The New Pornographers
With their 2000 debut album, Mass Romantic, the New Pornographers established themselves as 21st century torchbearers of smart, sophisticated power pop. Hailing from Vancouver, the band’s deep roster of individual singer/songwriters and crafty instrumentalists gave them a unique, multi-voiced advantage and posed them as more of a collective or supergroup, albeit one with a surprisingly streamlined sonic identity. Spearheaded by Carl Newman, along with mainstays Neko Case, Dan Bejar, John Collins, and Todd Fancey, the New Pornographers were consistent critical favorites throughout the decade with standout releases like 2005’s Twin Cinema and 2007’s Challengers. Even as membership began to fluctuate over the coming years, they reached a new commercial peak with 2014’s Brill Bruisers. The band ended their second decade with 2019’s In the Morse Code of Brake Lights, then kicked off a new contract with Merge Records on 2023’s Continue as a Guest, their ninth album.
Newman formed the New Pornographers in 1997, their name inspired by Japanese director Shōhei Imamura’s film The Pornographers. Fresh off a stint leading Vancouver power pop outfit Zumpano, he stacked his new project’s roster with other luminaries from the city’s vibrant late-’90s indie rock scene. By 1999, the New Pornographers boasted a wrecking crew of prominent Vancouver-area players including singer/guitarist Dan Bejar (Destroyer), bassist John Collins (the Evaporators), lead guitarist Todd Fancey (Limblifter, Fancey), drummer Kurt Dahle (Limblifter), keyboardist and independent filmmaker Blaine Thurier, and American singer Neko Case, who was living in the city at the time of the band’s formation.
Recorded sporadically over the previous three years and finally released in 2000, the New Pornographers’ first album, Mass Romantic, was a resounding critical success and in Canada it went on to win the Juno Award for Alternative Album of the Year. Having so many bandmembers involved in other projects presented its difficulties, and it would be another three years before the band regrouped for their follow-up. Released in 2003 by American label Matador, Electric Version built on the promise of their debut and helped cement the New Pornographers’ reputation for pairing complex, melodic pop with rock muscle, not unlike the Cars or Cheap Trick. With lead vocals generally split between Newman, Case, and Bejar, they also offered an appealing mix of tones and styles united by a shared musical sense.
The Smile
The Smile’s new album Cutouts is set for release on October 4th via XL Recordings. The trio – Thom Yorke, Jonny Greenwood and Tom Skinner – debuted several songs from Cutouts during The Smile’s UK tour in March. Cutouts features 10 new tracks and is produced by Sam Petts-Davies. It’s the band’s third studio album following Wall of Eyes released in January 2024. The album received critical acclaim, ranked #3 on the UK Album Chart, and was hailed as the ‘Best Album of the Year so far’ by music critics including Pitchfork, The Needle Drop, Consequence, Brooklyn Vegan, Treblezine, and Spin. The trio’s debut album in 2022, ‘A Light For Attracting Attention,’ set the foundation for their artistic journey. Recorded in Oxford and Abbey Road Studios concurrently with Wall Of Eyes, Cutouts showcases intricate string arrangements by the London Contemporary Orchestra. The album’s captivating artwork was painted by Stanley Donwood and Thom Yorke during the recording process.
Read MoreElbow
Boasting a cinematic sound and tapping into a wide range of emotions, British band Elbow rose to public consciousness with their acclaimed 2001 debut, Asleep in the Back. They have continued to make similarly popular and intricately arranged albums ever since. Elbow’s sprawling fourth LP, The Seldom Seen Kid, won the 2008 Mercury Prize and set a precedent for the group’s self-production, influencing subsequent albums like 2011’s Build a Rocket Boys! and 2014’s The Take Off and Landing of Everything, the latter becoming their first U.K. chart-topper. Throughout their career, Elbow has collected Brit and Ivor Novello awards, with their music prominently featured in the 2012 London Olympic Games closing ceremony. Their albums like 2017’s Little Fictions and 2019’s Giants of all Sizes reached number one in the U.K. In 2021, they released Flying Dream 1, followed by the kinetic and groove-oriented Audio Vertigo in 2024.
Vocalist Guy Garvey, drummer Richard Jupp, organist Craig Potter, guitarist Mark Potter, and bassist Pete Turner formed Elbow in the early ’90s while studying in Bury. Despite label changes and challenges, including being dropped from Island Records and EMI, Elbow gained recognition through EPs like Newborn and Any Day Now before signing with V2 and releasing the acclaimed Asleep in the Back in 2001. Their subsequent albums like Cast of Thousands, Leaders of the Free World, and The Seldom Seen Kid further established their critical acclaim and commercial success, with the latter becoming their first multi-platinum album and winning the 2008 Mercury Prize. Elbow’s journey continued with releases like Build a Rocket Boys!, Dead in the Boot, and The Take Off and Landing of Everything, solidifying their place in the music industry.
