The Wombats
The Wombats, known for their eclectic and vibrant music, have made a triumphant return with their latest album, Oh! The Ocean, set to release on February 21st, 2025. This new album showcases the band’s evolution towards a more sophisticated and experimental sound, delving into themes of social anxiety, internal struggles, and the complexities of LA life, where frontman Murph resides. Their music continues to offer a form of escapism, resonating deeply with audiences during turbulent times, all wrapped in the band’s charming and playful persona.
Oh! The Ocean signifies a significant shift for The Wombats, as they depart from their previous synthetic sounds in favor of a more organic and heartfelt approach. Venturing into the studio in Echo Park, LA, armed with 50 new songs, the band collaborated with producer John Congleton to craft a truly human and natural album over six weeks of intense recording sessions. Embracing a diverse range of genres, from tech rock to sci-fi pop, and futuristic fuzz rock to bluesy rock’n’roll, The Wombats are unafraid to experiment and push boundaries, infusing elements of disco and hip-hop along the way.
The Decemberists
Led by Montana native Colin Meloy, the Decemberists craft theatrical, hyper-literate pop songs that draw heavily from late-’60s British folk acts like Fairport Convention and Pentangle, and the early-’80s college rock grandeur of the Waterboys and R.E.M. Emerging in 2001, the band built momentum in the early aughts with acclaimed efforts like The Crane Wife and Hazards of Love, and found mainstream success with the release of their sixth long-player, the gold-selling The King Is Dead. The album reached number one on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart, after which the Decemberists went on a brief hiatus. The band reconvened in 2015 and issued the lively What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World, followed by 2017’s Queen of Hearts (a collaboration with English folk artist Olivia Chaney), 2018’s synth pop-leaning I’ll Be Your Girl, and 2024’s progressive-leaning double-album As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again. The group’s initial lineup also included drummer Ezra Holbrook, bassist Nate Query, keyboardist/accordionist Jenny Conlee, and multi-instrumentalist Chris Funk. Frontman Meloy had previously devoted some time to an alternative country group before breaking off to pursue his craft as a singer/songwriter in the city of Portland, Oregon, a move that eventually led to the Decemberists’ formation. Drawing influence from his degree in creative writing, he began fashioning a hybrid of literate lyrics and wide-ranging pop music, touching upon everything from Sandy Denny to Morrissey in the process. Before Hush Records released the band’s debut album in 2002, the Decemberists baited their initial fans with a five-track EP. Their full-length debut, Castaways and Cutouts, was re-released that same year on the Kill Rock Stars label, and the group began to accumulate a serious fan base. After adding organist and keyboardist Rachel Blumberg to the band, in 2003 the Decemberists released Her Majesty, another fine collection of theatrical indie pop with pastoral sensibilities that further cemented their growing reputation. One year later, a five-part epic EP titled The Tain– based on the eighth-century Irish poem of the same name– appeared, followed by the full-length Picaresque in 2005.
The group, which at this point consisted of Meloy, Conlee, Query, Funk, and drummer John Moen, made the move to the major leagues by signing with Capitol Records in advance of 2006’s The Crane Wife, which managed to hit number 35 on the Billboard 200. The album also caught the attention of comedian/satirist Stephen Colbert, who challenged Funk to a guitar solo competition during a live taping of his show The Colbert Report. For their next project, the Decemberists tackled one of Meloy’s most ambitious ideas to date: an honest-to-God rock opera. The Hazards of Love appeared in 2009, featuring a fantasy-filled storyline as well as cameos from My Morning Jacket’s Jim James, Lavender Diamond’s Becky Stark, and My Brightest Diamond’s Shara Worden. In January 2011, the Decemberists unexpectedly topped the charts with The King Is Dead, a concise and rustic country-pop collection that featured guest appearances by Peter Buck and Gillian Welch, and followed it up later that year with the outtakes EP Long Live the King. With touring completed for The King Is Dead, the band went on hiatus, but they still released the double live album We All Raise Our Voices to the Air in 2012. Coming off their hiatus, the group returned with several live dates in 2014 and began work on their seventh studio album, What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World. The record was released in January 2015, and the band celebrated the event with a three-month tour covering the United Kingdom, Europe, and the United States. In September of that year, they issued an EP, Florasongs, that featured material from the What a Terrible World, What a Beautiful World sessions. The group then collaborated with U.K. singer/songwriter Olivia Chaney, forming the band Offa Rex for the 2017 album The Queen of Hearts. The following year, they regrouped as the Decemberists for their eighth studio LP, 2018’s I’ll Be Your Girl, bringing producer John Congleton aboard for a more synth-led record. The set debuted at number nine on Billboard’s Top 200 upon its March release and was followed that December by Traveling On, an EP of outtakes from its recording sessions. A six-year hiatus preceded the release of the band’s ninth long-player, the double LP As It Ever Was, So It Will Be Again. Appearing in 2024, the Tucker Martine and Colin Meloy co-produced effort is the band’s longest outing to date, featuring the 19-minute progressive rock epic “Joan in the Garden” and boasting guest spots from the Shins’ James Mercer and R.E.M.’s Mike Mills. ~ Linda Seida, Rovi
Wet Leg
Forming out of hazy scenes on their native Isle of Wight – a sparsely populated island off the south coast of England accessible only by boat – Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers found themselves at the summit of a Ferris wheel. They decided to start a band. The band is called Wet Leg. Wet Leg is sad music for party people, and party music for sad people. Rhian and Hester each wear a small gold necklace, made by Hester: one that says Wet, and one that says Leg. Before last summer, those necklaces would have been cryptic to almost everyone else. However, a lot has changed since then. Wet Leg only released their debut single, ‘Chaise Longue’, in June 2021, but its dry wit, Mean Girls nod and thumping indie-disco beat turned it into a runaway hit.
