April 2025 – Page 3 – 1st 3 MAGAZINE

Pistol Daisys – Get dialled in…

15th April 2025

Following the breakout buzz of “St Glasgow” and the emotionally raw “Crying in Marseille”, Scottish alt-pop trailblazers Pistol Daisys return with a shimmering new single full of heartbreak, groove, and unexpected truth.

“Calling Your Name,” out 30 April 2025 via OneRPM Records, draws inspiration from co-frontwoman Belly’s own experience — an unforgettable night out in Kuala Lumpur that left more questions than answers and planted the seed for what’s now one of the band’s most personal and powerful songs yet.

“It was my first time at Zouk,” Belly shares, referring to KL’s infamous superclub, “My heart wasn’t broken—that was Lorna in Crying in Marseille—but I was surprised by a young six-foot-tall man. I thought we hit it off. One minute we were dancing, and the next, he was gone. When I was leaving, I saw him kissing a man. I called his name, but he couldn’t—or wouldn’t—hear me. That was the last time I saw him.”

Having moved from a conservative upbringing in the peaceful coastal town of Kota Kinabalu to study at Taylor’s University, Belly found herself immersed in a world of late nights, neon lights, and emotional curveballs. “Calling Your Name” captures that jolt of reality—when surface-level charm gives way to something more profound, complicated, and harder to process.

Musically, the track is vintage glitter laced with modern grit—a sparkling lovechild of Blondie and ABBA with a punk-pop bite reminiscent of The Gossip and the flamboyant honesty of Lady Gaga. The result is a dancefloor-ready confession: raw, reflective, and totally irresistible. “It just goes to show that it’s an ever-changing world,” Belly says, “What appears to be one thing on the surface doesn’t show you the whole truth. “Calling Your Name” is for those who want to keep an open mind… and maybe get a snog off the right guy.”

To add an extra layer of connection for fans, the band has launched the Pistol Daisys LoveLine—a hotline where fans can dial in to hear personal messages, heartbreak anecdotes, and snippets of band banter. Callers can reach it on +44 7897 028675, and updates will keep things fresh and interactive, turning the band’s personal storytelling into a shared experience.

As the single drops, it’s also set to hit screens—“Calling Your Name” will feature on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch during May, as well as STV’s Entertainment Live, giving the band their biggest national TV exposure yet.

Unsurprisingly, the press is already dialled in. Everybody Wants to Play the Hits called their sound “dirty… a little bit Runaways, a little bit Gossip,” while also labelling it “buoyant, catchy and fun.” Songs Behind the Music praised their ability to “kick all break-up song clichés out of the way,” adding that the song “perfectly introduces new listeners to the captivating sound of Pistol Daisys.” Other supporters include She Makes Music, Frontview Magazine, Amplify Music Mag, PM Studio, Carte Blanche Music (who featured them on their playlist in week 6), Alt Corner, Mystic Sons, and Get It Shared—who made “Crying in Marseille” their Pick of the Week #97.

On the live front, the band are already rolling through a spring UK tour, with standout shows in Cambridge, Leamington Spa, Glasgow and Brighton, plus key festival appearances lined up for Belladrum, Secret Valley, Mighty Dub Festival, Party At The Palace, and Doune The Rabbit Hole. They’re also appearing with GUN and When Rivers Meet on selected dates. This October and November, they’ll hit the road in Europe with dates across Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, including stops at Kulturzentrum Sankt Barbara in Lichtentanne, Berlin’s Lido, and Luxor Live in Arnhem.

With groove-laden production, razor-sharp lyrics, and a refreshing sense of emotional honesty, Pistol Daisys are once again proving that pop doesn’t have to play it safe—and heartbreak doesn’t have to be quiet. “Calling Your Name” is bold, glittery, and heartbreakingly real.

Pre-save it now here this is Pistol Daisys at their most honest, most danceable, and most exciting yet.

2025 LIVE DATES – PISTOL DAISYS

APRIL

17 – Junction, Cambridge
18 – The Assembly, Leamington Spa
19 – The 1865, Southampton
25 – Roadmender, Northampton
26 – Chalk, Brighton
30 – St Lukes, Glasgow (Single Release Show)

MAY

3 – The Crossing, Birmingham
4 – Trinity Arts Centre, Bristol
8 – Mac Arts, Galashiels w/ GUN
9 – Loreburn Hall, Dumfries w/ GUN
11 – Harbour Arts Centre, Irvine w/ GUN (Matinee)
23 – Oran Mor, Glasgow w/ When Rivers Meet
24 – Rescue Rooms, Nottingham w/ When Rivers Meet
26 – The Brook, Southampton w/ When Rivers Meet
29 – The Waterfront, Norwich w/ When Rivers Meet

JUNE

7 – Secret Valley Festival, UK
14 – Mighty Dub Festival, Alnwick
21 – Sign O The Times Festival
22 – Bedford Esquires w/ GUN

JULY

5 – Roadhouse Weekender, East Sussex
19 – Monument Festival, Sunderland
29 – Kelvingrove Bandstand, Glasgow

AUGUST

1 – Doune The Rabbit Hole, Doune
2 – Belladrum Festival, Scotland
3 – Party At The Palace, Scotland
23 – Thunder In The Glen, Aviemore
28 – Belfast, Limelight2 w/ Big Country
29 – Dublin, Whelan’s w/ Big Country
30 – Lindisfarne Festival / Galway, Monroes

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Lukas Nelson – Everything Changes

11th April 2025

Country News

Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Lukas Nelson has announced that he will release his highly anticipated new album, American Romance, on June 20th – his first solo project and first in partnership with Sony Music Nashville (pre-order/pre-save here).

