MusicFreaks

Tag: Band News

  • Alkaline Trio cancel 2026 UK tour due to “medical issues”

    The planned UK tour for punk rock trio Alkaline Trio has been abruptly cancelled, pulling dates from major cities across England and their appearance at the upcoming 2000Trees festival.

    The news sends a ripple of disappointment through the music world. The band, which was set to hit venues in Birmingham, Newcastle, Leeds, London, and Manchester this month, along with topping the bill at the 2000Trees event in Gloucestershire next week, has announced that all dates have been pulled.

    The decision comes after the tour was scheduled to kick off in Birmingham, but the reason for the sudden halt is personal. In a statement shared on social media, Alkaline Trio explained that the cancellation is due to ongoing medical issues faced by frontman Matt Skiba, which have recently worsened.

    “We are immensely sorry, but we must cancel our dates in England,” the band shared. “This is due to medical issues Matt has been suffering from that have worsened.”

    Despite the disruption, the trio offered an optimistic outlook regarding their future. They reassured fans that Skiba is recovering and will be treated stateside as quickly as possible, promising a return to the stage when they are “healthier and stronger.” They also confirmed that refunds would be made available at the point of purchase.

    The focus now shifts to the band’s recent work. Alkaline Trio’s tenth studio album, ‘Blood, Hair And Eyeballs’, arrived in 2024. During an interview, Skiba noted that this album represented the best work they could make during a long break from releasing new material.

    Dan Andriano echoed this sentiment about their creative process, stating, “If we’re going to album 10, let’s make it fucking awesome. We wanted it to be different. We wanted it to be special.”

    Although the immediate tour is shelved, the band remains focused on upcoming projects. They are scheduled to embark on a US tour with Rise Against in September, though there is currently no word on whether this trek will be affected by Skiba’s ongoing health matters.

    Credit: NME

  • Wolf Alice Announce ‘The Clearing: B Sides’

    Wolf Alice is taking a moment to celebrate a major musical milestone, and the party is about to get much more interesting. Just shy of a year ago, the band dominated the charts in the UK with their acclaimed album The Clearing, an achievement that cemented their place in the contemporary music landscape.

    Now, as they look back on that triumphant moment, Wolf Alice is bringing fans something truly special: The Clearing: B Sides. This new release isn’t just a collection of previously unreleased tracks; it serves as an auditory deep dive into the raw, untouched material that surrounded their massive hit.

    By revisiting these unheard pieces, the band is offering a chance for listeners to explore the creative depths behind the celebrated album. It’s an opportunity to hear the nuances and experimental sounds that informed their success, offering a fascinating glimpse into the studio sessions and artistic process that led to The Clearing.

    This project transforms the celebration from simply looking back at a hit record into an expansive exploration of the band’s evolving sound. It allows listeners to appreciate the breadth of their songwriting and discover alternate angles of the Wolf Alice experience. The decision to release The Clearing: B Sides is a smart way to honor their legacy while rewarding their devoted audience with exclusive, unvarnished musical content.

    Credit: Clash Magazine

  • Wolf Alice Announce The Clearing (B Sides): Hear “Gospel Oak”

    Wolf Alice, the long-running force in UK alt-rock, isn’t just making music; they are constantly redefining the boundaries of their genre. Their journey is a fascinating example of how musical groups evolve, and their latest move into pop territory is certainly not an isolated incident.

    On their most recent offering, The Clearing, the band took a noticeable and exciting pivot towards a more accessible pop direction. This shift demonstrates a willingness to explore new sonic landscapes rather than remaining comfortably entrenched in their original alt-rock roots.

    What makes this evolution particularly compelling is that it feels like just one chapter in a much larger narrative of musical experimentation. Wolf Alice has consistently shown an ability to evolve, proving that growth in sound doesn’t mean losing the core identity that first drew listeners in.

    This creative agility ensures that their work remains fresh and engaging, continually challenging audiences to re-evaluate what defines them. The band’s commitment to sonic exploration keeps the conversation buzzing long after the music drops.

