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Emerging from the soulful, sun-soaked streets of Cape Town, South Africa, GODBLESSHAZE (GBH) has always been a seeker of something greater. Growing up in a house where melodies danced through the walls like living memories, GBH found purpose in music from an early age. But it wasn’t just about listening; it was about transformation—taking life’s raw experiences and alchemizing them into art. By 15, GBH had already claimed the title of "music nerd," thriving in the competitive high school music scene where ambition was currency. Witnessing a classmate secure a record deal lit a fire in him—if they could do it, why not him? His early years were a symphony of trial and error, with the SoundCloud era providing him the perfect playground to explore and evolve. Between 2019 and 2021, GBH released three formative EPs ( ALTER-EGO , SUNSET-HAZE , and HAZE IN THE MIST ), each one a new chapter in his pursuit of greatness. But it was his final release before a hiatus in 2021 that pushed him into rooms his younger self only dreamed of entering. Then came the silence—or so it seemed on the surface. In reality, GBH spent the next four years on a profound journey of self-discovery. He delved deep into vocal training, absorbed the techniques of his musical idols, and recorded endlessly in search of his true sound. This was not just an artistic endeavor but a philosophical one: GBH sought to redefine what it meant to create, to view the world, and to be human. The Return: “Beauty Is Perspective” GODBLESSHAZE makes his long-awaited official debut with the single " Beauty Is Perspective .” A shimmering blend of French Pop, Contemporary, Alternative, and Classical influences, the track is not just a song—it’s a manifesto. For GBH, beauty is not an objective truth but a subjective lens shaped by how we choose to see the world. Inspired by a deeply personal loss, the single carries the spirit of his late cousin, whose presence he now feels in the delicate form of a butterfly. In weaving his grief into art, GBH invites listeners on a journey of self-reflection and healing. Lyrically profound and sonically lush, “Beauty Is Perspective” explores the tension between longing for better days and finding contentment in the now. One of the track’s most poignant moments comes from GBH’s own philosophy: “Unwavering hope for better days will get you through the toughest times, but make sure the dream life you envision is not one that was sold to you.” This line strikes at the heart of the song’s message—a caution against the societal pressures to chase predefined versions of success. Instead, GBH encourages listeners to craft their dreams around their values and truths. A Vision for the Future As much as “Beauty Is Perspective” reflects GBH’s personal growth, it also hints at what’s to come from his forthcoming debut album. With his intricate fusion of genres and philosophical depth, GBH is positioning himself as a visionary force in today’s music scene. His soundscape is revolutionary yet intimate—a dream built on the power of vulnerability and perspective. For those who feel trapped between aspirations for a brighter future and the heavy weight of the present, GBH’s debut single is both a mirror and a lighthouse. It reminds us that life’s true beauty lies in how we perceive it. Whether you’re chasing dreams or learning to find peace in the now, GODBLESSHAZE’s message is clear: your perspective shapes your reality. In an industry often obsessed with instant gratification, GBH’s journey of slow, deliberate growth is a refreshing anomaly. His music is not only a testament to the power of perseverance but also a gift to those ready to see the world through new eyes. “Beauty Is Perspective” may be the beginning of GBH’s official career, but it’s the culmination of a lifetime of dreaming—and it’s here to inspire yours.

