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New Jersey's alt-rock band ASE hits the scene with their latest single, "Sarah Tonin," and a vibrant performance video. Led by multi-talented musician Ed Ward, ASE has grown from a homegrown project into a powerhouse of the local music scene. Their dynamic sound, which blends pop-rock energy with heartfelt storytelling, has earned them spots on iconic stages and opened doors to perform alongside major artists. With "Sarah Tonin," ASE continues to evolve its sound, offering listeners a perfect balance of high-energy rock and introspective lyrics. “'Sarah Tonin 'was written to serve as a breakup song to everyone who has gone through or is maybe going through a similar situation," says Ed Ward of ASE. Heading into "Sarah Tonin," ASE grabs our attention with a pulsing alt-rock beat. Ward's vocals are raw and emotive, perfectly capturing the conflicting feelings that come with the end of a relationship. The instrumentation is tight and polished—quite impressive, considering how far they've come from their DIY roots. The accompanying music video adds another layer to the "Sarah Tonin" experience. Set on a stage bathed in moody purple lighting, the video gives viewers an up-close look at ASE's magnetic stage presence. The performance-style shoot perfectly complements the song's energy, with the band's passion for their craft evident in every frame. Give your playlist the boost of "Sarah Tonin" it deserves, and find ASE's new single on all major streaming platforms.

When you love someone, even the smallest moments feel like bliss. Having gotten her first taste of the stage performing at school with her best friend Aaron, things have come full circle for emerging pop-rock star Lara Villani. Following the emotional depth and pop-rock edge of her previous releases, her new release, “Fire,” marks a breathtaking evolution in Villani’s sound. The talented songstress is leaning into her tastes, the latest step in her journey to craft her unique artistic identity. We’ll let you be the judge of the sound she’s landed on, but after hearing “Fire,” we can’t wait to hear what else she has in store. Villani’s musical roots run deep. Having been exposed to the transformative power of music from an early age, she would start taking piano and vocal lessons under her cherished mentor, Margaret Hunt. Her passion for performance bloomed through guitar, an exploration of blues and rock and roll, and performing with her friend, Aaron, as mentioned earlier. Fittingly, as she prepares for the next chapter of her artistic evolution, Aaron joins her once more to perform renditions of Villani’s music. From the first second, the atmospheric instrumentals of “Fire” add a dreamy, slightly bedroom pop feel to the release, setting the stage for Villani to fully immerse yourself in her ethereal soundscape. Her vocal performance is elegant, resolute, and incredibly breathtaking, with lyrics like “You walked into my life, the feeling just so right / the way you touch sets me alight” cutting deep. Despite the intimate feel of her vocal performance, the lyrics for “Fire” speak to universal experiences, showcasing Villani’s rare ability to balance her sound with experiences that her listeners can all relate to. Lara Villani continues to add to her already impressive music legacy with each release. “Fire” marks a bold departure from her previous sound, but it’s more than paid off. What was the inspiration behind this release, and how much do you draw from personal experiences when creating your releases? Thank you for having me, Buzz! “Fire” is a song about a passionate and fiery relationship—one of those connections you can’t ignore. From the moment this person walked into your life, you knew it was right, even though there’s a sense of danger because that connection could hurt. But the passion and love are too powerful to resist. When I brought the idea to my producer, I wanted to create something that I enjoy and could even add to my daily playlist. While I love my first two singles, the writing process for “Fire” felt less emotionally taxing because it’s about a universal experience rather than something deeply personal. It was fun to write and capture that intense energy in the song. Who would your dream collaboration be, and why? Wow, this question is harder than I thought! My vocal inspiration and the reason I started singing has always been Adele, so I would have to say, Adele. However, as an artist, I go through phases with new artists who keep me inspired and help me continuously develop my own artistry. It’s tough to pick just one because every artist I listen to brings something unique, but Adele will always hold a special place in my heart for sparking my passion for singing. What’s your fondest music-related memory? My fondest music memory goes back to when I was six years old. I sang "Big Girls Don’t Cry" by Fergie at my primary school talent show, and I remember being on stage, singing my heart out. From that moment, I knew music would be in my life forever. It was a defining moment for me—a real turning point where I realized just how much I loved performing and how I loved that feeling on stage. What’s usually your biggest source of motivation when you make your music, and as an extension of that, what does music mean to you? Honestly, I make music because it simply makes me happy. Writing lyrics is my way of escaping, and it makes me feel fulfilled—it fills my cup. There’s no better place for me than in the studio, especially when I’m writing and collaborating with my producer, Steve. When a song comes together piece by piece, it feels like creating a work of art and hearing it come to life lights up my soul. I know that sounds super cheesy, but it’s true! What’s next for Lara Villani, and is there anything you’d like to say to your fans? I’ve got some exciting things coming up! I’ll be doing more live performances, including my single launch on October 17th at Night Hawks, which I can’t wait for. I’m also working hard on my EP, set to release in 2025. To my fans, I want to thank you for all the love and support you’ve shown me so far. You’ve been with me on this journey, and your energy and encouragement keep me going. Every message, every listen—it means the world to me. I can’t wait to share more music with you and grow together. Instagram Facebook

