MusicFreaks

Tag: Rock music

  • Hear The Killers’ Brandon Flowers go country-western on lead ‘THRASHER’ single “Plans”

    The journey into country western music has brought a new voice to the forefront, and no one is doing it quite like The Killers frontman Brandon Flowers. After more than a decade spent navigating the landscape of new wave and rock and roll, Flowers has unveiled his first solo album in years, THRASHER, which embraces the sounds of his heritage with breezy enthusiasm.

    This musical pivot is more than just a change of pace; it represents a deep dive into a sound that was deeply embedded in his family history. As Flowers shared his motivation behind the shift, he spoke about unlocking a space within himself: “I am large, I contain multitudes,” he mused. He noted that this new exploration allowed him to access country western music, his father’s music, and share the stories he needed to tell at this moment.

    The album immediately establishes this shift with its debut single, “Plans.” Far from a typical rock track, the song is a true tribute to the genre, featuring a twangy, vintage-sounding ballad fueled by fiddle and pedal steel. It’s the kind of track that perfectly soundtracks a honky tonk slow dance, with Flowers’ unmistakable voice taking center stage.

    The sonic tapestry of THRASHER is further enriched by a lineup of seasoned veterans. The album was produced by Shawn Everett & Jonathan Rado, who have crafted the sound for the last two Killers albums. Furthermore, Flowers collaborated with acclaimed artist Gillian Welch and featured legendary musicians like veteran pedal steel player Bruce Bouton and harmonica master Charlie McCoy, known for his work on classic Bob Dylan albums.

    THRASHER is set to be available on August 21. The album will be supported by a fall tour where Brandon Flowers will take the stage across the country. Fans can catch him live this fall, including performances in cities like Brooklyn, New York, and Austin, Texas.

    The tour dates provide an extensive schedule for fans eager to experience the new material live:

    September 1st – The Van Buren – Phoenix, AZ
    September 4th – John Anson Ford Theatre – Los Angeles, CA
    September 5th – Fox Theater – Oakland, CA
    September 7th – Roseland Theater – Portland, OR
    September 8th – Vogue Theatre – Vancouver, BC
    September 9th – Showbox – Seattle, WA
    September 11th – Red Butte – Salt Lake City, UT
    September 12th – Ogden – Denver, CO
    September 15th – Palace Theatre – St Paul, MN
    September 16th – The Riviera Theatre – Chicago, IL
    September 18th – Brooklyn Paramount – Brooklyn, NY
    September 20th – 9:30 Club – Washington, DC
    September 21st – Franklin Music Hall – Philadelphia, PA
    September 23rd – Roadrunner – Boston, MA
    September 24th – HISTORY – Toronto, ON
    October 2nd – Austin City Limits – Austin, TX
    October 6th – Wynn Encore Theater – Las Vegas, NV
    October 14th – Bournemouth O2 Academy – Bournemouth, UK
    October 15th – Royal Albert Hall – London, UK
    October 17th – Bristol Beacon – Bristol, UK
    October 18th – Nottingham Rock City – Nottingham, UK
    October 20th – O2 Apollo Manchester – Manchester, UK
    October 21st – Barbican – York, UK
    October 23rd – O2 Academy Glasgow – Glasgow, UK
    October 24th – O2 Academy Birmingham – Birmingham, UK
    October 27th – Olympia Theatre – Dublin, Ire

    Credit: BrooklynVegan

  • Brandon Flowers – “Plans”

    Brandon Flowers Trades Stadium Lights for Nashville Twang on Solo Project

    The boundaries between genres are constantly shifting in the music world, but when a global rock icon makes a pivot, it often sparks a fascinating conversation. Killers frontman Brandon Flowers has recently taken a surprising detour, tapping into the rich traditions of country music for his new solo offering, Thrasher.

    This move isn’t just a stylistic change; it represents an exploration of a distinctly different sonic landscape. While Flowers is known globally for arena-sized rock anthems, his new work draws heavily from the sounds and history of Nashville, injecting a distinct twang into his creative process.

