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My Next Read: “Two-Headed Doctor: Listening For Ghosts in Dr. Johns Gris-Gris” by David Toop

Two-Headed Doctor is a forensic investigation into a single LP: Dr. John, the night tripper’s Gris-gris. Though released in 1968 to poor sales and a minimum of critical attention, Gris-gris has accumulated legendary status over subsequent decades for its strangeness, hybridity, and innovative production. It formed the launch pad for Dr. John’s image and lengthy career and the ghostly presence of its so-called voodoo atmosphere hovers over numerous cover versions, samples, and re-invocations. Despite the respect given to the record, its making is shrouded in mystery, misunderstandings, and false conclusions. The persona of Dr. John, loosely based on dubious literary accounts of a notorious voodooist and freed slave, a nineteenth-century New Orleans resident known as Doctor John, provided Malcolm “Mac” Rebennack with a lifelong mask through which to transform himself from session musician in order to construct a solo career.

Somewhere between puzzle, experimental rhythm, blues disguised as rock, and elaborate hoax, Gris-gris was a collaborative project between Rebennack and producer/arranger Harold Battiste (at the time musical director for Sonny & Cher). A few brief sessions held at Gold Star Studios in Los Angeles brought together many of New Orleans’ finest musicians, including Shirley Goodman, John Boudreaux, Plas Johnson, Jessie Hill, Ernest McLean, and Tami Lynn. Along with their complex histories, the cast of characters implicated in the story includes Ornette Coleman, Lafcadio Hearn, Zora Neale Hurston, Cher, Sonny Bono, Sam Cooke, Ishmael Reed, Black Herman, Prince La La, and many others. The story details in discursive style the historical context of the music, how it came together, its literary sources, production and arrangements, and the nature of the recording studio as dream state, but also examines as a disturbing undercurrent the volatile issue of race in twentieth-century music, the way in which it doomed relationships and ambitious projects, exploited great talents, and distorted the cultural landscape.

Bill McClintock Mashes Up Iron Maiden and Chic, and It Works!

Remix wizard Bill McClintock strikes again, blending the heavy metal epic “Rime of the Ancient Mariner” with the disco classic “Good Times.” It’s an unlikely duo that somehow becomes a headbanging, dancefloor masterpiece.

Lord Vinheteiro Turns Rubber Chickens Into Musical Gold With ‘Total Eclipse of the Heart’

Lord Vinheteiro takes the Bonnie Tyler classic to hilarious new heights, performing “Total Eclipse of the Heart” on rubber chickens that get smaller and squeakier as the song goes on. It’s absurd, it’s brilliant, and it’s exactly what you didn’t know you needed today!

SiriusXM Now Available in Tesla Model 3, Model Y and Cybertruck

For the first time ever, SiriusXM is available as a fully integrated feature in the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y – the top two selling EVs in the United States – and Cybertruck. SiriusXM’s bespoke streaming integration in Tesla delivers SiriusXM’s full lineup of audio entertainment content to drivers and a free one-month trial subscription with no credit card required, plus access to SiriusXM outside the vehicle on the SiriusXM app and on connected devices and speakers in the home.

Subscribers will enjoy a SiriusXM experience fully tailored for Tesla and built upon the audio company’s next gen platform, offering unparalleled choice, content discovery, and a personalized listening experience. Highlights include:

  • Hundreds of live, ad-free and curated music channels across all genres, decades and moods.
  • Custom stations that can be originated from any artist or band.
  • An extensive library of podcasts across comedy, news, entertainment and more.
  • A comprehensive offering of live sports coverage and analysis from more than 20 sports-focused channels that deliver reactions and analysis from industry experts and insiders 24/7.
  • Dozens of channels that keep subscribers informed and entertained with the latest in news and politics, entertainment, comedy, and beyond, with celebrity interviews, iconic hosts, trusted opinions, non-stop laughs, and so much more.
  • A personalized “For You” landing page that delivers content recommendations based on driver affinity that evolve throughout the drive and are responsive to time of day, along with a personalized greeting.
  • Easy access to new content discovery while browsing SiriusXM’s Music, Talk/Podcasts, Sports and Library navigation pages, as well as pages dedicated to teams, shows, personalities, artists that bring fans closer to what they love.
  • An easy to navigate “All Channels” guide that allows drivers to see all SiriusXM channels in numerical order.
  • A library that allows drivers to save the content they love – from live channels to podcasts, from artists and bands to teams and leagues – in one centralized location, making it easier and faster to tune in to selected content.
  • Integrated voice search to initiate playback.
  • And much more.

SiriusXM is becoming available in Model 3, Model Y and Cybertruck as part of the 2024 Tesla Holiday Update. After the software update is installed, SiriusXM will appear in the media sources menu where drivers can begin a free one-month trial subscription to SiriusXM. A Tesla Premium Connectivity or active Wi-Fi connection is required to access the SiriusXM service. To continue SiriusXM service after the trial, owners can scan the QR code on the Subscription tab. Owners who subscribe prior to March 31, 2025 can access a special limited-time offer of $9.99 a month for their first two years. SiriusXM will also remain available in its current form on every Tesla Model S and Model X. For more information visit www.siriusxm.com/tesla.

