Alexander Laurence's Blog, page 161
January 31, 2025
Annabel Gutherz Shares New Single, "Dance Around It"
LISTEN HERE
Montreal-based singer-songwriter Annabel Gutherz returns today with her spellbinding new single, "Dance Around It." The track seamlessly fuses the timeless essence of classic rock with the irresistible pull of modern pop melodies, creating a rich sonic landscape that perfectly frames Annabel’s emotive vocals.
At its core, "Dance Around It" is an exploration of love’s delicate balancing act—the joy of living in the moment tempered by the quiet apprehension of the unknown. “This song captures the bittersweet joy of being deeply in love while quietly fearing its fragility,” Annabel shares. “It’s about cherishing the beauty of the present while grappling with the ‘what ifs’ that loom in the background. It’s a dance of vulnerability and courage, choosing to love fully even in the face of uncertainty.”
Recorded in Los Angeles and co-written with acclaimed songwriters Mikal Blue and Bret "Epic" Mazur, “Dance Around It” combines lush instrumentation with introspective lyricism. The result is a track that feels both intimate and expansive, offering listeners a poignant reflection on the paradox of the joy and fear that comes with love.
Hailing from Montreal, Annabel Gutherz has a gift for crafting timeless music that speaks to the universal human experience. Her signature style—marked by poignant storytelling, honeyed melodies and captivating vocals—takes listeners on a deeply emotional journey.
A graduate of the prestigious Berklee College of Music, she holds both a baccalaureate and master’s degree, which have helped her sharpen her technical skills and elevate her artistry. Since releasing her debut album Loose Ends in 2021, Annabel has continued to hone her craft, collaborating with industry heavyweights like Bleu McAuley (Selena Gomez, Demi Lovato) and Bonnie Hayes (Bonnie Raitt, Bette Midler), among others. Most recently, her original songs were featured on CBS during Big Ten College Football broadcasts, further amplifying her presence and cementing her status as an emerging artist to watch.
Listen to "Dance Around It" on all streaming platforms:
https://onerpm.link/dancearoundit
Follow Annabel Gutherz
Website
TikTok
Spotify
Alisa Xayalith (of The Naked And Famous) Announces Solo Album out April 4; Shares "What The Hell Do We Do Now?"
ALISA XAYALITH
ANNOUNCES DEBUT SOLO ALBUM
SLOW CRUSH OUT APRIL 4TH
SHARES NEW SINGLE
“WHAT THE HELL DO WE DO NOW?”
Photo Credit: Caity Krone
“Opens with bubbly guitar lines and atmospheric production before steadily blooming into a dazzling chorus dotted with sparkling synths and airy vocal acrobatics.” - Under The Radar
January 31, 2025 - New Zealand-born, Los Angeles-based artist Alisa Xayalith has announced Slow Crush, her debut solo full-length album due April 4, 2025, via Nettwerk. To celebrate the announcement, she gives us another glimpse into her diary with the new single, “What The Hell Do We Do Now?” Co-written with Jacob Munk (Wallice, Ekkstacy), the track is accompanied by a music video directed by Brandon Black.
On the spry, “What The Hell Do We Do Now?,” Xayalith explores the tension of reaching an impasse in a relationship, where all you can do is let events unfold. It’s a moment where time seems to freeze, everything lingers in a liminal state, and your mind loops around a single, unresolved question. True to its premise, the song offers no resolution or answers, leaving the lingering question: What the hell do we do now?
Xayalith shares, “I came across a songwriting tip which unlocked something in my creative process. Something along the lines of how you don’t have to be the good guy in your songwriting. The protagonist in ‘What the hell do we do now?’ is this ugly, guilty character while the rest of the record navigates my experiences with limerence, grief, and heartache.”
WATCH THE “ WHAT THE HELL DO WE DO NOW? ” VIDEO
After a decade as one-half of The Naked And Famous, Alisa Xayalith is blooming into a solo artist. With a fresh perspective and a handpicked team of collaborators, including executive producer Tyler Spry (d4vd, Tate McCrae, OneRepublic), her debut album, Slow Crush, is a collection of dreamy, intimate songs exploring love, loss, and personal growth. A fusion of her diverse background and experiences, Xayalith’s music delves into themes of triumph, heartbreak, and resilience, reflecting the complexities of human connection.
Regarding her debut album, Xayalith reveals, "As I explored my identity as an artist, I found myself yearning for a safe space to grow. The only way I knew how to create that environment was by committing to prioritize my well-being, and as I did, love and romance began to spill into various aspects of my life. This blossoming ultimately inspired the creation of these songs and, eventually, the album - reminiscent of the gradual buildup of a slow crush over time.”
