discovering and sharing the music that moves us

Author: Simon

Two-plus decades in the music industry as a program director, host, influencer, voice-over artist, and artist manager. Passionate about introducing music fans to talented artists. Avid sports card collector. Pizza lover. Microbrew connoisssoir.
Kings County Drop New Order’s “Blue Monday” Cover With Hard Rock Twist
12Apr By SimonNo Comments
Features, Music

Kings County Drop New Order’s “Blue Monday” Cover With Hard Rock Twist

In the realm of music covers, New Order's 1983 hit single, "Blue Monday," has seen its fair share of interpretations. But this time around, Orlando's hard rock outfit, Kings County, has taken it upon themselves to give the iconic track a whole new lease on life. Kings County is comprised of Rob Dexter on vocals and bass, Steve Bell and Bill Kania on guitars, and Joe Lopez on drums. They're not shying away from the challenge of reinventing a classic. With heavy guitars, earthy drums, and aggressive modern vocals, they've breathed new life into the song while still paying homage to its New Wave roots. According to Dexter, the decision to tackle "Blue Monday" was driven by a deep appreciation for timeless music. He notes, "Great songs stand the test of time, and New Order's hit is no e...
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Velvet Rays Chronicles the Essence of Love in Debut Single “Something Different”
12Jan By SimonNo Comments
Features, Music

Velvet Rays Chronicles the Essence of Love in Debut Single “Something Different”

Introducing Velvet Rays, the R&B and soul duo making waves from the heart of Houston, TX. The duo is comprised of the talented singer, songwriter, and producer Jayson De Buyl. Along with the multifaceted artist, singer, songwriter, producer, choreographer, and dance teacher Jon Glenn. Their debut single, "Something Different," is available now on Dark Spark Music. The genesis of their single, as described by Jayson, is rooted in the concept of a dream girl. The ideal woman with whom one envisions spending a lifetime. Their mission was clear: to encapsulate the euphoria of new love and convey it in a way that not only makes sense but also breathes life into the hearts of their audience. "Something Different" aims to evoke that exhilarating feeling of encountering someone for...
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Auld Lang Syne Punked-Up: The Dollyrots’ Cover New Year’s Anthem
22Dec By SimonNo Comments
Features, Music

Auld Lang Syne Punked-Up: The Dollyrots’ Cover New Year’s Anthem

The Dollyrots, the dynamic punk-rock trio consisting of Kelly Ogden (bass and vocals) and Luis Cabezas (guitar and vocals), along with current touring drummer Simon Hancock, are gearing up for an action-packed 2024. They've just announced a January tour alongside Bowling For Soup and Lit. Additionally, a March tour with Gymshorts as support is on the horizon. Tickets for both upcoming tours are available now. Before bidding farewell to 2023, The Dollyrots have dropped a punk-infused yet sentimental rendition of the New Year's Eve classic, "Auld Lang Syne," released on Wicked Cool Records. Kelly Ogden reflects on the inspiration behind the rendition, stating, "Usually, when Auld Lang Syne comes on, I feel a bit wistful... I mean, maybe it’s the champagne, but it’s also time to r...
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Radiobot: Listen To Debut Single “This World’s On Fire”
17Dec By SimonNo Comments
Features, Music

Radiobot: Listen To Debut Single “This World’s On Fire”

Radiobot is a dynamic musical trio featuring Brett Scallions, Billy Harvey, and Eddie Wohl. They're making waves with their debut original single. "This World's On Fire" is available now on all major music platforms via TLG/Virgin Music Group. This and their previously released Bob Dylan cover gives listeners a taste of what's to come from this exciting band. According to the trio, their debut album is set to drop in Spring 2024, In a statement, the band expressed their intentions behind the single, stating, "At a time when the world certainly feels like it's a mess, we hope listeners will enjoy the comical tongue-in-cheek lyrics in this song. That, along with the stomp beat, should get your booty shaking and have some fun with it." Adding an extra layer of entertainment, Radiob...
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Polyvinyl Records Presents Birthmark’s Highly Anticipated Album ‘Birth of Omni’
13Dec By SimonNo Comments
Features, Music

Polyvinyl Records Presents Birthmark’s Highly Anticipated Album ‘Birth of Omni’

Birthmark is the brainchild of accomplished multi-instrumentalist Nate Kinsella and a new album is on the way. Birth of Omni is set for release on January 19th, 2024 through Polyvinyl Record Co. Following the well-received lead single "Rodney," Birthmark has unveiled "Red Meadow." The new material is accompanied by a visually striking music video directed by Kinsella himself. Photo Credit: Tom Medvedich In "Red Meadow," Kinsella explores the complex dynamics of midlife and parenthood. He shares how these experiences can reshape relationships and one's understanding of oneself. The music video, co-directed by Chris Strong, employs light, darkness, and dance to articulate the emotional essence of the song. Kinsella and dancer Robin Mineko-Williams move together in tandem, symbolizing ...
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Excitement Builds For Green Day’s 14th Album With “Dilemma” Release
7Dec By SimonNo Comments
Features, Music