Ahead of the release, his new song, “Ain’t Done”. is out right now. Listen HERE.

Of the track, Nelson shares, “I went through this period of self-reflection and George Harrison’s song, ‘All Things Must Pass,’ was part of what got me through that moment. It gave me that understanding that it’s not for us to know what comes next. Everything changes and nothing stays the same.”

Produced by Grammy Award-winner Shooter Jennings (Brandi Carlile, Tanya Tucker), American Romancecements Nelson as a singular artist, as he showcases his songwriting dexterity and country-blended sound in a way that feels both familiar and new. Across these twelve tracks, including collaborations with Sierra Ferrell and Stephen Wilson Jr., Nelson tells stories of his life on the road, detailing the joys, complexities, beauty and heartbreak he’s encountered during his travels across the country.

Reflecting on the project, Nelson shares, “This album is the first chapter in a whole new era of my life as an artist. It’s a love story to the country that raised me. Diners and highways that carried me through the joy and pain that led to the music you hear now”.

In addition to Nelson and Jennings, the record also features special contributions from Anderson East(“Disappearing Light”, producer) and SistaStrings (“Montana”, cello and viola) as well as Matt Chamberlain (drums), Corey McCormick (bass), Marty Muse (dobro), Russ Pahl (pedal steel), Chris Powell (drums), Brian Whelan (acoustic guitar) and Eleanor Whitmore (fiddle).

A person in a cowboy hat holding a guitar

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Since his debut over a decade ago, Nelson has become one of the most respected voices in music and released eight studio albums, including 2023’s Sticks and Stones, which spent 18 weeks in the top 10 of the Americana Albums chart and reached #1 on the Alt Country chart. A highly sought-after collaborator both in the studio and on stage, Nelson recently joined forces with The Travelin’ McCourys and Sierra Ferrell for a bluegrass-inspired rendition of Adele’s iconic hit, “Someone Like You,” and has also worked with artists such as Lainey Wilson, Ernest, Miranda Lambert, The Pistol Annies and more. Most recently, he performed at the MusiCares 2025 Person of the Year Gala, where he honoured the Grateful Dead by performing “It Must Have Been the Roses” with Sierra Ferrell.

Known for his captivating live performances, Nelson has sold out countless headline shows, been featured at renowned festivals such as Stagecoach, Ohana Festival, Bourbon & Beyond and Farm Aid and has made multiple appearances on late night shows including Jimmy Kimmel Live! and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Additionally, Nelson co-produced and co-wrote much of the music for the acclaimed 2018 film A Star is Born, in which he also appeared. The soundtrack won a Grammy Award for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media and a BAFTA Award for Best Original Music.

AMERICAN ROMANCE TRACK LIST

1. Ain’t Done

2. Pretty Much

3. Make You Happy

4. Outsmarted

5. Disappearing Light (feat. Stephen Wilson Jr.)

6. Born Runnin’ Outta Time

7. All God Did

8. Montana

9. Friend in the End (feat. Sierra Ferrell)

10. The Lie

11. American Romance

12. You Were It

Official Site | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok

The Long Road Festival – New Headline Act Announced

11th April 2025

Country News

The Long Road Festival returns for its biggest year ever in August 2025, today announcing that multiple Brit Award winner, Ivor Novello recipient and GRAMMY nominee James Baywill close the festival as Sunday night’s headliner, adding to previously announced U.S. headline artists Drake Milligan (Friday) and Midland (Saturday).

Set for the August Bank Holiday weekend (Aug. 22-24), and described by DIY as a “haven of country, Americana and roots” music and culture, The Long Road takes place every summer in the grounds of Stanford Hall in Leicestershire.

James Bay, an acclaimed singer, songwriter, guitarist and producer who will be making his first appearance at The Long Road, released his fourth studio album Changes All The Time last year via Mercury/Republic Records. His seminal, multi-Platinum, UK #1 debut Chaos and the Calm, featuring hits ‘Hold Back The River’ and ‘Let It Go’ was recorded at the famed Blackbird Studio in Nashville with multiple GRAMMY-winning producer Jacquire King, and he has returned to Music City to record and perform frequently throughout his career.

“Country and Americana have always been huge inspirations for me,” shares James. “So much of my music has roots in Nashville – I’ve been lucky to play some of the city’s iconic venues like the Bluebird and the Ryman and I’ve always been drawn to the incredible storytelling in these genres. I can’t wait to close out The Long Road 2025, headlining the Rhinestone Stage on Sunday, August 24th – it’s going to be a special one!”

