“This power pop band should have been a household name. The Question is one of the best bands ever to come out of Los Angeles.”- Jack Rabid
Seminal LA mod trioThe Questionhave officially released their landmark 1982 EP “Shall Be Love”to all major streaming platforms todayvia Oglio Records, kicking off a long-awaited archival series that will debut newly remixed, remastered, and previously unheard material throughout the coming months.
Formed in the 1980s and widely regarded as the first, and arguably most significant mod band ever to emerge from Los Angeles proper, The Question earned their reputation through explosive, unpredictable live shows and the sharp, melodic songwriting of Tony Rugolo—whose jazz-influenced chord progressions reflect the legacy of his father, the late Pete Rugolo, an award-winning composer and arranger. With Rugolo’s dynamic vocals, Phil Cusimano’s 60s-infused Rickenbacker tone, and the powerhouse drumming of David White, the band transcended the mod scene and built a devoted following that stretched well beyond the underground.
The Question’s official discography has historically been limited—two songs on the revered Warfrat Tales compilation and a pair of self-released 7-inch EPs (Distance Apart and Getting Through). But behind the scenes, the band had recorded far more than most fans ever realized.
Now, after years of remixing and remastering, The Question and Oglio Records will release the band’s complete archive of more than 20 songs, including many that have never been available in any format. “Shall Be Love” is the first release to emerge, with additional singles and deep cuts to follow.
The Question is currently active, playing live gigs and preparing to record a new album in 2026, marking their first new music in decades.
A collection of six raw and unapologetic tracks, cements MEGG’s status as one of pop-punk’s boldest new voices. Blending pop sensibility with punk-rock roots, she’s built a sound that’s rebellious, catchy, and deeply personal — a fearless soundtrack for tomboys, romantics, loudmouths, and misfits alike. Channeling Gwen Stefani’s swagger, Hayley Williams’ firepower, and Joan Jett’s grit, MEGG brings early-2000s energy into a modern, unapologetically self-defined era.
“‘Low Life Club’ feels like the unofficial soundtrack to the West Coast and is easily some of the best music I’ve ever put out,” she adds. “It’s multidimensional — the heaviness, the vulnerability, the riot, the vocal chops, the nostalgia, the party, and everything in between. It’s got a little something for everyone. I’m really proud of these songs and stoked to give them to my fans.”
A graduate of USC’s inaugural Popular Music Performance Program, MEGG has been tearing up stages across the country — from headlining hometown venues like Saint Rocke (Hermosa Beach) to packing The End (Nashville). She’s shared stages with KISS and The Used, opened at Musink, and recently performed at the 30th Anniversary Vans Warped Tour in Long Beach. She’s also sung the National Anthem for the LA Dodgers, LA Galaxy, and LA Sparks at Crypto.com Arena.
Following a string of singles in 2024 — including the bratty fan-favorite “IDC” (currently spinning on SiriusXM’s The Pop Off and 107.7 The Bone’s Bone Breakers) — MEGG continues to build momentum toward Low Life Club. Earlier tracks like “Get Over It” and “The End” gave fans a taste of what’s to come, showcasing her knack for combining anthemic hooks with raw emotion and unapologetic attitude.
Southern California punk bandHeartwellshas announced an exciting new chapter: a partnership withCity Rat Recordsfor their upcomingEuropean touralongside labelmatesEmpired. The run will mark Heartwells’ first full European outing, bringing their explosive live energy overseas this winter.
The announcement follows the release of their new standalone single “Killin Me Now” — a high-octane dose of melodic aggression and emotional urgency — and their recent 6-song EP Ollie, released this past July via HEY!FEVER Records.
In the spring of 1983, a newly conceived version of the JAMES NEWTON QUARTET appeared on the European jazz scene. After four decades, producer Stephan Meyner contacted James Newton when they realized that, unfortunately, the quartet had never released a recording.