The Mercury Prize shortlisted album is called Wet Leg and is out now
The Hives
The Hives, the renowned Swedish garage rock band, have established a unique identity centered around brash, witty rock & roll since their early days. Embracing distinctive elements like a strict black-and-white dress code and following the guidance of a mysterious figure named Randy Fitzsimmons, the band has consistently delivered explosive live performances and a raw sound influenced by iconic bands such as the Stooges, Sonics, and New Bomb Turks. From their punk roots in the late ’90s with fast-paced tempos on ‘Barely Legal’ to the swaggering style showcased in the acclaimed ‘Veni Vidi Vicious,’ which introduced their signature track ‘Hate to Say I Told You So,’ The Hives have evolved their sound over the years.
Formed in 1993 in Fagersta, Sweden, The Hives feature a lineup of talented musicians, including lead guitarist/vocalist Nicholaus Arson, drummer Chris Dangerous, bassist Dr. Matt Destruction, rhythm guitarist/vocalist Vigilante Carlstroem, and vocalist Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist. The band gained recognition with their early demos and debut EPs, leading to collaborations with prominent labels like Sidekicks Records and Burning Heart. Their breakthrough album ‘Veni Vidi Vicious’ in 2000 marked a turning point in their career, propelling them to international success and critical acclaim with hits like ‘Hate to Say I Told You So’ and ‘Main Offender.’ The Hives’ innovative approach to garage punk garnered admiration from music legends, solidifying their position in the industry.
Continuing their musical journey, The Hives explored new territories with albums like ‘Tyrannosaurus Hives,’ ‘The Black and White Album,’ and ‘Lex Hives,’ each contributing to their evolution and expanding fan base. Celebrating their 30th anniversary, the band paid tribute to their enigmatic mentor in ‘The Death of Randy Fitzsimmons,’ showcasing their maturity and timeless appeal. With a discography filled with energetic anthems and electrifying live shows, The Hives remain a driving force in the rock scene, embracing creativity, experimentation, and unwavering passion for their craft.
Medium Build
Anchorage is a city located in the state of Alaska, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage offers a unique blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventures, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike. With stunning views of the surrounding mountains and access to diverse wildlife, Anchorage provides an unparalleled experience for visitors seeking a true Alaskan adventure. The city’s vibrant arts scene, bustling markets, and welcoming community make it a hub of creativity and exploration.
Anchorage’s diverse population contributes to its dynamic and inclusive atmosphere, with residents from various backgrounds coming together to celebrate the city’s unique identity. The thriving music, art, and culinary scenes offer a taste of Anchorage’s eclectic culture, showcasing the talents and passions of its residents. Whether you’re exploring the historic sites downtown, hiking through the nearby trails, or enjoying local seafood delicacies, Anchorage has something to offer for everyone. The city’s maritime climate adds to its charm, with mild summers perfect for outdoor activities and snowy winters creating a picturesque landscape. Anchorage truly embodies the spirit of Alaska, blending tradition with modernity to create a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors and residents alike.
Iggy Pop
Widely acknowledged as one of the most dynamic stage performers of all time, Iggy Pop pre-figured both ‘70s punk and ‘90s grunge and has built a legendary career filled with both critical acclaim and fanatic cult success. There are never-ending migrations back to the Stooges three seminal LPs, while some of Iggy’s iconic solo albums including Lust For Life, The Idiot, New Values, Zombie Birdhouse, Blah Blah Blah, Brick by Brick, American Caesar, Skull Ring, Preliminaires, Apres and the latest FREE along with many featurings and cooperations, have cemented his status as a true music innovator.