The new track “What The Hell Do We Do Now?” follows her previous singles “Chaotic,” “Ordinary Love,” “Boys & Guitars,” and “Roses.” The crisply percussive and chiming “Chaotic” is a humorous take on what it feels like to live with an anxious attachment style. “Ordinary Love” is a vibrant pop anthem that celebrates the beauty and simplicity of everyday romance. The Frou Frou-esque “Boys & Guitars” is a nostalgic and wizened look back at romanticizing boys in bands. Taking inspiration from the Carpenters’ classic gem “Superstar,” Alisa writes from the perspective of a lovestruck fan. With "Roses," Alisa invites listeners to embrace the messy beauty of love, the strength found in weathering storms together, and the unwavering hope for a brighter future.
Alisa Xayalith - Slow Crush LP Tracklist:
Alone With You
What The Hell Do We Do Now?
Kiss Me Like You're So In Love
Boys & Guitars
Ordinary Love
Different Light
Chaotic
When You Were Mine
Roses
Romance Is Dead
Alisa Xayalith Socials:
Stream the enchanting new album from Rosa Bordallo, 'Isidro'
STREAM: Isidro -
Spotify / Bandcamp / Apple / TIDAL
Press photo by Varvara Mikushkina
Rosa Bordallo (f/k/a Manett) is a singer-songwriter and a Chamorro from the island of Guam. She has been living in New York City since the age of 19, and has written,
recorded, and released several albums and EPs as a solo artist and as a member of the indie rock band, cholo. Her second full-length solo album, Isidro, is out today.
"I picked up guitar in high school, and I started writing songs right away. Being a
performer both terrified and beckoned me."
She supported her musical projects with money made working an office job and
moonlighting as a restaurant host, before switching full-time to the service industry.
Between rehearsals, recording sessions, shows, and the day job, she also juggled
being a single parent.
"Music has always been my outlet, my pressure valve. I was a really shy and awkward
kid, but I loved listening to the albums that my older siblings brought back from the
[United] States. Artists like Björk, PJ Harvey, David Bowie and Pixies. I wanted to have
an impact the way those musicians impacted me, on the other side of the world."
It's the other side of the world that concerns her more and more these days. Her
homeland in the Pacific is not just threatened by climate change. The Mariana Islands is one of the most militarized places on the planet - America's so-called tip of the spear-and the people of Guam are facing yet another buildup of the American military bases that occupy over a third of the island.
"I wrote these songs in 2021 and 2022, in the shadow of the pandemic and New York
City's recovery. I was grieving personal tragedies as well as the collective loss. It was
the realization that my ancestors survived their own catastrophic near-demise that gave me perspective. I'm a survivor. We all are."
Bordallo composed all the music and lyrics for the album, but when it came time to
recording it, she enlisted the help of Ben Etter, a recording engineer and producer
based out of MAZE Studios in Atlanta. His work with Deerhunter and Hazel English,
among others, had impressed Bordallo.
"I found Ben from the album credits of one of my favorite albums. I reached out and sent him some examples of my work, and when he agreed to work on the album, I was overjoyed. He gave me the encouragement I needed."
At Etter's suggestion, Bordallo finished writing and recording all her demos in advance of their recording session. Etter and Bordallo tracked the album in eight days at MAZE Studios. Atlanta musicians Sean Zearfoss filled in on drums and Keegan Krogh provided production assistance.
The result is a heady blend of indie pop and lush, psychedelic electro-rock. At turns
grand and intimate, the dulcet tones of Bordallo’s voice thread through a rich and
polyphonic tapestry of shimmering synths, lively rhythms, and searing guitar solos.
The last song on the 10-track album is also its first single, and its ironic tongue-in-cheek title belies the blistering emotionality of its orchestral rock wall-of-sound. Just like the rest of the album, “I Feel Numb” leaves the listener feeling anything but.
"Why? To remember, all we know of Heaven, to remember, we are still here"
- Maria Popova
"All your weapons won’t prevail"
- Jules Laforgue
"Don’t forget love; it will bring all the madness you need to unfurl yourself across the Universe"
- Mirabai
TOUR DATES
FEB 7 - NEW YORK, NY - Indoor Indians @ Lincoln Center
DESIRE share new single/video "The Judge". Album 'Games People Play' out March 21st via Italians Do It Better.