Let’s get one thing straight: tackling Van Halen’s “Eruption” is not for the faint of heart. It’s the holy grail of instrumental rock—a thunderstorm of technical prowess and raw energy. So, when someone dares to reinterpret it, we’re all ears. But Susan Aquila isn’t just “someone.” She’s a force of nature armed with an electric violin, and her take on “Eruption” is nothing short of revolutionary. From the moment the violet spotlight hits her, Aquila owns the stage. The opening shot of the music video feels almost reverential—her bow raised like a sword, her blonde hair cascading over her instrument as if daring the universe to challenge her. And challenge she does. Armed with a battery of sound processors and a fearless attitude, she coaxes an entire orchestra’s worth of sound from her violin. Distortion? Check. Wah-wah? Check. Whammy pedal? Oh, you better believe it. But none of it feels like overkill. Instead, it’s a masterclass in using technology to amplify, not overshadow, raw talent. What makes Aquila’s version of “Eruption” so compelling isn’t just the pyrotechnics—though those are plenty jaw-dropping. It’s the way she pulls back the curtain on the piece’s classical roots. Eddie Van Halen himself was a pioneer of bringing classical techniques into rock, and Aquila’s background makes her uniquely qualified to highlight those connections. She doesn’t just play the notes; she deconstructs them, teasing out their underlying structure and elegance while still delivering the chaos and exhilaration that made the original iconic. It’s not a cover; it’s a reimagination. As the video unfolds, her passion is undeniable. Every note is imbued with energy, every gesture an extension of the music’s pulse. Watching her bend notes to the breaking point or unleash rapid-fire runs across her strings, you can’t help but think, “Who knew a violin could do this?” Well, Susan Aquila did. And now, so do we. “Eruption” has always been a rite of passage for instrumentalists looking to prove their mettle. Susan Aquila doesn’t just pass—she redefines the test. For fans of Van Halen, instrumental rock, or anyone who loves seeing boundaries shattered, this is an absolute must-watch. Long live the queen of the electric violin—she’s here to set your expectations (and maybe your speakers) ablaze. Your version of “Eruption” is jaw-dropping. What inspired you to take on such an iconic guitar piece and reinterpret it for the violin? I wanted to show what the electric violin could do. It’s not your grandma’s violin anymore! The fx allows the violin to explore a whole new world of sounds and expression. I am also a big fan of Eddie Van Halen. He was able to fuse his classical training with Rock into something exciting and fun. Recreating “Eruption” on the violin involves a lot of technical finesse. What was the most challenging aspect of translating the guitar techniques to your instrument? This was another reason why I chose Eruption. At the time, very few violinists had tried it. It lie well on the violin at all. I spent a lot of time trying different things out and looking at my instrument in a whole new way. Not gonna lie to you, I even cried once trying to figure it out.”LOL! But in the end, it was a great exercise in pushing the limits of my abilities and pushing the limits of the electric violin.  You highlighted the classical underpinnings of Eddie Van Halen’s masterpiece in your performance. How did your background in classical music influence your approach to this track? My classical abilities allowed be to pick up on things faster and understand what Van Halen was doing with the chords and phrasing. After that, my classical sensibilities actually got in the way. The piece breaks a lot of rules and is free flowing. I had to allow myself to do that as well.  The video for “Eruption” is a visual feast as well as an auditory one. How did you conceptualize the look and feel of the clip to match the intensity of your performance? I actually tried to keep the video simple… a woman and an electric violin. It is a simple stage setting. I wanted the piece to be the center of focus. The intensity of the performance came naturally as I was able to freely express Van Halen’s words in my own language.  After reimagining such a legendary piece, what’s next on your creative horizon? Can we expect more genre-blurring projects in the future? Absolutely! I am hoping to break a lot more rules! I am working on some new singles in which I will feature the electric violin as it’s never been seen before.

For indie music lovers, the magic of live performances is most likely to come alive in intimate, gritty, and undeniably cool venues. These spaces are where legends are born, where raw talent meets an electric crowd, and where the indie music community finds its heartbeat. From hidden basements to historic clubs, the world is filled with iconic indie venues that have left their mark on music history. Here’s a tour of the 10 most iconic indie music venues that every music enthusiast should know (or visit) around the world. 1. The Troubadour – Los Angeles, USA Photo: Martin Goizioux Located in West Hollywood, The Troubadour is the name that goes along with the rise of legendary acts. This iconic venue has been open since 1957 and has seen Elton John’s U.S. debut and indie favorites like Phoebe Bridgers and Mitski take the stage.  The Troubadour has been a haven for rising indie stars and music fans with its intimate setting and unparalleled acoustics. It’s got a storied history and it hasn’t wavered from supporting emerging talent. 2. The Barrowland Ballroom – Glasgow, Scotland Photo: Barrowland Ballroom In Scotland, this legendary venue has seen indie music since it was built in 1934. With its neon façade and incredible acoustics, the Barrowlands has hosted Arctic Monkeys, The Smiths, and almost every other indie icon. It's a rite of passage for bands and fans in the UK. There's a charm to its retro vibe and a crowd that knows how to rock. 3. 9:30 Club – Washington, D.C., USA Photo: The Guardian Ask any indie musician about the 9:30 Club, and you will likely get a wistful smile. This venue has been a mecca for indie and alternative artists for over 30 years since it opened in 1980. The Strokes and Maggie Rogers, among many others, have played there, and its reputation for having an engaged, enthusiastic crowd keeps it high in the indie music world. 4. La Maroquinerie – Paris, France Photo: Gigseekr Off the beaten path in Paris’ 20th arrondissement, La Maroquinerie exudes indie charm. A favorite of up-and-coming artists and fans wanting to witness an almost unforgettable live experience, it’s small stage and intimate atmosphere. Its unpretentious vibe draws French indie darlings and international acts alike—quintessentially Parisian, cozy atmosphere . 