Shab’s ‘LIPSTICK’: The Power Anthem Painting Pop With Confidence
Nothing says “pick-me-up” quite like the swipe of your favorite lipstick – much like the shiny, ’80s pop-fueled glitz and glamour of SHAB’s aptly titled hit, ‘LIPSTICK.’ Predicted to make its way into the U.S. Top 40, this summer anthem is more than just a radiant, disco-pop party that lingers in your mind for days; it’s a powerful reminder to step into your confidence, embrace femininity, and express your strength and beauty without apology.
On the surface, ‘LIPSTICK’ is an infectious track with rhythmic grooves, harmony-laced melodies, and a sense of playful pastiche. But beneath the shimmering production lies the same heartfelt call for self-love that powered her critically acclaimed ‘ONE SUITCASE.’ Rich with vibrant color and as timeless as a Charlotte Tilbury nude, it’s the perfect soundtrack to celebrate beauty this National Lipstick Day.
Lipstick has long symbolized individualism and pop culture – beginning in Ancient Egypt, evolving through the 19th century with the birth of the modern formula, and reaching its pinnacle today as a bold emblem of empowerment. It’s more than cosmetic; it’s a statement.’ LIPSTICK,’ in both name and sound, captures this spirit flawlessly, reflecting SHAB’s ongoing advocacy for women’s rights and her remarkable journey as a refugee who has fought to live freely and authentically.
With her unique ability to fuse female empowerment and lived experience into poetic lyricism, SHAB has crafted a track that’s as emotionally resonant as it is irresistibly catchy. LIPSTICK is not just a celebration of beauty: it’s a radiant call for anyone ready to reclaim their voice.
Festival Guide: Last Minute Festivals [Aug/Oct]
Reggae Land
The UK’s biggest Reggae Festival returns in 2025
National Bowl, Milton Keynes
August 2nd-3rd
Website | Facebook
Reggae Land 2025 is set to be a vibrant celebration of reggae music and Caribbean culture, taking place on Saturday, August 2nd, and Sunday, August 3rd, 2025, at The Milton Keynes National Bowl. Over the years the festival has featured performances from renowned artists, including Gyptian, Chronixx, and Capleton, promising an unforgettable experience for reggae enthusiasts.
Les Plages Électroniques
Les Plages Électroniques are back for their 18th edition, ready to break records once again
Cannes, France
8-10th August
Website | Instagram | Facebook
After three sold-out days in 2024 with 60,000 attendees, 90 artists and performers, and countless hours of live music still resonating on the beach of the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, the Les Pages Electronique has unveiled the first names for its line-up—all set to perform on the festival’s Main Stage.
Artists Include: Charlotte De Witte, Eric Prydz, Peggy Gou, Tiësto, Booba, Luidji, Francis Mercier, Jersey, Kungs, Purple Disco Machine and more.
Panorama Festival
Panorama Festival isn’t just about music – it’s about framing unforgettable experiences in extraordinary places
Puglia, Italy
14-16th August
Panorama Festival is a visionary celebration of electronic music, art and sustainability in Southern Italy’s most iconic natural amphitheatre and it returns for its fourth edition from August 14–16, 2025. The magical three day event transforms Cave del Duca into a world-class setting for immersive experiences in the limestone heart of Lecce, Puglia, with a mix of heavyweight international names, emerging talents and plenty in between all set to play.
Artists Include: Peggy Gou, Black Coffee, Solomun, Marco Carola, Mochakk, PAWSA and more.
Rototom Sunsplash
Europe’s biggest reggae festival celebrates its 30th edition with its biggest line-up yet
Benicàssim, Spain
16th – 23rd August
‘Celebrating Life’ is the theme that will define the 30th edition of super-sized international reggae festival Rototom Sunsplash, taking place from 16 to 23 August 2025 in Benicàssim, Spain. This eight day extravaganza is the largest reggae festival in Europe, boasting 18 zones of music, wellness and cultural activities plus a reggae university to educate about the culture and so much more.
Artists Include: Shaggy, Burning Spear, Tarrus Riley and more
Mysteryland
For the last 31 years, Mysteryland has been one of the leading electronic music festivals in The Netherlands
Haarlemmermeer (near Amsterdam), The Netherlands
22nd – 24th August
Website | Instagram | Facebook
Mysteryland is a colourful collaboration of artists, DJs and creatives, considered to be the leading electronic music festival in The Netherlands. Situated in between sparkling ponds, rivers, and forestry hills of the Floriade terrain near Amsterdam, the festival welcomes more than 125,000 attendees from over 100 nationalities. The festival covers all genres within the spectrum of electronic music.
Artists include: Adriatique, Eric Prydz, Fisher, Hardwell, Oliver Heldens, Indira Paganotto, Marlon Hoffstadt, Patrick Mason & more
NIBIRII Festival
The legendary Bootshaus Cologne (Germany’s #1 Club – DJ MAG 2024) brings back its electrifying three-day festival, NIBIRII to a stunning lake setting in Düren
Düren, Germany
22nd – 24th August, 2025
Website | Tickets | Instagram
NIBIRII Festival, promoted by the iconic Bootshaus Cologne, is Germany’s most essential weekender for GOA, Techno, and D&B fans, returning on August 22–24, 2025. With 60,000 people and over 100 acts, it will take place on over four stages across three days at the stunning Dürener Badesee in Düren.
Artists include: Andy C, Delta Heavy, Bou + B Live 247, Camo & Krooked, Friction, Harriet Jaxxon, Andromedik, Reaper, A Little Sound, 1991, & Arcando.