- Album 'Games People Play' out March 21st via Italians Do It Better
Desire announces new album Games People Play, an eclectic labyrinth of love, power, & deception where every move counts, out March 21st via Italians Do It Better and today is sharing new single "
The Judge
" alongside a video directed by Kirill Nong.Games People Play unfolds like a game of chess—Desire as the queen, fate as the dealer, & love as the ultimate wager. Set against Johnny Jewel's signature cinematic curtain, the record guides players through a shadowy dance floor where strategy & surrender blur. In this world of passion, the line between predator & prey is razor-thin, & every lover is a contender on heartbreak's edge. Checkmate is inevitable—but who will make the final move?
"In the age of omnipresent surveillance...Machines track our every move while friends stalk our every groove. Take matters into your own hands...be the judge & jury of your own timeline. Life is too short, so forget the lurkers & love the jerkers. Time is running out & court is now adjourned." - Desire on "The Judge"
"The Judge" on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8n0rBUEejE
"The Judge" video stills:
Games People Play tracklist:
1. Darkside
2. Dangerous Drug
3. Dream Girl
4. Human Nature
5. Sometimes
6. Vampire
7. The Judge
8. Drama Queen
9. Russian Roulette
10. Love Races On
11. Cold As Ice
12. Réflexion Sous La Pluie
13. Tell It To My Heart
14. I Know
15. Love Theme
16. Demons In The Rain
17. Othello
18. I See Black
Games People Play artwork:
Links:
Desire Facebook
Desire Instagram
Italians Do It Better Twitter
Cymande new album 'Renascence' out today
LEGENDARY BRITISH BAND
RELEASE THEIR HIGHLY ANTICIPATED NEW ALBUM
RENASCENCE
OUT NOW – LISTEN HERE
ANNOUNCE EUROPEAN HEADLINE DATES FOR OCTOBER 2025
U.S. TOUR BEGINS NEXT MONTH
NEW SINGLE
COLTRANE
LISTEN HERE // WATCH VIDEO HERE
Download album cover here
“As Cymande urges listeners to heed the lessons of “yesterday,” the music embodies them.”
– The New York Times
“Now, with Renascence, Cymande reaches further into the vibrant spiritual and musical tapestry they started weaving all those years ago.”
– NPR Music
“Cymande returns with a haze of engrossing funk”
– OkayPlayer
“It’s powerful to hear such storied innovators still.”
– Relix
“living up to the sky-high standards of their 70s arc, it’s a heady dose of spiritual funk that leans into the free expression of jazz.”
– Clash Magazine
“A well-deserved victory lap… Renascence finds Cymande firmly in the pocket”
– MOJO
READ NEW YORK TIMES FEATURE HERE
January 31, 2025 – Today, legendary British band Cymande release their highly anticipated new album, Renascence, released today via BMG – listen here. Also released today is new single “Coltrane,” a jazz-infused hommage to the legendary artist and activist - listen here.
In addition to their US tour, which kicks off in New York City at Irving Plaza on February 13, hitting major cities including Chicago, DC and Los Angeles, Cymande today have announced a brand new European headline tour, with dates in Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam and more – full dates below. Tickets for all shows will go on sale next Friday February 7th.
A true return to form and jewel in the crown of their iconic discography, Renascence picks up where their 1974 album Promised Heights left off – a spiritual and sonic follow-up, bringing a fresh modern edge to their iconic sound, which remains foundational to early hip-hop and funk scenes in the United States and UK. Renascence tells the story of a band that never fully got its due back in the day; but are back to take the crown by remaining true to themselves – politically aware, and spiritually positive with infectious grooves.
Their latest single “Coltrane,” out today, is a nod to the multi-faceted legacy of John Coltrane and exemplifies Cymande’s long-held deep jazz influences. “Coltrane” strikes a balance between tight arrangement and a loose comfort, dancing between genres like funk, jazz and Caribbean, that meld so naturally. Its slinking bassline, modal jazz influences, atmospheric shimmers of strings and wails of horns, including saxophone, all underscore the refrain, “Music is the message that creation sent.”
Guitarist Patrick Patterson says, “It came out of an original rhythm track that Ray [vocalist] put together called Early Morning. The rhythm created certain picture ideas in one’s mind which led to the way we developed the lyric. Also it had a jazzy thing, which brought about the concept about writing something relating to Coltrane. That’s a real three-part thing we put together with everybody making their contribution. I suspect it’s the same for all black musicians, what Coltrane represents in terms of artistry is the pursuit of the highest possible quality.”
Bassist, Steve Scipio adds “And Coltrane was also political! He wasn’t just an artist, and that was also one of the attractions. Although a quiet man by nature, he was aware of the issues that affected black people. This song is in recognition of his music, his creativity and his importance as a jazz musician.”