5. The Cavern Club – Liverpool, England Photo: Cavern Club Even today, The Cavern Club, which launched The Beatles, is essential for indie bands. This underground venue in the heart of Liverpool keeps its legacy alive with some of the most exciting names in indie music. Historic vibes meet modern indie energy. 6. Spotted Mallard – Melbourne, Australia Photo: My Guide Melbourne Melbourne’s indie scene is unmatched, and the Spotted Mallard captures its essence perfectly. This venue has just become a beloved spot for indie musicians from Down Under and beyond, known for its eclectic lineup and warm ambiance. There’s a uniquely Australian vibe with a focus on diverse talent. 7. The Bowery Ballroom – New York City, USA Photo: Time Out For indie musicians, there is no The Bowery Ballroom in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. The venue has a perfect blend of vintage charm and modern sound equipment that makes every show unforgettable. It's a cornerstone of NYC's indie music scene, having hosted acts like Vampire Weekend and LCD Soundsystem. Unbeatable location for legendary performances. 8. Paradiso – Amsterdam, Netherlands Photo: Resident Advisor Europe’s one of them, and one of the most renowned indie venues, Paradiso, is what used to be a church. The breathtaking setting for live music is created by its soaring ceilings and stained glass windows. The stage has been home to magic from artists like Florence + The Machine and Arcade Fire. A spiritual experience for music lovers (literally). 9. The Echo – Los Angeles, USA Photo: The Echo Los Angeles makes a second appearance on this list with The Echo, a venue that’s found a spot as a haven for experimental and indie artists. Whether it’s a packed show for a buzzy new band or a low-key gig for local talent, The Echo is where LA's indie heart beats. A consistent lineup of cutting-edge artists. 10. First Avenue – Minneapolis, USA Photo: Wikipedia This Minneapolis venue has been a launching pad for countless artists, including indie legends like Bon Iver, and is an iconic Midwestern indie music stronghold. From its rich history to its supportive community, this is a special place for both artists and fans. A home for musicians and for music lovers.

DEC/EMBER's debut single, "Aimless," is a powerful, raw anthem that blends the energy of punk rock with an introspective exploration of life's uncertain moments. Hailing from the suburbs of Toronto, this new four-piece band bursts onto the scene with a mission: to craft hard-hitting tracks that resonate with anyone feeling lost or without direction. From the opening notes, "Aimless" captures that all-too-familiar feeling of questioning your place in the world. Frontman Chris Allen Hess—known for his viral rock covers of pop-culture anthems—brings his signature voice to the table, conveying the frustrations of wondering, "Am I where I'm supposed to be?" The soaring instrumentals and anthemic chorus create an intense backdrop for these existential musings, offering a mix of power and vulnerability. The song kicks off the band's debut album, XII , a journey through self-reflection, self-doubt, and the hope for change. "Aimless" asks listeners to consider their own life's trajectory, while later tracks like "Unbelievable" and "Time Ran Out" dive deeper into themes of betrayal and trauma. But "Aimless" remains the perfect entry point into the world of DEC/EMBER, setting the stage for a full album that is both cathartic and empowering. With a background shaped by collaborations with bands like Hawthorne Heights and I the Mighty, DEC/EMBER's debut proves they are ready to make their mark on the punk rock scene—and they're doing it with heart, power, and purpose. "Aimless" seems to resonate with feelings of directionlessness, yet it has an undeniable energy. Can you discuss creating a song that captures vulnerability and high-energy punk rock? Was there a specific moment during writing or recording that defined the track's sound for you?   We all have a shared love for high-energy music, so that sound came very naturally when we all shared input on the same track.  We then sat down and discussed what troubles we were going through as individuals, and a lot of it came down to being the same age and going through the same transitions. Many people in their late 20s are starting to have kids and buy houses, but we all just want to jam out and keep afloat as individuals. It’s hard to feel like you’re on the “right track” in that headspace, and we figured others might feel just as aimless as us.  From starting as a fun side project to now releasing your debut album, "XII," what has the journey been like as a band? What do you think made the transition from friends jamming together to full-on band mode click for all of you? Because we've known each other for so long, we already know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Thankfully, that allowed us to skip the growing pains that often come with starting a band and learning about your other members.  Chris, you have a strong following for your rock renditions of pop anthems on platforms like Spotify and YouTube. How has your experience as a cover artist influenced your approach to writing and performing original material with DEC/EMBER? How do you balance your style with the collaborative dynamics of the band? Being a cover artist and an original artist are totally different worlds to me. When writing covers, I am typically worried about the online perception or doing justice to the original artist. Writing original music is something I will do regardless of if anyone listens, and we have taken that approach of creative freedom when it comes to writing as a band. You all have a rich history of working with major acts like Hawthorne Heights and Dayshell. How have those experiences shaped your approach touring, songwriting, and performing live today? Are there any key lessons from those experiences you've carried into DEC/EMBER? Our exposure to working with larger artists has allowed us to break the ice of understanding what goes into putting on shows at that level. It’s pretty common for local bands to get overconfident when they earn a bit of success, so playing next to bands that have truly earned success is a reminder that we need to stay humble and put in the work to truly accomplish our goals. Despite the challenges—like the tire mishap before filming the "Aimless" video—DEC/EMBER has already experienced some memorable moments. Looking back on this debut phase, what has been the most surprising or rewarding part of getting your music into the world? What's next for you as a band after the success of "XII"? The most rewarding part of this process has been feeling like “XII” is our best work.  Our prior industry experience has exposed us to writing songs the way we think others will enjoy, but we earnestly wrote this record for us. We just hope that someone might take something meaningful out of our experiences, and we will do our best to do those songs justice on stage.