    Even the deeper cuts and supporting material reflect this ongoing journey. For instance, a recent feature highlighting The Clearing (B Sides) and tracks like “Gospel Oak” showcased another facet of their diverse musical interests, further cementing the idea that Wolf Alice is always pushing the envelope.

    Their trajectory shows that longevity in music isn’t about stagnation; it’s about embracing change. The ongoing evolution of Wolf Alice proves that true artistry lies in continuous reinvention and a fearless willingness to pivot in the pursuit of new creative horizons.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • The Mars Volta to Settle ‘Unfinished Business’ on Live Album

    While The Mars Volta remains focused on their artistic vision rather than road dates in Canada, the band is offering fans an incredibly deep dive into their explosive sound through their latest live release: Lucro Sucio; Unfinished Business.

    This new album isn’t just a recording of a concert; it’s a deep reinterpretation of their source material, transforming studio tracks into a raw and visceral live experience. It captures the chaotic energy and complex atmosphere that defines their sound, offering listeners an opportunity to witness the magic unfold in real time.

    The recording is available for streaming digitally starting September 4th, with a physical release scheduled for October 16th. Fans can preorder the album now to secure their copy.

    The tracklist itself is a masterclass in sonic curation, condensing eighteen songs into thirteen unforgettable pieces. This unique arrangement features compelling medleys and reimagined segments, allowing the band to weave together their epic sound in ways that are both familiar and fiercely new.

    Highlights from this powerful collection include intense tracks such as Mictlán, the dramatic fusion of Reina Tormenta / Enlazan las Tinieblas, and the signature chaotic energy present in songs like Cue the Sun / Alba del Orate.

    The live version of “Cue the Sun / Alba del Orate” is especially featured, delivering a soaring performance that perfectly encapsulates the album’s raw intensity. This release proves that even without a scheduled tour stop, The Mars Volta continues to deliver breathtaking musical journeys for their dedicated audience.

    Credit: Exclaim!

  • Bloc Party – “Love Bombs”

    Bloc Party’s New Era: Diving into the Dissonance of Anatomy Of A Brief Romance

    The air is thick with anticipation in the music world, as the acclaimed band Bloc Party continues to build an impressive wave of hype for their upcoming record, Anatomy Of A Brief Romance. Fans are eagerly waiting for the full artistic statement, and the previews they’ve released only serve to underscore the chaotic brilliance that defines the group’s sound.

    The journey into this new era has already begun with a fascinating glimpse into their creative process. Early auditory explorations have set a distinctive tone, starting with the track Coming On Strong, which provides an immediate anchor point for the listener before plunging deeper into more experimental territory.

    But if the anticipation is anything to go by, the subsequent previews are where things truly get wonderfully odd. Bloc Party has delivered a series of sonic vignettes that challenge expectations and delight the ear in equal measure. One such offering is the track Love Bombs, which arrives as a dissonant, utterly unique serenade.

    This latest preview, Love Bombs, perfectly captures the band’s penchant for exploring strange and compelling sonic landscapes. It’s the kind of track that doesn’t just fill space; it deliberately reconfigures it, offering a truly dissonant yet irresistible experience.

    The buzz surrounding these carefully curated previews suggests that Anatomy Of A Brief Romance is shaping up to be an intensely engaging collection. Each release acts as a tantalizing clue, hinting at the complex emotional and musical terrain the band is about to explore, confirming their status as innovators pushing the boundaries of contemporary sound.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • Fat Dog Announce New Album Cancel Me (I’m Tired): Hear The Title Track

    When you title an album Cancel Me (I’m Tired) for 2026, you are making a bold declaration. And London dance-rockers Fat Dog have certainly chosen to make their statement loud and clear.

    There is a certain weariness in the title, a palpable sense of exhaustion that permeates the track listing. While some might find it draining, for those who follow the band, the resulting faux-outrageousness is undeniably infectious—and frankly, exhausting to witness.

    Thankfully, when the music hits live, the fatigue melts away. Reports indicate that the live show itself proves to be a blast, offering an antidote to the title’s mood. The energy on stage ensures that the exhaustion is transformed into pure, unadulterated fun.