Iranian-American singer-songwriter and pop recording artist Sanaz unveils her heartfelt debut EP, 'Chapters,' a 6-track journey through the pages of her life. Based in Los Angeles, Sanaz brings a unique flavor to the pop scene, blending her classical opera training with authentic storytelling. Her music is infused with cultural richness, and it's already gained international recognition with songs like "In The Name Of God" featured on Iranian International TV and Spotify's "Women of Iran" playlist. 'Chapters marks Sanaz's official entry into the music world, offering listeners a vulnerable collection of songs that explore love, loss, and personal growth. Each track represents a different stage in her life, creating a musical autobiography that is the perfect introduction to this pop powerhouse. The EP opens with "Our Little Home," a warm, inviting track that feels like a blanket of comfort beside the fire in a house you can proudly call home. It's a sweet ballad that leads into track two, "Three Steps," a beautifully melancholic breakup anthem that chills us to the bone with Sanaz's gentle vocals and equally tender instrumentals. Midway through the EP, "Mirror" ups the energy with a smooth electric guitar and tender bass licks—but Sanaz's lyrical content is much deeper. It's another look into the toll a relationship can take when toxicity enters the chat. "Rest" provides a gentle reprieve, peeking into Sanaz's relatable experience of seeking rest, a deep breath, and anything to get this weight off her chest. As the EP nears its conclusion, "Hold On" emerges as a standout track. Its serene acoustic guitar alongside Sanaz's stunning vocals make this a deeply immersive listening experience—reminding herself to cherish moments with special people, even the sad ones. In the outro track, "Just Another Chapter," Sanaz takes what started as a melancholic breakup tune and turns it into an anthem for hope. "It's not the end of my book; it's just another chapter,” she sings. It's empowering and bittersweet and serves all the emotions felt in a disastrous breakup. Turn the pages of these compelling 'Chapters' with Sanaz's debut 6-track EP, now available on all digital streaming platforms. Welcome to Buzz, Sanaz! Congratulations on releasing your debut EP, Chapters. What inspired you to structure this project around life’s different stages? Thank you so much! Chapters really came from my own journey of reflecting on the ups and downs I’ve experienced. I’ve always seen life as a series of moments. Each chapter has its own lessons and emotions. Some chapters are filled with joy and excitement; others are more challenging, but they all shape who we are. I wanted to capture that in this EP, not just to tell my story but to create something others could relate to, no matter where they are in their own lives. “Just Another Chapter” from Chapters evolved from a sad ballad to an uplifting anthem. Can you walk us through that transformation process? “Just Another Chapter” was originally written during a really tough time. It was slow, heavy, and full of heartache. But when I brought it to the studio, my producer Ronny made me see it in a completely different light. He encouraged me to step back and look at the bigger picture, reminding me that even the hard parts of life are temporary and lead to something new. That shift in perspective changed everything. We reworked the song, and it started to feel more hopeful. It was a reminder that no matter what you’re going through, it’s just another chapter, and better days are ahead. It was such a personal and healing process for me, and I think that’s why the song evolved the way it did. Your background in opera is impressive. How has that classical training influenced your approach to pop music? My opera training has given me so much more than just vocal technique. It’s taught me how to tap into emotion and deliver it in a way that feels honest. I still use that foundation when I’m writing or performing pop music, especially in how I approach dynamics and phrasing. Opera is so powerful, and I love bringing that intensity into my pop songs but with more intimacy. I also love layering vocals and harmonies, which stems from my opera and a cappella background. It’s all about creating something rich and complete but still intensely personal. Which song from Chapters was the most challenging to create? Did you face any emotional roadblocks or obstacles during your songwriting? “Hold On” was by far the most complex song for me to write. It’s about losing a close family friend who had such a huge impact on my life, and writing it felt so heavy because I wanted to get it right. I wondered, “How can I capture everything this person meant to me in a single song?” It wasn’t just about expressing my grief but also honoring their memory and the way they lived. Every time I sat down to work on it, the emotions were overwhelming, and I found myself rewriting verses repeatedly because it didn’t feel like enough. But I also felt this deep need to finish it, almost like it was my way of saying goodbye. Ultimately, it became a really personal tribute, not just about loss but about holding on to the strength and love they left behind. As a debut EP, Chapters is making quite a statement. What do you hope listeners take away from this collection of songs? I hope that people who listen to Chapters feel like they’re not alone in whatever they’re going through. Life can be messy and unpredictable, and this EP is about embracing all the stages of life, whether it's the heartbreak, the healing, or the growth. I hope the listeners can connect with these songs on a personal level and find a sense of comfort or inspiration. I want them to feel like they can relate to these stories and maybe even see their experiences reflected in the music. Instagram Website

