-LP set with seven bonus tracks and will be available in two color variants – a direct to fan exclusive citrine shade and retail release blue smoke color via Legacy Recordings, the catalog division of Sony Music Entertainment. The strictly limited package is the latest in the band’s series of 30th Anniversary “Pearlized” special editions, and also includes an embossed gatefold sleeve with exclusive art. The reissue is 21 tracks on 2 LPs and brings together every song that was recorded by the band during the Blue Album sessions, and marks the first time the bonus songs have ever been released on LP. 

Blue Smoke + Citrine Vinyl Variant. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Kadavar’s New Single: ‘Hysteria’ is a Must-Listen for Rock Fans

Kadavar releases ‘Hysteria’ single and music video. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Berlin, Germany – Berlin based rock band Kadavar has shared the second single from their forthcoming new album I Just Want To Be A Sound out May 16 via Clouds Hill. (Big Picture Media, 2025)

“Hysteria” – with its pulsing, dark rhythm brings the listener into a hypnotic state of mind. Its lyrics explore themes of mental and physical disarray, portraying a sense of confusion, overstimulation, and self-destruction. The repeated refrain of “Hysteria” adds to the overwhelming, frantic atmosphere, spiraling under pressure.

Listen to “Hysteria” here. Pre-order the album at this link.

“We wrote this song down from the feeling of words losing their meaning, when even a stream of consciousness can’t keep up to make sense of the inner chaos,” says the band. “As a state mixed with constant overstimulation and terrifying news, it might just fit this time we’re living in.”

“Hysteria” follows the single “I Just Want To Be A Sound” – the title track of Kadavar’s new album – released last month upon the album’s announcement. The song was added to top playlists with Spotify, Apple, Deezer and TIDAL, gaining traction on lists like Metal Injection’s Top Tracks of the Week, Fresh Noise, New In Rock, Hot New Rock, and more.

‘I Just Want To Be A Sound’ is a manifesto for freedom, transformation and radical presence. An album that repeatedly abandons itself in order to reincarnate in new forms. Rock anthem, ballad, pop song, epic and earthly alternate seamlessly and virtuously. Free and full of momentum.

Now a four-piece led by founders Lupus Lindemann and Tiger Bartelt, and rounded out by guitarist Jascha Kreft and bassist Simon ‘Dragon’ Bouteloup, the declaration “I Just Want To Be A Sound” came from Bouteloup. When Lindemann Bartelt asked him in 2013, shortly after Lindemann and Barlet joined the band, why he didn’t have any social media accounts, he replied: “I just want to be a sound.” A sentence that stuck – and that sums up the band’s self-image.

What was casually formulated at the time has developed into a leitmotif over the band’s 15-year history: an uncompromising claim that demands nothing less than to be completely absorbed in the sound without being distracted by outward appearances. A principle to which Kadavar has remained true since their formation in 2010 and which finds its strongest development to date with this album.

“I Just Want To Be A Sound” is more than a song to us – it’s the essence of Kadavar: A relentless yearning for freedom and the unshakable urge to live through music. We poured everything into it – our lives, our spirit, our truth,” says the band in a joint statement.

Kadavar also announces a string of special album release shows that will take place in London, France and Berlin. Dates and ticket links below:

May 13 – London, UK – Rough Trade East // TICKETS
May 14 – Paris, France – Supersonic // TICKETS
May 15 – Berlin, Germany – Urban Spree, presented by Rough Trade Europe // TICKETS

The band is confirmed for this year’s Austin Psych Fest along with artists like Dinosaur Jr, Explosions In The Sky, Kim Gordon, Yo La Tengo and more. The festival will take place April 25-27 in Austin, TX. Tickets are available online.

Change has always been a constant for Kadavar. What remains unchanged is their raw power. Wherever they go, you can feel the intensity – in their songwriting, their dedication, their performances. In the sound! This is the transfer that makes Kadavar incomparable. They explore the potential of music, even in quiet nuances, while always retaining the power of their rock roots. Having grown as a band, they have fulfilled their mission of being completely immersed in their sound.