This changed when Meyner unearthed a 1983 recording of the quartet from Willisau in Switzerland. A few months before the tour, James Newton had heard about a fantastic young pianist, composer, and scholar from Detroit who was completing her master's degree in ethnomusicology at the University of Pittsburgh: Geri Allen.
The members of the JAMES NEWTON QUARTET for this European tour included Geri Allen on piano, Anthony Cox on bass, and Andrew Cyrille on drums. The recording from Willisau is one of the first recordings in Geri Allen's long, historic, and outstanding career. Bassist, composer, and bandleader Anthony Cox has immense, highly virtuosic mastery of his instrument, plays with great sensitivity, contributes to every nuance of the ensemble with incredible technical skill and responds to it with confidence, switching skilfully and fluently between different styles. Andrew Cyrille is one of the most respected drummers jazz has ever produced. His ensembles and compositions have contributed greatly to the tradition he embodies. He is known for his enthusiastic collaborations with modernists such as David Murray, Muhal Richard Abrams, Mal Waldron, Horace Tapscott, Peter Brötzmann, and Oliver Lake.
The recording's repertoire includes Charles Mingus' loving tribute to Charlie Parker, "Reincarnation of a Lovebird," Geri Allen's masterpiece, "The Printmakers," and two originals by James Newton: "Forever Charles," dedicated to Mingus, and "Pinkie Below," the nickname given to Newton's young son James III by one of his uncles because he was the youngest grandson in the family and was born with light skin.
Hot off their recent first-place win inAlternative Press’s fan pollfor Best Long Island Band,Half Dizzyis back with big news and a brand-new track. The band has revealed the title and cover art for their upcoming album,Yard Sale, set for release later this year.
In the meantime, fans can dig into “All or None,” a punchy, uplifting punk anthem that looks back on the challenges of youth, celebrates perseverance, and honors the growth that comes from struggle. Produced and recorded by Pete Steinkopf of The Bouncing Souls at Little Eden, mixed by Neil Tuuri at Amish Electric Chair Studios, and mastered by Christopher H. Fogal at Black in Bluhm, the track captures the band’s trademark mix of grit, melody, and heart.
“This upbeat anthem looks back on the wild ride of youth, celebrating the challenges conquered and lessons learned along the way. It's a vibrant, feel-good anthem for anyone who's grown through struggle and came out stronger on the other side," says guitarist/vocalist Daniel Marchelewski.
Photo by: Albert Sanchez - Design by: John Stapleton
Belinda Carlisle, beloved solo artist, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and voice of the Go-Go’s, returns to her roots with the release of a new studio album Once Upon a Time in California, slated for release on 29 August 2025 by the Demon Music label.
Featuring ten new studio tracks including her cover of the Harry Nilsson classic, “One” HEREwhich premiered today, were recorded in Los Angeles and produced by Gabe Lopez, who worked with Belinda on her 2017 studio album Wilder Shores. Belinda shares – “It was fun covering this song that I always loved. I listened to different versions and we decided to go for more of a jazzy approach which fit with the video concept which is a nod to Bob Fosse. I've never done anything like this before, so I think it might be a surprise for some of my fans.”
The first single from the forthcoming album,“The Air That I Breathe” HERE was released in June with Belinda stating - “This song has always been one of my very favorites growing up. I love the lyrics and the complicated melody. This was on the list I originally made of songs that I wanted to sing if I ever did a cover album. During the pandemic I started performing karaoke style on my Instagram every Saturday and called it “Saturday Serenades.” This one got such a good response that I thought 'This definitely should be a contender for the album'. I'm so happy with the way it turned out and I absolutely love the video as it sort of harkens back to my early solo albums and videos.” In addition, Belinda released her version of The Youngbloods’ “Get Together” HERE and the music video HERE stating “Get Together” was relevant when it was released during the Vietnam war and it’s relevant today with all of the craziness going on in our world. I recorded it firstly because I love it and secondly because I think it is perfect for this time.”