Giselle’s latest release, ‘GAME OVER,’ is the ultimate declaration of freedom as the artist walks away from the end of a toxic relationship without an apology. This song is the continuation of the story of the previous track, ‘ COLD ,’ of the emotional journey of a person in the process of power shift towards self-empowerment. As soon as the track starts, it is quite apparent that Giselle is not the same person who was once stuck in the emotional storm of a bad relationship. The pop and R&B fusion production is catchy, and the rate at which the song progresses is enhanced by the active beat, sweet vocals, and keen lyrics. Giselle’s voice is so versatile that it can go from weak to strong, and the song is always on the right note as it is about walking the tightrope of freedom. This is a cathartic release and a triumphant declaration of self-worth in ‘GAME OVER.’ From lines like, ‘I’ve had enough of this game over,’ Giselle makes it clear that leaving something toxic behind is an act of self-love. The music video that comes with the song continues from where the video for ‘COLD’ left, and the message of the video is clear: it is about cutting off anything that holds you back and embracing your true self. In ‘GAME OVER,’ Giselle offers her fans the power to embrace themselves and reminds them that standing up for themselves is the key to being happy. This track is a must hear for anyone that has ever needed that extra push to say, ‘enough is enough.’

Photo: Erik Mclean The new nomads are the touring musicians of the day, traveling from one unfamiliar city to another, juggling timetables, and maintaining the creative energy of being on the road. For 2025, the key item that helps every musician is not talent or even a great setlist—It is the apps on your phone. From your tour logistics to the best late-night food, these apps are here to save your sanity (and your wallet). Is your tour game not where you thought it should be? These are seven essential apps every touring musician needs. 1. Bandsintown Bandsintown is the MVP when it comes to promoting your shows. This app helps you announce tour dates, connect with fans, and ensure that every city knows you are coming through. It syncs with your social networks and will post your tour dates to your followers. Why do you need it? It’s like having a personal tour manager for your fanbase. It also includes a bonus feature of analytics tools showing you where your biggest fans are located so you can plan your next tour strategically. 2. Roadie Coach Not only does touring mean performing, but it also means staying sharp. That’s where Roadie Coach comes in – an app to help you rehearse on the go. This app has features like chord detection, vocal coaching, and progress tracking to make sure you are ready for your gig. Why do you need it? You will likely spend a lot of time in the car, which is the ideal time to work on that problematic chord or new song. You can also record your practice sessions and get feedback on your performance. 3. Splitwise This is especially the case for people who travel around often as members of a band, where they have to divide the costs of gas, food, and even Airbnb rentals among themselves. Splitwise is a tool that helps you manage your expenses and send requests to your friends to pay you back without all the drama of Venmo. Why do you need it? For maintaining your band’s financial harmony (yes, I meant it). This app also helps with currency conversion when the band goes on an international tour. 4. ShurePlus MOTIV Did you get a sudden burst of inspiration in the middle of nowhere? This ShurePlus MOTIV can turn your phone into a portable recording studio. A companion to Shure’s microphones, this app guarantees studio-quality recordings on the go. Why do you need it? Capture ideas anytime, anywhere — because inspiration doesn’t wait. You can also edit and share your recordings directly from the app. 5. Google Maps It may sound simple, but you must use Google Maps for driving through new cities. Whether you need directions to the event or where to find a gas station at 2 AM, it is almost essential for a road trip. Why do you need it? It's pretty much reliable navigation that isn’t wrong (unless you ignore it). Save offline maps for when you are out of signal range. 6. Master Tour by Eventric The Master Tour app is like having a personal assistant for your entire tour. This app is helpful in managing itineraries, travel schedules, guest lists, and even meal preferences for the crew. Why do you need it? To get rid of crumpled spreadsheets and confused bandmates and to share real-time updates with your team so they know what’s going on. 7. Yelp After the encore, you’re starving—but where do you go? Yelp has your back with crowd-sourced reviews for the best eats in town. Whether you're craving tacos or hunting for the perfect coffee spot, Yelp delivers. Why do you need it? To avoid disappointing late-night food choices. The app also lets you filter for ‘open now’ options because hunger waits for no one. After the encore, you’re starving — but where do you go? Yelp has your back with crowd-sourced reviews for the best eats in town. Whether you're craving tacos or hunting for the perfect coffee spot, Yelp delivers. Why do you need it? To avoid disappointing late-night food choices. The app also lets you filter for ‘open now’ options because hunger waits for no one.

