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Motley Crue And Def Leppard Announce Rock The Tides Festival In Riviera Maya, Mexico

Def Leppard, Motley Crue and Festication are thrilled to announce Rock The Tides, a brand-new destination festival coming to the stunning beaches of Riviera Maya, Mexico in November 2025. Hosted at luxurious, all-inclusive 5-star beachfront resorts, this three-day celebration of rock music’s finest offers an epic escape in paradise.

Headlined by two of the most iconic bands in rock history-Motley Crue and Def Leppard-Rock The Tides also features a powerhouse lineup of legendary and fan-favorite acts including Bret Michaels, Extreme, The Struts, Buckcherry, Dorothy, Living Colour, Moon Walker, and Velvet Daydream.

Each artist brings their own fire to the beach for a weekend of non-stop rock under the sun-from Bret Michaels’ party-starting good-time rock anthems to Extreme’s virtuosic funk-metal, The Struts’ British swagger, Buckcherry’s high-octane sleaze-rock, and Dorothy’s powerhouse blues-infused vocals. Adding to the mix, Living Colour brings their genre-defying fusion of funk, metal, and social consciousness to the stage. Known for explosive performances and hits like “Cult of Personality,” the Grammy-winning band continues to inspire with their sharp musicianship and bold message. Moon Walker delivers gritty, futuristic rock, and Velvet Daydream adds dreamy psych textures to the mix.

Motley Crue remains a huge global draw 44 years into their career. With their iconic and electrifying show, they bring their countless rock anthems to the stage for an unforgettable night. Having toured stadiums around the world for 2 consecutive years, they continue to solidify their legacy to a multi-generational fanbase.

“Mexico has always been one of the most electric places we’ve played – the energy is just unreal. Some of our most unforgettable shows have happened there, and we know this one will be no different. We’re excited to head back, team up with Def Leppard, and throw one hell of a party for everyone making the trip. It’s going to be an epic night.”
– Motley Crue

Def Leppard continues to be one of the most important forces in rock music. The English rock band’s spectacular live shows and arsenal of hits have become synonymous with their name, leading Def Leppard to be heralded as the world’s greatest live rock band.

Their fans will be treated to an intimate and immersive concert experience just steps from Mexico’s white-sand beaches and turquoise coastline. Attendees can expect a weekend of thunderous drums, searing solos, and arena-sized singalongs from two bands who’ve defined rock spectacle across decades. From Def Leppard’s masterfully melodic anthems and precision-driven performances to Motley Crue’s high-octane, legendary, over-the-top live shows, fans will witness these titans at their most unfiltered and unforgettable-in an intimate beachfront setting.

Rock The Tides marks the next evolution of Festication, the destination festival series from Disco Presents and Feyline. It follows the launch of Tool Live in the Sand which featured standout sets from TOOL, Mastodon, Primus, Coheed and Cambria, and Eagles of Death Metal.

Now, Festication continues its mission to elevate the fan experience-this time with the stadium-shaking energy of Motley Crue and Def Leppard and the lavish backdrop of Mexico’s Riviera Maya.

“This experience goes way beyond the show-it’s a weekend in paradise, a dream vacation with intimate performances from two legendary bands. We’re pushing the boundaries of what a live event can be and this is one fans will never forget.” – Donnie Estopinal, Disco Presents

“One of the most important lessons my dad, Barry Fey, ever taught me was that it’s all about the fans. It still says this on the Feyline website to this day: ‘There is only one VIP, and that is the person who bought the ticket.’ That mindset is a big reason we’ve leaned so heavily into destination events.That three-day getaway with your favorite artist is something truly special-and seeing fans leave the weekend saying it was the best time of their lives, that’s what matters most to us.” – Tyler Fey, Feyline

Guests have the choice to stay at these five-star resorts-Barceló Riviera Maya (Adults Only) or Barceló Maya Grand-each offering a unique twist on luxury. All packages include a resort room, unlimited food and drinks, access to all performances, and transportation to and from the airport. Off-site excursions and curated experiences will also be available, from catamaran sails to cenote swims.

Festication is redefining the destination festival concept, blending one-of-a-kind performances with an immersive resort experience, complete with curated activities, excursions, and world-class accommodations. Every guest is treated like royalty-free to mingle with artists while rockin’ beneath the stars. Festival stages will be spread across the resort, including one at the Riviera pool, offering a true barefoot party experience.

From expansive pools to glistening beaches and nightly entertainment, attendees will enjoy relaxation and rock music at its finest. Packages include three days of performances, unlimited food and drinks, and a luxury resort room for each guest. Off-site excursions will include yacht sails, snorkeling adventures, and cultural explorations.

From mind-boggling stage production to unforgettable memories-these are just a few things awaiting all who attend this intimate, limited-capacity adventure.

 

Larry McCray Announces New Album ‘Heartbreak City’ Featuring Joe Bonamassa, Kirk Fletcher, and More

Celebrated blues singer and guitarist Larry McCray is set to release his powerful new album Heartbreak City on June 13, 2025, via KTBA Records, the label founded by Joe Bonamassa. To mark the announcement, McCray has dropped the album’s lead single, “Bye Bye Blues,” a soulful, finger-snapping throwback co-written with longtime collaborator Charlie Walmsley that channels the sounds of Johnnie Taylor, Bobby Bland, and Little Milton with a fresh, funky edge.

Produced by Grammy-nominated duo Bonamassa and Josh Smith, Heartbreak City is a bold, unfiltered collection that finds McCray at the height of his powers—fusing raw blues with vintage soul, Southern grit, and a hard-won sense of joy. The ten-track album features standout contributions from Reese Wynans, Kirk Fletcher, and background vocalists Jade Macrae and Dannielle De Andrea, as well as guest guitar work from Bonamassa himself. The record was recorded at the iconic Sunset Sound in Hollywood and mixed by Alan Hertz.

On the title track, McCray taps into the spirit of the club stages that shaped his early career, with gritty vocals and a smoldering guitar solo that reflect his decades of road-tested experience. “I feel like this album captures all the different sides of who I am,” says McCray. “It’s soul, it’s blues, it’s truth. It’s everything I’ve lived.”

Across the album, McCray leans into themes of reflection, resilience, and redemption, drawing from decades of lived experience on and off the stage. His voice—gravelly, weathered, and full of soul—carries the weight of hard-earned wisdom, while his guitar work remains as fiery and fluid as ever. With dynamic arrangements, gospel-tinged harmonies, and a band that matches him punch for punch, Heartbreak City doesn’t just revisit the blues—it reclaims it, reframing it through the lens of someone who’s survived it, played it, and lived it for more than four decades.