Once Upon a Time in California will be available on CD, vinyl and digital formats and available for pre-order HERE
Following the success of Belinda’s 2023 EP Kismet, Once Upon a Time in California seesBelinda Carlisletake a deeply personal journey through the golden sounds of her youth with this ten-track collection. Steeped in the spirit of her Californian upbringing, thealbum isa heartfelt tribute to the vintage pop culture that shaped her musical identity.
What sets this album apart is that it’s a celebration of Californian culture that stretches its canvas beyond the familiar evocation of the Laurel Canyon sound. It’s a carefully curated and beautifully realised salute to Belinda’s personal education in pop music, and the magical sounds that arrived in her life from near and far, on the radio and on cherished 45s.
With the assured and distinctive vocal delivery of someone who herself has become one of the Golden State’s greatest exports - initially as frontwoman for the Go-Go’s, who enjoyed Top 10 hits with Our Lips Are Sealed, Vacation and We Got The Beat and as a solo performer with a multitude of hits including Mad About You, Heaven Is A Place on Earth, Circle In the Sand and I Get Weak amongst others, Belinda Carlisle completes this sentimental journey back to her youth with timeless style.
Once Upon a Time in California opens with a stirring remake of the Burt Bacharach & Hal David gem written for Dionne Warwick, Anyone Who Had A Heart. Belinda then pays her respects to such timeless artists as the Carpenters (Superstar), Gordon Lightfoot (If YouCould Read My Mind) and Jim Croce (Time In A Bottle) and to songs for the ages including The Air That I Breathe (The Hollies), Everybody’s Talking (Harry Nilsson) and Reflections Of My Life (Marmalade). The result is an entirely different kind of Californian dreaming for a new generation. Although this marks the first time all ten tracks have been available on one album, three of them – Superstar, If You Could Read My Mind and Get Together have been available on previous Belinda Carlisle collections.
Commenting on the album Belinda says, “I was born and raised in California at a time when music was an important part of Californian culture. I lived and breathed music, it was my great escape - a refuge of fantasy and imagination. Every day after school and when it was summer vacation, I would listen and sing along to the music on the radio for the entire day. Always fantasizing about being a singer myself, one day.
This collection of songs is the best representation of what I loved back then that I could think of - listening to it brings back so many memories of a time and a California that doesn't really exist anymore. That’s not meant to sound like a bad thing, it's just different - there was an innocence and energy back then that was unique and magical. Things I doubt will ever be felt in quite the same way again. Here's to the California of my dreams.”
With Once Upon a Time in California, Belinda Carlisle invites fans old and new to join her on a journey through the melodies that defined a generation.
Portland-based musician and producer JJ Braves returns this summer with his powerful new single, “Fix for a Broken Heart,” dropping July 25. The track—an emotionally-charged anthem of resilience—arrives ahead of his forthcoming full-length album and is the first taste of what’s shaping up to be his most fully realized release yet.
JJ’s summer tour begins this week in Portland, OR and stretches across the West Coast through early August.
JJ Braves is the throwback rock project of LA-based artist Joshua Keever, blending synth-driven hooks, classic rock theatrics, and deeply personal lyricism. Drawing inspiration from the power-chord heroics of Queen and Weezer, the slick pop swagger of Huey Lewis & the News, and even the animated bravado of the Transformers theme song, JJ Braves channels those influences into anthemic, emotionally resonant songs. His debut EP, The Circle Complete, introduced audiences to his signature stacked guitar tones and high-energy synth arrangements—designed to uplift listeners of all ages.
Writing music from a young age as a coping mechanism for emotional isolation, Keever infuses the JJ Braves project with purpose: to empower misfits, outsiders, and anyone who’s ever struggled to feel like they belong. “Fix for a Broken Heart” carries that same message—pushing through pain and finding strength when everything seems broken.