Recovering Lost Audio Files with Stellar Data Recovery for Mac

By Mitch Rice

Data loss is a common and frustrating issue for Mac users, but Stellar Data Recovery for Mac offers a robust solution to recover lost files with ease. From accidental deletions to corrupted drives, this software is designed to handle a wide range of recovery scenarios, providing peace of mind for users dealing with critical data.

Why Stellar Data Recovery Stands Out

Stellar Data Recovery for Mac is a professional-grade tool with features that cater to everyday users and tech-savvy individuals alike. It supports the recovery of various file types, including documents, photos, videos, and audio files, from internal and external drives—even those that are formatted or encrypted.

Some of its standout features include:

  • User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive design makes the recovery process straightforward, even for beginners.
  • Advanced Scanning Modes: Choose between a quick Standard Scan for recently lost files or a thorough Deep Scan for older, harder-to-find data.
  • Preview Functionality: Preview recoverable files before committing to recovery, ensuring you retrieve exactly what you need.
  • Support for Encrypted and Formatted Drives: Stellar can handle complex recovery scenarios, such as encrypted or accidentally formatted drives.

Easy Installation and Compatibility

Installing Stellar Data Recovery on a Mac is simple:

  1. Download the software from the official Stellar website.
  2. Open the disk image file and drag the application to the Applications folder.
  3. Launch the software, enter the product key (if purchased), and start recovering files.

The software is compatible with macOS versions from 10.11 (El Capitan) to the latest updates and requires minimal system resources.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Data Recovery

  1. Select File Types: Upon launching the software, choose the file types you want to recover—audio files, documents, photos, etc.—or opt to recover everything.
  2. Choose the Drive: Select the drive or external device where the files were lost.
  3. Scan the Drive: Start with a Standard Scan for quick results or opt for a Deep Scan for a more exhaustive search.
  4. Preview and Recover: Use the preview feature to verify recoverable files before saving them to a secure location.

Performance and Limitations

Stellar Data Recovery is efficient, with Standard Scans completing quickly, while Deep Scans may take longer depending on the drive size. The software’s performance is reliable, though users with larger drives should anticipate some patience during intensive scans.

Pricing and Plans

Stellar Data Recovery offers multiple pricing tiers:

  • Free Version: Recover up to 1GB of data, ideal for small tasks or testing the software.
  • Professional Plan ($89.99/year): Covers essential recovery features for personal and small business use.
  • Premium Plan ($99.99/year): Adds the ability to repair corrupted photos and videos.
  • Technician Plan ($199/year): Designed for IT professionals, offering advanced recovery features.

Lifetime licenses are also available for users who prefer a one-time investment.

Final Thoughts

Stellar Data Recovery for Mac is a dependable and versatile tool for recovering lost data. Its intuitive interface, advanced scanning options, and robust recovery capabilities make it a top choice for Mac users. While the free version provides a useful trial, the paid plans unlock its full potential, making it worth the investment for anyone dealing with significant data loss.

Whether you’re recovering critical files or safeguarding against future mishaps, Stellar Data Recovery is a reliable solution that delivers results for the free Mac recovery tool. For those unsure about committing, the free version offers a great starting point to experience the software’s effectiveness firsthand.

Spotlight on the Hottest New Drum Brands and Their Signature Products

By Mitch Rice

Whether you’re an aspiring or a seasoned drummer, the search for a top-notch drum kit and accessories never ends. Just like your skills are always improving, so can your drum kit to better fit your current preferences and technique. Thankfully, drum manufacturers all over the world have only become more innovative in the past years, and whatever aesthetic or sound you’re looking for, chances are, there’s someone out there who can make it happen.

This is why it’s important to keep up with the trends in the drum industry – it’s an opportunity to further develop your playing style and music potential. We’ve prepared an overview of the hottest new drum brands and their signature products that could be the right fit for your drumming ambitions.

Canopus Drums

It’s no secret that Japan is home to some world-renowned brands from the drum industry, like Pearl and Yamaha, and Canopus Drums follow in their footsteps. If you’re on the lookout for a relatively young brand with an original take on sound quality and manufacturing process, then these guys could be the right fit.

In the past years, Canopus Drums garnered a loyal following for their meticulous level of craftsmanship and innovative design that lets them stand out. You may have heard of their flagship product, the Yaiba II Drum Kit, in which they brought together all the perks of modern sound engineering and traditional Japanese woodworking techniques. 

This is a match made in heaven that brings forth warm, rich tones and fantastic sustain. Canopus hardware parts from Drum Center of Portsmouth will help you bring all that quality and a beautiful sense of nostalgia to the sound of your kit while maintaining the perfect balance between durability and aesthetic appeal.