    The sonic shift was immediately noticeable upon release. Early reflections from those close to the project noted how deeply immersive this fusion was. For some collaborators, the music felt like an evolution—a Killers sensibility infused with authentic country instrumentation.

    One colleague observed that the soundscape of the album trailer evoked the old-time Nashville studio system, suggesting a deep appreciation for classic country ballad structures blended seamlessly with modern rock energy.

    This marriage of styles results in an intriguing blend. The album successfully bridges the gap between stadium rock and heartfelt storytelling, creating a unique atmosphere that is both familiar and refreshing.

    The resulting single from the project has certainly made an impact, continuing to push the limits of what country influences can bring to pop-rock, raising the twang quotient for listeners accustomed to pure rock sounds.

    Buy on Amazon

    Credit: Stereogum

  • Charli XCX Shares “Wink Wink,” Smokes With Madonna, Teases Unexpected Album Feature

    Charli XCX Drops New Single Amidst High-Octane Creative Rollout

    The anticipation is building as Charli XCX continues her dynamic rollout, gearing up for the highly anticipated release of Music, Fashion, Film in just four weeks. While the countdown continues, the creative momentum remains high, leading to fresh musical content landing right on cue.

    This ongoing creative spree follows Charli XCX’s recent discussion regarding some of her more controversial artistic choices. She recently addressed the shifts within her creative focus, particularly concerning her work in Rock Music and the aesthetic direction of SS26.

    The buzz surrounding these shifts has been significant, but even amidst the creative debate, Charli XCX keeps delivering. Fans have also been enjoying the extra material, including non-album B-sides such as I Keep Thinking About You Every Single Day And Night and Playboy Bunny.

    Adding to the current wave of excitement, a new single has materialized today, signaling another phase in her evolving sound. This latest release is part of a larger narrative that keeps fans closely engaged with Charli XCX’s unique vision and fresh output.

    The news surrounding this new track was prominently featured online, with the post detailing the release—which teased collaborations like “Wink Wink” and mentioned association with Madonna—earning immediate attention on Stereogum.

    Credit: Stereogum

  • 5 Albums I Can’t Live Without: Kira Roessler Formerly of Dos and Black Flag

    In the world of music, some sounds are born from explosive energy, and others whisper profound emotion. For Kira Roessler, the soundtrack of her life is a fascinating blend—a journey that swings wildly between the raw intensity of hardcore rock and the delicate intricacies of classical melodies.

    Known for her foundational role as a bassist in the seminal band Black Flag, Roessler embodies a fierce spirit forged in the ‘hardcore’ scene. Yet, beneath that powerful exterior lies a musician with an incredibly expansive palate, drawn to experiences as much as sounds. Currently based in Studio City, California, she lives up to the Southern California dream, dreaming of sun-drenched days by the pool or the exotic shores of the Galápagos Islands—a testament to a personality that thrives on contrast.

    While her roots are firmly planted in punk energy, Roessler’s musical appetite is anything but narrow. Her current excitement centers around the release of her record Enigma, which will be hitting Org Music in July. This project marks an exciting step forward, and she looks forward to performing live with friends Dave Bach and Paul.

    Her musical library reflects this eclectic nature: a mood dictates the playlist, effortlessly shifting between mellow classical journeys and nostalgic rock n’ roll treks, occasionally punctuated by a dash of punk rock. Though some might expect a purely analog obsession, Roessler champions digital music for its portability, ensuring her soundtrack is always within reach.

    When asked to pinpoint the albums that truly define her emotional landscape, she unveiled a list that reveals a deep appreciation for both catharsis and complexity. Her journey begins with the timeless depth of Music for Torching by Billie Holiday, a record that fundamentally changed her perspective on emotional expression.

    The connection between music and pure joy is also evident in her appreciation for tracks like Meat Puppets II by Meat Puppets. For Roessler, this record captures the lasting association of happiness—a perfect representation of an emotion rarely felt but profoundly experienced through sound.