BEONIX Festival
Expect warm Mediterranean weather, crystal-clear waters, and the opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of Cyprus by day, before dancing the night away to world-class DJs.
Limassol, Cyprus
19th – 21st September, 2025
The highly anticipated BEONIX Festival returns to Cyprus this September, bringing a stellar lineup of electronic music talent to the island. Set to take place at the ETKO venue in Limassol, BEONIX continues to cement its reputation as a must-attend event for electronic music lovers. Despite being a relatively young festival – this marks only its fourth edition – BEONIX has already made waves in the electronic music industry.
Artists Include: Adriatique, Anfisa Letyago, Dubfire, Avision, Carlo Lio, David Moreno, James Zabiela, LNTX, Saraga, Spartaque, Tania Vulcano, Xavi Emparan, and Yulia Niko
Blacklist Festival
Germany’s leading bass festival Blacklist is back at the mighty Turbinenhalle in Oberhausen
11th October, 2025
Turbinenhalle in Oberhausen
Oberhausen’s Blacklist Festival is unique in Germany as the only festival that caters to real bass heads. It is a tasteful and in-the-know celebration of sounds across the low end spectrum for fans in Germany but also across Europe. It has become the biggest brand for bass culture in Germany and hosts scene-leading shows of the highest caliber. It now boasts a community loyal to the core and its own unique take on bass culture that always comes to the fore.
Artists Include: Black Tiger Sex Machine, Born Global, Code: Pandorum, DJ Snake presents: The Outlaw
Varun Sheel Unveils Genre-Defying Indie Pop Gem with ‘Cool Like You’
Boston-based artist Varun Sheel returns with ‘Cool Like You’, a shimmering indie pop single that blends infectious grooves with introspective depth. Laced with disco-tinged guitars, crisp 808s, and hook-heavy vocals, the track explores the emotional toll of self-erasure in the name of love and belonging.
Known for his fusion of Bollywood melodies, Western pop structures, and diasporic nostalgia, Sheel continues to carve a singular sonic identity. Rooted in a classical Indian vocal upbringing and sharpened by self-taught guitar prowess, his music bridges cultural and stylistic worlds with remarkable cohesion.
Following acclaim for previous singles like ‘More Than Friends’ and ‘Over You’, ‘Cool Like You’ reaffirms Sheel’s place among rising indie pop talents. Both emotionally resonant and dancefloor-ready, it’s a compelling listen for fans of genre-blending, globally informed pop.
Emotional Equations and Quiet Implosions: Peter Donovan’s ‘Scientific Crimes'”
By all rights, Scientific Crimes should be a clinical dissection of love gone wrong; but Peter Donovan, Seattle’s quietly magnetic songwriter laureate, turns what could’ve been a thesis into a heartbreak ballad that feels more like a bruise; tender, slow to fade, and impossible not to press on.
Donovan’s gift has always been his ability to wring human ache from the everyday; he’s a songwriter who sees metaphor in malfunction, who knows that emotional wreckage is best told in snapshots, not sermons. Here, he gives us a breakup song that doesn’t explode so much as it unspools, quietly unraveling like thread slipping through fingers. The phrase “scientific crime,” borrowed from an overheard bus breakup, anchors the track’s emotional thesis: trying to rationalize the irrational, to map grief with logic, to chart a heartbreak like an equation gone wrong.
Musically, it’s classic Donovan; literate but never showy, rootsy without leaning on clichés. The arrangement builds gently: Charles Wicklander’s electric piano twinkles like satellite debris; Eric Vanderbilt-Matthews’ synths hum with melancholy; and Donovan’s own acoustic strums keep everything grounded. Aimee Lefkowicz’s harmony vocals add a welcome ache, echoing like the voice in your head that asks, “What if?”
There’s something almost cosmic in the way Donovan writes about endings, stars collapsing in on themselves, gravity failing, laws of motion turning cruel. Lines like “it defies all logic, it’s a scientific crime, but forever’s not forever sometimes” feel like thesis statements for the human condition; a world where entropy always wins, no matter how carefully we draw the charts.
If his 2025 concept album Community Theatre proved Donovan could build a Broadway-worthy narrative arc, Scientific Crimes reminds us he’s just as devastating when he zooms in on the quiet implosions. There are no villains here, no screaming matches, no grand betrayals; just the slow, silent drift between two people; a heartbreak rendered not as a meteor strike, but a planetary shift.
For fans of Conor Oberst, early Wilco, and anyone who’s ever tried to turn pain into poetry, Scientific Crimes isn’t just a song; it’s a study. A gentle, devastating case file on how we try (and fail) to make sense of the things that break us.
Poignant, poetic, and profoundly human; Donovan delivers one of his finest works yet.
SOCIALS:
https://www.instagram.com/peterdonovanmusic/?hl=en
https://www.facebook.com/peterdonovanmusic/
PHOTO CREDIT: Nikki Barron
SO-LAR, YC Beatz Release “Titan”
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Inland Years Present ‘Keep Your Eyes on the Road’ Out Now
Brooklyn-based Inland Years returns with Keep Your Eyes on the Road… a lo-fi, fuzzed-out folk record full of tape hiss, jangle pop, and late-night honesty. Out now, the album blends 60s-tinged psych and garage influences with the melodic minimalism of artists like Tony Molina and The Reds, Pinks & Purples.
