MusicFreaks

Tag: Live Music

  • The Real McKenzies on the Real Realities of the Road

    The Real McKenzies: Thirty-Five Years of Chaos, Kilts, and Hard-Earned Wisdom on the Road

    Decades after forging a legendary reputation built on tartan, leather, and sheer punk raucousness, the band The Real McKenzies continues to drag their chaotic energy across continents. Having recently released their new album On Yer Bike, this loud, triumphant outfit is celebrated for a legacy forged by Scottish punk poet laureate Paul McKenzie and thirty-five years of relentless touring.

    From sticky pub floors to massive festival stages, the band has built a reputation for bringing a uniquely raucous experience to wherever they go. But beyond the noise and the legendary history lies a deeper perspective—a hard-earned wisdom about the wild, unpredictable world of rock and roll.

    When asked to reflect on their long journey, the McKenzies offered some candid insights into navigating the high highs and low lows of a thirty-five-year touring career. One key piece of advice rings true for any seasoned traveler: priority should always lie in securing a good performance rather than indulging in unnecessary distractions. As one member put it, there is simply a time to rock, and a time to party.

    The realities of the road demand strategic planning. When tackling different environments—from intimate club gigs to sprawling outdoor festivals—the band notes that weather dictates much of the strategy for outdoor shows, while indoor venues offer more flexibility. Sticking to a strict schedule is imperative when managing large festival stages, but a little more relaxed pace can be enjoyed in a more intimate setting.

    The commitment to the lifestyle is absolute. Reflecting on their time off the road, the group emphasizes that there are absolutely no days off—only play days or drive days. This relentless dedication highlights the unique, immersive experience of being on the road.

    While the logistics of performing with bagpipes inevitably introduce unique challenges, the band feels blessed by the professionalism of their musicians, ensuring the sound checks run smoothly. And in a world that constantly seeks new sounds, the advice remains simple: the most wonderful non-musical sound is the sound of silence.

    As they gear up for their next chapter across Europe, The Real McKenzies are hitting the road with renewed energy, set to continue sharing their blend of chaos and genuine experience. Fans can look forward to the upcoming 2026 Tour Dates as the band continues their legendary journey.

    The Real McKenzies 2026 Tour Dates

    JUL 03 — Aarburg, Switzerland @ Musigburg
    JUL 04 — Eggolsheim, Germany @ Schloss Jägersburg
    JUL 05 — Munich, Germany @ Rote Sonne
    JUL 06 — Attnang-Puchheim, Austria @ Raw’s Diner
    JUL 07 — Vienna, Austria @ B72
    JUL 08 — Graz, Austria @ Music-House
    JUL 09 — Praha 1, Czech Republic @ Rock Café
    JUL 10 — Eibelstadt, Germany @ Krach Am Bach Prölsdorf 2026
    JUL 11 — Gadebusch, Germany @ ANschlachtEN Konzert Gadebusch Festival
    JUL 13 — Berlin, Germany @ Lido
    JUL 14 — Dresden, Germany @ Chemiefabrik
    JUL 15 — Warszawa, Poland @ Klub Mechanik
    JUL 16 — Wrocław, Poland @ Stary Klasztor – Sala Gotycka
    JUL 17 — Marienberg, Germany @ Rock auf dem Berg
    JUL 18 — Winsen (Aller), Germany @ Südwinsen Festival
    JUL 20 — Lyon, France @ Bulle De Son Lyon
    JUL 21 — Barcelona, Spain @ Sala Upload
    JUL 22 — Madrid, Spain @ Sala Nazca Madrid
    JUL 23 — Errenteria, Spain @ ORERETA
    JUL 24 — Ribadeo, Spain @ Vendaval Fest 2026
    JUL 25 — Coimbra, Portugal @ Rocketmen Festival 2026
    AUG 19 — Osnabrück, Germany @ Bastard Club (in der Skatehalle)
    AUG 20 — Möckern, Germany @ Spirit Festival Loburg 2026
    AUG 21 — Köln, Germany @ MTC Club
    AUG 22 — Rumst, Belgium @ Razernij – Beerdrinkers & Hellraisers 2026
    AUG 23 — Bréal-sous-Montfort, France @ Festival du Roi Arthur 2026
    AUG 26 — Barberaz, France @ Le Brin de Zinc
    AUG 27 — Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany @ Cafe Atlantik
    AUG 28 — Roth, Germany @ Wallesau Ist Blau 2026
    AUG 29 — Wörrstadt, Germany @ Neuborn Open Air Festival 2026