    This duality—the heavy-lidded title versus the high-energy performance—creates a compelling tension. It suggests that even when feeling completely worn out, there is still room for spectacle and joy.

    Adding another layer of amusement to this creative equation, it seems the album title might just be the right kind of joke for some segments of the audience. People attending Fat Dog’s performances, including those who have seen Foo Fighters stadium shows, are likely to find the grand absurdity of Cancel Me (I’m Tired) rather amusing as they head to Europe this week.

    The announcement of the new album and the release of the title track were first shared on Stereogum, setting the stage for a discourse that is already buzzing around music circles.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • New Order announce that Stephen Morris & Gillian Gilbert “won’t be touring for the foreseeable future” due to “personal health reasons”

    A pause in the music world seems imminent as New Order announces a significant shift in its touring plans, citing personal health reasons for the founding members, Stephen Morris and Gillian Gilbert, stepping back from the road.

    The news sends ripples through the community, particularly concerning upcoming performances. Specifically, the band confirmed that they will not be touring for the foreseeable future, meaning they will miss the opportunity to perform at Fauna Primavera in Chile this November.

    “Bernard, Phil and Tom are really sorry that Stephen and Gillian can’t join us this time, but unfortunately the circumstances make it impossible,” New Order stated, acknowledging the difficult decision behind the change.

    This temporary separation immediately alters the lineup for live performances. At the upcoming show, Bernard Sumner will be the sole original member of the group on stage. The band has undergone several changes over the years, reflecting shifts in time and personal circumstances.

    The history of New Order’s lineup is quite a fascinating timeline of musical evolution. Phil Cunningham joined the group in 2001 when Gillian was unable to tour. Later, when original bassist Peter Hook departed in 2007, Tom Chapman stepped in to fill that crucial role.

    Gillian Gilbert later rejoined the band in 2011, and Cunningham remained a constant presence throughout this period. While there is currently no official word regarding who will be handling the drums for future shows, the focus remains on the creative direction moving forward.

    Despite this change in touring status, the musical legacy continues to evolve. Meanwhile, Peter Hook is charting his own course, taking his band The Light on the road this fall. He will be celebrating the history of New Order by playing their 2001 album Get Ready in full, along with a second set of iconic songs from both New Order and Joy Division.

    Credit: BrooklynVegan

  • Have Heart announce US reunion shows

    The echoes of a beloved sound are always worth waiting for. After a hiatus, the hardcore band Have Heart is back on the scene, embarking on new opportunities to share their powerful sound with audiences worldwide.

    What began as a cherished circle of friends in the Boston HC scene in 2009 has blossomed into brief, impactful reunions over the years. Now, the band is gearing up for another exciting chapter, following the announcement of the 2027 edition of the Netherlands’ Revolution Rising Fest.

    To bring this renewed energy to new audiences, Have Heart has unveiled a collection of US shows scheduled for this fall, spanning major cities from Boston to Los Angeles and Oklahoma City. Fans can mark their calendars for these dates:

    The tour kicks off in Boston with performances at Middle East Upstairs on October 23 and Big Night Live on October 24. Next up is Oklahoma City, where they will play the Flyover Fest on November 7.

    The journey continues westward as the band heads to Los Angeles for performances at the Ukrainian Cultural Center on December 18 and The Belasco on December 19. These dates represent a chance for many listeners to experience the raw energy that has defined their music.

    Details regarding full lineups and ticket information are set to be released on Wednesday, July 1st at 12 PM local time.

    Patrick Flynn, a driving force behind the band, reflects on the enduring impact of their work. “Twenty years ago Have Heart put out a record we didn’t think would really be cared for beyond our small circle of friends in the Boston HC scene,” he notes. “Who heard it didn’t really matter. We just knew we had to get the feelings in our bones out and into the world in some way.”

    Flynn emphasizes that writing and playing The Things We Carry has fundamentally changed his life, and now they are eager to share those feelings with a wider audience. “Writing and playing around the world eternally changed my life, and we’d like to play it (and other tracks) to some more people this Fall,” he adds.