Brampton-born rapper and rising hip-hop star Spitty teams up with Roze for a groovy new single , "Rodeo," straight off his 11-track album, Motherland. Also known as Lankesh Patel, Spitty has been carving his lane in the music scene since his debut album Full Circle. This community leader and artist ambassador has been repping his hometown hard, from touring across North America to organizing free open mic events for local talent. With "Rodeo," Spitty continues to blend his South Asian heritage with his Canadian upbringing for a truly engaging listening experience. Produced by the dynamic duo Nick Ianno and Felix Khan, the song perfectly showcases Spitty's ability to collaborate across borders. Expanding on "Rodeo," featured artist Roze takes the bull by the horns to open the track in the most uplifting and groovy way possible. His flow, all in Punjabi, sets the tone for a cheerful listening experience. Paired with the incredible production, this song literally bounces through our speakers. Spitty's sharp verses ride a beat drenched in hip-hop vibes with uplifting Punjabi elements to reflect the music of his Motherland perfectly. What stands out about "Rodeo" is how it embodies Spitty's mission to celebrate diversity through music. The track feels like a perfect representation of the cultural mosaic that's made him the person he is today. Ready to jump on this musical "Rodeo?" Grab your headphones and stream Spitty's latest single featuring Roze on all digital platforms. Welcome to Buzz, Spitty! We're loving the energy of "Rodeo." What inspired you to create this track with Roze? Appreciate the love. I was working on this South Asian hip-hop album and needed a Punjabi song. I grew up in Brampton, which has a huge South Asian population, but more specifically Punjabi population. I grew up around all sorts of Punjabi music, and it’s wildly trending worldwide. I met Roze last year, so it all came together perfectly for this song to be made at the right time. How does "Rodeo" represent your journey as an artist from Brampton to the global stage? It’s me taking Brampton TO the global stage. I’ve always represented where I’m from and do a lot of work in the community to uplift people. I host free open mics and music business workshops with the city for the people. I want to rise to the most incredible heights possible and show my people it’s possible. Rodeo is a fun song that I can picture being listened to worldwide in all sorts of situations. Your album Motherland features artists from Canada, India, and the US. What was it like working alongside such a diverse group of artists? It was a beautiful process. It took a lot of work to get all the pieces together, especially when working with different time zones and so many different artists and producers. These three countries also represent me, as my family is from India; I was born in the US and grew up in Canada. Overall, it came together perfectly. How does "Rodeo" fit into Motherland's overall concept and vibe? It sits perfectly within a part of the album that intertwines my culture with radio-friendly, hit music. Later in the album, we get into some deeper topics, but with Rodeo, it’s all about showing our culture to the world by just existing in it and having a good time. The album is also heavily focused on the feminine, whether that be my mom, grandmother, or beautiful women who’ve captured my mind. What do you hope listeners take away from "Rodeo" musically and in terms of its message? Musically, I hope people enjoy the vibe even if they only understand 1 of the two languages. For that reason, music is the universal language, and I’m testing that phrase with this song and album overall. Messagewise, this song is that feeling of when you’re first getting into someone, maybe a couple of dates in, and everything feels so exciting and mesmerizing. It’s a fun song, so I hope people enjoy listening to it. Instagram

Minneapolis-born singer-songwriter and fusion artist Jan Edwards conjures up a wickedly fun Halloween-themed album with her latest release, Queen Of Mean. This genre-bending artist is best known for her unique fusion of country, jazz, pop, folk, and blues. Edwards' songwriting chops have already earned her a #1 hit on the Texas charts and film, TV, and advertising placements. Now based in Naples, FL, she's ready to bewitch listeners with her most haunting project yet. Queen Of Mean is a 7-track journey into Halloween's eerie and whimsical world, showcasing Edwards' imaginative narratives that range from quirky to spine-chilling. Released just in time for the spooky season, this album promises to be the perfect soundtrack for those who like their music with a side of chills and thrills. From the first track, "House On Haunted Hill," Edwards sets the tone with an atmospheric blend of screams, creepy sound effects, and spooky melodies. Her vocals float effortlessly between playful and ominous, drawing listeners into the house on Haunted Hill, where anything can happen. "Goblin Goulash" serves up a more tender and melodic sound, almost a chant for witches, as they drop ingredients into their cauldrons for one hell of a party. The title track, "Queen Of Mean," is a standout. It features Edwards at her most delightfully wicked as she embraces the role of October's villainess. This bouncy, fun pop song is the Halloween anthem we never knew we needed. In contrast, "House Of Ghosts" takes a more serious turn, with haunting harmonies and ethereal instrumentals that give you goosebumps. The album's versatility shines through in