    Credit: Hypebot

  • Tour news: Nicole Atkins, Hot Mulligan, John C Reilly (Mister Romantic), Frog / Woods, The Snuts, more

    The Road Ahead: A Whirlwind of New Music and Tour Announcements

    The music world is buzzing with movement, marked by major album drops, ambitious tours, and veteran artists hitting the road. From arena-sized acts to beloved indie outfits, a fresh wave of energy is sweeping across North America this fall and summer, promising some truly unforgettable live experiences.

    The biggest news often involves massive collaborations and long-awaited debuts. Beabadoobee has announced an upcoming arena tour supporting their fifth album, which features guest contributions from Hayley Williams, Brendan Yates, and Chino Moreno, bringing a dynamic mix of talent to the stage. Meanwhile, the celebrated Russian Circles is dropping their ninth LP, Nine, on August 28th, followed by a fall tour that will feature a collaboration with Pelican and Primitive Man.

    In heavy rotation are artists carving out their own space. Mike D and his band 5D are set to release their debut solo album, Thank You, on August 28th, kicking off an East Coast tour. Similarly, Brandon Flowers of The Killers is gearing up for a fall run in support of his first solo album in over a decade.

    The touring landscape is also being shaped by seasoned talent. Jazz giant Kamasi Washington is taking the stage this summer with select shows, including intimate performances in Brooklyn and NYC. John C Reilly, known from classic comedies, continues his journey as Mister Romantic, touring and adding comic routines to Great American Songbook standards.

    The indie scene is equally vibrant. Hot Mulligan is hitting the road this fall, supported by a stellar undercard featuring One Step Closer, Riley, and Wakelee. The Jayhawks have also announced their 12th album and corresponding tour, continuing their legacy of Americana storytelling.

    A variety of experimental and genre-bending groups are also building momentum. Automatic, the synth/dancerock duo, are embarking on a fall tour featuring Accessory and Donzii, while Milk & Bone will be touring in support of their album A Little Lucky, including a high-profile DJ set at the Sultan Room Rooftop in Brooklyn.

    Further enhancing the tour calendar is the presence of instrumental and experimental acts. Croz Boyce, an instrumental offshoot of Animal Collective featuring Dave Portner and Brian Weitz, is launching a new tour this September. Meanwhile, Frog / Woods are hitting the festival circuit, supporting their album Frog For Sale and lining up appearances with major organizers like Woods in Boston, NYC, and beyond.

    Even established acts are making big moves on the road. The Snuts will be crossing over to play a series of East Coast shows in support of their upcoming record, Joy In Short Moments, hitting cities like DC, Philly, and NYC. And keep an eye out for Nicole Atkins, who is set to launch her new album Drama in September and kick off a tour in October.

    The musical landscape is clearly alive with new sounds and exciting journeys planned, proving that the energy flowing between artists continues to define the rhythm of modern music.

    Credit: BrooklynVegan

  • Croz Boyce (Animal Collective’s Avey Tare & Geologist) announce US tour

    The indie music landscape is buzzing with the arrival of Croz Boyce, an instrumental project that draws from the lineage of the celebrated Animal Collective. Featuring talents like Dave Portner, known as Avey Tare, and Brian Weitz, known as Geologist, the trio has launched a compelling new musical force with their self-titled debut album.

    Following the release of their debut record in May, the excitement quickly spilled over into live performance. Croz Boyce is now embarking on an ambitious tour schedule designed to bring this unique instrumental sound to audiences across the country.

    The journey promises a unique experience for fans, culminating in a major stop in Brooklyn where the tour will conclude on September 29 at Public Records.