The release follows 2022’s Blues Without You, which marked McCray’s long-awaited return after a seven-year hiatus. The album debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard Blues chart and was named the #1 Blues Album of 2022 by Blues Rock Review, solidifying his status as a torchbearer of modern blues. In 2024, McCray was inducted into the Michigan Rock and Roll Legends Hall of Fame, a testament to his deep roots in the state and his enduring impact on American music. Now, Heartbreak City builds on that momentum. It’s a record that reflects Larry McCray at his most self-assured—grounded in tradition, but more fearless than ever.

A native of Smackover, Arkansas, McCray grew up immersed in gospel, soul, and the blues stylings of B.B., Albert, and Freddie King. After relocating to Saginaw, Michigan, at age 12, he developed a style that merged deep blues with the fire of Hendrix and the Southern grooves of the Allman Brothers. He was signed in the late ’80s as the first artist on Virgin Records’ Point Blank imprint, and released a string of widely praised albums including Ambition (1990), Delta Hurricane (1993), and Born to Play the Blues (1998). Over the course of his career, McCray has shared stages with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Albert King, Joe Walsh, the Allman Brothers, Jonny Lang, and of course, his modern-day champion and label head Joe Bonamassa.

“Larry McCray is a legend,” shares Bonamassa. “We have known that for 30 years. He is the last of the great blues shouters from the Rust Belt. In the spirit of BB King, Luther Allison, and Little Milton, Larry is among the greats. It’s now up to the world to rediscover him. He has been here all along.”

Blues singer and guitarist Larry McCray was born in Magnolia, Arkansas, and raised in Saginaw, Michigan, where he developed a searing guitar style and emotive voice that would earn him comparisons to the genre’s greats. A pioneer of modern blues-rock, McCray helped shape the genre throughout the ’90s with albums on Virgin’s Point Blank label and through collaborations with legends like B.B. King, Albert King, and Buddy Guy. After years of grinding it out on the road and surviving personal struggles, McCray has emerged with a renewed sense of purpose—and a voice that’s deeper, richer, and more powerful than ever. With Heartbreak City, he cements his status as a timeless torchbearer of the blues.

Heartbreak City by Larry McCray Tracklist:
1. Try To Be A Good Man
2. Heartbreak City
3. Bye Bye Blues
4. Bright Side
5. Everything Falls On Me
6. I Know What I’ve Done (feat. Joe Bonamassa)
7. Keep On Loving My Baby (feat. Kirk Fletcher & Josh Smith)
8. Hangman
9. Stop Your Crying
10. Crazy World

Tour Dates
April 18 – Ocala, FL – Levitt AMP Ocala
May 24 – Burton, MI – Burton Rock & Blues Festival
August 24 – Marshfield, MA – North River Blues Fest
September 5 – Las Vegas, NV – Big Blues Bender
September 12-14 – Telluride, CO – Telluride Blues & Blues Festival

Andy Frasco & The U.N. Drop Satirical Folk Protest Song “Life Is Easy” With Billy Strings, Daniel Donato, Mike Gordon, and Steve Poltz

Photo Credit: Stephanie Parsley

Andy Frasco & The U.N. return with “Life is Easy,” a blisteringly clever, tongue-in-cheek folk protest anthem that tackles everything from consumerism to climate change with a grin. The single—out today—features bluegrass phenom Billy Strings, cosmic country shredder Daniel Donato, Mike Gordon (Phish) and longtime Frasco collaborator Steve Poltz (Jewel, Rugburns), all joining forces on a rollicking, subversive singalong that threads the line between satire and sincerity.

“Andy Frasco is a mids-smokin’ Mitzvah for everyone who has ears to hear,” says Donato. “He has the comedic audacity of Andrew Dice Clay, the minimalist profundity of Shel Silverstein, wrapped in a warm-hearted Mr. Rogers style demeanor tinged with psychedelic illumination.”

Built on foot-stomping acoustic rhythms, tight harmonies, and Frasco’s signature blend of humor and humanity, “Life Is Easy” skewers the absurdity of modern life with lines like “They’re selling us the blood / While they’re all bleeding us” and “Depression on demand—and now it’s storable.” But beneath the satire lies a call to simplicity and presence.

“This is a song about turning off the news for a little bit and just enjoying life and stop fearing what we can’t control,” says Frasco. “There’s so much craziness going on in the world—sometimes all we really need to do is go outside and listen to the birds sing.”

“Being involved in this project was a dream come true,” adds Steve Poltz. “Always a good time being in the Frasco orbit. He’s up for anything and that’s why he’s so much fun to be around.”

The release of “Life is Easy” follows a trio of standout singles from Growing Pains, each offering a different facet of Frasco’s evolving artistry. First came the irreverent, glass-half-full anthem “Try Not to Die,” co-written with Chris Gelbuda and built on a groove-heavy blend of humor and heart. Then came “Crazy Things,” a surrealist take on love’s absurdity co-penned with Poltz. Most recently, Frasco dropped “Swinging for the Fences”—a Motown-inspired love song for underdogs, featuring G. Love and Eric Krasno.

Together, these tracks lay the groundwork for Growing Pains, Frasco’s 10th studio album—out May 23rd—which captures an artist in transition: wiser, more introspective, but still fueled by the same reckless joy that built his cult following. Self-produced for the first time, the album is equal parts soul-searching and celebratory, blending sharp songwriting with genre-hopping arrangements that reflect the messy, beautiful contradictions of modern life.

“I wanted to show people how I’ve grown as a songwriter,” Frasco says. “That I wasn’t just a crowd-surfing party guy in a bar band. This record is about finding balance in both music and life—focusing on the simple pleasures, embracing the grind, and taking nothing for granted because there are no guarantees tomorrow.”

Known for his no-holds-barred live show—a mix of chaos, comedy, catharsis, and crowd-surfing—Frasco continues to build a one-of-a-kind career across platforms. In addition to his music, he’s the host of the World Saving Podcast (with guests like Tony Hawk and Margaret Cho), the creator of a wildly successful variety show, and a champion for mental health awareness.

With Growing Pains on the horizon, Andy Frasco & The U.N. are hitting the road hard in 2025, bringing their euphoric live experience to festivals, clubs, and theaters across the country. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit andyfrasco.com.