    She also seeks out artists who explore the nuanced territory of feeling. Albums like Digital Ash in a Digital Urn by Bright Eyes resonate with her ability to recognize big feelings expressed through melodic, often tender melodies—a reminder that true musical expression comes in many forms.

    Roessler’s tastes extend to discovering artistic conversations. She was intrigued by the work of The Evens, recognizing the connection to figures like Ian MacKaye and Amy Farina, which speaks to a desire to be part of a broader musical dialogue.

    Finally, her current fixation includes Somewhere at the Bottom of the River Between Vega and Altair by La Dispute. This record embodies the new wave of punk rock she connects with—a sound filled with urgency and an incredible rhythmic drive that yet leaves room for vocal nuance, perfectly capturing that hard edge while maintaining melodic complexity.

    Credit: Spin

  • Foo Fighters live in Liverpool: rock club vibes on a stadium scale from our greatest supergroup

    The atmosphere at Anfield for the Foo Fighters was less a concert and more a glorious, sweaty communion. As Dave Grohl launched into the evening, asking the sun-kissed crowd if they wanted to sing 30 songs with him, he set the expectation for a marathon experience. It turned out, as always, it was going to be a long night for rock fanatics.

    While the venue itself offered an intimate feel compared to massive arenas, the energy inside Anfield was explosive. Red flares filled the air from the top of the stage, creating a crimson mist as the band moved through it, setting a dramatic stage for their relentless performance. The sheer volume and intensity were palpable, pulling everyone into the collective experience.

    The Foo Fighters masterfully blend their massive appeal with a relaxed, club-like vibe. They don’t rely on pyrotechnics or blockbuster special effects; instead, they offer pure rock and roll delivered with genuine banter. It is this laid-back, yet fiercely energetic delivery that defines their magic.

    The setlist was a brilliant tapestry of musical history, perfectly calibrated to delight every facet of the audience. Grohl seamlessly transitioned from anthemic power to throwback bangers, weaving in classic rock and grunge staples. The evening felt like being trapped in an endlessly looping, yet perfectly orchestrated, jukebox.

    They effortlessly balanced powerful tracks like ‘All My Life’ and ‘The Pretender’ with beloved hits such as ‘Stacked Actors’ and the undeniable crowd pleaser ‘My Hero’. The band’s knack for incorporating diverse sounds was astounding. They wove in the grace of Tom Petty, delivered the sing-along energy of Queen, and introduced moments that felt like a history lesson while keeping the rhythm pounding.

    The performance transcended mere playing; it was a celebration of their collective musical lineage. The band brought their pasts to the stage through a medley of covers from each member’s previous bands, demonstrating that they are far more than just Dave Grohl’s other band—they are a mighty supergroup.

    The evening culminated in moments that cemented the connection between the band and the audience. Grohl even engaged the crowd with an unexpected challenge: asking a young fan to complete a Rubik’s Cube on stage while drumming ‘Rope’. The resulting moment, which revealed the cube was the birthday puzzle for his daughter Harper’s boyfriend, added a layer of personal warmth and shared joy to the spectacle.

    As the night drew to a close with powerful songs like ‘Everlong’ and stunning visual fireworks lighting up the Liverpool sky, it felt less like a stadium show and more like a shared celebration. The experience leaves everyone in Liverpool feeling connected, ready for whatever comes next—a perfect cocktail party before bigger plans are made.

    The Playlist Highlights

    The setlist packed a diverse range of rock history: ‘All My Life’, ‘The Pretender’, ‘Times Like These’, ‘Of All People’, ‘Stacked Actors’, ‘My Hero’, ‘Learn to Fly’, ‘These Days’, ‘Walk’, ‘This Is A Call’, ‘No Son of Mine’, ‘For All the Cows’, ‘Big Me’, ‘Under You’, ‘La Dee Da’, ‘Caught in the Echo’, ‘Invincible’ / ‘Seven’ / ‘One Headlight’ / ‘Manimal’ / ‘Tap Dancing in a Minefield’, ‘Monkey Wrench’, ‘Breakout’, ‘Aurora’, ‘Rope’, ‘Best of You’, ‘The Teacher’, ‘Exhausted’, and ‘Everlong’.