    Fans eager to catch this show can mark their calendars for a series of dates spanning September. The tour takes them through iconic music cities, offering an eclectic mix of venues and experiences:

    The schedule features performances in major hubs including Asheville, NC; Atlanta, GA; New Orleans, LA; Austin, TX; San Francisco, CA; Portland, OR; Seattle, WA; Minneapolis, MN; Milwaukee, WI; Chicago, IL; Cincinnati, OH; Washington D.C.; and finally, the grand finale in New York, NY.

    Specific dates include September 8 in Asheville, September 9 in Atlanta, September 11 in New Orleans, September 12 in Austin, September 15 in Pasadena, September 16 in San Francisco, September 18 in Portland, September 19 in Seattle, September 22 in Minneapolis, September 23 in Milwaukee, September 25 in Chicago, September 26 in Cincinnati, September 28 in Washington D.C., and the final stop on September 29 at Public Records in Brooklyn.

    Credit: BrooklynVegan

  • Kamasi Washington touring this summer, playing 2 Brooklyn shows at Music Hall of Williamsburg

    The vibrant world of jazz is set to take a major tour this summer and fall, featuring the compelling sounds of great artist Kamasi Washington. Fans can mark their calendars as Washington plans to bring his masterful musicianship to various cities across the United States, offering intimate and electrifying performances.

    The journey begins in New England, with dates slated for June. Audiences in Vermont will welcome him to South Burlington, VT, on June 29, followed by Portsmouth, NH, on June 30, where he will play at Jimmy’s Jazz & Blues Club. This regional tour sets the stage for a wider national adventure.

    The schedule then shifts toward Brooklyn, offering some truly intimate experiences for dedicated music lovers. Washington will be performing at the Music Hall of Williamsburg on July 29 and 30, providing close-up exposure to his unique style in one of New York’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Tickets for these special shows are currently available for purchase.

    As the summer progresses, the tour expands its reach, bringing Washington to sunnier destinations. In September, the schedule features a spectacular set of California dates, including San Diego on September 11 at Music Box, and Ojai on September 12 at the Libbey Bowl. The journey continues into Oakland, CA, where fans can catch late shows at Yoshi’s on September 13 and September 14.

    The tour concludes with further stops in Northern California, including a performance in Oakland on September 13 and 14, ensuring that the music travels far beyond its origins. These dates offer a perfect blend of established jazz venues and unique outdoor settings, promising an unforgettable experience for every attendee.

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    Credit: BrooklynVegan

  • Brandon Flowers Plots Solo North American Tour

    Killers frontman Brandon Flowers is gearing up for an electrifying run of performances, announcing a comprehensive North American tour that kicks off this September.

    Following the release of his latest solo album, Thrasher, Flowers is bringing his signature sound to fans across the continent. The tour itinerary promises a dynamic mix of major cities and iconic venues, starting deep in the Western United States.

    The journey begins with a bang in Phoenix, Arizona, before sweeping through Los Angeles, Oakland, and Portland, establishing an incredible presence across the Pacific Northwest and the Southwest. From there, the tour heads north to Canada, marking a significant stop at Vancouver’s Vogue Theatre on September 8th.

    The momentum continues as Flowers weaves through the Midwest before making his way to Toronto, where he is set to play at the historic History on September 24th. This Canadian leg sets the stage perfectly for an extended run across the continent.

    The schedule is packed with high-energy dates, including stops in Seattle, Salt Lake City, Denver, Chicago, and New York, ensuring that fans won’t have to wait long for a dose of Flowers’ music. The tour ultimately wraps up its North American arc before transitioning into an October leg across the United Kingdom.

    For those ready to catch these shows, ticket sales are officially underway. Presale begins tomorrow, June 25th, at 10 a.m. local time, followed by the general on-sale starting Friday, June 26th, also at 10 a.m. Be sure to check Concert Central for detailed Canadian listings and to secure your spot on this epic adventure.

    Credit: Exclaim!