tracks like "Season Of Demons," which could easily score a retro horror flick. The plucky electric guitars and tender bass licks make it one of the grooviest songs on the album—reminiscent of Donovan's 1966 hit, "Season of the Witch." In "Midnight Snack," Jan blesses us with an expansive, atmospheric, and chilling listening experience that invites someone special to dance with Edwards for all of eternity. It's haunting, sensual, eerie, and packed with stellar production that sends chills down the spine. Edwards closes the album with "Not Today Satan," a more playful Halloween anthem that blends humor with a touch of the ghastly—pushing Satan away and everything he stands for. Without a doubt, Queen Of Mean explores every facet of October, and Jan Edwards' theatrical performance stylings make it one of the most immersive Halloween albums we've ever heard. Welcome spooky season with open arms and hit play on Jan Edwards' new album, Queen Of Mean, now available on all major streaming platforms. Welcome back to Buzz, Jan! We're loving the spooky vibes of Queen Of Mean. What inspired you to create an entire album around Halloween? I love creating the spooky vibes. Last fall, I released an album called “DARK,” where I plunged deep into the depths of the human psyche. When there are “no rules,” you can go anywhere with writing a song. Plus, I think I have a little wicked side, too. Queen Of Mean ranges from quirky fun to genuinely eerie. How did you approach balancing these different moods throughout the tracklist? I love experimenting. My coworkers and I have so much fun writing together, and we let our imaginations go wild. The “Queen of Mean,” however, was a solo writer, and that’s when I got to be really creative. "Queen Of Mean" is our favorite track from the project. Can you tell us more about the character you embody in this song? This “Queen” embodies the baddie in all of us! I love painting pictures with my songs and visualize a music video in my head when I write. She is the mistress of the night that struts down dark streets looking for her next victim. She taunts and teases, and lures the weak into her control, never to be the same again. Your genre-bending style really shines on this album. What or who were some of your biggest influences when creating Queen Of Mean? Honestly, there wasn’t any one influence. But of course, I love some of the old Billie Eilish songs like Bad Guy, Olivia Rodrigo, Doja Cat, and maybe even the darker side of Taylor Swift. All of my songs give a wink and a nod to the classic Halloween song, “Monster Mash.” But I like to create my unique style, and I give a lot of credit to my producer/engineer, Nate Cornell, for bringing my songs to life with his impressive tracks. Do you have a favorite song from 'Queen Of Mean?' What makes that song so special to you? I love QOM so much. But I love every track for different reasons. The House of Ghosts is almost kid-like, with a fun, unexpected quirkiness in the chorus. The House on Haunted Hill was inspired by the campy 1959 horror flick with Vincent Price. Goblin Goulash was born from a simple guitar lick my cowriter came into the write with. I saw the whole scene of a witch stirring a bubbling cauldron of green stew, again quirky and kid-like. Midnight Snack is another one like the Queen of Mean, with an adult, sophisticated darkness…sexy, quirky, and creepy. Not Today, Satan takes a moral high ground but still manages to be dark and commanding. The Season of Demons is almost a jazzy take on Halloween. It reminds me of the classic song “Spooky” by the Atlantic Rhythm Section. Season of Demons will have you tapping your toes and sharpening your claws. All these songs are meant to bring out the little demon in us, nostalgic Halloween haunted house parties, and how we all felt when we were kids trick or treating. Maybe my album will bring Halloween back! Instagram Facebook

On October 5th,  ChainFEST Los Angeles held its largest gourmet chain food festival yet, featuring a front-and-center activation by Screwball Peanut Butter Whiskey and Michelin Chef collabs. Actor B.J. Novak and Michelin Chef Timothy Hollingsworth's Nostalgic Fast-Food Pop-Up hosted the world's largest chain food festival yet with much-loved chain brands like Domino's, Johnny Rockets, Cracker Barrell, White Castle, and Red Robin. Audrina Patridge did a special guest DJ Set at the Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey activation, featuring DJ POOKIE. Talent in attendance included Seth Rogen, Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Andy Cohen, BJ Novak, Mindy Kaling, Chrissy Teigen, Breckin Meyer, Minka Kelly, Leila George, Ben Robson, DeVaughn Nixon, Kelly Rizzo, Comedian Mike Young, 24k Golden, Jack's Dining Room Jack Gouldberg, Vanderpump's Brock Davies and Scheana Shay, Nick Viall and Natalie Joy, Olivia Pierson, Ashley Haas, Erin Ziering, Sofie Doss, Caitlin Erin O'Neill, Chief Keef, Kayla Malecc, Zach Justice, Austin Rivers, Arturo Castro, Anthony Adams, Jasmine Goode, Jason Nash and wife Nivine Jay, Harley Boyatt, Eustace Montgomery-Hicks, and more. Tasting stations from Cracker Barrell, Dominos, KooKooRoo, White Castle, Johnny Rockets, The Tomato Shop, Krispy Kreme, Panda Express, Red Lobster, KFC, Trader Vic's, Red Robin, Portillo's, Dutch Bros and more. Under the culinary direction of the Chain team, each brand showcased a one-of-a-kind pop-up for guests to experience their favorite chains in all-new gourmet ways.  Skrewball is the perfect combination of Peanut Butter and Whiskey. The activation featured an interactive Puppeteer contraption for festival attendees to engage in a salted shot drinking contest to compete for the Skrewball Whiskey golden belt. At the Skrewball pop-up the bar featured drinks included the "Cracker Barrell PB Sweet Tea" and a "Salty Nut Shot." Guests enjoyed the cocktails and shots all evening long, paired with the gourmet chain cuisine.