His acclaimed new album features collaborations with Noah Kahan and The Lumineers on lead single ‘Up All Night’, and writing collaborations with The Killers’ Brandon Flowers (‘Easy Distraction’) and Holly Humberstone (‘Dogfight’).

Having amassed over 9 billion streams to date, and performed alongside musical icons such as Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen and Sheryl Crow, who he just revealed will feature on his next release, Bay upholds traditions of timeless songcraft while confidently challenging himself and popular music in equal measure.

The festival’s Creative Director, Baylen Leonard, adds: “At The Long Road, we’re all about celebrating the best in country, roots, Americana, and always looking to broaden our lineup with something for every music lover. James Bay is one of the finest singer-songwriters out there and is the perfect complement to what we do. Can’t wait for the Sunday sing-along!”

Other artists joining The Long Road lineup today include French rising star Bobbie; acclaimed Canadian-British folk collaborators Bonnie Dobson & the Hanging Stars; Chris Linton; New Orleans-based sibling duo Crowe Boys; homegrown multiple UK Americana Music Award winners Danny & The Champions of the World; Irish-born, Nashville-based folk-pop singer/songwriter Darren Kiely; the self-described “Filipino Cowboy” David Unlayao; Texan Denitia, whose traditional country influences have found her at home as a touring member of the Black Opry artist collective and named one of CMT’s Next Women of Country; Evan Bartels, and First Time Flyers.

Louisiana native and two-time GRAMMY winner Gill Landry also joins the bill, previously a member of Old Crow Medicine Show, who recorded his latest solo album Cinnamon Canyon Blues (2024) in London; along with New Orleans rock ‘n’ roll band Greazy Alice; Jade Turner; Kellie Loder; hit songwriter and Spotify Hot Country Artist to Watch Mackenzie Carpenter; Nolan Taylor; Robbie Cavanagh; London roots rock band The Rockingbirds; and renowned Oregon-born artist The White Buffalo, whose music has been featured in numerous films and television shows, from Logan and The Punisher to This Is Us and Sons of Anarchy, the latter earning him a Primetime Emmy nomination.

Check out the 2024 aftermovie here to get a glimpse of what’s in store.

Described by Cosmopolitan as “a slice of stateside culture with some of the biggest acts all in one place,” the carefully curated lineup also includes Seasick Steve, Fantastic Negrito, Alana Springsteen, Larry Fleet, Charles Wesley Godwin, Elles Bailey, Ashley Monroe, Fancy Hagood, Janet Devlin, and a European summer exclusive performance from Chuck Ragan.

More than just a wealth of established acts, The Long Road has been at the forefront of helping music fans discover some of the most exciting new artists from across the world, and this year is no exception, with stages hosted by partners Loose Music and Color Me Country with Rissi Palmer, and for the first time, Country & Americana powerhouse label Snakefarm Records; along with Nashville-style songwriter rounds, artist meet and greet opportunities, and afterparties.

Returning for its sixth year, The Long Road recently announced several new elements for 2025, to welcome new friends and celebrate the growth of the country family. Audiences will be treated to performances across six stages; The Rhinestone Stage (main stage) – opening from Friday afternoon for weekend ticket holders for the first time this year; the Interstate; The Front Porch; Buddy’s, a country bar nestled among woodland; The Showground, where numerous artists from both sides of the pond have made their debut at the festival; and a brand-new sixth stage, with more details to follow.

The Long Road Festival runs from Friday, August 22 to Sunday, August 24 2025. Weekend, Camping, Day, Kids and VIP tickets available now: https://www.thelongroad.com/tickets.

Additional artists announced today…..

Bobbie ★ Bonnie Dobson & the Hanging Stars ★ Chris Linton ★ Crowe Boys ★ Danny & The Champions of the World ★ Darren Kiely ★ David Unlayao ★ Denitia ★ Evan Bartels ★ First Time Flyers ★ Gill Landry ★ Greazy Alice ★ Jade Turner ★ James Bay ★ Kellie Loder ★ Mackenzie Carpenter ★ Nolan Taylor ★ Robbie Cavanagh ★ The Rockingbirds ★ The White Buffalo

Full lineup here

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Blake Shelton – A Celebration

11th April 2025

Country News

After nearly four years since his last studio album, Blake Shelton is back with For Recreational Use Only, his highly anticipated debut for BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, set for release May 9. The album is available now for pre-order/pre-add/pre-save here.

Leading the charge is the US Top 10 hit single ‘Texas‘, which has already resonated with fans and country radio alike, with People Magazine describing it as “rollicking.”

“It’s been a long time since we had a new album out, and I want to thank the songwriters and musicians who helped bring this record to life,” said Shelton. “Scott (Hendricks) and I have been working on this music for years, and I’m beyond excited to finally share it with the fans.”

The song ‘Let Him In Anyway‘, available now, offers another powerful preview of the album. The emotionally gripping ballad tells the story of a man hoping for divine forgiveness for a lost friend who was just shy of redemption.