  • Microwave and Free Throw Book Co-Headlining Tour

    Get ready to crank up the volume, because two powerhouse acts are about to ignite a North American road trip! Emo alt-rock favorites Microwave and Free Throw have announced they will be teaming up for a massive co-headlining tour this fall, bringing their unique sound to audiences across the US and Canada.

    This is more than just a concert series; it’s an epic journey packed with energy. The tour kicks off in style on October 9th in Asheville, North Carolina, kicking off a whirlwind schedule that promises unforgettable live performances. To add even more flavor to this cross-continental adventure, the duo will be joined by supporting acts Carly Cosgrove, Puddle Spasher, Kerosene Heights, and Flycatcher on select dates.

    The itinerary is already shaping up to be a musical marathon. After launching their journey in the Southern US, Microwave and Free Throw will travel north to Canada, hitting major cities with incredible venues. Fans can anticipate shows in Vancouver at the Pearl on October 26th, Calgary at the Palace Theatre on October 28th, Edmonton at Pawn Shop Live on October 29th, and Winnipeg at the Park Theatre on October 31st.

    The adventure doesn’t stop there. The tour continues across the US in November, delivering fresh energy to cities like Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, Worcester, and Virginia Beach. This run promises to be a perfect blend of raw emo rock and electrifying live energy as they connect with fans from coast to coast.

    Those looking to secure their spots don’t want to wait! Presales are currently underway for the upcoming dates, and general sales will go live on Friday, June 26th, at 10 a.m. local time. Mark your calendars and prepare your tickets, because this epic tour is set to be one for the history books.

    Credit: Exclaim!

  • Automatic Book 2026 North American Tour

    The road is calling, and Automatic, the energetic L.A. rockers, are setting their sights on North America this summer. Following a successful European run, the dynamic duo have announced a sprawling new tour schedule packed with high-energy festival spots and standalone shows spanning both the East and West Coasts.

    Get ready for an unforgettable journey that blends major festival appearances with intimate venue performances. The itinerary promises a dose of rock and roll excitement, hitting major cultural hubs from the Pacific Northwest all the way down to the coasts.

    The tour is already buzzing with specific highlights. Fans can look forward to seeing them at iconic events like Pickathon in Happy Valley, OR, and appearances at Outside Lands in San Francisco, CA. The schedule is designed to deliver high-octane performances wherever the road takes them.

    Adding to the excitement, Automatic has already secured major spots across the continent. For example, they are slated to take the stage at the Mod Club in Toronto on September 27th, following a special performance at POP Montreal on September 26th, showcasing their ability to captivate audiences in diverse settings.

    The journey won’t be solo. Automatic is bringing an incredible lineup of support acts along for the ride, featuring collaborators like Accessory and Donzii who will join them on numerous dates, ensuring a rich tapestry of musical talent throughout the run.

    This North American adventure features venues ranging from outdoor festivals to unique club spaces, including stops in Austin, TX; Houston, TX; New Orleans, LA; and major metropolitan areas like Chicago, IL and Seattle, WA. The dates stretch from July through October 2026, offering fans a chance to experience the band live across multiple states.

    Tickets are now available for specific dates, starting with the Toronto performance this Friday, June 26th, at 10 a.m. ET. This sale follows an exclusive artist presale, which kicks off tomorrow, June 25th, at 10 a.m. Fans can secure their spots and explore the complete North American tour schedule on Concert Central.

    Credit: Exclaim!

  • Mike D announces more US shows

    The legendary sound of the Beastie Boys continues to evolve, as Mike D and his band 5D prepare to launch their debut solo album, Thank You. This new release is poised to capture the raw energy and distinctive voice that has defined their career while steering them into exciting new territory.

    Following the album’s official release on August 28, the anticipation shifts immediately to the road. The band is gearing up for an energetic East Coast tour, bringing the sounds of Thank You directly to audiences across the region.

    Fans can mark their calendars now, as the tour schedule kicks off in Boston on August 30. From there, the journey will take them through major hubs, hitting Washington, D.C., Asheville, and Atlanta before culminating in a massive performance in New York City at the Knockdown Center on September 9.