Andy Frasco & The U.N. – Tour Dates
Apr 19 • Atlanta, GA – SweetWater 420 Fest
Apr 26 • Copper Mountain, CO – Copper Sunsation
May 8-10 • San Jose del Cabo, MX – Viva El Gonzo
May 17 • Richmond, VA – Dominion RiverRock Festival
May 23 • Martinsville, VA – Rooster Walk 15
May 24 • St. Augustine, FL – JJ Grey’s Blackwater Sol Revue
May 25 • Grundy County, TN – CAVEJAM at The Caverns
Jun 12 • Washington DC – 9:30 Club
Jun 13 • Dewey Beach, DE – Bottle & Cork
Jun 14 • Swanzey, NH – Northlands Music & Arts Festival
Jun 19 • Almont, CO – Almont Resort
Jun 20 • Cheyenne, WY – The Lincoln Cheyenne
Jun 21 • Steamboat Springs, CO – Howelsen Hill
Jun 22 • Huntsville, UT – Blues, Brews, and BBQ
Jun 25 • Teton Village, WY – Mangy Moose
Jun 26 • Livingston, MT – Pine Creek Lodge
Jun 27 • Missoula, MT – The Wilma
Jun 28 • Boise, ID – Shrine Social Club
Jul 3-4 • Quincy, CA – High Sierra Music Festival
Jul 5 • Sherman, NY – The Great Blue Heron Music Festival
Jul 13 • Nantucket, MA – The Chicken Box
Jul 18 • Thornville, OH – Secret Dreams
Jul 25 • Johnstown, PA – Flood City Music Festival
Jul 26 • Berwick, PA – Hog’s Hollow Saloon
Aug 1 • Del Norte, CO – Rhythms on the Rio
Aug 2 • Denver, CO – Levitt Pavilion
Aug 7 • Rochester, NY – Party In The Park
Aug 8 • Bouckville, NY – The Yard Amphitheater
Aug 9 • Matunuck, RI – Ocean Mist
Aug 10 • Wellfleet, MA – Beachcomber
Aug 13 • King Of Prussia, PA – Concerts Under The Stars
Aug 14 • Amagansett, NY – Stephen Talkhouse
Aug 15 • Wantagh, NY – Mulcahy’s
Aug 17 • Virginia Beach, VA – New Realm Brewing Co.
Aug 21 • Black Mountain, NC – Pisgah Brewing Company
Aug 22 • Pittsboro, NC – The Big What?
Aug 23 • Wilmington, NC – Greenfield Lake Amphitheater
Aug 24 • Isle Of Palms, SC – The Windjammer
Aug 29 • St. Louis, MO – Atomic Pavilion
Aug 30 • Kokomo, IN – Kokomo Performing Arts Pavilion
Sep 9 • Vail, CO – Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater
Sep 10 • Casper, WY – The Gaslight Social
Sep 11 • Salt Lake City, UT – The Commonwealth Room
Sep 12-13 • Telluride, CO – Telluride Blues & Brews Festival
Oct 11 • Eureka Springs, AR – Hillberry Harvest Moon Festival

Craft Recordings Announces First-Ever Vinyl Reissue Of Alison Krauss’ Landmark Compilation ‘Now That I’ve Found You’

Craft Recordings is excited to announce the first-ever vinyl reissue of Alison Krauss’ double-Platinum compilation, Now That I’ve Found You: A Collection. Originally released in 1995, the album offers a survey of early career highlights from the legendary bluegrass-country singer, fiddler and producer. A testament to Krauss’ virtuosic and versatile talents, the collection—released when she was just 23 years old—includes the best-selling country hit “When You Say Nothing at All,” the GRAMMY Award-winning “Baby, Now That I’ve Found You,” plus timeless favorites from her solo releases, as well as those with Alison Krauss & Union Station and Alison Krauss & The Cox Family.

Now That I’ve Found You: A Collection returns to vinyl July 11th and is available to pre-order now, while fans can also find limited-edition pressings on Translucent Teal vinyl and Vintage Red vinyl. In the meantime, listeners can also rediscover the timeless collection across digital platforms today.

While this reissue commemorates the 30th anniversary of Krauss’ career-changing collection, fans are also celebrating the long-awaited eighth studio album from Alison Krauss & Union Station, Arcadia, which dropped March 28th via Down the Road Records. To celebrate their first release in 14 years, the band is embarking on a 75-date North American tour, beginning tomorrow with a two-night stint at Louisville, KY’s Louisville Palace.

As an International Bluegrass Hall of Fame inductee, a recipient of the National Medal of Arts and one of the most decorated artists in GRAMMY history (with 27 awards to her name thus far), singer, fiddler and producer Alison Krauss has achieved a rarified status during her four-decade-long career. The past 25 years have garnered Krauss international fame thanks to numerous bestselling releases (both as Alison Krauss and Alison Krauss & Union Station), broadly acclaimed collaborations (including 2007’s Raising Sand and 2021’s Raise the Roof with Robert Plant), plus projects like the 8x-Platinum O Brother, Where Art Thou? soundtrack (2000) and the Academy Award®-nominated Cold Mountain soundtrack (2003). Yet her formative years in the industry, which began before she was even a teenager, prove equally inspiring and impressive.

Those years are chronicled in 1995’s Now That I’ve Found You: A Collection, which arrived a decade into Krauss’ career via Rounder Records. While she had already released five studio albums—including two with Union Station—Krauss wasn’t widely known outside the bluegrass scene. That would change, however, in the months following this release. The songs included in the compilation paint a portrait of an exceptional young artist, poised to break out in ways that she could never have imagined.

Born in 1971, Krauss was raised in Champaign, IL, where she began studying violin as a child. By her tween years, she had found a passion for bluegrass music and was building a name for herself in regional competitions and festivals. It was there that she connected with her mentor, bassist/songwriter John Pennell. At just 12 years old, the virtuosic singer and fiddle player joined Pennell’s band (the soon-to-be-renamed Union Station).

Two years later, after recording alongside Swamp Weiss and Jim Hoiles on 1986’s Different Strokes, Krauss signed to the revered roots label Rounder Records, releasing her debut album, Too Late to Cry, at 16 years old. The 1987 album, which earned Krauss critical acclaim, featured members of Union Station as her backing band and was primarily comprised of songs by Pennell, along with selections by the likes of Rodney Crowell, Tony Trischka and Nelson Mandrell, whose “Sleep On” showcases the expressive nature of Krauss’ vocals.

In 1989, Alison Krauss & Union Station made their official debut with Two Highways. From this point forward, Krauss would alternately record as a solo artist or be billed as per above with the group. Earning a GRAMMY nod and multiple nominations at the International Bluegrass Music Awards (IBMAs), the album featured a mix of traditional material, originals by Pennell and a handful of covers, including the Allman Brothers’ “Midnight Rider” and the Paul Craft-penned “Teardrops Will Kiss the Morning Dew.”