Santa Barbara-raised songwriter and versatile recording artist Maxton Hunter invites listeners into a serene, psychedelic soundscape with his debut sitar single, “Dhara / Jaya.” Maxton Hunter has explored a variety of genres throughout his career, from psychedelic pop to ambient soundscapes. His latest venture sees him diving deep into the world of Eastern music, a passion that has long intrigued him. Under the mentorship of sitar maestro Rajib Karmakar, Hunter has honed his craft, leading to the creation of his first sitar-focused single, “Dhara / Jaya.” This new song is a serene instrumental journey that blends traditional Eastern music with modern ambient and psychedelic influences. The sitar’s rich tones, complemented by subtle, psychedelic elements, make it an incredibly immersive and tranquil listening experience. The accompanying music video was shot entirely on Super 8 film, enhancing the song’s calming vibe perfectly. Set against a backdrop of lush fields, the visuals show Hunter playing the sitar in harmony with nature. The video’s minor psychedelic touches—soft color shifts and dreamy overlays—perfectly mirror the song’s mood, creating a visual experience as soothing as the music itself. As the track continues, “Dhara / Jaya” effortlessly blends Eastern traditional roots with modern flair. Hunter’s ability to merge these styles is wildly impressive, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his deep understanding of vastly different musical worlds. The result? A piece that soothes the mind, body, and soul. Experience the meditative soundscapes of Maxton Hunter’s stunning new single, “Dhara / Jaya,” now available on all digital streaming platforms. We're so impressed with your debut sitar single, "Dhara / Jaya." What inspired you to explore Eastern music and incorporate the sitar into your work? I’ve always admired South and East Asian classical and contemporary music, so properly studying and immersing myself in Indian classical, in particular, has been very rewarding. It has completely changed my perspective as a songwriter and kind of enhanced my love for songwriting. Hearing “Norwegian Wood” by The Beatles for the first time was pretty surreal as a young lad. Of course, little me had no idea what this foreign instrument was but I vividly remember just being so enamored by its rich, buzzing sound. Another honorable mention… watching the Monterey Pop concert film! I had it on DVD growing up, and this is how I finally figured out what the sitar even looked like! I was honestly quite intimidated by Ravi Shankar’s performance, but I still loved it at the time. Fast forward to 2022, I found the courage to learn the instrument and connected with the Los Angeles International Music and Arts Academy. Founder of the school and sitar maestro Rajib Karmakar became my guru, and… here I am today! The music video for DJ is visually stunning. Can you tell us about its concept and why you chose to shoot it in the Super 8 film? Visually stunning was the goal! This is actually my first music video, and it was in collaboration with my dear friend and long-time collaborator Roberto Johnson, who directed, shot, and edited everything. He did an absolutely phenomenal job and I’m genuinely so proud of all the work we put into this release. We both knew that the songs deserved something visually pleasing, so we deliberately chose locations that were meaningful and relevant: Ellwood Bluffs (Goleta), San Marcos Foothills Preserve (Santa Barbara), and Lake Shrine / Self-Realization Fellowship (Pacific Palisades). Nothing was captured digitally either, so the “thrill of risk” relying on 8mm film made us more creative, I’d say, and really committed to what we were documenting. How does DJ reflect your evolution as an artist, especially compared to your earlier work? Might you continue making Eastern-influenced songs in the future? Having produced many psychedelic and ambient records in the past, I don’t think longtime listeners of mine are too shocked that I'd be channeling this style of music now. However, I’m aware that these stand-alone sitar singles may be more polarizing for folks just discovering me, but that’s just life. Too many artists these days are trying to pump out the same songs and please an algorithm, which is a major turnoff for me. I personally love it when someone's discography takes you on a little trip around the world. My forthcoming EP – out next summer – is also produced by Ryan Pollie and will include various vocalists and blend more Eastern instrumentation with traditional Americana and my “indie” rock roots. What do you want listeners to feel when hearing a DJ? How do you want this song to impact them? I really just want people to feel a sense of calmness. For listeners unfamiliar or possibly even intimidated by Eastern music, I encourage folks to give it a chance and be open to the experience. We need to be more patient with music again. And in an era of hyper-music and sound bites, I guarantee it’ll offer a refreshing 7-minute break in your day. Website   Instagram