    Credit: NME

  • ‘Guitar Hero’ spiritual sequel adds Paramore and more to soundtrack

    Stage Tour: The Rhythm Game That’s Giving Us a Rock History Lesson

    Get ready to crank up the volume, because a brand new rhythm gaming experience is bubbling up, promising to be more than just a game—it’s a love letter to the guitar-hero era. Stage Tour, the spiritual successor to the massively popular Guitar Hero, is set to bring some of the most iconic rock anthems and global hits to the digital stage.

    Created by the talented team behind Guitar Hero, this new title is positioning itself as something fresh and exciting, consciously steering clear of the crowded landscape of other rhythm games. It’s not just another clone; it’s a celebration designed to connect generations of music fans through the pure joy of rhythm.

    The soundtrack for Stage Tour is already throwing down some serious names. RedOctane has confirmed that players will get to master tracks from legendary artists, including Paramore, Avril Lavigne, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

    Fans are already buzzing about the confirmed line-up of tracks that will define the gameplay experience. Among the hits slated for the soundtrack are classic rock bangers like “Dani California” from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and massive pop-punk anthems such as “For A Pessimist, I’m Pretty Optimistic” by Paramore.

    The roster of confirmed songs is packed with raw energy, featuring tracks like “Bite Me” by Avril Lavigne and “Airhead” from Honey Revenge. This curated collection successfully blends iconic rock anthems with modern global hits, creating a playlist built to turn the volume all the way up.

    What truly makes Stage Tour special is its mission: to bring music fans together through a killer soundtrack. The game is designed to celebrate generations of music lovers by offering an immersive experience that spans rock, metal, alt-rock, pop-punk, and beyond.

    Stage Tour is set to launch later this year, promising a full sensory experience. It will support various controllers, including a PC keyboard, and allow players to engage with guitar, bass, drum, and vocal inputs. This comprehensive approach means players can truly feel the pulse of the music in a way no other rhythm game has offered.

    Credit: NME

  • Listen to The Rolling Stones’ rollicking new song ‘Divine Intervention’ – featuring The Cure’s Robert Smith – and soulful single ‘Jealous Lover’

    The Rolling Stones are back, and they aren’t just bringing back the blues—they’re mixing old-school grit with startling new collaborations. The band has dropped fresh previews from their forthcoming 25th studio album, Foreign Tongues, offering listeners a taste of the eclectic and adventurous sound they are crafting.

    The latest singles, including the rollicking rock tune Divine Intervention and the soulful ballad Jealous Lover, highlight the band’s willingness to explore musical boundaries. A standout track, Divine Intervention, features a high-tempo rock energy with guitarist Robert Smith on electric guitar and piano/organ work from Steve Winwood.

    The creative partnership driving this new material is just as fascinating as the music itself. The album is bolstered by contributions from talent such as the Cure frontman Robert Smith, alongside legendary figures like Paul McCartney and Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith, promising a rich tapestry of influences on the record.

    Behind the scenes, the collaborative spirit extends beyond the studio walls. Mick Jagger recently shared an amusing anecdote about working with Robert Smith, recalling a moment where Smith appeared covered in lipstick during a session—a reminder that musical partnerships often start with unexpected encounters and open doors for unique sounds.

    Meanwhile, the soulful track Jealous Lover showcases Mick Jagger delivering a captivating falsetto lead vocal over a slick yet soulful R&B groove. The song has found visual life through an official music video starring Anya Taylor-Joy and Charles Melton, showcasing a modern, cinematic spin on the classic feel.

    The accompanying video, directed by Chris Barrett & Luke Taylor, is currently available for streaming and tells a compelling story, further cementing the track’s mood. You can watch it here:

    The forthcoming album, Foreign Tongues, promises to be a deep dive into the band’s diverse musical range. It will include previously released singles like Rough And Twisted and In The Stars, alongside a cover of Amy Winehouse’s classic “You Know I’m No Good.” The project also features the input of the group’s late drummer, Charlie Watts.