Krauss returned to the studio as a solo artist to record her follow up, 1990’s I’ve Got That Old Feeling. Co-produced by renowned Dobro player Jerry Douglas (who would later join Union Station), the heartfelt album found Krauss maturing as an artist and crafting her own brand of bluegrass, incorporating elements of country and even pop in songs like “Tonight I’ll Be Lonely Too,” “Steel Rails” and “Dark Skies.” I’ve Got That Old Feeling marked Krauss’ first appearance on the Billboard Country chart, while the title track, penned by Sidney Cox of The Cox Family, also earned Krauss her first GRAMMY (Best Bluegrass Recording).

That winning streak continued with 1992’s Every Time You Say Goodbye, the second LP from Alison Krauss & Union Station, which received a GRAMMY for Best Bluegrass Album. As with their debut, the album blended traditional fare with unexpected covers, including Shawn Colvin’s “I Don’t Know Why” and Karla Bonoff’s “Lose Again” (famously recorded by Linda Ronstadt), plus a handful of originals, including the title track, which has long remained a fan favorite.

A year later, 21-year-old Krauss became the youngest artist ever at the time to join the Grand Ole Opry. Not long after, she guested with multigenerational bluegrass band The Cox Family—first appearing on songs like “When God Dips His Pen of Love in My Heart” on 1993’s Everybody’s Reaching Out For Someone, followed by the 1994 collaborative album I Know Who Holds Tomorrow, which featured traditional and modern spirituals, including those by Paul Simon (“Loves Me Like a Rock”), Loretta Lynn (“Everybody Wants to Go to Heaven”) and an original by Krauss’ Union Station bandmate, Ron Block (“In the Palm of Your Hand”).

In addition to her work with The Cox Family, Krauss was becoming an in-demand collaborator on other artists’ projects. Now That I’ve Found You highlights several guest appearances, including those with Jerry Douglas (“I Don’t Believe You’ve Met My Baby”) and Tony Furtado (a rendition of the Lennon/McCartney classic “I Will”), as well as the modern country standard “When You Say Nothing at All,” recorded by Alison Krauss & Union Station for a 1994 Keith Whitley tribute album. The compilation also features a variety of (then previously unreleased) solo tracks, including covers of “Baby Now That I’ve Found You” (first made famous by British ’60s soul group, The Foundations), Bad Company’s “Oh, Atlanta” and “Broadway” from Sidney & Suzanne Cox.

While 23-year-old Krauss was on the verge of stardom before the February 1995 compilation hit stores, her career skyrocketed following its release. The band’s cover of “When You Say Nothing at All” was a breakout hit for Alison Krauss & Union Station, peaking at No.3 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, landing in the Top 10 of Canada’s Country Tracks chart and finding success on both the US and UK pop charts. Certified Gold by the RIAA, the song went on to win Single of the Year at the Country Music Association Awards (CMAs). “Baby Now That I Found You,” meanwhile, was a Top 50 Country hit in the US and Canada, later earning Krauss a GRAMMY for Best Female Country Vocal Performance. Last year, Rolling Stone included the recording in its “200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time” roundup.

Thanks in large part to the success of both singles, the 2x-Platinum-selling Now That I’ve Found You became Krauss’ first of many bestselling albums—peaking at No.13 on the Billboard 200, No.2 on the Country chart and topping the Canadian Country chart. The album also earned high marks from critics. Rolling Stone praised Krauss as “A crystalline soprano, she sings with riveting emotion—and no melodrama whatsoever. [Now That I’ve Found You] gives up delicate wonders.” In a retrospective, AllMusic hailed the album’s unexpected success as “remarkable for a musician who had never captured the attention of a mass audience. It may have been a surprising success, but it also was deserved. Krauss was arguably the leading bluegrass musician of the late ’80s and early ’90s, pushing the music into new directions without losing sight of its roots.”

Indeed, in the years and decades following Now That I’ve Found You, Krauss has significantly shaped the sound—and popularity—of modern bluegrass, with over 12 million records sold worldwide. The Bluegrass Hall of Fame, which inducted Krauss in 2021, declared her to be “one of the most influential performers to ever be associated with bluegrass music.” She also remains among the most celebrated. In addition to her 27 GRAMMY Awards and 44 nominations, Krauss has received nine CMA Awards, 14 IBMAs and two Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards, among many other honors.

To date, Krauss has released 15 studio albums (including those with Union Station and Robert Plant). Last month, Alison Krauss & Union Station released their highly anticipated eighth studio album, Arcadia—their first since 2011. The band kicks off their 75-date North American tour tomorrow in Louisville, KY. For a list of tour dates, visit the band’s official website.

Click here to pre-order Now That I’ve Found You: A Collection.

Tracklist:

Side A:

1.  Baby, Now That I’ve Found You

2.  Oh, Atlanta

3.  Broadway

4.  Every Time You Say Goodbye

5.  Tonight I’ll Be Lonely Too

6.  Teardrops Will Kiss The Morning Dew

Side B:

1.  Sleep On

2.  When God Dips His Pen Of Love In My Heart

3.  I Will

4.  I Don’t Believe You’ve Met My Baby

5.  In The Palm Of Your Hand

6.  When You Say Nothing At All

James McMurtry Unleashes New Album ‘The Black Dog And The Wandering Boy’ And U.S. Tour

James McMurtry will release The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy on June 20 via New West Records. The 10-song collection was co-produced by McMurtry & Don Dixon (R.E.M., The Smithereens) and is his first album in four years. It follows his 2021 acclaimed New West debut, The Horses and the Hounds, which Uncut Magazine said “lifts storytelling-in-song to meticulous new levels” and Pitchfork awarded an 8.0, saying “James McMurtry stands out even among the Lone Star State’s finest songwriters…” The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy features appearances by Sarah Jarosz, Charlie Sexton, Bonnie Whitmore, Bukka Allen, and more alongside his trusted backing band—BettySoo on accordion & backing vocals, Cornbread on bass, Tim Holt on guitar, and Daren Hess on drums.

As varied as they are, McMurtry’s new story-songs find inspiration in scraps from his family’s past: a rough pencil sketch by Ken Kesey that serves as the album cover, the hallucinations experienced by his father, the legendary writer Larry McMurtry, an old poem by a family friend. A supremely insightful and inventive storyteller, McMurtry teases vivid worlds out of small details, setting them to arrangements that have the elements of Americana but sound too sly and smart for such a general category. Funny and sad often in the same breath, The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy adds a new chapter to a long career that has enjoyed a resurgence as young songwriters like Sarah Jarosz and Jason Isbell (who is namechecked on the new album) cite him as a formative influence.