In 2025, getting your music onto playlists isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a crucial step in building your fanbase, boosting streams, and even snagging that dream record deal. But the game has changed, and it’s more competitive than ever. So, how do you stand out and get your tracks onto those coveted playlists? Let’s break it down, guitar (or your laptop) in hand. 1. Perfect Your Tracks First of all, it is essential to ensure that the music that is being submitted for playlist consideration is of high quality. Listeners in 2025 expect even independent artists to have professional-level production. Investing in your tracks and getting them professionally mixed and mastered so they shine is vital. The problem is playlist curators are swamped for submissions, and a poorly produced song is easily skipped. Listen to songs on popular playlists in your genre and compare their production quality to your own. If your track doesn’t measure up, it may be worth going back to the studio. 2. Understand the Playlist Ecosystem There are three main kinds of Spotify playlists: Editorial Playlists:  Curated by Spotify’s in-house team (RapCaviar or Fresh Finds, think of). These are the big leagues. Algorithmic Playlists : Personalized playlists like Release Radar and Discover Weekly are made from listener data. User-Curated Playlists:  Made by users, influencers, and independent curators. Depending on the target, the strategy is different for each kind of list. 3. Optimize Your Spotify Profile Photo: Danik Prihodko Your Spotify profile - it’s your digital storefront. When curators are looking for you, this is the first thing they will look at. Here’s how to make it shine: No grainy selfies for a professional artist photo. Tell your story in a compelling bio Social links Keep your visuals consistent and cohesive across all platforms 4. Use Spotify for Artists to Your Advantage Spotify for Artists is your backstage pass to playlist success. It enables you to: Submit your unreleased tracks to Spotify’s editorial team for consideration (at least 7 days before release). Track your song’s performance with real-time data. See which of your songs are resonating with listeners and build your strategy around them. Include detailed info when pitching to editorial playlists. Mention your target audience, genre, and any buzz-worthy achievements. 5. Build Momentum Before Your Release Photo: Toan Van Indicators that playlist curators love your tracks are: Pre-Save Campaigns : Ask your fans to pre-save your track on Spotify. Social Media Hype: Use your teasers, behind-the-scenes content, and countdown to build up your release. Collaborations : Join forces with other artists or influencers to increase your audience. 6. Target Independent Playlist Curators There are thousands of playlists managed by independent curators across every genre imaginable. Although they may not have the clout of Spotify’s editorial team, their playlists can still be a great way to get your music in front of a lot of people. Use platforms like SubmitHub and Groover to pitch your tracks. Find out which Spotify playlists are relevant to your music and contact the curators through social media or email. Keep your pitch personal and professional. Explain why your track would be a great addition to their playlist. 7. Harness the Power of Algorithms Spotify’s algorithm loves engagement. The more streams saves, and shares your track gets, the more likely it is to appear on algorithmic playlists like Release Radar or Discover Weekly. Boost your algorithmic love by: Asking fans to save your song to their library. Sharing is caring: ask for shares on social media. Make your own playlists and include your track alongside other songs you think are similar. 8. Collaborate with Other Artists Having two audiences is better than one! In 2025, collaborations are a goldmine for exposure. This is because by working with other artists, you can access their fanbase, and the probability of getting your tracks on playlists rises. You can: Co-own a track. Exchange remixed versions of each other’s songs. Perform together at a gig and share it on social media. 9. Release Music Consistently The more music you release, the more likely you are to have your tracks added to playlists. Consistency keeps your audience coming back and raises your visibility to curators. Every 6-8 weeks, put out a new track or EP. Take old content and put it out there again, whether it's acoustic, remixed or live. Use your little releases to build towards bigger projects. 10. Be Patient and Persistent Spotify playlists aren’t something you break into overnight. You have to stay consistent in your efforts, develop your craft, and don’t get discouraged by rejection. Every release is a learning and growing opportunity. It isn’t just luck getting your music on Spotify playlists in 2025. It’s about strategy, persistence, and, of course, great music. Following these tips – perfecting your sound, optimizing your profile, and identifying the right curators – you can turn Spotify playlists into a powerful career-building tool.