Recording at famous studios like Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studios, Elbow’s albums have consistently garnered strong reviews and commercial success, with The Take Off and Landing of Everything debuting at the top of the U.K. charts. Despite temporary hiatuses and member changes, including drummer Richard Jupp’s departure, Elbow persevered and returned with chart-topping albums like Little Fictions and Giants of All Sizes. The band’s evolution led them to explore new sounds and themes, evident in their organic and immediate-sounding Flying Dream 1 and the more raw, groove-based Audio Vertigo. Elbow’s dedication to their craft and ability to adapt to changing times have solidified their position as one of the U.K.’s most beloved and enduring bands.
Japanese Breakfast
From the moment she began writing her new album, Japanese Breakfast’s Michelle Zauner knew that she wanted to call it Jubilee. After all, a jubilee is a celebration of the passage of time—a festival to usher in the hope of a new era in brilliant technicolor. Zauner’s first two albums garnered acclaim for the way they grappled with anguish; Psychopomp was written as her mother underwent cancer treatment, while Soft Sounds From Another Planet took the grief she held from her mother‘s death and used it as a conduit to explore the cosmos. Now, at the start of a new decade, Japanese Breakfast is ready to fight for happiness, an all-too-scarce resource in our seemingly crumbling world. Jubilee finds Michelle Zauner embracing ambition and, with it, her boldest ideas and songs yet. Inspired by records like Bjork’s Homogenic, Zauner delivers bigness throughout — big ideas, big textures, colors, sounds and feelings. At a time when virtually everything feels extreme, Jubilee sets its sights on maximal joy, imagination, and exhilaration. It is, in Michelle Zauner’s words, “a record about fighting to feel. I wanted to re-experience the pure, unadulterated joy of creation…The songs are about recalling the optimism of youth and applying it to adulthood. They’re about making difficult choices, fighting ignominious impulses and honoring commitments, confronting the constant struggle we have with ourselves to be better people.
Read MoreHAIM
HAIM, the sister group, is a musical powerhouse that seamlessly blends influences from ’70s rock, ’80s synth pop, and ’90s R&B into a captivating and innovative sound. Their journey began with the release of their debut album, Days Are Gone, in 2013, which showcased their exceptional skills as multi-instrumentalists and songwriters. The album’s success, including critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination, solidified HAIM’s position in the music industry as a force to be reckoned with.
Este, Danielle, and Alana Haim, the talented trio behind HAIM, have deep roots in music, growing up in California’s San Fernando Valley in a musically inclined family. Their early experiences in music, including playing in the family band Rockinhaim and being part of the pop group the Valli Girls, laid the foundation for HAIM’s future musical endeavors. With each album release, HAIM continued to evolve, showcasing their harmonies, pop sensibilities, and relatable songwriting. Their dedication to reinventing classic sounds while staying true to their identity has earned them widespread recognition and accolades in the music world.
Ben Folds Five
Led by the pop-minded prowess of their namesake frontman, Ben Folds Five dispelled any misgivings about a band’s ability to rock without guitars. Calling themselves “punk rock for sissies,” the Chapel Hill natives were often grouped with the nerd rock movement of the mid-’90s, although their debt to jazz music — not to mention Ben Folds’ acerbic spin on the classic pianist/songwriter tradition — ensured the trio a long-lasting legacy after their split in October 2000. The band also provided a launching pad for Folds himself, who continued releasing piano-based pop songs well into the subsequent years.
The group’s story is, in many ways, the story of its de facto leader and namesake, Ben Folds. The son of a carpenter, Folds was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Upon graduating high school in the mid-’80s, the young songwriter drifted from place to place in hopes of discovering a good scene to sow his brainchild. Throughout a decade in which hair bands ruled the airwaves, Folds spent frustrating stints in Miami, Chapel Hill, New York, and Europe before landing in Nashville in the early ’90s. In spite the fact that Nashville was a songwriter’s mecca, or because of it, Folds found the city’s approach to songwriting frustrating and exclusive. While producers and managers wanted obvious hits, Folds wanted, instead, to follow his own muse, and a notoriously eccentric one at that.
When Folds finally drifted back to Chapel Hill in 1994 he formed a piano-based trio with bassist Robert Sledge and drummer Darren Jessee, and within weeks, the band cut an indie single that attracted the attention of Caroline. Their 1995 self-titled debut sold enough copies to warrant the kind of major-label bidding war that young bands fantasize about. Eventually signing with Sony, the group released Whatever and Ever Amen and continued the strenuous touring schedule that the band had become known for. Releasing the singles “Battle of Who Could Care Less” and “Brick” into a climate awash with soundalike guitar bands, Ben Folds Five and their witty, offbeat, piano-based music were a welcome difference and the group became critical and commercial darlings.