A&F Drum Co.

Let’s move our spotlight to the other part of the planet and talk about the wizards from the A&F Drum Co. The reason they have the spotlight in this article is their minimalist design combined with modern sound. If you’re looking for clean lines and A-game sound in your kit, these guys will deliver in spades.

A&F Drum Co. is based in Austin, TX and they’ve made waves with their raw brass and wood-shell drum kits. The best example of their approach to drum production is their Raw Brass Snare Drum, which is highly versatile and boasts warm and cutting tones that could perfectly complement your playing. 

Maybe you prefer to play a wide range of genres and need an instrument that can keep up, in which case these discreet kits could do the job well. An additional bonus is the company focuses on handmade techniques for building their drums, plus they source all the necessary materials locally. This means you’ll get a drum that’s unique, eco-friendly, and a work of art in its own right.

British Drum Co.

While British Drum Co. has been on the market for almost a decade, their dedication to the quality and beautiful design of their drum kits is unprecedented. Their products will suit well drummers who are looking for A-game resonance and a punchy, fully focused sound. If you’re recognizing yourself in this description, this brand has a lot to offer you.

The product that put British Drum Co. on the map for drummers worldwide is their Lounge Series Drum Kit. For this drum kit, they joined forces with Palladium to include their hardware in the design that’s based on handcrafted birch shells that look and sound good. 

These drum-makers also use cold-press molding to provide that signature resonance we mentioned, as well as the consistent shell thickness necessary for it. Similar to A&F Drum Co., 

British Drum Co. is dedicated to keeping sustainable practices in their manufacturing processes, so you know your kit and accessories are all ethically sourced.

Sakae Osaka Heritage

We’re finishing this article in the same place where we started it, in Japan. The meticulous craftsmanship that’s singular to Japanese drum makers is mirrored in the work of Sakae Osaka Heritage, where dedication to detail is everything, and putting time and attention into the drum-making process is a must.

This is why drums that come from the Sakae Osaka Heritage workshop are nothing short of exceptional. These drums are predominantly built for professionals who can get the most out of the signature balanced, dynamic sound that will do great in the studio and during live performances. 

The best representative of this level of quality is the Celestial Series, made with high-end maple and birch shells. Sakae Osaka Heritage also excels in creating versatile snares, such as the Almighty Birch Snare, which will quickly become your favorite for its crisp attack and warm undertones. The brand deserves our spotlight for blending tradition with innovation and giving highly skilled players an instrument worthy of their experience. 

Conclusion

The world of drumming is ever-expanding, and nowadays we have opportunities that would have been all but unimaginable only a couple of decades ago. If you’re looking to buy a new drum kit or accessories and aren’t sure where to start, we recommend listing your needs and preferences and then finding the drum brands that fit the bill. 

It may take time to find the right fit, especially if you want a handmade instrument that delivers a particular type of sound. All the brands we mentioned have a lot to offer to a passionate drummer, it’s just the question of whether they check all your boxes. Dedicate a bit of time to your research – finding the right drum kit for you is well worth it!

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

All The Best Of 2024 Music Lists In One Place (Updated Daily)

Photo by Adrian Korte on Unsplash

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! As 2024 comes to a close, the music world unites for one of its greatest traditions: BEST OF LISTS. The debates, the discoveries, the jaw-dropping surprises — it’s all here! Whether you’re a chart-topping pop fanatic, a crate-digging vinyl collector, or a die-hard fan of those under-the-radar gems, this is your one-stop shop for every Best Of 2024 music list out there. This page will be updated daily, so bookmark it and check back often. Let’s celebrate the songs, albums, and artists that made this year unforgettable. Ready to dive into the ultimate soundtrack of 2024? Let’s go!

101.9: Top 25 Rock Albums Of 2024

101X: Top 50 Songs Of 2024

425: Favorite Albums of 2024

A.V. Club: The 25 Best Albums of 2024

ABP News: Best Hindi Music Albums and Singles of the Year

Albumism: Staff’s 10 Favorite Albums of 2024

Albumism: The 50 Best Albums of 2024

AllMusic: Best Albums of 2024

Alt.Latino: Favorite Albums Of 2024

Alternative Press Magazine: Fan Poll: 5 Best Songs Of 2024

Alternative Press: 50 Best Albums of 2024

Alternative Press: Fan poll: 5 Best Albums Of 2024

AP News: Top Music Documentaries Of 2024

AP: Maria Sherman: Best Albums of 2024

Atlanta Journal-Constitution: Best Albums By Georgia Artists

Atwood Magazine: Albums of the Year 2024

Autostraddle: The 12 Best Queer Albums of 2024

Background Animal: Most Popular Albums of 2024

Bandcamp: Best Metal Albums of 2024

BBC Radio 6 Music: Albums of the Year 2024

Beat Magazine: 10 Australian Albums That Won’t Be On Critics’ Best Of 2024 lists, But Should Be

