by Steven Miller

In the vast forest of bluegrass music, a mighty poplar has emerged, firmly rooted in tradition while reaching for new heights. This self-titled debut from the bluegrass supergroup Mighty Poplar brings together five of the genre’s most esteemed musicians, each contributing their unique flavor to a harmonious whole.

Mighty Poplar consists of an all-star lineup: Andrew Marlin of Watchhouse on vocals and mandolin, Noam Pikelny and Chris Eldridge of Punch Brothers on banjo and guitar respectively, Greg Garrison of Leftover Salmon on bass, and Alex Hargreaves, currently touring with Billy Strings, on fiddle. This [...]

by Steven Miller

The music of The Zawose Queens reverberates with spirit and fire, drawing from ancestral vibrations through traditional instruments like the chizeze fiddle, illimba thumb piano, and ngoma drums. Voices soar and intertwine, evoking a deep connection to nature, ceremony, and ritual. Their debut album, Maisha, captures this blend of organic and electronic elements, presenting an album rich in the Gogo people’s musical tradition from central Tanzania’s Dodoma region.

Pendo and Leah Zawose’s debut marks a significant milestone as they become the first women in their famed musical family to lead an album. [...]

by Shannon Smith

Kygo, the Norwegian DJ and record producer, has returned with a new single, “Without You,” featuring the enchanting vocals of HAYLA. Released on June 21, 2024, this track is a testament to Kygo’s signature tropical house style, blending uplifting melodies with deep emotional resonance.

“Without You” opens with HAYLA’s soulful voice, setting a poignant tone that gradually builds with Kygo’s characteristic piano riffs and lush synth layers. The song’s drop is energetic and euphoric, making it a perfect summer anthem that speaks to themes of love and longing. The production is [...]

by Steven Miller

Antonio Faraò, an acclaimed pianist from Rome, has built a reputation as one of the most proficient and inventive pianists on the international jazz scene. Known for his technical brilliance, creative spontaneity, and rhythmic dexterity, Faraò’s music resonates with warmth, conviction, and power. His career has been marked by collaborations with jazz luminaries and contributions to jazz and classical music, making him a versatile and dynamic artist.

Tributes marks Faraò’s first recording with Criss Cross Jazz, where he teams up with equally virtuosic musicians: bassist John Patitucci and drummer Jeff Ballard. [...]

by Shannon Smith

From the vibrant city of Chicago to the musical crucible of Nashville, Bella Rios’s journey began at the tender age of five when she first started learning classical piano. Influenced by musical greats like Queen, Fleetwood Mac, and Aerosmith and contemporary icons such as Adele, P!nk, and Lady Gaga, Bella sets herself apart with her dynamic vocal performances and powerfully connective songwriting. Now a junior at Princeton University studying Economics, she vibe-checks her songs with friends—if they love them or are moved by them, she knows she’s onto something. With her debut EP, Sincerely, under her belt, Bella Rios [...]

by Steven Miller

The Kings of Leon have carved a unique niche in the rock landscape, blending Southern authenticity with arena-rock ambitions. Their latest offering, Can We Please Have Fun, released on May 10, 2024, under Capitol Records, sees the band at their most liberated and playful. Produced by Kid Harpoon, known for his work with Harry Styles and Florence + the Machine, this album reflects a band rekindling their passion for music while exploring new sonic territories.

Rooted in rock and pop, Can We Please Have Fun spans various styles, from alternative/indie rock to Southern rock. The album is a testament to the [...]