New Jersey-based indie-pop artist Woodstone has outdone himself with his latest single, “ Touch of Adrenaline .” This teaser for his fourth album, Glass Skin , is a stunning blend of indie pop and folk, rich with orchestral undertones and emotional intensity. Dropping on December 13th, this track doesn’t just flirt with your feelings—it grabs them, shakes them up, and leaves you in awe of its raw vulnerability. “Touch of Adrenaline” is an artful exploration of contrasts. Its orchestral strings exude cinematic grandeur, while folky, Kurt Vile-esque guitar riffs ground the track in rugged authenticity. The song takes you on a journey through lush sonic landscapes, effortlessly shifting from delicate intimacy to bold, sweeping emotion. It’s like a whispered confession carried on the winds of a symphony. This intricate interplay of sounds evokes a sense of fleeting beauty, perfectly mirroring the song’s themes of transience and bittersweet romance. Woodstone’s DIY roots shine through in every intricately crafted chord progression, yet the production quality rivals that of major-label releases. The result is a track that feels deeply personal while remaining universally resonant. Fans of early 2000s indie pop will find themselves transported back to the era when songs like Plain White T’s “Hey There Delilah” ruled the airwaves. But make no mistake—Woodstone isn’t just revisiting old ground. He takes that nostalgic sound and injects it with a modern, folk-infused edge, creating something that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. At just 23 years old, Woodstone has already released three self-produced LPs, earning critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. “Touch of Adrenaline” marks a turning point in his career as he prepares to shed his solo artist persona and collaborate with other musicians for his upcoming album, Glass Skin . With a 100% DIY approach to date, Woodstone has proven himself as a true indie powerhouse, and this new chapter promises even greater things to come. If you’ve ever experienced the sting of a love that wasn’t meant to last, “Touch of Adrenaline” will resonate on a soul-deep level.

Can’t you feel the love he has for you? Born in Durham, North Carolina, but based in the bustling “Big Apple,” JAMR XZVR (pronounced JUH-mar / EX-zay-VEER) is a vocalist, songwriter, and creative director challenging the boundaries of contemporary music. His sound, a fusion of cinematic production and emotionally raw storytelling, brings listeners into an immersive space where vulnerability meets provocation. Each track is an experience—layered with sexual tension, self-reflection, and an intoxicating mix of pain and defiance, all delivered with captivating vocal performances that traverse wide emotional spectrums. JAMR XZVR sees himself as an outcast, a disruptor of traditional expectations in hip-hop and R&B. He uses his artistry to tell stories that are unapologetically authentic, erotic, and tinged with casual, almost offhand, introspection. His lyrical style, laced with sharp wit and moments of brutal self-awareness, blurs the lines between poetry and conversation, creating a signature tone that feels both intimate and defiant. He wears his heart on his sleeve, something that’s made his releases resonate with listeners everywhere. In many ways, “Gunmetal (APT 44F SVI LXB NXP IRL)” is a vibrant testament to everything  JAMR XZVR’s become as an artist. Over an instrumental performance that pulses with intoxicating tension, XZVR delivers a smooth, sensual vocal performance that demands your attention. His sultry vocals drip with intimacy, laced with a magnetic pull that feels both dangerous and irresistible. Every lyric, every whisper of “You know I really love you, boy,” seems to hint at secrets meant only for you. It’s the kind of track that takes its time, teasing and building, never letting go—lingering in your mind long after the last echo fades. JAMR XZVR’s latest release, “Gunmetal (APT 44F SVI LXB NXP IRL),” proves that the New York-based artist has what it takes to be a star in this industry. Wow, what an experience “Gunmetal” was! What inspired this release, and what inspired your lyrical style and storytelling point of view? A crazy experience was had leading up to the situation in my ‘Gunmetal’ track; oddly enough what inspired the release of the track was my “obsession” for true crime and blatantly raw stories. I don’t remember which show I had been watching around the time I started crafting this track, but I do remember (whatever I had been watching) made me think: “How wild would it be if I wrote about some sh** hardly anyone knows about me?” I wanted to expose myself a little and create a shock factor; a lot of things I write about in my music are generally kept close to me, or only a handful of people in my inner circle know about it (I am extremely private). So, when I finally turn said stories into music, I am revisiting touchy topics and that allows me to give listeners my purest form of emotion in my recordings.  