“‘Let Him In Anyway’ is one of the most powerful songs I’ve ever had the chance to record,” said Shelton.“Hardy is a co-writer and a friend, and I’ve never heard a song like this before. When I first listened to it, I knew it was something special. It’s an honor to bring it to life, and I’m incredibly proud of the record we made.”

Spanning 12 tracks, For Recreational Use Only captures life’s highs and lows with authentic storytelling, raw emotion, and unforgettable melodies. The album also features special guest appearances from superstarGwen Stefani, country legend John Anderson, and longtime friend and tourmate Craig Morgan.

Currently on the road with his sold-out Friends & Heroes Tour, Shelton is joined by an all-star lineup, including Craig Morgan, Deana Carter, Trace Adkins, and Emily Ann Roberts. The tour is more than just a concert—it’s a magical, multigenerational celebration of country music, bringing together legendary voices and rising stars for an unforgettable night of music and storytelling.

With For Recreational Use Only, Blake Shelton reaffirms his place as one of country music’s most compelling voices, delivering a deeply personal and universally resonant album.

For Recreational Use Only Tracklist:

1. Stay Country or Die Tryin’ – (Drew Parker, Graham Barham, Sam Ellis, Beau Bailey)

2. Texas – (Johnny Clawson, Kyle Sturrock, Josh Dorr, Lalo Guzman)

3. Hangin’ On (feat. Gwen Stefani) – (Sam Ellis, Charles Kelley, Greylan James)

4. Strangers – (Michael Hardy, Zach Crowell, Jameson Rodgers)

5. Let Him In Anyway – (Michael Hardy, Zach Abend, Kyle Clark, Carson Wallace)

6. Heaven Sweet Home (feat. Craig Morgan) – (Chris Tompkins, Sarah Buxton, Jake Rose)

7. Life’s Been Comin’ Too Fast – (Craig Wiseman, David Lee Murphy, Lindsay Rimes)

8. Don’t Mississippi – (Shane McAnally, Ross Copperman, Ben Hayslip, Josh Osborne)

9. All of My Love – (Colton Swon, Zach Swon)

10. Cold Can – (Bobby Pinson, Josh Osborne, Andrew DeRoberts)

11. The Keys – (Jay Brunswick, Brock Berryhill, Bobby Pinson)

12. Years (feat. John Anderson) – (Pat McLaughlin, John Anderson, David Ferguson, Daniel Auerbach)

Burnt Tapes – Growing Strong

10th April 2025

Music News

Burnt Tapes have announced their sophomore album ‘New Lungs’ out August 8th on Wiretap Records / Lockjaw Records and Nasty Cut Records.

The first single from the new album, “MOTHERSGUILT,” is now streaming everywhere.

“MOTHERSGUILT” paints a vivid picture of internal struggle, pressure, and disillusionment— dealing with themes of mental exhaustion, self-doubt, the weight of society’s expectations & the failure to meet those expectations.

“It’s been a long time since our first record, we’ve had a pandemic in between, and that kinda does things to a person. We wanted to push harder on all the good things about Never Better, but also bring some thing new to the table, and we’re excited to share this first single with everyone,” says Phil G. of Burnt Tapes.

The Burnt Tapes career is a testament to perseverance and dedication. Since the early days as teenagers jamming in the basements of Athens, Greece, the Burnt Tapes have shown their strength as rough-and-tumble storytellers, turning out songs equally rooted in frenetic energy and lifelike details of sadness, regret, nostalgia and mental health.

Now London based, the bands own brand of regret punk merges big anthemic hooks meshed with empowering guitar lines and throat ripping vocals bringing comparisons that range from Basement, to The Menzingers.

Over the last few years the Burnt Tapes have logged countless miles on the roads of the UK, US, Europe and Japan, playing over 200 shows across 20 countries, amassing a wonderful array of friends and fans along the way.

They have shared the stage with the likes of Spanish Love Songs, Flatliners, Red City Radio, MakeWar & Menzingers, making appearances at festivals like Manchester Punk Festival, Rebellion Fest & Booze Cruise.

In 2017 they released their debut EP, Alterations, delivering one of “2017’s standout melodic punk releases.”

This was followed up by their stunning debut LP “Never Better” in 2019 on Lockjaw Records (UK/EU) and Wiretap Records (US). The album included singles “Yuzi” and “Don’t Make me Play Bocelli” which featured in Spotify’s “New Punk Tracks” & “Punk Unleashed” playlists alongside bands like Tigers Jaw and Cloud Nothings.

The Grower EP followed, and their sophomore record New Lungs, set for release in the summer of 2025.

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Save Ferris – Too-ra-loo-ra, too-ra-loo-rye, aye!

10th April 2025

Music News

Save Ferris are headed back out on the road with the announcement of their spring tour dates. See dates below. The So Cal faves have also announced the release of a single “Get Dancing,” scheduled to drop on April 25.

This summer the band will be heading overseas for a UK/ European tour and festival dates. KEEP AN EAR OUT FOR “GET DANCING”, THEIR new single AND VIDEO TO BE RELEASED soon!