Written and recorded alone in off-hours between work, caregiving, and everyday life, the record captures the quiet drama of motion and memory. Moments half-forgotten, repeated, or missed. The lyrics drift between emotional waypoints while guitars buzz and bend under the weight of analog wear.
https://inlandyears.bandcamp.com/album/keep-your-eyes-on-the-road
“It’s about the stuff we carry; between places, between people, between versions of ourselves.” — Inland Years
This is the project’s first LP-length release, following a series of small run cassettes. Though home-recorded and self-produced, Keep Your Eyes on the Road has gained traction via WFMU, CHIRP Radio, WQFS, and tastemaker blogs like Rosy Overdrive, Various Small Flames, and Left Off the Dial.
The cassette edition is already sold out, but the album is available digitally everywhere on BSDJ.
https://instagram.com/inlandyears
Don Broco’s “Cellophane” Is a Nu-Rock Confession in a Post-Everything World
Don Broco’s new single “Cellophane” doesn’t whisper. It doesn’t ask permission. It enters the room with a crash, punches the clock, and detonates a few sacred genre cows on the way to your soul. There’s something unapologetically raw about it—not just in the music, which rides a jackhammer riff into the center of your skull—but in the message. Underneath the glossy production and hybrid assault of styles is a naked confession: *I’m not okay, but I’m still standing.*
That kind of honesty is rare in rock music these days, especially when it comes wrapped in the armor of aggression and the swagger of arena ambition. But Don Broco have always been a band that refused to choose between the mosh pit and the mirror. “Cellophane,” their first release under Fearless Records, is more than just a banger—it’s a battle cry for the broken, a nu-metal-tinged war chant for anyone still pretending to have their act together.
Let’s talk sound first. Produced by Dan Lancaster (he of Muse and Blink-182 sonic sorcery), “Cellophane” walks the tightrope between precision and chaos. The rhythm section hits like a hydraulic press, while the guitars bite and twist with just enough industrial sheen to keep things dangerous. Rob Damiani’s vocals are a masterclass in dynamic range—crooning one second, snarling the next, then breaking into a near-scream that sounds like a man peeling off his own skin to show you what’s underneath. It’s not just vocal theatrics. It’s an exorcism.
The lyrics? They cut deeper than expected. “Cellophane” is about the fragile veneer we wear to survive—how we wrap ourselves in layers of false strength, hoping no one sees the cracks. It’s about admitting the illusion, and the fear of what happens when it finally tears away. In a world where curated confidence is currency, Don Broco are throwing their vulnerability into the ring. That takes guts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8CEs2tvKy0&feature=youtu.be
And yet, the song never wallows. This isn’t a pity party; it’s a call to arms. There’s a groove running through it, a defiant pulse that says, “Yeah, I’m broken—but I’m not done.” It’s that tension—between darkness and defiance—that makes “Cellophane” one of the band’s most compelling tracks to date.
Now signed to Fearless Records, the future is wide open. The label’s president Andy Serrao called them “creatively fearless,” and he’s not wrong. Don Broco don’t just blend genres—they set fire to the dividing lines. Rock, metal, pop, electronic—it’s all just paint on their sonic canvas. And “Cellophane” feels like a new brushstroke in a work still in progress.
With a global tour on the horizon and a track that hits with both muscle and meaning, Don Broco are stepping into the next phase of their evolution. And if “Cellophane” is any indication, they’re not just ready for the world.
They’re ready to blow the whole thing wide open.
– Lonnie Nabors
Nzondi Releases “Eaton Canyon Falls”
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Hit-Boy Releases “What’s the Deal”
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Mighty One Man Band Launches “Spacebound”
A Synth-Charged Cosmic Anthem Exclusive to Bandcamp
Mighty One Man Band, the electrifying one-man sonic force led by Bruce Atomo, unleashes his latest single “Spacebound,” a pulsating blend of math rock grit and synthwave dreamscapes.
Released exclusively on Bandcamp, this cosmic anthem is a love letter to outsider energy and creative independence. “Spacebound” rockets listeners into a universe of cosmic loneliness, where distortion-drenched guitars collide with retro-futuristic synths and driving drums, all played live, simultaneously, without loops or backing tracks.
The track explores the emotional turbulence of longing and isolation in a digital world, wrapped in soaring melodies and raw performance energy. Known for his live setup where he plays drums, keys, and guitar while singing, all at once, Mighty One Man Band continues to push the boundaries of what one artist can do on stage and in the studio.
“Spacebound” is only available via Bandcamp, staying true to the artist’s roots in independent music and direct-to-fan connection. For fans of Smashing Pumpkins, Tycho, or Nine Inch Nails with a DIY twist, this is a journey worth taking.
https://mightyonemanband.bandcamp.com/track/spacebound
https://www.instagram.com/mightyonemanband
https://bsky.app/profile/mightyonemanband.bandcamp.com-
https://www.tiktok.com/@mightyonemanband
“Hearts on the Highway: Midnight Sky Bets It All on Love and Loss”
There’s something about a song like “Hearts Are Wild” that doesn’t just play—it lingers. Like the last slow dance before the bar lights flicker on and reality comes crashing through the smoke and bourbon. Midnight Sky, led by the ever-introspective Tim Tye, delivers a dust-covered, soul-stung ode to the kind of love that burns, bruises, and brandishes your name in the book of beautiful mistakes.
This track is Americana in its purest, most poetic form—not the stuff that gets dressed up for the Grammys or paraded out at polished songwriter rounds, but the kind that lives in the glove compartment of a ‘78 Dodge Ram next to a half-empty bottle of Jack and a cassette of Townes Van Zandt. The lyrics are the lovechild of road-worn wisdom and Vegas risk. “You made me go all in with a deuce and a queen / Crazy enough to hit a hard 17”—that’s not just a line, it’s a tattoo etched into the spirit of anyone who’s ever loved too recklessly and hoped too hard.