In part, I had a specific sound aesthetic that I wanted engrained in the production — immediately when the track started, I wanted it to feel suspenseful, and throughout the track, my goal was to make listeners feel immersed in the audio as if they were in a movie hence the (delays, tremolo, vocal stacking/layering, wavy reverb, the manual glitches I am doing with my vocals in verse 1 and the plug-ins toward the end of the track). The song takes you where I am and makes you feel the adrenaline that I feel. Gunmetal was meant to feel suspenseful and sexy in both its production and tonality — the song is a showcase of ‘Look what sex made me do.’  All that said, my lyrical style and storytelling point-of-view came from years of pretending to be an artist that I wasn’t and writing material that had no personal meaning to me. My older music was a facade, a naive version of me thinking a homosexual male artist couldn’t be taken seriously. I was quite literally making music I thought label/music executives and straight individuals would want to hear, and the music at the time in my life felt as awkward as it sounded.  When I picked up music again, I did away with my old stage name and promised myself to write music that told stories of my experiences and existence (everything from real love, situational relationships, hookups, one-night stands, and stories of me being manic, delusional and plainly human). My songs (not all, but most) are usually centered around my experiences with bisexual and/or DL (down-low) men; it’s something that’s not talked about a lot in mainstream culture, and people like to act like it doesn’t exist. Some women like to say, “My man would never!” And some men like to say, “I don’t hang around MF’ers like that!” — and I am in my songs like he would, and you do, but you just don’t know about it, and I have the receipts, lol. I am past that phase in my life of dealing with those types of men (I think?, lol), but I have so many of those stories; it used to be exciting, and now it makes for good drama in music.  My storytelling structure is what happened when I realized I wanted consumers and label executives to know that homosexual artists are functioning people our human encounters have relevancy, emotions and they can resonate with the general public, and our music / artistic expressions can be marketed (just like that of a heterosexual artist) without gimmick and a typecast.  You mentioned that “Gunmetal” was actually part of a series of EP installments that you’ve been releasing for your fans. What was your creative approach and inspiration for these instalments and do any of them relate to each other? Yes! The track ‘Gunmetal APT 44F SVI LXB NXP IRL’ is the series’ introductory track. It was included as Track 1 on the 1st installment titled ‘AFFIDAVIT.’ The releases of the installments in order are: ‘AFFIDAVIT’, ‘M3104-A’, ‘CARBON COPIES’ and ‘CODIS (selected shorts)’.  Think of the releases this way, it’s an audio anthology series. So think, Affidavit is the umbrella title, the name of the “show”, each EP title is name of that season’s release and each track is an episode in that season. By the time, you reach the 4th installment ‘CODIS’ you see how all the interactions play into each other (through direct references, word play, song title ties, etc) — the 4th EP is the finale but takes you right back to the 1st installment; the ‘Gunmetal’ incident.  It makes sense to start on the 1st installment to follow the storyline of the “show” (but by the way it was written and laid out), it doesn’t matter per se because there will be a reason you will need to reference to the project before it to get full context on what is happening.  My creative approach (going back to my love of true crime and having had my own true crime situation) was to first outline stories that tailed off of my ‘Gunmetal’ experience to create a universe, an “audio show,” and a focal point for why things are being addressed track to track. Additionally, the goal with my sound engineer (Ryan Hinkle) was to make each track feel euphoric but also make them feel like they have synch opportunities to be placed as a part of a film, TV show, etc., which is why a lot of the songs were arranged with immersive production to make the song itself feel like a movie but in audio form.  Secondly, some songs are pairs and are counter-responses to each other. For example, the 1st installment, ‘Affidavit’ Track 3: ‘The Trade’s Alter Call (Pray The Gay Away)’ & Track 4: ‘Patent Leather’ is a two-sided perspective about the same guy. Track 3 tells you about the drama of dealing with said guy, and Track 4 tells you how I met him. Same with ‘Gunmetal’, except you don’t get the counter-response to Gunmetal until the 3rd installment ‘CARBON COPIES’ on Track 2 titled: Carbon Copy. Gunmetal tells you of the drama and the track Carbon Copy tells you how I met him and so on. I could go on and on about these 4 EP installments because there is a lot of rhyme and reason and attention to detail that was put into creating every single thing around it.  