Save Ferris is a ska-punk powerhouse that blends infectious energy with heart-pounding rhythms, creating a sound that’s both nostalgic and timeless. Hailing from Southern California, the band first burst onto the scene in the mid-’90s, blending ska’s signature brass and up-tempo beats with punk rock’s raw edge and rebellious spirit. Fronted by the dynamic and captivating Monique Powell, Save Ferris quickly became known for their energetic live shows and catchy, anthem-like tracks.

Their debut album, It Means Everything (1996), earned them a loyal following with tracks like “Come On Eileen,” a bold cover of Dexys Midnight Runners’ classic, which became a breakout hit. Their sound—characterized by tight horn sections, infectious guitar riffs, and Powell’s powerful vocals—immediately set them apart from other ska bands of the era.

Over the years, Save Ferris has navigated changes in both the music scene and within the band itself, but their core sound—fueled by a blend of punk, ska, and pop—is as vibrant and energetic as ever. Their passion for music and connection to fans remains a constant, and with each performance, they prove why they’re one of the most memorable bands to emerge from the ’90s ska revival.

Save Ferris’ influence extends far beyond their hit songs, as they helped solidify ska-punk as a mainstream force, paving the way for countless other bands. With a sound that’s both a tribute to the past and a forward-looking reflection of their evolution, Save Ferris continues to captivate listeners, leaving a lasting mark on the music world.

Get Tickets HERE

Upcoming Shows:

Apr. 26, 2025

Chicago, IL

Chop Shop

Apr. 27, 2025

Grand Rapids, MI

The Pyramid Scheme

Apr. 28, 2025

Madison, WI

High Noon Saloon

Apr. 29, 2025

Milwaukee, WI

Shank Hall

Apr. 30, 2025

Des Moines, IA

xBk Live

May 1, 2025

St Paul, MN

Turf Club

May 2, 2025

Omaha, NE

Waiting Room Lounge

May 3, 2025

Lawrence, KS

Bottleneck

May 4, 2025

Wichita, KS

WAVE

May 5, 2025

Tulsa, OK

Vanguard

May 7, 2025

Nashville, TN

The Basement East

May 7, 2025

Nashville, TN

The Basement East

May 8, 2025

Greenville, SC

Radio Room

May 9, 2025

Raleigh, NC

Kings

May 10, 2025

Atlanta, GA

The Masquerade

May 11, 2025

Lake Buena Vista, FL

House of Blues Orlando

May 15, 2025

New Orleans, LA

No Dice

May 16, 2025

Houston, TX

Last Concert Cafe

May 17, 2025

Dallas, TX

Ferris Wheelers Backyard and BBQ

May 20, 2025

St Louis, MO

THE OLD ROCK HOUSE

May 24, 2025

Hatfield, United Kingdom

Slam Dunk Festival – South 2025

May 25, 2025

Leeds, United Kingdom

Slam Dunk Festival – North 2025

Jun. 8, 2025

Ardmore, PA

Ardmore Music Hall

Jun. 11, 2025

Hamden, CT

Space Ballroom

Jun. 20, 2025

Victoria, BC

Victoria Curling Club

Jun. 21, 2025

Seattle, WA

Nectar Lounge

Aug. 3, 2025

London, United Kingdom

O2 Academy Islington

Aug. 6, 2025

Southampton, United Kingdom

The 1865

Aug. 7, 2025

Huddersfield, United Kingdom

Parish

Sep. 13, 2025

Bethlehem, PA

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Morgan Wade (Live Review) – Taking Care Of Business

9th April 2025

Country News, CREATURE FEATURE, Music Reviews

We’ve been reviewing and photographing shows at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town since the 1980s, so we can say with a certain amount of confidence and flair that it’s exactly the right space for a Morgan Wade performance.

A beautiful Art Deco building with a rich history and impressive architecture — big enough to feel like you’ve made it, yet small enough to feel personal, intimate, and close. It’s always good to rock up early — and we did.

The excitement was feverish. Morgan Wade’s ever-growing fan base snaked behind the Forum, past the stage door, into the freshly rendered hipster workspaces beyond.

Wade played two nights at The Garage back in 2021 — her first sell-out gig, as she later tells us — and we at 1st 3 Magazine made a rare and deliberate effort to be there. We’d felt the spark before we’d even seen her live. Like so many others, we weren’t about to miss the moment it all began.

The word’s out. Everyone is here.

This is sentimental storytelling at its finest"

Sammy Harrison is out first — soft, insistent fingerpicking, poignant and tender, with a warm, versatile voice that stretches comfortably across several octaves. He builds a strong connection with the growing crowd as emotive lyrics meet crunchy suspended chords, and that rapport swirls, then multiplies. This is sentimental storytelling at its finest — including a song for his mate Joe, who bought him that first guitar. Harrison’s powerful voice contrasts deliciously with his emotional literacy, setting the tone for tonight’s acoustic soul-nudging.

A voice that’s straight, strong, and true."