Veeze
Veeze is an emerging artist who has captivated audiences worldwide with his unique musical style and unparalleled talent. Born and raised in a small town, Veeze discovered his passion for music at a young age and has since dedicated his life to perfecting his craft. With a mesmerizing voice that ranges from soulful lows to powerful highs, Veeze effortlessly pours his emotions into every song he creates, leaving listeners in awe of his raw authenticity. His lyrics are poetic and thought-provoking, reflecting his personal experiences and struggles, making his music relatable to fans from all walks of life. Veeze’s stage presence is magnetic, drawing crowds in with his charismatic energy and dynamic performances that leave a lasting impact on everyone who witnesses his talent. As Veeze continues to pave his own path in the music industry, his dedication and passion shine through, setting him apart as a truly exceptional artist on the rise.
Read MoreLady London
Lady London is a connoisseur of rhythmical composition in its purest form with an adoration for hip-hop culture and music, showcasing her as a true pioneer in the new age of rap.
Read MoreEmmerson Nogueira
Emmerson Nogueira is a talented and renowned Brazilian singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his soulful voice and exceptional musical abilities. With a career spanning several decades, Emmerson Nogueira has captivated audiences around the world with his melodic tunes and heartfelt lyrics. Born in Brazil, Emmerson Nogueira honed his craft from a young age, developing a unique style that blends folk, rock, and acoustic elements seamlessly. His performances are characterized by intimate settings that allow his audience to experience the raw emotion and passion he pours into every song.
Emmerson Nogueira’s discography boasts a diverse range of albums, each showcasing his versatility and creativity as an artist. From soothing ballads to energetic rock tracks, his music transcends genres and resonates with listeners of all backgrounds. His acoustic renditions of popular songs have garnered him international acclaim, earning him a loyal fanbase worldwide. Beyond his musical talents, Emmerson Nogueira is also known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes and using his platform to make a positive impact in the world. As a true maestro of his craft, Emmerson Nogueira continues to inspire and uplift through his music, leaving a lasting impression on all who have the pleasure of listening to his work.
K CAMP
Kristopher Thomas Campbell, professionally known as K Camp, is an American rapper originating from Atlanta, Georgia. He gained recognition with his 2013 single ‘Money Baby’, leading to a contract with Interscope Records. The success continued with the release of ‘Cut Her Off’ in December that year, featuring 2 Chainz and reaching number 49 on the Billboard Hot 100. Both tracks achieved platinum certifications from the RIAA and preceded his debut EP, ‘In Due Time’ in 2014. K Camp’s first studio album, ‘Only Way Is Up’ in 2015, reached number 20 on the Billboard 200, propelled by the double platinum-certified single ‘Comfortable.’ In 2019, his single ‘Lottery (Renegade)’ gained popularity on TikTok, leading to a deal with SoundOn in 2023. In 2018, Campbell established the record label Rare Sound. His talent was recognized in 2015 when he joined the XXL Freshman Class and was spotlighted by Rolling Stone as a ‘New Artist You Need To Know.’ K Camp has been nominated for prestigious awards such as BET Hip Hop Award and iHeartRadio Music Award.
Read MoreMajor Nine
The artist, John Smith, is a talented musician known for his soulful melodies and captivating lyrics. His distinctive style blends elements of folk, rock, and pop, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide. John’s musical journey began at a young age when he first picked up a guitar and discovered his passion for music. Over the years, he has honed his craft and established himself as a prominent figure in the music industry. With multiple successful albums and hit singles, John Smith has garnered a dedicated fan base who admire his authenticity and artistic vision. His live performances are legendary, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attend. Beyond his musical talent, John is also involved in various philanthropic endeavors, using his platform to make a positive impact on society. With a career spanning decades, John Smith continues to inspire and influence aspiring musicians around the globe.
Read MoreDomani
Domani is a prominent figure in the evolving Atlanta hip hop scene, symbolizing the new wave of talent emerging in the industry. The year 2021 marked a significant milestone in his career with the launch of his album ‘Skydive,’ a remarkable project that showcased collaborations with renowned artists like Anthony Hamilton, Rapsody, Nasty C, Shad Da God, and more. The album’s success was undeniable, securing a spot in the top 10 of the Billboard charts and achieving an outstanding #3 position on the Amazon Best Sellers List within its debut week. Accompanied by critical acclaim, ‘Skydive’ propelled Domani on a captivating 20-city tour across the United States, where he mesmerized audiences as the supporting act for D Smoke, who also lent his talent to the album.
The momentum continued into 2022 as Domani took his electrifying performances overseas, thrilling fans in South Africa while providing tour support for the talented Nasty C. His dynamic stage presence has graced prestigious music festivals such as Rolling Loud, Dreamville Fest, and the Blavity House Party, solidifying his reputation as a captivating live performer. Building on his success, 2024 saw the release of the compelling ‘Love Letter’ EP series, a three-part musical journey that included the hit single ‘Forever Lasting’ featuring DC Young Fly and Seddy Hendrinx. Additionally, Domani’s exceptional talent and contribution to the music industry were recognized when he was named a Future Five Artist of 2024 by Sirius XM, further cementing his status as a rising star in the world of music.