Tye doesn’t write from a pedestal. He writes from the passenger seat. From a barstool. From a rented room with a view of neon regret. And “Hearts Are Wild” plays out like a late-night phone call you shouldn’t make, but do anyway, because the silence is worse. The storytelling is cinematic—evoking not just imagery, but emotion. You’re not just hearing this song. You’re feeling it: in the hum of the tires on the freeway, in the weight of the chips hitting the felt, in the flash of memory when someone says her name.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TzkTxSV9pyQ&pp=ygUkdGltIHR5ZSBtaWRuaWdodCBza3kgaGVhcnRzIGFyZSB3aWxk
Musically, the track grooves with restraint. It doesn’t need to shout. The instrumentation feels like it’s holding its breath—acoustic textures laced with a subtle electric wail, a rhythm section that walks the line between steady and staggering. Everything serves the story. Nothing’s overcooked. This isn’t about showing off. It’s about showing up—with the truth, with the hurt, with the wild heart still somehow beating.
What strikes hardest is the woman at the center of it all—elusive, dangerous, impossible not to chase. “You’re a passionate woman with the soul of a child.” That line alone is enough to haunt a songwriter’s notebook for years. But Tye doesn’t over-romanticize her. He sketches her with just enough shadow and light to make her real. Mysterious, yes. But flawed. Human. Like all the muses we keep trying to outrun but never really want to forget.
“Hearts Are Wild” isn’t a song you blast through speakers at a party. It’s the one you put on when the world gets too quiet and you need to remember who you are and what you’ve lost—and that maybe, just maybe, those are the same thing. Midnight Sky has crafted a tune that feels like dusk on the edge of a breakdown, or the first sign of morning after a long night of almosts.
In the end, this isn’t just a song. It’s a story. One we’ve all lived in some form. And like all great stories, it doesn’t end with closure—it ends with the engine starting up again and a whisper: Drive.
“Hearts Are Wild” is on Midnight Sky’s August 8th album release, “Just Before Dawn.”
–Lonnie Nabors
Just Brittany Releases Two Part Journey “Round Trip”
Just Brittany takes flight with Round Trip—a bold two-part sonic journey that captures the highs, heartbreaks, and hard truths of love, success, and self-discovery.
Divided into Disc One: Outbound and Disc Two: Inbound, the album mirrors a round-trip ticket through her real-life experiences—starting with the fire of independence and ending in reflective vulnerability.
On Outbound, Brittany pops off with confidence and edge. From the unapologetic “Bad Bitch” to the bass-heavy bounce of “Pop Dat” and “Not Regular,” she delivers anthem after anthem for women who know their worth. It’s the part of the trip where you’re lit, in motion, and not looking back.
On Inbound, she slows it down and opens up. Songs like “My Man,” “Take Your Time,” and “Hate 2 Love” explore the emotional turbulence behind the glow-up. And with tracks like “Houston No Dey Carry Last,” she reps her roots loud and proud, bridging Houston’s grit with global flavor.
Crafted with vulnerability, confidence, and intention, Round Trip proves that Just Brittany isn’t just back—she’s in full control of the journey. Whether you’re getting lit or locked in your feelings, this album is the soundtrack for every stage of the ride.
Alex Krawczyk Channels the Spirit of the Dead with “Love Through Sound”
There’s a certain sacred thread that weaves through the great musical mystics. You hear it in the heart-scarred whispers of Leonard Cohen, in the cosmic campfire tales of Jerry Garcia, in the intimate hush of Joni’s Blue. On her new single “Love Through Sound,” Canadian folk-pop songstress Alex Krawczyk picks up that thread and gently runs it through her fingers, crafting a delicate tribute to the healing, unifying power of music.
Releasing fittingly on August 1—Jerry Garcia’s birthday—this track isn’t just a song. It’s a reverent invocation. Co-written with her frequent collaborator and producer Robbie Roth, the tune feels like a love letter to the Deadhead ethos: not the tie-dye and twirling clichés, but the deeper spiritual undercurrent that pulses beneath it all. The notion that music—pure, unfiltered, soul-fed sound—can connect strangers, soothe wounds, and maybe even save us.
“Casey Jones you’ve got me riding high,” she sings at the top, and right away the path is lit. Krawczyk doesn’t mimic the Grateful Dead. She channels them. She borrows their symbols like a painter reinterpreting a sacred scroll, not to copy, but to communicate something eternal. There’s Cumberland mines and Uncle Sam’s blues, yes, but also a universal longing that’s all her own. “Your golden road has strangers shaking hands…” — that’s not just a lyric, it’s a lifeline. In these fractured times, it feels like a prayer.
Robbie Roth’s production is clean, warm, and emotionally tuned. Acoustic guitars ring like open hearts. Electric textures courtesy of Tim Bovaconti and Caroline Marie Brooks shimmer like stardust over Devon Henderson’s steady basslines. Davide DiRenzo’s drumming doesn’t drive the song so much as accompany it on its pilgrimage. Robbie Grunwald’s piano work is subtle but essential, gently tucking its melodies into the corners like light through stained glass. And then there’s Alex—ethereal, honest, present. Her voice doesn’t demand attention; it earns it.
“Love Through Sound” feels less like a single and more like a meditation, a moment of pause in a world that rarely allows one. The refrain—simple, repeating—works its way under your skin, like a mantra, like a memory. It dares to believe that something as intangible as sound can become something as vital as love. And if you’re really listening, it proves it.