Karley Scott Collins is a captivating presence. Backstage, we learn she’s got a thing for pizza — though where those cheesy calories go is anyone’s guess. On stage, she tells us it’s her second time in London, calling it “her favourite city in the world.” Her smoky, sultry vocals light up the O2 from the very first note of Hands on the Wheel — a voice that’s straight, strong, and true.

There’s vulnerability too — especially on American Boy, with its delicate guitar threads. Her songs rest on sturdy melodies and graceful bones. Collins mesmerises with a cocktail of sharp lyrics, soft harmonies, and raw emotional honesty. She sings like she means it. You can hear every inch of heartache and hope in Quit You and Heavy Metal, a standout track about a wedding ring that weighs a girl down.

There’s a natural break as the stage is reset — clearly for an acoustic performance — with stools and guitars arranged closely across the sizeable platform. Fifteen photographers jostle for pole position in the pit, anticipation simmering as the O2 crowd senses something special coming.

There’s a ‘girl next door’ thing going on... until she opens her mouth."

And then, here she is — tiny Morgan Wade with that great big voice — taking her seat between guitarist Clint Wells and keys player Tyler James. Her famously inked frame is tucked under a T-shirt and jeans. There’s a ‘girl next door’ thing going on… until she opens her mouth.

Because it’s that voice, you see. That unmistakable voice. A voice once dismissed as “weird” when she failed the school choir audition — now carrying clarity, soul, and weathered wisdom. Shades and shimmer wrap her honeyed voice in silk — smooth, strange, and utterly gorgeous.

The trio merges effortlessly — Wells and James letting Wade shine"

It knocks us flat. Buries us in the feels. Every. Damn. Time."

The trio merges effortlessly — Wells and James letting Wade shine, while delivering masterful accompaniment of their own. From the first notes of Matches and Metaphors, conviction and intensity shape every phrase, every pause. The crowd is locked in from moment one.

There’s a hypnotic balance between them. Take Me Away — heard a hundred times, maybe more — still lands fresh, raw, and tender as the first time. It knocks us flat. Buries us in the feels. Every. Damn. Time.

This stripped-down setup suits Wade perfectly. She’s simply herself up there: diminutive but fierce, vulnerable but steely, scarred but standing tall. Between songs, she chats — tells stories, cracks jokes, shares bruises and breakthroughs, all while laying bare the architecture of her songs.

Morgan pulls the marrow from the bone. These songs are stripped, searing and real— unmistakably her. The acoustic style peels back everything but the truth: strong melodies, raw stories, gut-wrenching lyrics. They lift the weight without needing gloss. Run and 2 A.M. in London — in these stripped-back forms — haunt in the best kind of way, like being let in on something never meant to be shared.

A voice, a guitar, a truth — Morgan Wade, taking care of business like only she can."

By the finale — Wilder Days — the grit hits, the heartbreak hits harder. The crowd sings with furious emotional urgency, a shared catharsis erupting before it all ends, far too soon. The Forum walls seem to vibrate with warmth and wildness, echoing the unspoken truth: we’ve just witnessed something rare.

Just like those early Garage shows, this was legendary. Another pivot. Another blaze lit.
A voice, a guitar, a truth — Morgan Wade, taking care of business like only she can.

Morgan Wade played the O2 Forum, Kentish Town

25th March 2025

Support from Sammy Harrison and Karley Scott Collins

https://www.facebook.com/morganwademusic

https://www.facebook.com/karleyscollins

https://www.facebook.com/sammyharrisonmusic

Parmalee – Pushing The Boundaries

9th April 2025

Country News

Parmalee, one of Country Music’s most successful acts with five US #1 singles, multiple platinum records, and over 1 Billion on-demand streams, has today shared Fell In Love With A Cowgirl.

The band’s first new studio album since 2021 features seven new songs, including the recently released “Feels Like Home”, and their new hit single “Cowgirl”, which is currently #17 on the UK Country Radio Airplay Chart.

Another standout from the album is the emotionally charged “God Knew Better”— a mid-tempo ballad that thanks God for sending the one woman who could calm a reckless heart. Co-written by Abram Dean, David Fanning, Jamie Collazo, Andy Albert, and the band, Parmalee describes the track as “like running into an old friend you didn’t know you needed to see.”

Fell In Love With A Cowgirl kicks off a two-part album series that deepens Parmalee’s signature blend of modern swagger and timeless storytelling. From love’s quiet comforts to wild, carefree nights, the band continues to push the boundaries of contemporary country with heart, grit, and style. Fans can listen to Fell In Love WIth A Cowgirl here.

Parmalee’s evolution from chart-topping hits to innovative new sounds continues to solidify their place at the forefront of the country genre. From the album’s lead track “Feels Like Home”, the band invites listeners on a musical journey that’s equal parts nostalgic and refreshing on this project featuring anthems for anyone who’s ever found solace, celebration, comfort and closure as one falls in and out of love.