‘I Just Want To Be A Sound’ tracklist:

1.    I Just Want To Be A Sound

2.    Hysteria

3.    Regeneration

4.    Let Me Be A Shadow

5.    Sunday Mornings

6.    Scar On My Guitar

7.    Strange Thoughts

8.    Truth

9.    Star

10. Until The End

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Blue Sky Sundays: JD Clayton’s Latest Musical Journey

Arkansas’s country-rock troubadour JD Clayton announces anticipated sophomore LP, Blue Sky Sundays. Photo: David McClister, used with permission.

Fort Smith, AR – In addition to the release of his new single “Dirt Roads of Red,” JD Clayton has announced his highly anticipated sophomore album, Blue Sky Sundays. Due out on February 28 on Rounder Records, Blue Sky Sundays finds Clayton taking the helm as producer in the studio with his touring band to capture the vitality and grit of his crowd-thrilling live show. (IV PR, 2025)

“One morning I was playing golf with a buddy from Georgia down at McCabe Golf Course in Nashville when he turned to me and said that there should be a song about wishing that the streets of gold in Heaven could be streets of Red, referring to the red clay down in Georgia,” remembers Arkansan singer-songwriter JD Clayton.

Wheels turning, Clayton went home, picked up his guitar, and finished writing “Dirt Roads of Red” in under an hour. “Now, being an Arkansas kid, I could never bring myself to write a song about Georgia. Thankfully, my favorite state, Colorado, also has a high concentration of iron deposits in its soil.” 

With a halftime drum beat and a striding, bluesy piano, “Dirt Roads of Red” has an appropriately slinky vibe. “It feels inherently southern to me and has a super cool groove,” says Clayton. That feeling gets amplified with a slide guitar solo before the song’s final chorus: “Good God almighty I beg you please / Just before I’m dead / Turn them streets of gold to dirt roads of red.”

Clayton’s first few lines set up the whole song and come from some personal experience. “It turned out to be a really special track to me because my dad is a pastor and I love the interaction the boy has with his pastor in the first verse of the song,” he says. Typical with the music Clayton has released throughout his budding career, his soulful delivery and funky-leaning instrumentation help frame the story he’s telling in a way all his own.

Fans can stream or purchase “Dirt Roads of Red,” and pre-order or pre-save Blue Sky Sundays ahead of its February 28 release. For tour dates and ticket information, please visit JD Clayton online.

Blue Sky Sundays tracklist:
Let You Down – (JD Clayton)
Dirt Roads of Red – (JD Clayton)
Madelene – (JD Clayton)
Slow & Steady – (JD Clayton)
Arkansas Kid – (Al Kooper, Ronnie Van Zant, Robert Burns)
Give Me One Reason – (Tracy Chapman)
High Hopes & Low Expectations- (JD Clayton, Kendell Marvel)
Dance Another Dance- (JD Clayton)
Goodnight- (JD Clayton)

A native son of Arkansas, JD Clayton delivers a timeless form of country rock that’s wholly the product of his environment: down-to-earth, deliberately unhurried, touched with a carefree ease that’s undeniably infectious. Over the past few years alone, he’s brought his crowd-thrilling show to tours with the likes of Dwight Yoakam, Old Crow Medicine Show, and Parker McCollum, in addition to performing at major festivals such as Bonnaroo and Dreamy Draw and opening for artists like Hank Williams Jr., Brent Cobb, and Ashley McBryde.

As a kid growing up in Fort Smith, Clayton got his start playing guitar and later took up piano, drums, banjo, harmonica, and ukulele. He released the debut EP Smoke Out the Fire while still in college. After grinding it out in Nashville for several years, he returned to his hometown and immersed himself in creating an adventurous new album that soon led to his signing with Rounder Records. With equal parts soulful self-reflection and wildly colorful storytelling, Blue Sky Sundays immediately transports the audience into a world that moves at its own exhilarating rhythm—and ultimately reveals an artist of hard-won character and singular authenticity.

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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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Remains to Be Scene release date

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.