Today, Rolling Stone shared the album’s rumbling title track, calling McMurtry “one of America’s greatest living songwriters.” A kind of squirrely blues, it features two mysterious figures who appear only to those slipping from reality, yet it’s never grim nor especially despairing. Instead, McMurtry namechecks a “Weird Al” deep cut and depicts a tortured soul who doesn’t have to work a nine-to-five. McMurtry says, “The album title and that song comes from my stepmother, Faye. After my dad passed, she asked me if he ever talked to me about his hallucinations. He’d gone into dementia for a while before he died, but hadn’t mentioned to me anything about seeing things. She told me his favorite hallucinations were the black dog and the wandering boy. I took them and applied them to a fictional character.” Speaking to Rolling Stone, McMurtry added, “I stole one line from the late Keith Ferguson, who played bass in the Fabulous Thunderbirds back in the day. I didn’t know Keith, but Ronnie Johnson, our longtime ex-bassist, used to hang out with him some. Ronnie remembers Keith stirring his drink on the front porch as the sun came up and saying, ‘I like to sit up and watch the squares go to work.'”

For The Black Dog & The Wandering Boy, McMurtry called on his old friend Don Dixon, who produced his third album, Where’d You Hide the Body?, back in 1995. He says, “A couple of years ago I quit producing myself. I felt like I was repeating myself methodologically and stylistically. I needed to go back to producer school, so I brought in CC Adcock for Complicated Game, and then Ross Hogarth did The Horses & The Hounds. It seemed natural to revisit Mr. Dixon’s homeroom. I wanted to learn some of what he’s learned over the last thirty years.” McMurtry and his band worked to create something that sounds spontaneous, as though he’s writing the songs as you hear them. They were open to odd experiments, weird whims, and happy accidents. In addition to his original compositions, the album features a pair of covers as bookends, “Laredo (Small Dark Something),” an opioid blues & testimony from a part-time junkie losing a weekend to dope by Jon Dee Graham, and Kris Kristofferson’s “Broken Freedom Song.” McMurtry says, “Kris was one of my major influences as a child. He was the first person that I recognized as a songwriter. I hadn’t really thought about where songs come from, but I started listening to Kristofferson as a songwriter and thinking, How do you do this? Kris had just passed not too long before we recorded ‘Broken Freedom Song.’”

Once the album was mixed, mastered, and sequenced, McMurtry recalled a pencil sketch he had found a few years earlier in his father’s effects. It seemed like it might make a good cover. “I knew it was me, but I didn’t realize who drew it. I asked my mom and my stepdad, and finally asked my stepmom, Faye, who said it looked like Ken Kesey’s work back in the ‘60s. She was married to Ken for forty years.” The Merry Pranksters—Kesey’s roving band of hippie activists and creators—stopped by a couple of times to visit Larry McMurtry and his family. “I don’t remember their first visit, the one documented in Tom Wolfe’s Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test. I was too young, but I do remember a couple of Ken’s visits. I guess he drew it on one of those later stops. I remembered it and thought it would be the perfect art, but I had to go back through the storage locker. It’s a miracle I found it again.” It’s a fitting image for an album that scavenges personal history for inspiration.

Known for his powerhouse performances, McMurtry tours year-round. He’ll be in Iowa City tonight and his initial tour dates in support of the new album feature stops at the legendary Troubadour in Los Angeles, Tractor Tavern in Seattle, The Bluebird Theater in Denver, and more. Please see tour dates, with more to be added, below.

“You follow the words where they lead. If you can get a character, maybe you can get a story. If you can set it to a verse-chorus structure, maybe you can get a song. A song can come from anywhere, but the main inspiration is fear. Specifically fear of irrelevance. If you don’t have songs, you don’t have a record. If you don’t have a record, you don’t have a tour. You gotta keep putting out work.”

James McMurtry’s The Black Dog & The Wandering Boy will be available across digital platforms, compact disc, and standard black vinyl. A limited khaki color vinyl edition, as well as a limited compact disc edition, both signed by McMurtry will be available via Independent Retailers. A limited blue color vinyl edition, as well as a limited compact disc edition, both signed by McMurtry are available for pre-order NOW via NEW WEST RECORDS.

The Black Dog & The Wandering Boy Track Listing: 

1. Laredo (Small Dark Something)
2. South Texas Lawman
3. The Color of Night
4. Pinocchio in Vegas
5. Annie
6. The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy
7. Back to Coeur d’Alene
8. Sons of the Second Sons
9. Sailing Away
10. Broken Freedom Song

James McMurtry On Tour:

4/15 – Minneapolis, MN – Fine Line Music Café
4/16 – Iowa City, IA – Wildwood Smokehouse
4/17 – Omaha, NE – The Waiting Room
4/18 – Kansas City, MO – Knuckleheads
4/19 – Oklahoma City, OK – Beer City Music Hall
5/3 – Fredericksburg, TX – Rockbox Theater
5/23 – Tomball, TX – Main Street Crossing
5/24 – Galveston, TX – St. Joseph’s Chapel
6/6 – Santa Fe, NM – The Lensic
6/7 – Albuquerque, NM – KiMo Theatre
6/8 – Tucson, AZ – Hotel Congress
6/9 – Solana Beach, CA – Belly Up Tavern
6/11 – West Hollywood, CA –  Troubadour
6/12 – Santa Cruz, CA – Rio Theatre
6/13 – Novato, CA – Hopmonk Tavern
6/14 – Novato, CA – Hopmonk Tavern
6/17 – Grass Valley, CA – The Center for the Arts
6/18 – Portland, OR –  Aladdin Theater
6/19 – Seattle, WA – Tractor Tavern
6/20 – Seattle, WA – Tractor Tavern
6/21 – Spokane, WA – The District Bar
6/22 – Whitefish, MT – Great Northern
6/24 – Missoula, MT – Zootown Arts Community
6/25 – Bozeman, MT – The ELM
6/26 – Salt Lake City, UT – The Commonwealth Room
6/27 – Fort Collins, CO – Aggie Theatre
6/28 – Denver, CO – Bluebird Theater
6/29 – Wichita, KS – Wave

Lights, Camera, Amplifier: The Must-See Music Movies

Concert films are more than just recordings of live performances—they’re immersive experiences that capture the essence of music and the energy of live audiences. Here’s a curated list of 35 remarkable concert films that showcase the power of live music on screen:​

Stop Making Sense (1984)
Jonathan Demme’s direction captures Talking Heads at their peak, delivering a performance that’s both visually innovative and musically electrifying. David Byrne’s stage presence and the band’s tight choreography make this a standout in concert filmmaking.