Fell In Love With A Cowgirl Tracklisting:

1. Feels Like Home (Ashley Gorley, David Fanning, Matt Thomas, Beau Bailey, Ned Cameron)

2. Day One (Ashley Gorley, David Fanning, Matt Thomas, Steph Jones, Ben Johnson, Taylor Phillips)

3. God Knew Better (Abram Dean, David Fanning, Jamie Collazo, Andy Albert, Parmalee)

4. Cowgirl (James Daniel Lewis, David Fanning, Peter Daniel Newman, Robbie Jay, Thomas Frank Ridley Horsley, Parmalee)*

5. Enough (Matt Thomas, David Fanning, Abram Dean, Sydney Cubit, Dave Villa)

6. Beautiful (Matt Thomas, David Fanning, Michael Tyler, Ben Stennis)

7. Miss Me When You’re Drinkin’ (Matt Thomas, Ben Williams, David Fanning, Andy Sheridan)

Produced by David Fanning

*Produced by David Fanning & James Daniel Lewis

Stereo MC’s – Stepping Up For 2025/6

9th April 2025

Music News

UK Hip-Hop/Electronic dance pioneers Stereo MC’s will return in 2025 for a brand new run of UK and Ireland shows.

Demand for Stereo MC’s remains at a high. Appearing on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon performing “Connected” (watch here) in January, the band also recently announced a slew of US dates – their first full US route since 2001 – leading up to an appearance at the prestigious Cruel World festival on 17th May.

The band book-end a packed 2025 schedule with an 11-date UK and Ireland stretch of shows throughout November, December and January.

Kicking-off at Glasgow St Luke’s venue on 27th November, the ‘True To Life’ UK / IE Tour will take in shows in major cities like Bristol, Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Birmingham and beyond, before concluding with a two-night residency at the Button Factory in the Irish capital of Dublin in January (30-31/01 2026).

Forming part of what will be Stereo MC’s’ first full European tour since 2014, the line up will feature original members Rob Birch (Rob B), Nick Hallam, and Cath Coffey, along with drummer/percussionist, Tansay Omar.

Fans can expect to hear tracks from across the Brit Award-winning act’s acclaimed seven studio albums, including Connected, Step It Up, Elevate My Mind, Lost In Music,

As Rob explains of ‘True To Life’:

“There are many influences in the melting pot being shaped by this time we live in. In the same way as we look back for inspiration, we are charged by the present and that’s how we work: combining old methods with modern technology. The more diverse our music becomes, the happier I feel.”

While Nick adds of the upcoming tour:

“There’ll be a lot of new music… some club orientated in keeping with our label and recent outlook, and some more in the Stereo MC’s known mould. When the two merge as one, we will be there.”

Tickets for the True To Life UK / IE Tour are on sale now, with the full list of dates as follows:

STEREO MC’S TRUE TO LIFE UK / IE TOUR

NOVEMBER 2025

27 – GLASGOW St Luke’s

28 – LEEDS Brudenell Social Club

29 – LIVERPOOL Arts Club

DECEMBER 2025

4 – BRISTOL Trinity

6 – MARGATE Dreamland

7 – NORWICH Epic Studios

12 – LONDON Shepherd’s Bush Empire

13 – MANCHESTER O2 Ritz

14 – BIRMINGHAM O2 Academy 2

JANUARY 2026

30 – DUBLIN Button Factory

31 – DUBLIN Button Factory

Tickets: www.stereomcs.com

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SPEAR OF DESTINY – A Tale Of Two Halves

9th April 2025

Music News

Kirk Brandon’s legendary post-punk guise – SPEAR OF DESTINY – will unveil a brand new project, plus embark on an epic UK tour this Spring.

Having spent the tail end of 2024 revisiting classic 80s works on tour with The Skids; for their next act Spear of Destiny will be offering something both familiar, but entirely new, with ‘JANUS’.

The follow-up to 2022’s ‘Ghost Population’, ‘JANUS’ is the forthcoming new album from Spear of Destiny. Two years in the making, it will feature re-recorded and rejuvenated versions of 1987’s ‘Outland’ and 1988’s ‘The Price You Pay’. Partnered for the first time, as two very distinct halves in a double album package christened ‘JANUS’, these freshly revamped cuts will be available as Vinyl, CD, and Digital.

‘JANUS’ owes its name to the Ancient Roman god of beginnings and endings, of transitions and time, passages and dualities. And aptly for this project, is usually depicted as having two faces.

“Janus, as I’m sure you all know, is the Roman god who looked in two directions…” Kirk Brandon explains. “At the time of making, ‘The Price You Pay’ often in its lyrics, had a backwards looking take on my previous life experiences, several being very personal. Whereas ‘Outland‘ with its dystopian lyrics, looked forward. Being done on what was at the time state-of-the-art programming, Fairlight 3. Lyrically it faced the ever increasing out of phase reality we are now firmly in.”

Despite both ‘Outland’ and ‘The Price You Pay’ proving to be Top 40 UK hits (No.16 and No.37 respectively) at the time of their release in the 80s, Kirk was never fully satisfied with the finished products.