    While Have Heart prepares for their next run, fellow artist Fiddlehead is also making waves. They recently released a new EP, Baby I’ll Change, and are currently embarking on a summer tour with Narrow Head Elliott, Self-Defense Family Pity Sex to bring their message to life.

    Credit: BrooklynVegan

  • New Order’s Stephen Morris, Gillian Gilbert Step Back From Touring

    The legendary Manchester outfit, New Order, is taking a moment to reset before diving back into the world of live music, and their recent announcements are sparking serious excitement among fans.

    Drummer Stephen Morris and bassist Gillian Gilbert have announced that the duo will be stepping back from touring this year. While this pause might seem like a quiet chapter, it serves as a strategic breather before they embark on an exciting new phase of musical adventures.

    But don’t let the temporary hiatus dampen the momentum—the road is about to get interesting. New Order has confirmed a fresh batch of live shows scheduled for the coming months, promising high-energy performances across the globe.

    One of the highly anticipated stops on this new itinerary is set in South America. For the first time in seven years, the band is gearing up for their debut performance in the continent, adding a unique and thrilling dimension to their touring history.

    Adding an extra layer of excitement, the schedule also features a show at Primavera in Chile later this year. This opportunity brings the iconic sound of New Order to a vibrant new setting, marking a significant milestone for both the band and the Chilean music scene.

    This renewed commitment to the road signals that the legacy of New Order is far from over; it’s simply entering a spectacular new era of performance. Fans are eagerly anticipating where this fresh wave of touring will take them next.

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    Credit: Clash Magazine

  • End It frontman breaks silence on controversy of battle with man dressed as banana

    In the often volatile world of hardcore music, even the most intense scenes can occasionally veer into the absurd. For frontman Akil Godsey of the Baltimore band End It, a seemingly lighthearted moment at a recent show has ignited a significant and public controversy, prompting him to finally address the ensuing backlash.

    The incident occurred on June 5, when End It was playing at Lithuanian House in Toronto. During the performance, Godsey singled out a fan in the crowd who was sporting a banana costume. In a moment that has since circulated widely, Godsey called the fan to the front and accused him of seeking attention. He then offered the band’s setlist to anyone willing to “strip the banana,” leading to the removal of the costume by members of the audience.

    The fallout was immediate. The fan involved later took to social media, calling himself an unwilling participant and asserting that his clothing had been removed at the direction of a band he had paid to see. His reaction highlighted the stark divide between the performance and the public perception of the interaction.

    In response to the criticism—which included accusations of racism, death threats, and general dissertations—Godsey released a video on Instagram where he addressed the intense negativity. He acknowledged that the experience had been taxing before pivoting to a more personal message about life and self-worth. “People have been trying to dim my sparkle my entire life,” he stated, expressing weariness with external validation.

    Godsey pushed back against those who felt disappointed by the band’s actions, emphasizing that they had fundamentally misunderstood the nature of hardcore music. He firmly asserted their identity: “We’re a hardcore band. We do hardcore things.”

    He further reflected on the necessity of internal focus, suggesting that external opinions are often built on assumptions. “You don’t even know what’s going on over here,” he noted. He stressed the importance of self-reliance, reminding observers that he is a fully functioning adult who does not require outside validation to feel secure.

    While Godsey defended his personal response, the incident created further friction within the broader hardcore community. Some critics argued that the band had encouraged the crowd in removing the fan’s costume, while others felt that wearing novelty outfits to a hardcore show should have naturally invited a hostile reaction.

    The controversy extended beyond the immediate scene, impacting End It’s professional trajectory. The fallout reportedly affected their touring plans, leading to the band being removed from posters for major European tours, such as Hatebreed’s tour with Life Of Agony.

    End It formed in Baltimore in 2017 and released their debut album, Wrong Side Of Heaven, last August via Flatspot Records. Despite the turbulent nature of the incident, Akil Godsey’s response brought a much-needed spotlight on the complexities of public attention, self-perception, and the enduring spirit of hardcore music.

    Credit: NME