Photo Credit: Dean Chalkley | Download here
Renascence has everything both old fans and new would want from a Cymande album – spacious, haunting grooves that build over time, letting saxophones wail, drumbeats echo, and guitars trill – see “Coltrane,” “How We Roll (feat. Jazzie B) and “I Wanna Know.” Upbeat soulful dance breaks on “The Darkest Night” and “Carry The World,” and soulful ballads like “Only One Way” (featuring Celeste) on lead vocals, and “Road To Zion” all coalesce into one of the most powerful comeback records, from a band with a lot to say. Produced by Ben Baptie, Cymande is led by its founding members Patrick Patterson (guitars, vocals) & Steve Scipio (bass, vocals). The band also comprises long time members, Keyboardist Adrian Reid and vocalist Raymond Simpson, with the full complement of players being Richard Bailey (Drums), Donald Gamble (Percussion), Denys Baptiste (Saxophone) Kevin Davy (Trumpet) and Toni Kofi (Saxophone).
Renascence will be available starting today to stream, download, on CD and on black vinyl at all major retailers. A limited edition transparent coral vinyl edition will be made available on the band’s official online store and at select indie retail accounts.
Renascence Track list:
Chasing An Empty Dream Road To Zion Only One Way (Featuring Celeste)ColtraneSweedenHow We Roll Featuring Jazzie B)Heart Of The WillingI Wanna Know Darkest Night Carry the WordCYMANDE TOUR DATES
US TOUR DATES
FEB 13 - New York, NY - Irving Plaza
FEB 14 - Philadelphia, PA - Ardmore Music Hall
FEB 15 - Washington DC - Howard Theatre
FEB 18 - Chicago, IL - Metro
FEB 19 - Minneapolis, MN - Varsity Theatre
FEB 21 - Denver, CO – Bluebird
FEB 22 - Seattle, WA – Crocodile
FEB 23 - Portland, OR - Aladdin Theater
FEB 26 - San Francisco, CA - August Hall*
FEB 28 - Los Angeles, CA - The Bellwether
EUROPEAN TOUR DATES
MAY 25 – Cross The Tracks Festival – London
OCT 7 - Copenhagen, DK - Vega
OCT 8 - Berlin, DE - Huxley’s Neue Welt
OCT 10 - The Hague, NL - Paard
OCT 11 - Amsterdam, NL - Paradiso
OCT 13 - Brussels, BE - Cirque Royal
OCT 14 - Paris, FR - La Cigale
OCT 16 - Manchester, UK - Albert Hall
OCT 17 - London, UK O2 Academy Brixton
The Weeknd new album/performance/video out now
THE WEEKND OFFICIALLY RELEASES HEAVILY ANTICIPATED NEW ALBUM HURRY UP TOMORROW
OUT NOW VIA XO / REPUBLIC RECORDS; LISTEN HERE
Watch Performance of “Open Hearts” on Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Watch it HERE
Global superstar The Weeknd has officially released his highly anticipated studio album, Hurry Up Tomorrow via XO / Republic Records. The new album follows a record breaking 2024, during which The Weeknd became the first artist in history to have 27 songs with over 1 billion streams each on Spotify. Hurry Up Tomorrow serves as the final and most personal chapter of the diamond-certified artist’s acclaimed trilogy series following After Hours (2020) and Dawn FM (2022). Check out the full tracklisting below.
The Weeknd appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! this evening and performed a unique version of “Open Hearts”. Watch it HERE.
Proceeds from the album track “Take Me Back To LA” will be donated to LA Regional Food Bank, who are providing emergency food assistance to those directly impacted by the LA wildfires. Originally scheduled for release on January 24th followed by a one-night-only Rose Bowl concert, Hurry Up Tomorrow was postponed due to the devastating effects of the Palisades and Eaton Fires. Out of respect for those impacted by the crisis, The Weeknd chose to cancel the planned album release concert at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl and donated 1 million dollars to LAFD Foundation, GoFundMe’s Wildfire Relief Fund, and LA Regional Food Bank.
In partnership with Spotify, The Weeknd also announced the Hurry Up Tomorrow “Pop Up Experience” that will take place Friday, January 31st - Sunday February 2nd in NYC. The Experience is an experiential art installation that will transport fans on a journey through the mind of The Weeknd in his final act of this trilogy. There will also be a retail portion of this event showcasing a collection of exclusive products - genuine leather jackets, a bomber jacket, custom fleece, tees + long sleeves as well as hats and bandanas. Hurry Up Tomorrow music product will also be available for purchase.You can find more information HERE.