There’s a humility to Krawczyk’s music that speaks volumes. She’s not chasing stardom. She’s not posing in front of some Instagram-filtered dreamscape. She’s standing in the tall grass, heart on sleeve, offering a melody like a message in a bottle. There’s a purity here, a stillness. And in that stillness, something sacred stirs.
This is a song for the seekers. For those who believe that art can still mean something. For those who find solace in melody, and maybe even salvation in harmony.
“Love Through Sound” is not just an homage to the Grateful Dead—it’s a quiet reminder that the road goes on forever, and that the music, if we let it, can carry us all the way home.
Play it loud. Play it alone. Or better yet, play it with someone you love—and feel the silence between you disappear.
–Lonnie Nabors
A Virtuoso in Bloom: Bernadett Nyari’s “Radiance” Illuminates the Emotional Power of the Violin
In an age of algorithm-driven singles and disposable pop hooks, violinist Bernadett Nyari emerges as a singular force, reminding us of the transformative power of melody and emotional authenticity. Her new composition and music video, “Radiance,” taken from her upcoming album Heart of Diamonds, is a cinematic and soul-stirring work that manages to be both intimate and expansive—an artistic balancing act few musicians dare attempt, let alone achieve with such elegance.
Nyari, a Hungarian-born virtuoso, is no stranger to the global stage. Trained in the classical canon under the formidable tutelage of Silvia Marcovici, her career has traversed over 90 countries and taken her to storied venues like Carnegie Hall. But “Radiance” is not simply the product of a classical musician showing her technical prowess. Instead, it is a full-bodied expression of voice—crafted not with words, but with strings, silence, and sentiment.
The track opens in near stillness, a delicate hush that immediately draws the listener in. Nyari’s violin, almost whispering at first, traces long, aching notes that bloom with cinematic intention. It’s as if she’s not merely playing the violin, but breathing life into it. The melody unfolds gradually, like sunlight pushing through a clouded sky. And when the orchestral accompaniment swells—subtle strings and ambient textures—it feels earned, not imposed.
There is a narrative quality to “Radiance” that mirrors Nyari’s own artistic journey. Though deeply rooted in classical tradition, she has always flirted with genre boundaries. Her 2018 album Miles of Styles was a genre-spanning declaration, while 2022’s Redemption (which reappears on Heart of Diamonds) signaled her shift into composition. With “Radiance,” that evolution reaches full bloom. It is as much about feeling as it is about form.
Visually, the music video is a powerful extension of the composition’s emotional arc, with Nyari herself front and center throughout. Performing with passionate intensity, she commands the screen, her violin nearly an extension of her own body. The visuals shift from shadow to light as she plays, mirroring the piece’s movement from quiet introspection to luminous release. The camera lingers on her expressions—focused, vulnerable, transcendent—offering a rare glimpse into the soul of a performer completely immersed in her craft. Rather than simply accompanying the music, the video amplifies it, turning Nyari’s performance into a visceral, visual narrative.
In many ways, “Radiance” is a study in restraint. Nyari avoids the flashy virtuosity that plagues much of modern instrumental music. There are no acrobatic crescendos, no pyrotechnic runs designed to impress. Instead, she opts for nuance. Her vibrato is measured. Her phrasing is meticulous. Her silences—those carefully suspended moments between notes—are weighted with as much meaning as the melodies themselves.
That emotional discipline is perhaps what makes “Radiance” so affecting. It’s not music that demands your attention—it quietly commands it. And when the piece reaches its apex, a soaring refrain that seems to transcend the instrument itself, it’s not a climax of volume but of feeling. It’s a moment of earned catharsis, where listener and performer meet in mutual surrender.
The title, “Radiance,” is no accident. The composition glows not with bombast, but with sincerity. It recalls the spiritual warmth of Arvo Pärt, the cinematic sweep of Max Richter, and the melancholic elegance of Ludovico Einaudi—all while maintaining Nyari’s unmistakable voice. It is a piece that feels simultaneously timeless and contemporary.
Nyari’s decision to lead with “Radiance” as the visual and sonic introduction to Heart of Diamonds is both strategic and symbolic. If this track is any indication, the album promises to be a meditation on identity, resilience, and emotional truth. It also reaffirms Nyari’s growing status not just as a performer, but as a composer capable of bridging the classical and the modern, the personal and the universal.
In a world that often privileges speed over stillness, Bernadett Nyari asks us to pause. To listen. To feel. “Radiance” is more than a piece of music—it is an invitation. One well worth accepting.
–Ralph Guiness
Quinn Lemley Nabs Josie Music Award Nom for Vocalist of the Year (Jazz/Blues)
NASHVILLE, TN — Firecracker jazz diva and stage siren Quinn Lemley is turning heads once again with a 2025 Josie Music Award nomination for Vocalist of the Year (Jazz/Blues). The 11th annual event hits the legendary Grand Ole Opry House on Sunday, November 2nd.
Lemley isn’t just a singer—she’s a full-blown experience. With her signature blend of Old Hollywood glamour and modern swagger, she’s built an entertainment empire one velvet glove at a time. Whether she’s lighting up stages with Burlesque to Broadway or channeling Rita Hayworth in The Heat Is On!, Lemley delivers showbiz with a capital S.
Her red-hot jazz quintet has toured the globe, including a residency at the world-famous Half Note Jazz Club in Athens, Greece. Add in a degree from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, appearances on Oprah, GMA, Shark Tank, and even a cameo in the music doc The Greatest Ears in Town (with Bette Midler and Norah Jones, no less), and you’ve got a résumé that reads like a masterclass in reinvention.