JJ Braves - Summer 2025 Tour Dates 7/24 – Portland, OR @ White Eagle Saloon 7/25 – Seattle, WA @ Central Saloon 7/26 – Clarkston, WA @ Hogan's Pub 7/27 – Boise, ID @ Lost Grove Brewing 7/28 – Elko, NV @ Charlee's Bar 7/29 – Reno, NV @ Reno Public Market 7/30 – Sacramento, CA @ Old Ironsides 7/31 – Long Beach, CA @ Supply & Demand 8/1 – North Hollywood, CA @ Kulak's Woodshed 8/2 – San Francisco, CA @ Rickhouse 8/3 – Medford, OR @ Rockafairy
Out singer-songwriter Tom Goss, known for his soulful voice, daring visuals, and queer-forward storytelling, is back with a bold, hilarious, and irresistibly catchy new single:“Gay Stuff.” Accompanied by an outrageously playful music video directed by longtime collaborator Michael Serrato, the song is an unapologetic celebration of queer joy, individuality, and the absurdity of labels.
The song’s journey began nearly a decade ago, when producer and co-writer Austin Danson came up with the concept. “We thought it was just funny,” says Goss. “We pitched it around to other queer artists, but no one bit. Years later, Austin sent me a reworked version, and I couldn’t stop laughing. We realized this song was too good not to make ourselves.”
“Gay Stuff”is pure dance-pop fun, inspired by drag icons like Willam, Alaska, and RuPaul. But underneath its high-camp surface is a powerful message: joy doesn’t have to fit into a box. “We’re poking fun at stereotypes while fully embracing them,” Goss explains. “Everything is gay! Everything is straight! Everything is in-between. The sooner we stop trying to limit ourselves, the freer and happier we’ll be.”
The lyrics don’t hold back. From calling out the absurdity of traditional gender norms to cheekily labeling everyday activities as gay, the song’s humor hits hard. “Verse two is my favorite,” Goss says. “It’s just a list of normal things, but we call them gay. It’s so stupid. That’s why it works!”
The accompanying music video takes the concept even further. Shot in Palm Springs over a single whirlwind weekend—just 48 hours after wrapping Goss’ other new video, “Bear Soup”—the video is a fever dream of queer delight. “We had no idea where we were shooting or what we were wearing two days before,” Goss laughs. “We thrifted everything, texted friends for props, locations… even a poodle!”
Thanks to the generosity of Palm Springs’ vibrant queer community, the team was able to secure numerous colorful locations, from gyms to grocery stores. Goss stars alongside dancers Jake Gonzales and Floyd Slayweather, who bring hilarious physicality and outrageous charm to the shoot. “I could barely keep a straight face during the grocery store scene,” Goss recalls. “People thought we were completely insane and they weren’t wrong.”
The video, like the song, doesn’t take itself too seriously. But behind the deadpan delivery and over-the-top outfits is a heartfelt intention: to empower. “Humor is one of the most effective tools I’ve found as an activist,” says Goss, who has spent the past twenty years using his art to challenge perceptions. “If I can make you laugh, I can get you to think. I never want to be mean or hurtful. But I do want to push boundaries in a kind, thoughtful way.”
Tom Goss is an acclaimed indie artist whose work spans pop, rock, and electronic music and typically blends raw emotional storytelling with LGBTQ+ themes. With over a decade of touring and over 20 million streams to his name, Goss continues to be a fearless voice for authenticity, inclusion, and joy in the queer community.
Released just in time for Pride season,“Gay Stuff”is tailor-made for dance floors, drag brunches, and backyard parties alike. “Of course, it’s a Pride anthem,” Goss says. “Happy Pride, everybody!”
As for how he hopes fans will respond to the track? Says Goss: “The next time you’re offered something fun to do but that little voice in your head says, ‘I can’t, I’m not [fill in the blank]’ I want you to think of‘Gay Stuff’and do it anyway. Embrace the weird. Embrace the joy. Life is too short not to.”
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