In 2010, Iggy and the Stooges were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and in 2020 Iggy received a GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award. Iggy made a welcome solo return in 2016 with his Post Pop Depression album which is a result of a highly acclaimed collaboration between Iggy and co-creator Josh Homme. The album was nominated for a Grammy Award in “Best Alternative Music Album” category. The Tour resulted in a LIVE at Royal Albert Hall DVD (Best Live Music Film Award at UK MVA 2016). Iggy’s various film work gathered momentum: song “Gold”, collaboration with Danger Mouse, was nominated for a Golden Globe. “To Stay Alive: A Method” movie with Michelle Houellebecq was screened at several festivals to critical acclaim. Iggy also worked with Oneohtrix Point Never on a soundtrack for a Safdie Brothers movie “Good Time” (Soundtrack Award at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival).
James Arthur
James Arthur has built an illustrious career spanning over a decade, marked by the release of 4 successful studio albums and an impressive record of 16 billion units sold through audio/video streams and downloads. Throughout his journey, he has mesmerized audiences with sold-out performances at iconic venues worldwide.
His album ‘Back from the Edge’ soared to the top spot in the UK charts in 2016, achieving multi-platinum status globally. Other albums like ‘James Arthur (Deluxe)’, ‘YOU’, and ‘It’ll All Make Sense In The End’ also made their mark on the top 3 of the UK charts. The sensational track ‘Say You Won’t Let Go’ garnered nearly 4 billion streams worldwide, topped charts in over 10 countries, and attained Diamond Status in the US, a rare feat achieved by only 100 singles in the history of the RIAA certification program.
Notably, even James Arthur’s earlier tracks, such as ‘Train Wreck’ (2016) and ‘Car’s Outside’ (2019), are experiencing a resurgence in popularity on platforms like TikTok and Spotify. With an impressive 40 million monthly listeners on Spotify, James Arthur’s collaborations with industry giants like Alok, Anne-Marie, Sigala, Martin Jensen, Rudimental, and Marshmello highlight his versatility across genres from pop and R’n’B to soul, rock, and rap. Fans continue to be captivated by his soulful voice, eagerly anticipating the upcoming release of new music.
ILLENIUM
Denver-based producer ILLENIUM is one of the most successful crossover electronic artists today, topping the U.S. dance charts, garnering 5B streams and headlining the world’s top festivals. Following his 2016 debut album, ‘Ashes,’ ILLENIUM broke into the mainstream via his 2017 album, ‘Awake,’ which includes his classics “Crawl Outta Love,” “Fractures” and “Feel Good,” with Gryffin ft. Daya. A critical and commercial success, ‘Awake’ topped the iTunes Top Electronic Albums Chart in 12 countries with 100M streams.
In 2019, ILLENIUM released ‘Ascend,’ his third full-length album and his major label debut. As one of the biggest electronic releases of the year (1B collective streams), the album topped Billboard’s Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart and secured a Top 20 hit on the Billboard 200. The album includes the hit tracks “Takeaway” with The Chainsmokers ft. Lennon Stella, “Good Things Fall Apart” with Jon Bellion, “Crashing” ft. Bahari, “In Your Arms” with X Ambassadors and “Take You Down,” which chronicles his past battles with drug addiction. Recognized as one of Billboard’s Top Dance/Electronic Artists of the 2010s, ILLENIUM brings his dynamic music to life via his live show, which has dominated festivals like Coachella, Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo and EDC. His 2019 Ascend Tour, which featured a five-piece live band, sold out landmark venues like Madison Square Garden (NYC), STAPLES Center (L.A.) and three consecutive nights at Red Rocks Amphitheatre (Denver).
Republica
As Brit-pop remained popular in England during the mid-’90s, Republica hit the charts with a sound closer in feel to ’80s indie-dance groups such as the Pet Shop Boys and New Order. Vocalist Saffron was born in Nigeria, and began singing with club-staples N-Joi and the Shamen, as well as Jah Wobble. By 1995, she had met keyboard players Tim Dorney (previously with Flowered Up) and Andy Todd (who has produced Barbra Streisand and Bjork, among others). They began writing songs, and after recruiting guitarist Johnny Male and drummer Dave Barborossa, Republica debuted with the single ‘Out of the Darkness.’ U.K. indie-dance label Deconstruction signed the group and released its self-titled debut. From the album, ‘Ready to Go’ became a hit both in England and in the States, where it stormed the alternative Top Ten during late 1996. The follow-up, 1998’s Speed Ballads, only gained British distribution.