But she doesn’t stop at the stage. Lemley hosts the behind-the-curtain talk show Secrets of the Stage and a monthly virtual concert series Up Close & Personal. Her albums—Sirens, Burlesque to Broadway, Dance or Die, and the sultry new Swinging Hot Tomato—are streaming everywhere.
Already the winner of the 2024 BroadwayWorld Cabaret Award (Best Vocalist), plus a Bistro Award and two MAC Award nominations, this Josie nod is the latest proof that Lemley’s flame isn’t flickering—it’s blazing.
The Josie Music Awards are the gold standard for indie musicians, judged by a panel of industry pros who know the real thing when they hear it. And Quinn Lemley? She’s the real damn thing.
More on Quinn Lemley: www.quinnlemley.com
More on the Josie Music Awards: www.josiemusicawards.com
How Divorce Lawyers Can Help You Through a Difficult Time
Divorce can be one of the most challenging and emotionally taxing experiences in a person’s life. The complexities of legal proceedings, financial implications, and the potential impact on children can create a daunting landscape for those navigating this transition. In such tumultuous times, the role of a divorce lawyer extends beyond legal representation; they become vital allies, offering guidance and compassionate support to help individuals regain a sense of stability. A divorce lawyers in Arlington VA not only provides essential guidance through the intricacies of family law but also advocates for their clients’ interests, ensuring that their rights are protected. They can assist in navigating critical decisions, such as asset division, child custody arrangements, and spousal support, all while minimizing conflict and focusing on achieving a fair resolution. By leveraging their knowledge of the legal system, divorce lawyers empower clients to make informed choices, mitigating stress and uncertainty during a period marked by upheaval. This article explores the invaluable role that divorce lawyers play in facilitating a smoother transition through one of life’s most difficult chapters, highlighting how their guidance can significantly ease the burden of divorce, allowing clients to focus on healing and rebuilding their lives.
Understanding your legal rights effectively
Navigating the complexities of legal rights during a divorce can be daunting, yet it is essential for individuals to grasp the full scope of their entitlements and obligations. A comprehensive understanding of these rights not only empowers individuals to make informed decisions but also helps prevent potential exploitation or misunderstandings that can arise throughout the divorce process. Knowledge of asset division, child custody, and support obligations, among other factors, is critical for ensuring that one’s interests are adequately protected and represented.
Accessing reliable legal resources and seeking professional guidance can significantly enhance one’s comprehension of their legal standing. Divorce lawyers are equipped to explain intricate legal jargon and provide clarity on state-specific laws, making them invaluable allies in this challenging journey. By equipping individuals with knowledge and strategic insights, legal professionals play a vital role in facilitating a more equitable and fair resolution, ultimately fostering a smoother transition into the next phase of life.
Navigating complex divorce processes smoothly
Effective navigation of the divorce process hinges on clear communication, organization, and strategic planning. Engaging with a skilled divorce lawyer can streamline interactions with the court and opposing counsel, ensuring that critical documents are filed timely and accurately. Legal professionals can help clients prepare for hearings, gather necessary evidence, and articulate their positions clearly, minimizing the emotional and logistical burdens that often accompany divorce proceedings. By fostering a structured approach to each phase of the divorce, individuals are better equipped to manage their expectations and remain focused on the ultimate goals of resolution and stability.
Moreover, divorce lawyers can facilitate negotiations and mediate disputes, promoting amicable resolutions that can spare families the stress of prolonged litigation. By advocating for their clients’ interests while encouraging cooperative dialogue, these legal proficiencies can help avoid unnecessary conflicts and foster a more positive environment for future co-parenting. This emphasis on smooth navigation not only aids in achieving favorable outcomes but also promotes emotional healing, allowing individuals to move forward with their lives post-divorce.
Providing emotional support during transitions
Recognizing that a divorce is not merely a legal transaction but a profound emotional transition, lawyers can offer a listening ear and a compassionate approach. They understand the psychological toll that such life changes can impose on clients and often provide resources or referrals to counseling services. By validating feelings of anxiety or uncertainty and offering reassurance throughout the process, legal professionals can help clients feel less isolated during a challenging period.
Additionally, divorce lawyers play a critical role in helping clients establish a new sense of normalcy. By guiding individuals through practical steps, such as financial planning or co-parenting arrangements, attorneys can empower clients to regain control over their lives. The structured support from a knowledgeable advocate allows individuals to focus not just on the legal aspects but also on their personal well-being, fostering resilience and adaptability during this transitional phase. Ultimately, skilled legal counsel can bridge the gap between legal requirements and emotional healing, ensuring clients feel supported every step of the way.
Negotiating fair settlements for both parties
Effective negotiation is pivotal in reaching settlements that are equitable for both parties involved in a divorce. Divorce lawyers leverage their guidance to facilitate discussions that prioritize fairness, ensuring that each party’s rights and interests are considered. This balanced approach helps to minimize animosity and fosters a more amicable resolution, which is particularly beneficial when children are involved. By carefully assessing the needs and concerns of both clients, attorneys can propose solutions that address financial distributions, asset division, and custody arrangements, thereby paving the way for a cooperative future.
Moreover, skilled negotiators understand the nuances of each party’s situation and can tailor their strategies accordingly. They can identify areas of potential compromise, allowing both spouses to feel heard and validated in the discussions. This not only aids in reaching a settlement that reflects the realities of both individuals’ lives but also sets a constructive tone for future interactions, especially in co-parenting scenarios. Ultimately, the goal is to secure agreements that provide stability and clarity for both parties, helping them to embark on the next chapter of their lives with a sense of closure and fairness.