Amazing Grace (2018)
This long-shelved recording of Aretha Franklin’s 1972 gospel performance is a soul-stirring experience. Her powerful vocals, combined with the intimate church setting, create a transcendent musical journey.​

Summer of Soul (2021)
Questlove’s documentary brings to light the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, showcasing performances by legends like Nina Simone and Sly and the Family Stone. It’s a vibrant celebration of Black culture and music.

The Last Waltz (1978)
Martin Scorsese documents The Band’s farewell concert, featuring guest appearances by Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and others. The film is a poignant tribute to a pivotal moment in rock history.​Vanity Fair

Homecoming: A Film by Beyoncé (2019)
Beyoncé’s Coachella performance is a masterclass in artistry and production. The film delves into the meticulous planning behind the show, highlighting themes of Black culture and empowerment.​

Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour (2023)
Capturing the essence of Taylor Swift’s musical journey, this film showcases her evolution as an artist. The elaborate staging and passionate fanbase make it a modern concert film phenomenon

Gimme Shelter (1970)
This documentary chronicles The Rolling Stones’ 1969 tour, culminating in the tragic Altamont Free Concert. It’s a stark portrayal of the darker side of the counterculture era.

Woodstock (1970)
A definitive account of the iconic 1969 festival, featuring performances by Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, and more. The film captures the spirit of a generation seeking peace and music.​

Monterey Pop (1968)
D.A. Pennebaker’s film showcases the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival, introducing audiences to Janis Joplin and capturing Jimi Hendrix’s guitar-burning performance. It’s a snapshot of a transformative moment in music history.​

David Byrne’s American Utopia (2020)
Spike Lee brings Byrne’s Broadway show to the screen, blending music, dance, and social commentary. The minimalist staging emphasizes the performers’ energy and the music’s message.​

Sign o’ the Times (1987)
Prince’s concert film is a fusion of funk, rock, and theatrical flair. His magnetic stage presence and musical prowess are on full display, making it a must-watch for fans.​

Shut Up and Play the Hits (2012)
Documenting LCD Soundsystem’s farewell concert, the film captures the emotional weight of ending a beloved band’s journey. It’s both a celebration and a meditation on closure.​

Rattle and Hum (1988)
U2’s exploration of American roots music during their Joshua Tree tour is part concert film, part documentary. It offers insight into the band’s influences and evolution.

Hail! Hail! Rock ‘n’ Roll (1987)
Celebrating Chuck Berry’s 60th birthday, this film features performances with Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, and others. It’s a homage to a rock ‘n’ roll pioneer.​

The Concert for Bangladesh (1972)
Organized by George Harrison and Ravi Shankar, this benefit concert brought together artists like Bob Dylan and Eric Clapton. The film captures the power of music for humanitarian causes.​

Metallica: Through the Never (2013)
Blending concert footage with a fictional narrative, this film offers a unique take on the concert film genre. Metallica’s intense performances are interwoven with a dystopian storyline.​

Roger Waters: The Wall (2014)
A cinematic adaptation of Pink Floyd’s iconic album, the film combines live performances with visual storytelling, exploring themes of war and loss.​

U2 3D (2008)
One of the first concert films shot in 3D, it immerses viewers in U2’s Vertigo tour, capturing the energy of their live performances.​

Justin Bieber: Never Say Never (2011)
Chronicling Bieber’s rise to fame, the film offers behind-the-scenes access and concert footage, highlighting his connection with fans.​

Madonna: Truth or Dare (1991)
A candid look at Madonna’s Blond Ambition tour, blending concert performances with backstage moments, revealing the artist’s drive and vulnerability.​

One Direction: This Is Us (2013)
Following the British boy band on tour, the film combines live performances with personal insights, showcasing their global impact.​

Katy Perry: Part of Me (2012)
This documentary-concert film delves into Perry’s personal and professional life during her California Dreams tour, highlighting her resilience.​

Depeche Mode 101 (1989)
Part road movie, part concert documentary, 101 follows Depeche Mode on their groundbreaking 1988 Music for the Masses tour, culminating in a sold-out show at the Rose Bowl. It’s not just about the band—it’s about the fans, the fandom, and what it means when music becomes a movement. A time capsule of synth-pop devotion at its peak.​

BTS: Yet to Come in Cinemas (2023)
Capturing BTS’s live performances, this film showcases their dynamic stage presence and connection with fans worldwide.​

Ty Dolla $ign Joins Le Bon Argent Champagne as Brand Partner Ahead of Coachella Birthday Performance

Good Money LLC, the premium wine and spirits company behind the ultra-luxury Le Bon Argent Champagne, proudly announces its newest partner: multi-platinum recording artist, producer, and cultural tastemaker TY Dolla$ign. Known for his chart-topping collaborations and genre-defying sound, Ty Dolla$ign steps into the luxury beverage space as the new face of Le Bon Argent Champagne.

We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome TY Dolla$ign to the Good Money family,” said Renee Esebag, Founder and COO of Good Money LLC. “His creative energy, cultural reach, and elevated aesthetic align perfectly with the vision behind Le Bon Argent. This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for the brand.”

As a globally recognized artist with a distinct style and loyal fanbase, TY Dolla$ign embodies the essence of Le Bon Argent—bold, refined, and unapologetically original. His influence across music, fashion, and nightlife makes him a natural fit to lead the next evolution of the brand.

“TY represents everything we stand for—luxury, innovation, and cultural relevance,” added Rick Rechetnik, CEO of Good Money LLC, who has over 40 years in the beverage industry and has helped build many national brands. “This is more than a collaboration. It’s a movement to redefine how and what we celebrate.”

To celebrate this partnership, TY and Le Bon Argent will host a private launch event in the Palm Springs area on April 11, 2025, featuring celebrity guests and a first taste of the champagne and this powerful collaboration. Ty Dolla$ign is also scheduled to perform at the Coachella Valley Music Festival on Sunday, April 13, 2025, which is also Ty’s birthday!

Le Bon Argent Champagne is exclusively distributed by Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits and is available now at select fine retailers as well as bars, restaurants and nightclubs, and continuing to expand.

With TY Dolla$ign at the forefront, Good Money LLC continues its mission of redefining luxury in the beverage industry—where culture, excellence, and sustainability meet.