There’s no time to waste arguing when their moves are to be made. Born in Flint, Michigan, but currently residing in “The City of Angels,” LA-based artist Sharard Baker is on a mission to inspire—and he’s doing it with a style that blends true lyricism with his undeniable energy. Since moving to Los Angeles to chase his dreams, the talented MC has quickly built a buzz for himself. At every opportunity, he’s consistently proven himself as a storyteller with a knack for captivating audiences, both as a rapper and an actor. Baker’s journey began with his debut album, Widescreen Dreams, which dropped in the summer of 2015, followed by the 2017 mixtape F S.N.Y.D.E.R, featuring standout tracks like “Black Skin” and “I Blow Tree.” His hit single “Cookin” cemented his presence as one of the scene’s hottest underground talents in 2019, but Baker didn’t stop there. His sophomore album “Baker” arrived in 2020 to positive acclaim, followed by “Baker’s Dozen” in 2021, led by the powerful single “Proud”. On Baker’s release “New One,” the talented MC raps with the boundless energy of someone who knows his worth but is still hungry for more. Lines like “Bout to take another another flight / Watching time switch / Cuz they heard from a bird / That my rhymes hit” are delivered with a raucous energy that doubles down on his confidence, and Baker’s charisma practically drips from every line. Combined with a high-strung instrumental performance led by an aggressive yet catchy piano play, “New One” is a release that won’t be forgotten soon. As he continues to evolve, Sharard Baker remains an emphatic force in the hip-hop scene, proving that his hustle and ability to connect with listeners sets him apart in a crowded field. Welcome to Buzz, Sharard Baker! Wow, what an emphatic release “New One” was; your energy shone through here! We wanted to ask what inspired this release. The internet inspired me to make this song, lol. Over the past few years, we’ve seen a lot of viral videos in which men are embarrassed and ridiculed for the places they choose to take women on dates. Some of these situations got really ugly. I never knew why anybody would take that type of abuse, so I made a song about what I would do in that situation: not argue, just leave. What inspired you to take that initial step to seriously pursue music, and what motivates you to make music now? I’ve been pursuing music my whole life. The entertainment business is all I know! Growing up, I had a very supportive father who pushed me to be great, and that's what I want to do. Show this world there's this kid from Flint, Michigan. You all are sleeping on and have much to say, not just "New One." I made that song for you all. Listen to my music. I have so much to talk about. What was your favorite part of the creative process for making “New One,” and what’s your favorite part of the creative process usually? Being in the studio with the homies as we create new music and formulate ideas. It always starts with catching a vibe that turns into freestyling; then one person would say, "Keep that part," or "What you just said is going to be the chorus, and we'll go from there." Being in the studio is my home! What are you most excited about for the rest of the year? Getting back into acting, I'm filming a movie that will be released next year and then taking on a directorial position for my next solo project. What’s next for Sharard Baker, and is there anything you’d like to say to your fans? What's next for me? Be on the lookout for the next Corrupted By Society project with my brother and producer G Flatt, which will be released next year. Also, be on the lookout for my first conceptual project, which is also a part of my directorial debut, "Valentine's Day Heartbreak." To the fans, thank you and keep supporting and tell a friend to tell a friend; Sharard Baker is real, he is authentic, he's more than the average, he's the greatest rapper you ever downloaded, so go stream that project now! Instagram Facebook

The Pennsylvania outfit continues to evolve while staying true to its artistic roots. Lehigh Valley’s indie rockers Smooth Retsina Glow continue to embody the ethos of “expect the unexpected,” pushing the limits of their artistic boundaries with every release and live show. Known for their evolving lineup and diverse soundscapes, the band, led by Colin Wolf (guitar/vocals), Natalie Expraxia (vocals), and Quincy Wellen (drums), consistently offers new, refreshing experiences for fans. Wearing their love for music proudly on their sleeves, this talented band continues to deliver legendary performances that won’t be forgotten anytime soon. Supported by rotating bass players like Grant Wagner, Billy Voight, and Devin Wachter, Smooth Retsina Glow has risen to the occasion on every stage they’ve graced thus far. On the recording side of things, they haven’t slacked either. Building on the momentum of their single “Against Any Odds,” they released “Never Conform” in June 2024, which they quickly followed up with “Fervor” in August. Both tracks have resonated with fans and critics alike. Their latest studio album, “Through the Needle’s Eye,” dropped just in time for their high-profile performance at Bethlehem’s Musikfest, cementing their status as one of the most exciting indie rock acts to watch. In many ways, the simple yet upbeat energy of Smooth Retsina Glow’s release “ Fervor ” underscores the easy bliss that pervades their releases. “Fervor” is an electrifying blend of indie rock energy and thoughtful songwriting that grabs the listener’s attention with its driving rhythm and layered sonic textures. Emotive guitar work pairs seamlessly with the distinctive vocal delivery of Colin Wolf and Natalie Expraxia, resulting in a work that feels incredibly polished, emotionally raw, and unfiltered. Amidst lineup changes and more, Smooth Retsina Glow continues to impress, whether on the stage or in the studio. Whenever you’re ready, tap in and stream Smooth Retsina Glow’s latest release, “Fervor,” from their new album, “Through The Needle’s Eye,” on all major streaming platforms. Welcome back to Buzz, Colin from Smooth Retsina Glow. It’s great to have you back! It’s no surprise that we loved “Fervor.” We had to ask for this release as well! What was the inspiration behind “Fervor,” and how did you all feel after hearing the completed version for the first time? Fervor is currently our most popular track on streaming services and points the way to the future in the direction we want to go in musically. For starters, it is what your readers would call an " odd time signature" (5/4) with