    Adding another layer to the creative process, the band has launched a new official podcast series called Speaking In Tongues. This six-episode series offers fans an intimate behind-the-scenes look at the making of Foreign Tongues, featuring key figures including Robert Smith, Andrew Watt, and others.

    The band’s ongoing momentum is palpable. While recent touring plans were adjusted, Mick Jagger remains eager to be on the road, and Keith Richards is hinting at future dates, suggesting that the creative energy from their recent work is fueling an exciting new chapter for the Stones.

    Credit: NME

  • Soundtrack Of My Life: Jason Momoa

    The Soundtrack of a Life: How Music Shaped Everything

    We all carry a collection of sounds that define us, moments that hit us with pure, unfiltered emotion and embed themselves deep into our memory. For me, my musical journey wasn’t just about listening to songs; it was about experiencing them—the first time we heard them, the moment they became essential, and how they soundtracked life’s biggest milestones.

    The journey began with simple, foundational sounds. I remember purchasing my first albums with my own money, a mix of Red Hot Chili Peppers and Primus’s Sailing The Seas Of Cheese. These were the gateways to discovering new worlds, often found in unexpected places, like the Eat Concrete skate park in Omaha.

    Before diving into rock, the foundation was laid by classic sounds. My upbringing was steeped in the oldies, listening to stations like KIOA, where classics from Elvis Presley, Motown, The Temptations, and The Four Tops were always on the air. These timeless rhythms provided a rich backdrop for everything that followed.

    The path inevitably led toward live music. I recall the electrifying experience of attending the George Thorogood & The Destroyers show at the Iowa State Fair in 1985. Growing up with blues-infused music, hearing artists like Thorogood and Janis Joplin played at home gave me a taste for raw, visceral energy.

    But some songs hit differently than others. There are tracks that act as emotional anchors. One song that instantly brings tears is Tom Waits’ Day After Tomorrow. It possesses a unique ability to unlock profound sadness, making moments of reflection feel instantly palpable.

    As I continued exploring, so did my tastes for artistry. Discovering Ani DiFranco blew my mind. She wasn’t just an artist; she was a phenomenal poet and the original independent voice who sold records out of her car. If Tom Waits is my musical god, Ani DiFranco is undeniably my goddess.

    The influence of visual art also shaped my ears. Julian Schnabel’s biopic of Jean-Michel Basquiat, Basquiat (1996), opened up a whole new aesthetic landscape. The music from that soundtrack, featuring artists like Tom Waits and The Pogues, became deeply intertwined with the creative spark I was experiencing.

    The road continued to lead into unforgettable anthems. The energy of The Pogues’ Fairytale Of New York felt like a perfect distillation of feeling, a piece of history wrapped in a festive spirit that resonates year-round. For dancing, Bob Marley & The Wailers’ Could You Be Loved brought infectious joy and weight to every step.

    Even the soundtrack to a movie can leave an indelible mark. The intense soundscape of the Soundtrack Of My Life: Jason Momoa film, featuring artists like The Pogues and Tom Waits, deepened my appreciation for how music constructs narrative.

    The sheer power of heavy rock also left its mark. For a cinematic project, I created a playlist for my character in the Supergirl trailer that was pure, distilled energy. It featured a powerhouse mix including Motörhead’s Ace Of Spades, along with tracks from Metallica, Rage Against The Machine, Pantera, and the atmosphere of Tool.

    And then there are the deeply personal tracks—songs that simply stick. From Eazy-E’s Real Muthaphuckkin G’s to the celebratory feel of The Pogues’ work, music has always provided the soundtrack to my most intense moments, marking the way through life’s unforgettable chapters.

    Credit: NME

  • Let There Be Rock: Late AC/DC Frontman Bon Scott Remembered With Melbourne Mural

    Central Melbourne has gained a vibrant new layer of history with the unveiling of a striking mural honoring rock legend Bon Scott, placed in the heart of AC/DC Lane.