Beatique: 15 Best Albums of 2024

Beats Per Minute: Top 50 Albums of 2024

Bella Caledonia: Best Music of 2024

Best Classic Bands: Best Music Books Of 2024

Beyond The Stage Magazine: Best Music and Concert Photos of 2024

Billboard Canada: 25 Best Canadian Songs of 2024

Billboard Philippines: 50 Best Albums And EPs Of 2024

Billboard Philippines: The 50 Best Songs Of 2024 — Staff Picks

Billboard: Best Albums of 2024

Billboard: Best K-Pop Songs of 2024

Billboard: Best Latin Songs Of 2024

Billboard: Staff List: The 100 Best Songs of 2024

Billboard: The 10 Best U.K. & Ireland Songs of 2024

Bleep: Top 10 Albums of the Year 2024

Bollywood Bubble: Best Bollywood Songs Of 2024

Boston Globe: Best Albums of 2024

BrooklynVegan: 30 Best Rap Albums Of 2024

BrooklynVegan: Top 50 Albums of 2024

Business Insider: Best Songs of 2024

Business Insider: Callie Ahlgrim: The Best Albums of 2024

Campus Times: Top 10 Best Albums of 2024

CBC Music: Top 10 R&B Songs Of 2024

CBC: 10 Best Pop Songs Of 2024

CBC’s 15 Best Canadian Albums Of 2024

Clash Magazine: Songs Of The Year 2024

Classic Rock Magazine: Best Rock Albums of 2024

Cloakroom: 10 Favorite Albums (And More) Of 2024

Clunk Magazine: Best Albums Of 2024

College of Letters & Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison: The Best Music of 2024

Complex: The 50 Best Albums of 2024

Complex: The 50 Best Songs of 2024

Complex: The 50 Best Songs of 2024

Consequence”The 2024 K-Pop Yearbook: Standout Artists, Groups & Songs

Consequence: 200 Best Songs of 2024

Consequence: 30 Best Metal & Hard Rock Albums of 2024

Consequence: 30 Best Metal & Hard Rock Songs of 2024

Consequence: 50 Best Albums of 2024

Consequence: James Acaster: 10 Favorite Songs of 2024

Consequence: The Best Live Shows of 2024

Consequence: Top 5 Metal & Hard Rock Albums of 2024

Cosmopolitan: 2024 Was The Year Of The Situationship Album

Coup De Main Magazine: The Best Albums Of 2024

Coup De Main Magazine: The Best Song Of 2024

Crack Magazine: The Top 50 Albums of 2024

Creative Review: Best Album Art And Design Of 2024

Creative Review: The Best Music Videos Of 2024

Daily Jang: Best Music Of 2024

Dallas Observer: Best Concerts That Lit Up 2024

Dazed: The 20 Best Albums of 2024

Decibel: Top 40 Albums of 2024

Discipline Mag: Best Albums Of 2024 (Industrial, Noise, Post-Punk, Metal)