chord voicings that are extended, and the way that song progresses musically is a little more unusual, but it doesn't throw the audience off. It was the 2nd song recorded for the album, and it was just before our other co-vocalist, Natalie Expraxia, joined. Initially, I toyed with shelving the song for some time because I wasn't sure it would work properly, but thankfully, Quincy reminded me to use it. Natalie's lead vocal took the song up another level. One challenging thing, to put it lightly, is to have something sound-wise" that is your own," but I think due to the sonic textures, music components, and everyone's area of expertise, we did succeed on that- and that seems to be reflected through the album! What was your favorite part of the creative process for making this release, and what’s your favorite part of the creative process usually? It was actually a little more challenging to write - which I thought couldn't ever happen to me! Roughly the summer and early autumn of 23, after two members of the previous lineup had been fired for a combination of drugs and professional/musical incompetence and the third was politely asked to step down due to his work schedule, I began experiencing what your readers will term a "writer's block" which I thought would never happen to me. But it can happen to any writer, cliche as the saying is. Eventually, with an influence change and occasionally taking time away from active writing, one can feel reinspired, and I believe that eventually came to fruition. Also, it can be good to write on a deadline because it occasionally gets the inspiration flowing differently. Another thing I've learned is that it helps to have an excellent personal and creative relationship with your groupmates, and even though none of them knew each other at all before very recent history, working with this current lineup has been highly gratifying from a creative or music perspective, and it's an exciting prospect taking something Ive written and knowing something could change drastically in the arranging aspect of it, which makes it truly a "group" effort. Also, now that I know them musically, I'll know how to play to their strengths creatively moving ahead. What are you most excited about for the rest of the year? Currently, we are riding out the year concert-wise; virtually all the dates we have been booked up, and we are starting our booking for 25! But this latest album has undoubtedly proved to be the most cohesive sonically that we've done so far; there is a real kinship amongst the musicians, something the previous lineups didn't really have to the proper degree, and we also have been approached by promoters more and more in regards to featuring our music to college radio, or the stations we don't have presently to feature select tracks- like Fervor- to give it the push it deserves. Rage Rock Radio has started to lend their support to us, and they are already giving us that extra push that we didn't have before. Here's hoping for a big splash on that front! What was it like creating “Through The Needle’s Eye,” and if your fans could take one thing away from this album, what would you want it to be? As far as creating that specific track, it is a good contrast because even though our brand of rock has changed, we still have parts of the set where the guitars are overdriven( but we'd never go a death grind route in the foreseeable future!), and it also features odd time signatures - specifically 3 in that song! As far as what we'd like our audience to take away, essentially, this is a new lineup with a new sound, unlike what we've done previously, and this time around, every member is a group player in the fundamental sense of the word. Everyone involved in this record brings their respective strengths, as a group needs to, and in a little under a year, we've succeeded in reinventing our sound. What’s next for Smooth Retsina Glow, and is there anything you’d like to say to your fans? For starters, even though our bass subs that we have are always great to work with, we'd love and need to get another full-time bassist, especially if touring ever presents itself as a possibility - so anyone in the Lehigh Valley in PA, if you want to join a prolific band that does a wide variety of original music, select covers, and work steadily, this job is for you! So that is one aspect we will push more toward to find the right member because that will only further what we've established already. The rest of the year consists of our usual quota of shows, and we are starting to book work in 25. And you can expect a new single in 25 soon enough! Instagram

Hailing from Chicago, singer-songwriter and self-proclaimed "temper tantrum pop" artist Annie Omalley releases her highly anticipated sophomore album, "all the things that skare me." The talented up-and-comer has been making waves in the music scene with her unique blend of hyper-pop, drum and bass, and pure pop. Annie is the definition of a one-woman creative powerhouse, handling everything from songwriting to creative direction. Crafted over two years, all the things that skare me is a discussion with Annie's inner child that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable. With 5 singles from the album racking up over 800k streams, listeners are keen to hear more of Annie's journey as she tackles it with a mix of hope, excitement, and just the right amount of rebellion. The album kicks off with the spacious title track, "all the things that skare me," an exhilarating intro that perfectly sets the tone for a wild ride through Annie's world and her habit of overthinking. "2gether 4ever" follows, hitting you with a dose of nostalgia through Annie's picturesque lyrics of a love she hopes will last. In the upbeat third track, "break up partie," she flips the script on heartbreak and turns