Atticus Ross to Receive BMI Icon Award at 2024 BMI Film, TV & Visual Media Awards

BMI announced today that acclaimed composer, producer and recording artist Atticus Ross will be honored with the BMI Icon Award at the 41st Annual BMI Film, TV and Visual Media Awards on May 14th in Beverly Hills, CA. The Academy Award, Golden Globe and GRAMMY Award-winning composer will be receiving this honor for his outstanding body of work across film and television. The ceremony will also salute the composers of the previous year’s top-grossing films, top-rated primetime network television series, and highest-ranking cable and streamed media programs. The evening will be hosted by BMI President and CEO Mike O’Neill and BMI Vice President, Creative, Film, TV & Visual Media, Tracy McKnight.

“Atticus Ross’ unique ability to merge innovative sounds with cinematic storytelling has left an indelible mark on the industry, and we’re thrilled to recognize his extraordinary talent and achievements with the BMI Icon Award,” said McKnight. “His exceptional contributions continue to inspire and shape the future of music in film and television.” McKnight added, “We’re also so proud to be celebrating our BMI family of award-winning, distinguished composers, highlighting their excellence across music in film, TV and visual media.”

Ross is a multifaceted musician, composer and producer who has garnered widespread acclaim over his decades-long career. Best known for his longstanding collaboration with Trent Reznor, Ross has made a mark on both film and television scoring, and rock music. His work with Reznor has resulted in some of the most memorable film scores of the past decade, including The Social Network, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, Gone Girl, Waves, Soul, Mank, Bones & All, Empire of Light, Queer and Challengers. Across their filmography, Reznor and Ross have won two Academy Awards, a BAFTA Award, three Critics Choice Awards, three Golden Globe Awards and two GRAMMY Awards, in addition to countless other nominations. Their work in television includes Ken Burns and Lynn Novick’s lauded 18-hour documentary The Vietnam War and the Emmy-winning score to HBO’s Watchmen. Ross is also notable for his collaborations with his brother Leopold Ross and wife Claudia Sarne on movies such as The Book of Eli and Triple 9, and series like Black Mirror and Dear Mama. Most recently, his work on Shōgun alongside Leopold and co-composer Nick Chuba garnered much acclaim, including two Emmy nominations and a GRAMMY nomination.

Beyond film, Ross is also a prominent figure in the music world as a key member of the band Nine Inch Nails, joining in 2016 as the band’s sole official member alongside founder Trent Reznor. In 2020, Nine Inch Nails were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Later this year, the band will embark on a sold-out global arena tour. They are also set to score Disney’s highly anticipated Tron: Ares, their first score under the Nine Inch Nails moniker. In addition to their musical endeavors, Ross and Reznor launched With Teeth, which encompasses film and TV production, products, and a music festival, further expanding their creative influence across various industries.

Ross has won 19 BMI Awards throughout his career for his scores on notable films and TV programs. In receiving this honor, Ross joins a prestigious list of BMI Icon Award recipients including Terence Blanchard, Mychael Danna, Alexandre Desplat, Ramin Djawadi, Harry Gregson-Williams, James Newton Howard, Christopher Lennertz, Thomas Newman, Rachel Portman (PRS), Mike Post, Alan Silvestri, Brian Tyler and John Williams, among others.

David and Hannah Mirvish Present The 2025/26 Off-Mirvish Theatre Subscription Season

David and Hannah Mirvish are delighted to announce the 2025/26 Off-Mirvish Season, comprised of five productions – three plays and two musicals. Four of the shows are Canadian premieres and one is a North American premiere. 

“It’s hard to believe we’re celebrating our 15th Off-Mirvish season,” said David Mirvish. “When we began this series in 2011, it was to showcase shows that were quirkier and perhaps a little more challenging. And we hoped to be able to partner with local companies and find bigger audiences for work that began life in more intimate spaces.” 

Hannah Mirvish added: “Ultimately, it was and continues to be about bringing together artists and audiences for unique, entertaining and thought-provoking theatre.” 

“Off-Mirvish casts a wide net by design, but we often find the shows share themes by coincidence,” continues David. “In 2025/26, the shows explore the commonality of our human experience through the connections, and the choices, we make. 

“In Bright Star, featuring the Tony Award-nominated score by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell – and co-produced in Toronto with the Actor-Musician focused company Garner Theatre Productions – we explore the chance encounter of a literary editor and an aspiring young writer returning home from fighting in WWII, a connection that will change both their lives. 

“Ava sees Academy Award, Golden Globe and Emmy Award-nominated actor Elizabeth McGovern star as Hollywood’s original femme fatale, Ava Gardner, as she looks back on a life lived large and wonders how much of it she wants to make public. 

“The Woman in Black delighted and haunted audiences in London’s West End for 33 years and tells the tale of a lawyer looking to exorcise the fear that grips his soul. That ground-breaking production is coming to Off-Mirvish. 

“In Tony® Award-winning Best Musical Kimberly Akimbo – which has its Canadian Premiere in a co-production with Montreal’s Segal Centre for Performing Arts and stars the luminous Louise Pitre – we meet a young girl with a rare genetic condition determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure. 

“And, lastly, Cyrano – a new adaptation of Edmond Rostand’s classic play that was a 5-star hit in Edinburgh and London and is making its North American premiere with us – is a love letter to hope; to language and desire; to the irrepressible magic of theatre.” 

Hannah Mirvish explains: “That’s the magic created when artists and audiences come together.  The excitement when the lights go down and a hush falls on the audience. That awe when the actors step on stage. Those goosebumps when a song reaches into your soul, or a monologue takes your breath away. That rush as you’re leaving the theatre, dying to discuss everything you just saw. The power of theatre cannot be understated, nor contained. So, this Off-Mirvish Season, let’s let it out, because theatre is life.” 

Subscriptions to the Off-Mirvish Season are $261 to $336 (up to 48% off regular prices) and are now on sale at mirvish.com and 1-800-461-3333. 

All performances will be at the CAA Theatre, 651 Yonge St. (south of Bloor – and not at Yonge and Dundas). 