DIY Magazine: Albums of the Year 2024

DIY Magazine: Tracks of the Year In 2024

DJ Mag: Top Albums of 2024

Double J: 50 Best Albums of 2024

Double J: The 50 Best Albums Of 2024

EDM.com: The Best Electronic Music Producers of 2024

Electric Bloom Webzine: Best Music Collaborations Out Of Japan In 2024

Entertainment Weekly: 10 Best Songs Of 2024

Entertainment Weekly: The 10 Best Albums of 2024

Esquire: The 10 Best Albums of 2024

EuroNews: Best Albums of 2024

Exclaim!: 20 Best Songs of 2024

Flood Magazine: 50 Best Albums of 2024

FLOOD Magazine: Best Music Documentaries of 2024

FLOOD Magazine: Best Songs of 2024

Folk Alley: (More) Best Songs of 2024

Folk Alley: Best Albums of 2024

Folk Alley: Top 20 Listener Favorites of 2024

Georgia Public Broadcasting: Best Music Of 2024

Glide: 20 Best Albums of 2024

God Is In The TV Zine: Bill Cummings: 25 Tracks Of The Year 2024

Gorilla vs Bear: Best Albums Of 2024

Gorilla vs Bear: Best Songs Of 2024

Gorilla vs. Bear: Albums of 2024

GQ: Best Songs Of 2024

GRRRL Music: 20 Best Albums Of 2024

Hearing Things: Jill’s Favorite Music of 2024

Her Campus: Best Albums Of 2024

Holler Country: Best Country Music Songs of 2024

Holler: Best Country Music Songs Of 2024

Hollywood Reporter: Mesfin Fekadu: The 10 Best Albums of 2024

Hot New Hip-Hop: Best Hip-Hop Collaborations Of 2024

Hot Press: 50 Best Albums of 2024

Houston Press” 50 Best Music Videos of 2024 You Probably Missed Part 1

HuffPost: The Best Albums Of 2024

Hypebeast: 10 Best Music Projects of 2024

InDaily: Adelaide’s Best Music Of 2024

Indie88: The Great 88 Countdown

Inkl: Five Best Music Books Of 2024

Iowa Public Radio: Top Album Picks Of 2024

Iowa Source: Best Albums of 2024

Jacaranda FM: Martin Bester: Favourite Events Of 2024

Jacaranda FM: Top 20 Best Songs Of 2024 In South Africa

Jeffrey Reads: 50 Best Songs of 2024

KCRW: The 30 Best Albums of 2024

KCRW: Top 30 Chart For 2024

Kerrang!: 50 Best Albums of 2024

Kerrang: 50 Best Albums of 2024

KEXP: DJs Top Albums Of 2024

Kill Yr Idols: Best Jazz Recordings Of 2024

KLOF Mag: Danny Neill: Top 10 Albums of 2024

KLOF Magazine: Glenn Kimpton: Top 10 Albums of 2024

KLOF Magazine: Thomas Blake: Top 10 Albums of 2024

KOSU FM: Lindsey Cox: Top 5 New Songs Of 2024

KOSU FM: Sheldon Pearce: Favorite Albums Of 2024

KOSU FM: Yr Welcome: Top 20 Vinyl Of 2024

KPBS FM: 8 Best Songs Of 2024

KUTX FM: Favourite Songs Of 2024

Les Inrocks: Best Albums of 2024

Lexington Herald Leader: Best Music Of 2024

Los Angeles Times: Mikael Wood: The 20 Best Albums of 2024

Loud And Quiet: Albums of the Year 2024

Louder Than War: Top 100 Albums Of 2024

Loudwire: 11 Best Progressive Metal Albums of 2024

Loudwire: The 51 Best Rock + Metal Albums of 2024

M-A Chronicle: 24 Best Albums of 2024

MELODIC Magazine: 10 Best Albums Of 2024

Metacritic: Best Music and Albums for 2024

Metal Hammer Magazine: 50 Best Albums Of 2024

Metal Injection: Top 25 Records of 2024

Metal Insider: Jillian Drachman’s Top 15 Albums of 2024

Mixmag: Best Albums Of 2024

Mixmag: Best Tracks Of 2024

MixMag: Breakthrough DJs Of 2024

MixMag: Dancefloor Bangers Of 2024

Mojo Magazine: Best Albums Of 2024

Mondo Sonoro: Best International Albums of 2024

MSN: The 12 Best Video Game Scores And Soundtracks Of 2024

mxdwn Music: Top 40 Best Songs Of 2024

Nation.Cymru: Best Welsh Music By Women In 2024

New Noise Magazine: Best Albums of 2024 (Volume 1): Becky Stephenson’s Top Picks

New Noise Magazine: Traster’s Picks: Best Albums of 2024

New York Post: 10 Best Songs Of 2024

New York Times: Best Albums of 2024

New York Times: Jon Caramanica: Best Albums of 2024

New York Times: Jon Pareles: Best Albums of 2024

New York Times: Lindsay Zoladz: Best Albums of 2024

News24: Best Albums Of 2024

Nialler9: 100 Best Irish Songs Of 2024

Nialler9: Best Albums Of 2024

Nialler9: Jim Carroll: Favourite Songs Of 2024

Nialler9: Kelly-Anne Byrne: Favourite Songs Of 2024

NME: 20 Best Debut Albums Of 2024

NME: Best 50 Songs of 2024

NME: The 50 Best Albums of 2024