sadness into a celebration, happily uninviting her ex from this rager. As we dive deeper, "celebrations & obsessive thaughts" and "road raje" show off Annie's knack for turning everyday experiences into catchy, relatable, heavily danceable pop anthems. "diskovering why" reveals her more introspective side, realizing things about herself and her purpose on this planet—laid over a sonically delicious beat. The gentle interlude "amjo" leads into "sundaze," humming our speakers with a vibrant DnB beat and her anthemic, emotional vocals. In "klose the door," Annie sings a relatable teenage story full of love, lust, and sparks flying from every angle. The album takes an interesting turn with "ao627lk710," an exciting track with production that feels like it came straight out of a video game. "sobure" might be the most personal track on the album, as Annie expands on her tendency to immerse herself in her own darkness. "plot twyst" keep listeners on their toes with a playful breakup tune that's sure to leave you chanting the hook alongside Annie's radiant vocals. Some more DnB production slaps the speakers in track thirteen, "luckie," an incredibly cathartic track that sees Annie celebrating her newfound hope after leaving someone in the past. It's undoubtedly our favorite from the album. Landing on the outro track, "obstakles dissipate," Annie sends chills down the spine with a stunning piano ballad that leaves us with a glowing sense of hope and growth. Ready for an emotional rollercoaster? Annie Omalley's "all the things that skare me," is honest, it's messy, and it's exactly what pop needs right now. Hear it yourself and find the album on all digital streaming platforms. Welcome to Buzz, Annie! Your new album, "all the things that skare me," is an incredibly dynamic listening experience. What inspired you to create this project? Thank you so much for having me and taking the time to listen to and digest the album! As I’m sure yew can hear in the music, such a range of experiences and emotions led me to create this project. I wrote ‘celebrations & obsessive thaughts’ the day after I released my debut album, and I wrote ‘klose the door’ a few weeks later. I knew I was creating something different than I ever had, but still so authentic to me. Once I wrote ‘2gether 4ever,’ I knew this would be my next project, so I dove in. I released a 7-part series on my YouTube channel about the creation of this project because it was so intricate and intentional that I wanted to have a time capsule of the whole process. On a more personal note, what made you call your style "temper tantrum pop"? Which tracks from "all the things that skare me" do you feel resonate with this style the most? I was inspired by the inner child work I was doing, the nostalgia I was experiencing in so many sections of my life, and the urge to enjoy my life but couldn’t because of the fears I had holding me back. I decided to call this style “temper tantrum pop” because I feel like when children emote, they are most often misunderstood. We see children “acting out” and “misbehaving,” but really, they are so effortlessly and honestly expressing their emotions. We call this a “temper tantrum” and give it a negative connotation. Then, through life, they are told to “cut it out,” “don’t cry in public,” “get over it,” and “don’t be a baby,” and this forces the child to suppress their emotions. When they grow up, they constantly battle themselves between what they want to do versus what they are told they should do. This robs us of the inner peace we all deserve. When we tell ourselves not to be human, we inevitably forget to treat the people around us like humans. "all the things that skare" me touches on some pretty deep stuff. Was it 'skary' being so vulnerable and open in your songwriting? I would say that ‘2gether 4ever,’ ‘sundaze,’ and ‘break up partie’ are purely temper tantrum pop. They sound like a little girl feeling such big feelings but doesn’t have anyone to go to. It is skary, but everyone feels these things, and it’s much skarier when yew keep these thoughts inside and battle everything alone. The best feeling ever is when people reach out to me about how the song is helping them through something, or the lyrics perfectly describe their feelings. I can say this: my songwriting is only getting more honest and vulnerable the more I grow, which excites me. You did everything from writing to creative direction for "all the things that skare me." What was the most challenging part of wearing all those hats? I think the hardest part is being so attached that it becomes hard to give up control. Sometimes, it’s healthy to ask for help and to let go of the expectations or the outcomes. It’s a hard balance because this is technically my job, but I love what I do, and everything is based around my life and my feelings, so I am so consumed by it, but I wouldn't change that. If you had to pick one song from "all the things that skare me" to introduce someone to your music, which would it be and why? This is a hard question but a good one. There is something on this project for everyone. If yew want to go out, get over a breakup, or have a good time, yew’re gonna listen to ‘celebrations & obsessive thaughts,’ ‘plot twyst,’ ‘break up partie,’ ‘2gether 4ever,’ and ‘klose the door.’ If yew want to read lyrics that hit really deeply and have more of a spooky vibe, yew’re gonna listen to ‘diskovering why,’ ‘sobure,’ and ‘obstakles dissipate.’ However, if I had to pick one, I would probably choose the title track ‘all the things that skare me,’ because it encapsulates what the entire album is about to be. I need to create a world sonically when the album starts so the listeners can prepare themselves. This is why we make albums—life is much more complicated and layered than just one song portrays. Instagram