Guiding child custody arrangements professionally
Navigating child custody arrangements requires a delicate balance of empathy and legal knowledge. Professionals in this field are adept at guiding parents through the complexities of custody agreements, focusing on the interests of the child while addressing the unique circumstances of each family. They work to facilitate communication between parents, helping them understand the importance of maintaining a cooperative relationship post-divorce, which ultimately benefits the child’s emotional and psychological well-being. By providing insights into various custody options, including joint and sole custody, attorneys can help parents make informed decisions that align with their family’s needs and dynamics.
In addition to serving as mediators, divorce lawyers also advocate for their client’s rights and priorities during custody negotiations. They diligently ensure that both parents are treated fairly and that the child’s welfare remains at the forefront of any arrangement. By leveraging their understanding of family law and local regulations, attorneys can craft comprehensive custody plans that address visitation schedules, decision-making authority, and potential modifications as family circumstances evolve. This professional guidance not only aids in achieving a resolution that is equitable and sustainable but also lays the groundwork for a positive co-parenting relationship moving forward.
Conclusion
Navigating the complexities of divorce can be an emotionally taxing experience, but enlisting the help of a skilled divorce lawyer can provide invaluable support during this challenging time. These professionals not only offer legal guidance to ensure your rights are protected but also serve as compassionate advocates who can guide you through the emotional turmoil associated with separation. From negotiating settlements to addressing child custody arrangements, divorce lawyers are equipped to manage the intricate details of the process, allowing you to focus on healing and rebuilding your life. By seeking their assistance, you are taking an important step towards achieving a fair resolution and moving forward with confidence.
Hailey Hermida to Release New Single “Straitjacket”
Hailey Hermida to Release New Single “Straitjacket”
Stream today at https://lnk.to/straitjacket
JULY 22, 2025 – LOS ANGELES, CA – Punk-rock singer, Hailey Hermida has released her new single “Straitjacket” today. “Straitjacket pushes back against the ways society tries to control our decisions”
Hailey continues, sharing “there’s a pressure to make yourself small, to not be too emotional, too opinionated, too honest, and when you push back, they make you feel like you’re the crazy one. That’s where the title came from. It’s a metaphor for how people try to control you by making you doubt yourself. ”
Fans can stream “Straitjacket” today at https://lnk.to/straitjacket.
“Straitjacket” is the follow up single to her massive hit “sad boy shhh” The music video has amassed nearly 200K views on YouTube. The track merges 2000s pop-rock sounds from Paramore with modern emo electronic synth textures inspired by Billie Eilish. Fans can check out the debut music video at https://youtu.be/UEjp1K8nk5Q.
Hailey Hermida first started writing when she was 13 years old to make sense of the chaos happening around her during the pandemic. It started as a hobby, but she then realized it could be more. In Spring of 2023, she got on stage for the first time at the Mint and discovered her love for pop-rock music and how electrifying performing live can feel. Since then, she’s been working with grammy-nominated producer Riley Urick and co-songwriter Onique “Sparrow” Williams, who together have worked with artists like Usher and Britney Spears. Together they’ve crafted punk music that blends high energy vocals with hard driving guitar bass riffs.
Hailey explained that “straitjacket came out of a moment where everything felt too loud. Too much in my head. I didn’t write it to prove anything, it was more of a release. As the track started to build, it felt like all the pressure I had been carrying finally had somewhere to go.”
“Straitjacket isn’t polished, punk-rock doesn’t need to be. It’s supposed to feel like a scream from the inside. I can’t think of anything more visceral than physically being put in a straitjacket, and that’s what the song is supposed to feel like.” Hailey continues, “Specifically, the chorus where the singing feels more staccato, it’s supposed to feel like you are struggling to move and breathe.”
Like the punk-rock music that first inspired her as a teenager, Hailey Hermida sees her music as an outlet for self expression and when emotions feel too big. It’s a means to process her feelings in a way that’s likely to connect with others. “Straitjacket” pulls inspiration from 2000s driving rock basslines like Korn’s 2003 song “Y’all Want a Single” and Hayley Williams’ vocals on “Pressure” from Paramore’s debut album. It’s a new direction for Hailey, who wanted to lean more into 2000s punk rock tracks with hardcore notes and guitars. Hailey continues, “My past work was more pop/electronic. I wanted to try something new and sound more punk rock, like some of my favorite bands All American Rejects, Green Day, and Bikini Kill.”
Fans can expect more music from Hailey Hermida very soon.
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PHOTO CREDIT: RACHEL BRIGGS
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Gina Zollman Drops Originals and Lands Josie Music Award Nomination for Vocalist of the Year
Acclaimed singer-songwriter Gina Zollman just scored a nomination for Vocalist of the Year (Adult Contemporary) at the 2025 Josie Music Awards—a top-tier honor in the indie music world. And she’s not showing up empty-handed: her brand-new album Originals just dropped, packing 17 raw, genre-hopping tracks written and performed entirely by Zollman herself.
Set for this fall at Nashville’s legendary Grand Ole Opry House, the Josie Awards spotlight the very best in independent music across every genre. Zollman’s nomination is more than just well-earned—it’s proof that honest, soul-baring storytelling still wins hearts.
“I’m incredibly honored to be recognized by the Josie Music Awards,” Zollman shared. “To be nominated in such a talented field—and at this point in my journey—is overwhelming in the best way. Originals is the most honest work I’ve ever done.”