As someone who takes such pride in your artistry (music and otherwise), what were some of your formative influences on your musical approach and direction? From a tonality perspective, artists that made me comfortable in doing my own thing sound-wise and finding my angle definitely were vets like Mystikal, DMX, Busta Rhymes, Slim (of 112), Rihanna, Beyonce, Kanye West, TLC, Mya, Avril Lavigne, etc; but I have also been inspired by newer era artists like Tinashe, Bree Runway, BANKS, Lykke Li, Tanerelle, Kiana Lede, Jessie J, Tory Lanez, Willow, Sevyn Streeter, The Weeknd, Bring Me The Horizon, etc. The common denominator I realized is why I gravitated to all these artists is that they have an undeniable distinctiveness about their voices, songwriting style, and/or creative approaches.  As far as leaning into my stage presence (given my background in the fashion industry), I am inspired by fashion statements over costumes in most cases.  What would you want it to be if your fans could take one thing away from your music? The one thing that I want people to take away from my music is camaraderie — know that no matter who you are and where you are in your life professionally, romantically, and anything in between — know that you matter, your feelings matter, your artistic expressions matter and to be the representation you want to see in whatever industry you are pursuing. You have to have a healthy balance of giving a f*** and not giving a f*** about how you are perceived because otherwise you will stuck on what everyone will have to say.  I know what it feels like to be hit with constant rejection and to be overlooked. The right people will follow when you just do you. I am just now seeing it happen little by little in real time for me as an artist, and it took me so long to get over pretending in both my personal and professional life.  What’s next for JAMR XZVR, and is there anything you’d like to say to your fans? The goal is more presence, more performative content, targeting professional opportunities in the business that set me up for longevity and new experiences because I don’t have anything to talk about if I am not experiencing anything new in the first place, haha.  I have some really good things bubbling on the backend that I can’t speak on right now. Will it happen? I don’t know, but I hope so! I have learned not to get my hopes up too high while remaining optimistic and ambitious, so we’ll see what comes to fruition.

Adline Owens isn’t just making music—she’s crafting anthems for the soul. The Nigerian-born, Vienna-raised, London-based powerhouse has unleashed a double-sided sonic gem with T•R•T (The Right Time) . This two-track release showcases her boundless artistry and fearless authenticity. With a career already studded with accolades—from sharing the stage with Supermax to headlining at O2 Islington—this Afrobeat, Dancehall, and R&B fusionist has never been one to play it safe. And thank goodness for that. “In Yeah” dives into the emotional complexities of love and self-worth. Owens masterfully fuses Afro-Soul with a pulsing Dancehall rhythm, creating an intimate and liberating soundscape. Lyrically, the track tells the story of a relationship weighed down by one-sided ambition—or lack thereof. With her sultry vocals cutting through the beats like a razor-sharp confession, Adline empowers her listeners to let go of what no longer serves them. It’s soulful, raw, and unshakably relatable. “Dem Wah Know” cranks up the energy with a kinetic Reggaeton groove and Adline’s powerhouse vocals. This track is a fearless declaration of resilience and self-belief, woven into a tapestry of Afrobeat, Dancehall, and her signature boldness. Reflecting on her journey as an artist, Adline uses the song to flip obstacles into stepping stones, making it an empowering rallying cry for anyone daring to defy the odds. It’s a banger built to inspire—and to be played on repeat. Adline Owens isn’t just a fusionist; she’s a force of nature. From her 2012 breakout EP Blind Love to charting with “Can’t Stop My Love,” she has consistently pushed the boundaries of genre and expectation. With a knack for blending R&B, Afro-Soul, Dancehall, and even Amapiano, she’s proving that her creativity knows no bounds. Beyond her solo work, she’s lent her songwriting talents to high-profile acts, making her an undeniable force in the global music scene. Adline Owens’ sound will resonate deeply with fans of Patra’s reggae swagger, Aaliyah’s emotive R&B, and Rihanna’s genre-defying versatility. Yet, Adline’s music is uniquely hers, an exploration of self-determination wrapped in rhythm and soul. T•R•T (The Right Time) is more than just a two-track release; it’s a masterclass in emotional storytelling and cultural innovation. Whether you’re vibing to the introspective beats of “In Yeah” or hyping yourself up with the unrelenting energy of “Dem Wah Know,” Adline Owens delivers a release that’s impossible to ignore.