No More Workhorse: A Year in Music

No More Workhorse: Killian Laher: Top 10 Albums 2024

No Ripcord: The 50 Best Albums of 2024

North Country Public Radio: Favorite Songs of 2024

NPR Music: 50 Best Albums of 2024

NPR Music: Ann Powers: Top 15 Albums of 2024

NPR: 10 Best Classical Albums of 2024

NPR: 124 Best Songs of 2024

NPR: Alt.Latino: Music We Missed In 2024

NPR: Anamaria Sayre: Favorite Albums Of 2024

NPR: Essential Jazz Discoveries of 2024

NPR: Lars Gotrich: Favorite Albums And Songs Of 2024

NPR: Rodney Carmichael’s Favorite Songs And Albums Of 2024

NPR: Stephen Thompson: Favorite Albums And Songs Of 2024

NPR: Women Hit-Makers Brought Aggression And Vulnerability To Pop Music In 2024

NZ Herald: 2024′s Best Albums

Obscure Sound: Best Albums of 2024

OkayAfrica: Best Afrobeats Songs of 2024

OkayAfrica: Best Southern African Songs of 2024

Onmanorama: Most Popular Songs That Rocked The Music Scene In 2024

Optimistic Underground: 80 Best Albums of 2024

Orlando Edge: The 10 Best Songs of 2024

Out Magazine: 40 Best Queer Songs Of 2024

Paste Magazine: 100 Best Albums of 2024

Paste Magazine: 100 Best Songs of 2024

Paste Magazine: 15 Best Cover Songs of 2024

PEOPLE Magazine: Best Albums of 2024

Philadelphia Inquirer: Best Pop Music Albums Of 2024

Pitchfork Readers: Best Music of 2024

Pitchfork: 27 Best Rap Albums of 2024

Pitchfork: 30 Best Rock Albums of 2024

Pitchfork: Best 100 Songs of 2024

Pitchfork: Best Electronic Music of 2024

Pitchfork: Best Music Books of 2024

Plugged In: Best Music of 2024

PopDose: 50 Best Albums of 2024

PopMatters: 10 Best Folk Albums of 2024

PopMatters: 10 Best Global Music Albums of 2024

PopMatters: 10 Best Psychedelic Albums of 2024

PopMatters: 15 Best Ambient Albums of 2024

PopMatters: 20 Best Americana Albums of 2024

PopMatters: 30 Best Album Re-Issues of 2024

PopMatters: The 80 Best Albums of 2024

PureWow: 2024 Was the Year of Black Country Music

Quietus’ Albums of the Year in 2024

Quietus: Jennifer Lucy Allan: The Best of 2024

Racket MN: 25 Best Non-Local Albums of 2024

Racket MN: 40 Best Songs Of 2024

Radio Milwaukee: Best Indie Music Of 2024

Radio X: 25 Best Albums of 2024

Range Magazine: Top 50 Canadian Albums Of 2024

Red Carpet Crash: Best Albums of 2024

Rediff.com: Best Songs Of 2024

Remezcla: 10 Best Indie & Alt-Rock Songs of 2024

Resident Advisor: Best Tracks of 2024

Resident Advisor: The Best Records of 2024

Revue: Top 5 Local Albums Of 2024

RIFF Magazine: Best Albums of 2024

RNZ: Favourite International Albums Of 2024

RNZ: Jeremy Taylor: The Best Music Of 2024

RNZ: Music 101: Best Music Of 2024

RNZ: The Sampler: Favourite NZ Albums of 2024

Rolling Ston: 100 Best Albums of 2024

Rolling Stone Australia: Best Australian EPs of 2024

Rolling Stone Australia: Best New Zealand EPs of 2024

Rolling Stone: 20 Best Rap Albums of 2024

Rolling Stone: 50 Best Latin Albums of 2024

Rolling Stone: Best Hip-Hop Albums of 2024

Rolling Stone: Best Songs Of 2024

Rolling Stone: Favorite Box Sets of 2024

Rolling Stone: UK’s Albums Of The Year 2024

Rough Trade: UK Albums of the Year 2024

RTE: Jim Carroll: 24 Best Albums Of 2024

Said the Gramophone: Best Songs Of 2024

Seven Days: Vermont’s Top 10 Hip-Hop Albums of 2024

Shatter the Standards: 100 Best Albums of 2024

Slant Magazine: 50 Best Songs of 2024

Slant Magazine: The 50 Best Albums of 2024

Slate: Carl Wilson: The 12 Best Albums of 2024

Soul In Stereo: The 25 Best Albums Of 2024

Soul In Stereo: The 50 Best Albums of 2024

Sound Opinions: Greg Kot: Best Albums of 2024

Sound Opinions: Jim Derogatis: Best Albums of 2024

Spectrum Culture: Top 20 Albums of 2024

Spin: Albums of the Year 2024

Spotify’s Music Editors: Best Songs of 2024

Stereoboard: Best Albums of 2024

Stereogum: 10 Best Country Albums Of 2024

Stereogum: 10 Best Electronic Albums Of 2024

Stereogum: 10 Best Hardcore Albums Of 2024

Stereogum: 10 Best Metal Albums Of 2024

Stereogum: 25 Great EPs From 2024

Stereogum: 50 Best Albums of 2024

Stereogum: Best Jazz Albums Of 2024:

Stereogum: Top 40 Pop Songs Of 2024

Still Listening: Top 50 Albums Of 2024

Taste of Country: Best Albums Of 2024

Tatler Asia: 30 Best Songs Released In Hong Kong In 2024

The Alternative: Best 50 Releases of 2024

The Atlantic: 10 Best Albums of 2024

The AU Review: 40 Best Albums of 2024

The Badger: Top 5 Albums of 2024

The Best Of Line Fit: Best Albums Of 2024

The Boot: 10 Best Country Albums of 2024

The Coast Halifax: 10 Best Albums and EPs From Halifax Artists

The Coast: Best Songwriter Of 2024

The Colorado Sound: Best Albums of 2024

The Concordian: Best Albums of 2024

The Daily Bruin: The Best Music Of 2024

The Diamondback: Top 20 Songs Of 2024

The Economist: Best Albums of 2024

The FADER: 50 Best Songs Of 2024

The Fader: Best Music of 2024: Artist Picks

The Fader: The 50 Best Albums of 2024

The Financial Review: Best Music Books Of 2024

The Fire Note: Top Albums of 2024

The Forty-Five: Best Albums of 2024

The Forty-Five: Best Albums Of 2024

The Forty-Five: The Best Albums of 2024

The Georgia Straight: Favourite Albums Of 2024

The Globe and Mail: Best Albums Of 2024

The Gospel Coalition: Best Christian Music of 2024

The Guardian: 10 Best Folk Albums Of 2024

The Guardian: 10 Best Global Albums of 2024

The Guardian: 10 Best Jazz Albums Of 2024

The Guardian: 20 best songs of 2024

The Hindu: The Best Film Music From 2024

The Hollywood Reporter: 10 Best Songs Of 2024

The Honest Broker: 100 Best Recordings of 2024 Part 1

The Honest Broker: 100 Best Recordings of 2024 Part 2

The Independent: The Best Albums of 2024

The Irish Examiner: 12 Best Music Books Of 2024

The Line of Best Fit: Lesser-Known Favourite Albums Of 2024

The Line of Best Fit: The Best Albums of 2024

The Los Angeles Times: 30 Best Songs Of 2024

The Loyola Phoenix: Top Albums of 2024

The Metal Sucks Podcast: 15 Best Albums of 2024

The Needle Drop: Top 50 Albums of 2024

The New York Times: Best Jazz Albums of 2024

The New York Times: Best Songs of 2024

The New York Times: The Breakthrough Artists Of 2024

The New Yorker: Amanda Petrusich: The Best Albums of 2024

The New Yorker: Best Albums of 2024

The New Yorker: Best Performances of 2024

The Prog Report: Best Prog Albums of 2024

The Quietus’ Jennifer Lucy Allan: The Best of 2024

The Quietus: Albums of the Year 2024

The Quietus: Tracks of the Year In 2024

The Ringer: 11 Best Songs of 2024

The Ringer: 30 Best Albums of 2024

The Scotsman: Best Albums of 2024

The Scotsman: Fiona Shepherd: Best Albums Of 2024

The Seattle Times: Best Albums Of 2024 From Washington Artists

The Shield: Best 50 Albums Of 2024

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AC/DC Returns to the Road with the 2025 “Power Up” North American Tour

For the first time in nearly a decade, AC/DC is set to electrify fans across the United States with their highly anticipated “Power Up” North American tour in 2025. The iconic lineup—guitarist Angus Young, vocalist Brian Johnson, rhythm guitarist Stevie Young, drummer Matt Laug, and bassist Chris Chaney—will hit the road starting April 10, delivering their legendary rock sound to audiences coast to coast.

The 13-date stadium tour promises to be a monumental event for fans of the Grammy-winning, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame-inducted band. From the kickoff show in Minneapolis at US Bank Stadium to the grand finale in Cleveland at Huntington Bank Field on May 28, the band will bring their unparalleled energy to some of the most historic venues in North America. Highlights include stops at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena on April 18 and Soldier Field in Chicago on May 24, ensuring unforgettable nights for rock lovers everywhere.

Adding to the excitement, AC/DC will be joined by The Pretty Reckless as their supporting act, amplifying an already epic lineup. Tickets go on sale December 6 at noon local time—don’t miss your chance to witness one of rock’s greatest bands light up the stage once again.

AC/DC ‘Power Up’ 2025 North American Tour
April 10 – Minneapolis, MN @ US Bank Stadium
April 14 – Arlington, TX @ AT&T Stadium
April 18 – Pasadena, CA @ Rose Bowl
April 22 – Vancouver, BC @ BC Place
April 26 – Las Vegas, NV @ Allegiant Stadium
April 30 – Detroit, MI @ Ford Field
May 4 – Foxborough, MA @ Gillette Stadium
May 8 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Acrisure Stadium
May 12 – Landover, MD @ Northwest Stadium
May 16 – Tampa, FL @ Raymond James Stadium
May 20 – Nashville, TN @ Nissan Stadium
May 24 – Chicago, IL @ Soldier Field
May 28 – Cleveland, OH @ Huntington Bank Field

10 Tips for Musicians on Developing Your Social Media Audience

Social media isn’t just a tool for musicians; it’s the stage where your audience gathers to cheer you on. It’s where the magic happens, where your music connects with fans you’ve never met but who feel like they’ve known you forever. So how do you stand out in a world of endless scrolling and viral videos? Let’s tune in to 10 tips that can help you rock your social media game and turn those casual listeners into lifelong superfans.

1. Know Your Audience
Understand who you’re trying to reach. Are they teens on TikTok, indie fans on Instagram, or professionals on LinkedIn? Research their preferences and adapt your tone, visuals, and content themes to make your posts click with them.