    The artwork, created by Melbourne artist Era, is more than just paint on a wall; it’s a powerful tribute coinciding with the legendary frontman’s 80th birthday. The unveiling took place on Friday, June 26, shortly after Australia concluded its final match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, cementing the piece as a moment of collective celebration.

    This artistic endeavor was born from an exclusive collaboration between Era and Mambo artist and Mental As Anything co-founder Reg Mombassa, who provided the commemorative artwork.

    Bon Scott’s life was defined by raw energy and unforgettable music. Born and raised in Scotland, he eventually settled in Fremantle, Western Australia, where his Celtic roots continue to be celebrated, notably through a lifesize statue wielding bagpipes in Kirriemuir.

    With a defiant attitude and powerful pipes, Scott carved a legacy across numerous bands before captivating the world with AC/DC. He fronted acts like Fraternity and The Valentines, and delivered iconic performances on the band’s seven studio albums, including the legendary 1979 collection Highway to Hell.

    Tragically, Scott’s career ended abruptly. Just six months after the release of his seminal album, in February 1980, he passed away in London at the age of 33, officially attributed by the coroner as “acute alcohol poisoning” and “death by misadventure.”

    The impact of Scott and AC/DC on Australian culture is immeasurable. The duo were among the first acts inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 1988 and later honored by the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003. Their influence remains a defining part of the nation’s musical DNA.

    Melbourne Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece praised the mural, calling it “a fitting tribute to two Antipodean cultural icons,” emphasizing that AC/DC is woven into the fabric of the city.

    The collaboration with Reg Mombassa highlights a deeper connection; the Scott family have long admired Mombassa’s visual style, which is considered an iconic piece of Australian culture. This connection was honored when the artists created this special commemorative piece.

    Today, the legacy of Bon Scott endures not only through music but also through art and memorabilia. Collectors can find exclusive merchandise commemorating his 80th birthday, available through official channels.

    Credit: Billboard

  • Blood, Sweat & Tears’ David Clayton-Thomas dies at 84

    The rock world mourns the passing of a true powerhouse, David Clayton-Thomas, who died on Wednesday in Toronto. Though he spent his final days in the hospital, details regarding the cause of death remain undisclosed.

    Clayton-Thomas’s journey to stardom was anything but smooth. Born in England in 1941, his early life took a rugged turn; he grew up with a complicated history, including time spent on the streets and even prison, where he honed his craft on the guitar. Yet, from this challenging background, a unique voice emerged that would soon resonate across continents.

    After moving to Toronto following the war, David found his footing in the burgeoning rock and R&B scene of the 1960s. His musical curiosity led him to influential figures like John Lee Hooker, paving the way for a career filled with soulful, compelling music.

    The seismic shift in his career came when he joined Blood, Sweat & Tears. It was Judy Collins who heard his raw talent and recommended him to her friend, drummy Bobby Colomby. Despite internal disputes that led to the band’s initial breakup, Colomby was convinced to bring David back as the vocalist.

    The result of this collaboration was an instant classic. Their 1968 album, Blood, Sweat and Tears, exploded onto the scene. Hits like “You’ve Made Me So Very Happy,” “Spinning Wheel,” and “And When I Die” became massive anthems, selling ten million copies and capturing the attention of the Grammys with an Album of the Year win.

    The band continued their successful run, recording two more acclaimed records with Clayton-Thomas before he embarked on a solo career in 1972. Though his individual success outside the group varied, his impact on Canadian music was undeniable.

    Clayton-Thomas’s relationship with Blood, Sweat & Tears continued through decades. The group reunited in the mid-1970s and remained active through their final album, Nuclear Blues, continuing to tour with the band well into the early 2000s.

    The band’s legacy is also tied to some complex historical moments. Their controversial 1970 tour of countries behind the Iron Curtain remains a topic of historical interest and is the subject of the documentary What the Hell Happened to Blood, Sweat & Tears?.

    Credit: BrooklynVegan