Excitement Builds For Green Day’s 14th Album With “Dilemma” Release

Powerhouse punk rock trio Green Day is making waves once again with the release of their latest single, "Dilemma." The band, comprised of Billie Joe Armstrong, Mike Dirnt, and Tré Cool, has delivered another instant classic. The song packs a punch and is set to be featured on their upcoming 14th studio album Saviors due January 19, 2024. Photo credit: Emmie America In the accompanying video, we find Billie Joe Armstrong navigating the consequences of a wild night. The footage embodies the lyrics' brutally honest reflection on addiction and mental health struggles. "'Dilemma' was one of those songs that was kind of easy to write because it was so personal to me," Armstrong shares. The track explores the pain that arises from witnessing the challenges faced by peers dealing with addi...
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Iconic Adam Ant Set To Tour The U.S.A. In 2024
5Dec By SimonNo Comments
Events, Features, Music

Iconic Adam Ant Set To Tour The U.S.A. In 2024

Adam Ant is set to embark on a coast-to-coast tour in the new year. His ANTMUSIC 2024 dates kick off on March 21st in St. Louis, MO. The legendary English Beat will join him as support throughout the tour. Photo Credit: Steven Scouller Adam Ant's journey traces back to the mid-seventies when he played bass with a band called Bazooka Joe, He went on to form The Ants after a life-changing experience seeing The Sex Pistols in concert. The Ants gained traction and their debut album Dirk Wears White Søx rose to the top of the independent charts. This initial success set the stage for their explosive breakthrough Kings of the Wild Frontier in 1980. This charismatic frontman continued his ascent with hits like "Stand and Deliver" (1981) and "Prince Charming," reaching number one on the ...
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Saint Samuel Drops Catchy “Dancing In the Moonlight” Cover
30Nov By SimonNo Comments
Features, Music

Saint Samuel Drops Catchy “Dancing In the Moonlight” Cover

Saint Samuel, the self-produced singer-songwriter hailing from Richmond, VA has unveiled a sneak peek into his upcoming EP. With the release of "Dancing In the Moonlight," we gain a fresh perspective on the classic hit and get a taste of what's to come on Going Through It. Sam McCoig is the mastermind behind Saint Samuel. He stumbled upon the song through Toploader's rendition featured on The Umbrella Academy. From there it instantly became an obsession, McCoig even admitted to playing it four times a day at some points. His decision to cover this upbeat, lighthearted tune was swift, inspired by the joyous vibes embedded in the original. Getting To Know Saint Samuel A musical journey that began at the age of nine, Sam received his first guitar at a young age. Transitioning f...
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Radiobot Unveiled: Featuring Fuel’s Brett Scallions, Billy Harvey, and Emmy-Winner Eddie Wohl
27Nov By SimonNo Comments
Features, Music

Radiobot Unveiled: Featuring Fuel’s Brett Scallions, Billy Harvey, and Emmy-Winner Eddie Wohl

Radiobot is a dynamic musical ensemble comprising the talented members Brett Scallions, Billy Harvey, and Eddie Wohl. They've released their re-imagining of a classic Bob Dylan song, "Subterranean Homesick Blues." The cover is a taste of what's to come with their debut original single set for release on December 8th. In their homage to Bob Dylan, the band expressed their admiration for the rock 'n' roll lyricist, aiming to pay tribute with swagger. The accompanying video pays homage to Dylan's Alley video, with Scallions meticulously recreating all of the iconic cards by hand. Radiobot Formation Radiobot was formed in 2016 by Scallions, Harvey, and Wohl. They initially faced challenges due to conflicting commitments and touring schedules. However, their chemistry resulted in ...
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Birthmark: Nate Kinsella To Drop First Album in 8 Years
16Nov By SimonNo Comments
Features, Music

Birthmark: Nate Kinsella To Drop First Album in 8 Years

Cover Art Photo by Shervin Lainez In a thrilling comeback, Nate Kinsella, the mastermind behind Birthmark, has announced the release of the project's first album in eight years. Titled Birth of Omni the album is set to drop on January 19th, 2024 courtesy of Polyvinyl Records. Kinsella, a seasoned multi-instrumentalist known for his contributions to indie favorites like Joan of Arc, American Football, and Make Believe. The new material promises a unique sonic experience, marking a departure from his previous works. The lead single, "Rodney" is accompanied by a visually striking music video directed by Ben Wietmarschen. The song delves into Kinsella's personal journey of self-discovery, grappling with his sexuality and the societal expectations of masculinity. Featuring guest vocals f...
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