2. Be Consistent
Set a posting schedule to maintain visibility and engage your followers consistently. Use a content calendar to balance promotional posts with authentic, day-to-day updates about your journey. Algorithms favor regular activity, so make it a habit.

3. Share Authentic Content
Let your audience see the person behind the music. Share the ups and downs of your creative process, life on tour, or heartfelt reflections. Authenticity builds trust and turns casual listeners into lifelong fans.

4. Leverage Video Content
Videos are king on social media. Create engaging content, from live performance snippets to quirky behind-the-scenes clips. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels are perfect for quick, captivating moments that draw followers in.

5. Engage Actively
Social media is a two-way street. Respond to comments, ask questions, and create polls to involve your audience. Personal interaction fosters a sense of community and keeps followers coming back for more.

6. Collaborate with Others
Team up with other artists, influencers, or brands for mutual benefit. A co-created post or song can tap into each other’s audiences, offering fresh perspectives and exciting content for your followers.

7. Use Hashtags and Trends
Stay visible by using hashtags that align with your music genre or themes. Participate in trending challenges or conversations that fit your style, keeping your content relevant and discoverable.

8. Offer Exclusive Content
Reward your followers with perks like early access to music, live-streamed Q&A sessions, or behind-the-scenes glimpses. Exclusive content makes your audience feel valued and fosters loyalty.

9. Run Contests and Giveaways
Boost excitement with contests that encourage sharing your music. Offer prizes like signed merch, concert tickets, or shoutouts. These activities can expand your reach while engaging your current fans.

10. Analyze and Adapt
Regularly check your social media analytics to see what’s working and what’s not. Track engagement, followers, and audience demographics. Adjust your strategy based on data to refine your approach and grow effectively.

Think of social media as your never-ending encore—it’s where your fans keep the energy alive long after you release that new single, video, or album. With these 10 tips, you’re not just sharing music; you’re building a community that believes in your sound, your story, your journey, and YOU. Because at the end of the day, your music deserves to be heard—and your audience is ready to hit play. So, go ahead. Post, connect, and let the world know you’re here.

5 Surprising Facts About Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon”

Pink Floyd’s The Dark Side of the Moon is just one of those albums that everyone will eventually get to at least once in their lives. Celebrated for its groundbreaking production, deep themes, and enduring legacy, it continues to blow people’s minds decades after its release. But even superfans might not know these surprising facts about this masterpiece:

1. The Wizard of Oz Connection
The “Dark Side of the Rainbow” phenomenon claims that when you sync The Dark Side of the Moon with The Wizard of Oz, magical coincidences occur. Dorothy begins jogging during the line “no one told you when to run” in “Time,” and the Tin Man’s heartbeat aligns with the album’s closing thumps. Fans swear by these eerie moments, but Pink Floyd and engineer Alan Parsons have dismissed it as pure coincidence. Still, the synchronicity has inspired countless late-night experiments and fueled the album’s mystique.

2. The Heartbeat That Ties It All Together
The heartbeat that opens and closes the album wasn’t just an artistic flourish—it symbolizes life itself. Created with a specially treated bass drum, this sound is a recurring motif, appearing subtly throughout tracks like “Speak to Me” and “Eclipse.” For Pink Floyd, the heartbeat represents the cycle of existence, tying the album’s themes of conflict, greed, mental illness, and mortality into a cohesive journey. It’s no wonder listeners feel connected to the pulse of this masterpiece.

3. A Bass Line for the Ages
“Money” stands out for its funky bass groove and unique time signature. Roger Waters crafted the song’s iconic riff in 7/4 time, an unusual choice for a rock track. The rhythmic complexity sets “Money” apart, making it instantly recognizable. The cash register sound effects, meticulously spliced into a rhythmic loop, enhance its playful critique of greed and consumerism. This blend of creativity and precision turned “Money” into one of Pink Floyd’s most enduring hits.

4. Clare Torry’s Improv Changed Everything
When session singer Clare Torry walked into Abbey Road Studios to record vocals for “The Great Gig in the Sky,” she had no idea her improvised performance would become legendary. With no lyrics and minimal direction, Torry poured raw emotion into her wordless melody, capturing the essence of the song’s theme: the mystery and inevitability of death. Initially unsure about her contribution, Torry left thinking her work might not make the cut—yet it became one of the album’s defining moments, earning her co-writing credit decades later.

5. It Almost Had a Different Name
The album we know as The Dark Side of the Moon was nearly titled Eclipse. Pink Floyd had to temporarily change the name after discovering another band, Medicine Head, had used it first. Fortunately, when Medicine Head’s album didn’t do so well, Pink Floyd reclaimed the title just in time for release. The name not only captures the album’s themes of madness and the human condition but has also become synonymous with the band’s legacy.

Whether you’re a first-time listener or a lifelong fan of The Dark Side of the Moon, there’s always something new to discover in the shadows of this musical masterpiece. Even if it doesn’t synch up to The Wizard of Oz.