Departure Festival + Conference Unveils Full Lineup Featuring Grace VanderWaal, Jessie Reyez, Matty Matheson, Tegan and Sara, and More

Departure Festival + Conference today unveiled its complete lineup of guests, programming, and schedule for its inaugural event taking place May 6-11 in Toronto. Speakers and performers added to the lineup include celebrated musical artists Grace Vanderwaal, Lindsay Ell, Gabriela Bee, Gavin McLeod, CRi, The Redhill Valleys, Stuck On Planet Earth. Acclaimed visual artists Justin Bua and Danny Hastings also join the program, alongside Universal Music Canada President/CEO, Julie Adam, and President of Touring for Live Nation Concerts, Omar Al-Joulani, among others. Juno-award winning singer-songwriter Jessie Reyez will receive the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Award presented by Slaight Music and entrepreneur powerhouse ​​Matty Matheson will be awarded the Cultural Innovator Award at the Departure Honours.

These artists and executives join the previously announced Bryan Adams, Tegan and Sara, Mustafa, Dallas Green, Tia Wood, Max Kerman, Shaggy, among many others, as Departure Festival + Conference launches its first edition in May. Registered Departure conference pass-holders will get first access to tickets for Dave Chappelle’s stand up show on May 7 before an exclusive pre-sale begins at 10:00 a.m. on April 16.

Growing the esteemed list of previously announced organizations who are supporting the Departure Festival + Conference are Air Canada, ArtHaus, The Black Academy, Canadian Arts & Fashion Awards (CAFA), Canada’s Walk of Fame, Coca-Cola Coliseum, Music Publishers Canada, National Cultural Foundation Barbados, RBC, Rogers Sports & Media, Scandinavian Building Services, Scotiabank Arena and VP Records who have confirmed their support. Visit departureto.com for the complete lineup of artists, venues and schedule of events.

Joining Departure’s incredible conference lineup of music creatives are America’s Got Talent winner and vocal sensation Grace Vanderwaal; award-winning artist and songwriter Lindsay Ell; CEO, Canadian Live Music Association, Erin Benjamin; longtime manager of The Tragically Hip, Jake Gold and the team behind it, will unpack the strategy and storytelling behind the bands’ 40th anniversary campaign; President & CEO at Universal Music Canada, Julie Adam; President of Touring for Live Nation Concerts, Omar Al-Joulani; President of Music at Live Nation Canada Erik Hoffman; and recognized Toronto media personalities Alan Cross and Tara Slone. There will also be an ArtHaus panel on the Renaissance of South Asian Music.

Departure will also present two sessions In partnership with Music Publishers Canada – Co-writing: The Key To International Success, where attendees can learn how to be a creative collaborator in songwriting, and Meet The Music Supervisors, where esteemed panelists share their creative process and the art of landing a perfect placement.

In addition, Catherine Harrison, Founder & President of Revelios [Mental Health Works], will present early findings and key insights from the first-ever Canadian National Music Industry Survey on the mental health crisis.

The Festival will also welcome fashion and design trailblazers Spencer Badu, Steff Eleoff, and Dorian Who for an in conversation moderated by FashionTalks Podcast host Donna Bishop, presented by CAFA.

Multi-award winning Jessie Reyez will be a recipient of the Allan Slaight Humanitarian Award at Departure Honours, an intimate reception showcasing and celebrating notable changemakers, emerging voices, and milestones within the music industry. The Alan Slaight Humanitarian Award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary dedication to social causes, using their platform and influence to positively impact society. This year, the award honours Reyez for her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and advocating for change. Slaight Music will present the award and make a $25,000 donation to the Jessie Reyez Foundation at the Departure Honours event.

Renowned restaurateur and actor Matty Matheson will also be recognized at Departure Honours with the Cultural Innovator Award, celebrating his groundbreaking work as an entrepreneur, chef, and media personality. Previously announced honourees include Dallas Green (City and Colour) and SOCAN. Departure Honours takes place on Wednesday, May 7 at 6 p.m. at Hotel X Toronto and will be hosted by Etalk’s Tyrone Edwards and Traci Melchor. Tickets are available here.

Departure has also curated a special selection of films screening throughout the week at Hotel X’s 250-seat theatre, including Reza Dahya’s debut feature Boxcutter, as well as the previously announced Alex Ross Perry’s (Golden Exits, Her Smell) new film Pavements about the iconic ’90s indie band Pavement starring Jason Schwartzman and Joe Keery; an advanced screening of Harland Williams’ new comedy Wingman with Williams and co-star Jamie Kennedy in attendance for a Q&A; and STACKTV will present the Season 8 world premiere of Adult Swim’s Rick and Morty, in partnership with Wax Records and Anthem Entertainment.

Celebrating some of the most influential films in music and pop culture, Departure presents a series of special anniversary screenings including the 25th anniversary of Almost Famous (2000), 15th anniversary of Scott Pilgrim vs. The World (2015).

All screenings will be accessible to Conference Pass holders, with individual public tickets on sale at departureto.com.

Departure’s Festival adds several stellar Premium shows to their lineup including Grace VanderWaal, Gabriela Bee, Cab Ellis, Pan Arcadia, raph, and BNZA. Gavin McLeod, The Redhill Valleys and Stuck On Planet Earth will join the 100+ showcase artists performing across 40+ venues.

Departure will also present the SOCAN Songwriters Series, a multi-format celebration featuring a dynamic mix of songwriters, producers, composers and artists pulling back the curtain on their creative process. With intimate acoustic sets, live co-writing sessions and candid conversations, each event will offer a unique lens behind the music.

On May 6, as part of Depature’s commitment to showcase a range of artistic expression, it will exhibit Taglialatella Galleries Presents: Iconic Visions – Justin Bua and Danny Hastings to showcase these two groundbreaking visual artists. Collectors and art enthusiasts will have the unique opportunity to engage with the artists in person, explore a curated selection of original works and limited editions, and acquire pieces that define the intersection of music, culture, and fine art.

Justin Bua has captivated audiences worldwide with his signature style—his iconic print The DJ remains one of the most recognized fine art posters of all time. Danny Hastings has shaped the visual identity of hip-hop, capturing over 150 legendary album covers, including the era-defining Enter the Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers.

Lending to the buzzy atmosphere, guests will be treated to nightly outdoor DJ sets by artists such as Felix Cartal, Chapter&Verse, and CRi. Sets to take place on the west side of Hotel X Toronto at the Stanley Barracks. In between sessions, conference-goers and the public can purchase delicious eats from a number of local food trucks including Green Machine, Heavenly Dreams Ice Cream, Jerk Brothers, Poutine Supreme, and Rancho Relaxo To Go who will be onsite providing tasty snacks.

Hotel X Toronto serves as the central hub for Departure’s Conference activities and film screenings, while the Festival will span 40+ venues across the city and showcase 100+ emerging and established artists.

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That Eric Alper
6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week, a 16-time JUNO Award winner overseeing PR campaigns, and have also been truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

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