Produced alongside longtime collaborator and songwriter Kevin Fisher, Originals fuses adult contemporary, jazz-pop, and modern folk into one hell of a listening experience. Tracks like “Any Road You Choose,” “Heartbreak Highway,” “You,” and fan-favorite “Garden Grove, California” showcase Zollman’s signature mix of lyrical depth, wit, and vocal vulnerability.
Onstage, her ORIginaLS live show is making waves too. A one-woman performance that’s equal parts concert, confessional, and comedy hour, it’s wowed audiences at both The Gardenia in Hollywood and Arthur Newman Theater in Palm Desert.
Once a high-powered corporate exec, Gina Zollman flipped the script and found her true voice as a full-time artist. Her story is living proof that it’s never too late to take the leap—and sing your damn heart out.
Originals is streaming everywhere now and available for purchase on iTunes/Amazon.
For media inquiries, tour dates, or to connect with Gina:
Visit www.ginazollman.com or follow @gianninaz26 on Instagram.
ABOUT GINA ZOLLMAN
Gina Zollman is a genre-blending vocalist and songwriter known for her powerhouse vocals, quick wit, and fearless honesty. A Los Angeles native, she’s graced stages across the country with her unique blend of jazz, cabaret, adult contemporary, and original music. Her debut album Anywhere With You turned heads with its intimate jazz takes—while Originals cements her status as an artist with something to say, and a voice you won’t forget.
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Orkney singer-songwriter and nature focused musician Merlyn Driver announces debut album + shares ‘Onto Something’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyibdfIx3KE
OHHara drop pulsing, balletic “With You” video
https://vimeo.com/1101342531/a2c3643ea3?share=copy
guitarist Mason Lindahl announces double album
https://song.link/masonlindahl
Rising Country Star Shane Profitt’s “Long Live Country” Second Most Added at Country Radio with 49 New Adds
https://tripletigers.lnk.to/longlivecountry
Bentrees Return with New Single “The Sky Never Dies”; First Taste of Their Upcoming Album
https://song.link/bentrees_snd
Hook Announces Strategic Integration with SoundCloud, Lil Wayne Remix Challenge
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/hook-ai-remix-mashup-maker/id6476193312
Liverpool Indie-Rock Risers Honey Motel Share Video For ‘Milk’ Ahead Of Y Not Festival Main Stage Set
https://youtu.be/EPVMqhBcYYM?feature=shared
FARMING: Pulitzer finalist Ted Hearne announces album
https://deathbombarc.bandcamp.com/album/farming
Watch Chris Staples’ new video for “A Cold New York Morning” – New album, Don’t Worry, is out August 5th
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kO5BIOwv3AU
Bask Seek Solace on “Long Lost Light”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zHxYjzMsqlY
Small Shake Shares New Single & Video “Lucky” | Debut EP ‘Platonics’ Out August 22
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-ogQE2pT-0
Nation of Language Shares New Single “Under the Water”
https://music.subpop.com/nationoflanguage_dancecalledmemory
Announcing Grateful Dead’s Blues for Allah (50th Anniversary Deluxe Edition): Remastered, Unreleased Recordings & More
Melanie’s California Dreaming with psychedelic masters Ozric Tentacles
https://orcd.co/melanieozrictentacles_californiadreamin
LOATHE ANNOUNCE 25-DATE US TOUR
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQt3MFzt8PE
What America is Streaming in 2025 – New Report from JustWatch
Caged Animals signs to You’ve Changed Records – New single “Alligator” out today!
https://cagedanimals.bandcamp.com/track/alligator
New Music: Canada’s JOE RAY MCDONALD establishes himself as a bold new Americana voice with “First Rains of May” :: RIYL Tyler Childers, Townes Van Zandt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1x1a9w7Z-0
Bright Eyes Release New Single & Video “1st World Blues”
https://brighteyes.lnk.to/1st-world-blues
Thrice Announce New Album HORIZONS/WEST
https://thrice.ffm.to/horizonswest
Selector A Releases ‘Reggae Loves Africa Vol. 2’ Compilation
https://va.lnk.to/ReggaeLovesAfricaVol2
9/13: Slaughter To Prevail at Xfinity Center
https://sumerian.lnk.to/grizzly
VICTIM OF FIRE Announce New Album ‘The Old Lie’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r92WXqO-OM8
BMG and PopCult ask, “Why This Song?”
https://whythissong.lnk.to/podcast
lowheaven: “Amherst” Video/Single From Toronto Post-Metal Artisans Now Playing; Ritual Decay Debut Nears Release Via MNRK Heavy
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLxdYbpqB_w&list=RDjLxdYbpqB_w&start_radio=1
Vancouver Indie Pop-Rock Artist Dust Cwaine Shares New Single + Video TWIN LAKES
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX7CBxson1o
Automatic Announces ‘Is It Now?’ LP out 9/26 via Stones Throw | Unveils “Mercury” Single | Nat’l Fall Tour
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GuI9QZd_oDw
TOMBS Announces New Album, ‘Feral Darkness,’ Unleashes Title Track
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mr2D7dDKwvc
Street Eaters Announce ‘Opaque’ LP | Unleash “Tempers” Single + Video | US Tour
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jxvSKLQ8wg
Rising Indie-Pop Artist Windser Announces U.S. Tour w/ Yuno
SCALPTURE drop new video ‘Schwedentrunk’
SHEKINA GRACE MOYES Releases “SHINE LIKE HEAVEN”
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