    This tour offers an incredible opportunity for music lovers to experience Mike D’s unique vision live. The itinerary highlights venues like the Royale in Boston, the 930 Club in D.C., and The Orange Peel in Asheville.

    For those looking to own the music, the album Thank You is available for preorder. Fans can secure their copies of the vinyl and CD directly through the shop.

    Tickets for these upcoming shows will go on sale Friday, June 26 at 10 AM Eastern time. Get ready to catch the next chapter in Mike D’s story.

    Credit: BrooklynVegan

  • Die Spitz Are Moving Fast

    There are certain conversations that defy logic, and one recent remark perfectly encapsulates the wild collision between high-glamour pop stardom and raw rock rebellion.

    “We’re gonna try to open the pit at the Olivia Rodrigo show,” Kate Halter joked. A month prior to this statement, such a vision would have seemed entirely impossible. After all, Olivia Rodrigo‘s concerts don’t feature mosh pits; they take place in arenas packed with seating that commands four-figure prices on the secondary market. The atmosphere is one of polished, expensive spectacle, not chaotic, sweaty pandemonium.

    The sheer scale and formality of stadium tours create an entirely different ecosystem for live music. It is a world built on luxury and curated experience, where energy is managed rather than unleashed by physical contact.

    This sense of established order was thrown into delightful disarray when Rodrigo made an unexpected booking choice that completely subverted expectations. She decided to bring in the notoriously rowdy Austin big-riff punk-metal crew, Die Spitz, as tourmates.

    The pairing of arena spectacle and punk grit seemed like a recipe for glorious chaos—a collision between polished pop perfection and visceral rock energy. The result was a surprise that proved just how powerful certain musical forces are, regardless of the venue.

    It turns out, when you mix world-class pop with true, unbridled punk, the boundaries blur instantly. It’s a reminder that the most exciting moments often happen at the intersection of seemingly incompatible worlds.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • Bad Nerves Batter The Ears On New Single

    There’s a certain kind of static that comes from letting your guard down, and for the Essex-based rock firebrands Bad Nerves, that static is back in full force. They have unveiled “Network,” their newest musical offering since the acclaimed Still Nervous, and it arrives with the heavy, confrontational edge fans expect.

    Released today on June 24 via Pearl Jam guitarist Stone Gossard’s Loosegroove Records, the single immediately serves as the opening salvo for what promises to be an even larger announcement. It is a track that perfectly captures the band’s restless energy and the feeling of manufactured reality they often dissect in their work.

    The visual aesthetic of “Network” hints at this broader conceptual world still unfolding. The artwork, inspired by a scientific illusion encountered during a museum visit in Switzerland, introduces a robotic central figure that perfectly reflects the song’s themes of control, programming, and the manufactured nature of our modern existence.

    Bad Nerves’ ascent over the last two years has been nothing short of seismic. Following the success of Still Nervous, the band engaged in relentless touring, opening for Green Day across South America and Europe and joining Weezer on a European run. They brought their famously chaotic live show to global stages, from Australia and Japan to major festivals like Lollapalooza Chile, Chicago, Rock am Ring, and Rock im Park in Germany.

    The buzz surrounding the band has only intensified, evidenced by high praise from peers. Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong famously declared Bad Nerves “the best band in England right now” before inviting them on the road, solidifying their place in the rock landscape.

    Now, with “Network” leading the charge, the band is not slowing down. Much of 2026 is dedicated to road-testing this new material, with an extensive schedule planned across Europe and the U.S. They are set to share stages alongside heavyweights like the Offspring and Die Toten Hosen, in addition to a packed summer festival circuit.

    Frontman Bobby Nerves sums up the relentless pursuit of authenticity: “It feels like this is the main thing we’ll ever do in our lives. If we’re remembered for anything, let it be this.”

    Fans won’t have to wait long to experience this new material live. The touring schedule stretches across continents, hitting major stops from North America through Europe, ensuring that the chaotic energy of Bad Nerves continues to roar.

    Credit: Spin