Read MoreJack Kays
Born in the vibrant city of Barcelona, the artist name has captivated audiences worldwide with their unique blend of traditional and contemporary art. Inspired by the rich cultural heritage of their surroundings, the artist name infuses each piece with a deep sense of history and modern interpretation. Their work transports viewers to a realm where colors dance harmoniously, and shapes intertwine with poetic fluidity. Through intricate details and bold brushstrokes, the artist name invites spectators to explore the depths of their imagination and emotions.
With a career spanning over two decades, the artist name has established themselves as a prominent figure in the art world, showcasing their talent in prestigious galleries and international exhibitions. Their mastery of various mediums, from acrylics to sculpture, showcases the artist name’s versatility and range. Bold experimentation and a fearless approach to creativity define the artist name’s artistic philosophy, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions. As a visionary artist, they continue to inspire the next generation with their innovative vision and unwavering passion for artistic expression.
Gym Class Heroes
Melding elements of rap, rock, R&B, and funk into one cohesive and melodic sound, upstate New York’s Gym Class Heroes have diverse appeal based on their impressive musical dexterity. Often touring with indie rock and pop-punk bands, they don’t fit comfortably into one specific genre; the quartet’s music is rooted in traditional hip-hop, but features live instruments instead of looped samples or beats. Lyrics are often socially conscious, but also incorporate humor and wry perceptiveness. The band’s roots date to 1997 in Geneva, New York, when MC Travie McCoy and drummer Matt McGinley became friends during high-school gym class. Wanting to create a new palette for hip-hop, the duo worked with other musicians before Gym Class Heroes were officially born in 2001 with the addition of guitarist Milo Bonacci and bassist Ryan Geise. The guys self-released …For the Kids that same year.
Touring nonstop, they recorded The Papercut Chronicles in 2003, which caught the attention of Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz before it was even finished. The Heroes were officially signed to his Fueled by Ramen imprint, Decaydance, by September 2004, at which point Bonacci was replaced by guitarist Disashi Lumumba-Kasongo. The four-song teaser The Papercut EP preceded the eventual February 2005 release of The Papercut Chronicles, with Eric Roberts replacing Geise on bass. The quartet hit the road hard, spending spring on dates with Midtown, Fall Out Boy, and the Academy Is…, along with hitting the year’s SXSW, Bamboozle, and Warped Tour festivals. They also spent part of the summer opening for ska-punks Streetlight Manifesto. A Red Hot Chili Peppers cover song was donated to Fearless’ Punk Goes 90s compilation before their follow-up was issued in July 2006.
As Cruel as School Children was produced by S*A*M (Method Man, the Sounds) and Sluggo (aka session bassist Dave Katz) and co-produced by Fall Out Boy vocalist Patrick Stump. The album included various guest appearances, including the Academy Is…’s William Beckett and Arrested Development’s Speech. They spent that summer supporting the record on the Warped Tour. Gym Class Heroes’ profile notably increased at the year’s end with the release of the single Cupid’s Chokehold/Breakfast in America, which hit number four on Billboard’s Hot 100 and remained in constant rotation on radio and MTV during the spring of 2007. After headlining a seven-week U.S. tour called the Daryl Hall for President Tour ’07, the group returned to the studio to record The Quilt in 2008, which included guest appearances by Lil Wayne, Busta Rhymes, and Daryl Hall himself. Afterwards, the band took some time to pursue other side projects, with McCoy releasing his solo album Lazarus and McGinley drumming for Kill the Frontman. In 2011, Gym Class Heroes came back together with the release of Papercut Chronicles II, a sequel to their 2003 label debut. ~ Corey Apar, Rovi
Toad The Wet Sprocket
When Monty Python’s Eric Idle created the fictional band Toad the Wet Sprocket for the program Rutland Weekend Television in 1975, he never dreamed that anyone would actually use such a silly name. Fast forward to 1986, when four California teens adopted the monicker as a joke for their first gig at a Goleta, CA watering hole called The Shack.
Toad the Wet Sprocket is still making new music and touring with the same spirit of independence that started it all over three decades ago and credit their success to the unwavering support of their fans. In their most recent music releases and live performances, the band has continued to stay true to their roots while evolving their sound. The band consists of founding members Glen Phillips, Todd Nichols, and Dean Dinning. Throughout their career, Toad the Wet Sprocket has remained committed to creating music that is both meaningful and accessible. The songs are filled with introspective lyrics, melodic guitars and their signature vocal harmonies.