As Kirk explains:

“Some may say why re-record, and in a definite sense that is a good question, the reason is that I wanted them to sound as close to what I originally thought they should have sounded like. Which is way different from what both albums did in fact end up sounding like. In particular ‘Outland’ which was principally recorded on a Fairlight 3 program. In fact some of the ‘Outland’ songs like “Land of Shame” were originally scheduled to have been in contention for the earlier ‘World Service’ album but never made it to the selection. Criminal in reality. Record companies shy away from controversial lyrics…”

Having spent much of the interim years performing with a tight band of musicians (Steve Allen Jones, Phil Martini, Craig Adams, Adrian Portas, and Clive Osborne), who have become like brothers and toured doggedly together, Kirk now feels bolstered in confidence to correct the missteps of the past. As he adds:

“I have to gratefully thank, as ever, my band for bringing these songs back to life from a major record company cemetery… With the musicians I have largely been playing with for the last 20+ years, we went back, as we have done with ‘Grapes of Wrath’ ‘One Eyed Jacks’ and ‘World Service’, and done an interesting, I hope, re-interpretation of my original ideas. ”

Amongst some of the structural changes made, fans will detect an additional verse on “Soldier Soldier”, missing for years and now rightfully returned. The track selection too is now truly reflective of Kirk’s own personal choices each album’s time period, including B Sides/12 inch songs that Kirk really felt should have been on these two albums but were omitted by the respective record companies of the period for presumably not meeting their commercial criteria.

Fans can pre-order ‘JANUS’ now here and hear a teaser track for the project, “The Jungle”.

Taking the new project to live stages around the UK with an extensive run of shows, Spear of Destiny will be embarking on the ‘JANUS’ 2025 Tour in April, May, and June. Catch the band at these venues as follows:

SPEAR OF DESTINY – ‘JANUS’ UK TOUR DATES

APRIL

23 – LEEDS Brudenell

24 – NEWCASTLE – The Grove

25 – ABERDEEN Drummonds

26 – GLASGOW Scotland Calling

27 – DUNFERMLINE PJ Molloys

29 – NOTTINGHAM Rescue Rooms

30 – BRISTOL Fleece

MAY

1 – STOWMARKET John Peel Centre

2 – BARNSLEY Birdwell

3 – LIVERPOOL Rough Trade

4 – LANCASTER Kanteena

8 – DERBY Hairy Dog

9 – HULL Polar Bear

10 – SCARBOROUGH Spa

11 – LONDON 100 Club

16 – WOLVERHAMPTON WW-XXI

17 – WOLVERHAMPTON WW-XXI

21 – CARDIFF The Globe

22 – BLACKPOOL Waterloo

23 – STOKE Underground

24 – WORCESTER Marrs Bar

25 – MANCHESTER Strummercamp

27 – CAMBRIDGE Portland Arms

28 – HITCHIN Club 85

29 – OXFORD Bullingdon

30 – BIRMINGHAM Castle & Falcon

31 – MILTON KEYNES Craufurd Arms

JUNE

1 – BRIGHTON Chalk

Tickets and details here: https://kirkbrandon.com/shows

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Monthly Archives: April 2025

Pistol Daisys – Get dialled in…

Following the breakout buzz of “St Glasgow” and the emotionally raw “Crying in Marseille”, Scottish alt-pop trailblazers Pistol Daisys return with a shimmering new single full of heartbreak, groove, and unexpected truth.

Lukas Nelson – Everything Changes

Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Lukas Nelson has announced that he will release his highly anticipated new album, American Romance, on June 20th – his first solo project and first in partnership with Sony Music Nashville (pre-order/pre-save here).

The Long Road Festival – New Headline Act Announced

Blake Shelton – A Celebration

After nearly four years since his last studio album, Blake Shelton is back with For Recreational Use Only, his highly anticipated debut for BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville, set for release May 9. The album is available now for pre-order/pre-add/pre-save here.

Burnt Tapes – Growing Strong

Burnt Tapes have announced their sophomore album ‘New Lungs’ out August 8th on Wiretap Records / Lockjaw Records and Nasty Cut Records.

Save Ferris – Too-ra-loo-ra, too-ra-loo-rye, aye!

Save Ferris are headed back out on the road with the announcement of their spring tour dates. See dates below. The So Cal faves have also announced the release of a single “Get Dancing,” scheduled to drop on April 25.

Morgan Wade (Live Review) – Taking Care Of Business

We’ve been reviewing and photographing shows at the O2 Forum in Kentish Town since the 1980s, so we can say with a certain amount of confidence and flair that it’s exactly the right space for a Morgan Wade performance.

Parmalee – Pushing The Boundaries

Parmalee, one of Country Music’s most successful acts with five US #1 singles, multiple platinum records, and over 1 Billion on-demand streams, has today shared Fell In Love With A Cowgirl.

Stereo MC’s – Stepping Up For 2025/6

UK Hip-Hop/Electronic dance pioneers Stereo MC’s will return in 2025 for a brand new run of UK and Ireland shows.

SPEAR OF DESTINY – A Tale Of Two Halves

Kirk Brandon’s legendary post-punk guise – SPEAR OF DESTINY – will unveil a brand new project, plus embark on an epic UK tour this Spring.

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