Specialty retailer Hot Topic will also showcase an extensive Hurry Up Tomorrow album collection, including tees, hoodies, posters, and more, as well as The Weeknd x Frank Miller Hurry Up Tomorrow collector's edition vinyl. These items will be available at all Hot Topic stores nationwide and online at hottopic.com. In addition, Hot Topic has announced an exciting Hurry Up Tomorrow “takeover” event, taking place from Friday, January 31st, to Sunday, February 2nd, at its Downtown Summerlin store in Las Vegas, NV. During this exclusive event, the store will transform into a Hurry Up Tomorrow retail experience, featuring a limited-edition collection, including a highly anticipated The Weeknd x Frank Miller Hurry Up Tomorrow apparel capsule – available only in Las Vegas at the “takeover.” For more information, follow @hottopicmusic.
The Weeknd initially built anticipation for the project by unveiling the album’s cover and announcing a one night only special stadium concert at Estádio Morumbi in São Paulo. The performance, streamed exclusively on YouTube, drew millions of global viewers and featured surprise appearances from Playboi Carti and Anitta. The sold-out event became the top-trending music performance in the U.S. and trended in 24 other countries, further cementing The Weeknd’s status as a global music icon. “Timeless”, heavily anticipated by fans after being teased during his São Paulo performance, debuted in the Top 3 on Billboard’s Hot 100.
Later this year, The Weeknd will also star alongside Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan in a feature film inspired by his new album. Hurry Up Tomorrow is written and directed by Trey Edward Schults for Lionsgate and will release May 16, 2025, exclusively in theaters. The psychological thriller is both inspired by and features new music from The Weeknd, who scored the film with Daniel Lopatin.
HURRY UP TOMORROW TRACKLIST
Wake Me Up
Cry For Me
I Can’t Fucking Sing
São Paulo
Until We’re Skin & Bones
Baptized In Fear
Open Hearts
Opening Night
Reflections Laughing
Enjoy The Show
Given Up On Me
I Can’t Wait To Get There
Timeless
Niagara Falls
Take Me Back To LA
Big Sleep
Give Me Mercy
Drive
The Abyss
Red Terror
Without a Warning
Hurry Up Tomorrow
Watch The Weeknd’s “Timeless” featuring Playboi Carti here.
Caroline Romano Releases New Single, "IDK These Days" | New EP Out February 21st
'HOW THE GOOD GIRLS DIE' EP OUT 2/21
Nashville-based alt-pop artist Caroline Romano returns with her latest single, “IDK These Days,” offering a raw and introspective preview of her upcoming EP, 'How The Good Girls Die,' set for release on February 21st. This new track follows a string of successful releases including “Body Bag,” “Pretty Boys,” and “Born To Want More," all of which will be included on the 'How The Good Girls Die' EP next month.
“IDK These Days” showcases Caroline’s knack for blending vulnerability with compelling storytelling. The minimalist arrangement emphasizes her poignant lyrics and heartfelt vocal delivery, making it one of the most emotionally charged tracks on the EP. “I wrote ‘IDK These Days’ during a period of inexplicable anger and frustration,” Caroline shares. “It’s about the little things—like snow and traffic—that used to be trivial, suddenly becoming overwhelming. It’s that unsettling feeling when even your mom notices you’re not yourself, and you’re stuck in this state of discontent, feeling like a middle schooler again.”
Caroline further reflects, “The song speaks to the fear that these emotions might linger longer than desired. It’s about the struggle of being honest when asked how you’re doing and admitting, ‘I don’t know these days.’ While these feelings are fleeting, in the moment, they feel all-consuming. This song is my way of confronting those emotions head-on, admitting them aloud, and finding solace in that admission.”
Caroline Romano has established herself as a versatile artist, effortlessly transitioning between misty-eyed ballads and fiery alt-rock anthems. Since the release of her 2022 debut album, Oddities and Prodigies, and her subsequent 2023 EP, 'A Brief Epic,' Caroline has continued to come into her own as an artist, revealing new layers of her artistry with each release.
With the forthcoming release of 'How The Good Girls Die,' Caroline pushes her creative boundaries further, promising a collection of tracks that offer an honest, unfiltered look into her world. 'How The Good Girls Die' will be out February 21st.
Listen to "IDK These Days" on all streaming platforms:
https://onerpm.link/idkthesedays
Pre-Save 'How The Good Girls Die' EP:
https://onerpm.link/175217417040
Photos by Hayley Mikell Follow Caroline RomanoWebsite
TikTok
Spotify
YouTube
iyla Releases New Single "Overboard"
IYLA OFFERS FIRST TASTE OF NEW MUSIC IN 2025, WITH SOULFUL NEW SINGLE “OVERBOARD” -
OUT NOW
LISTEN
“OVERBOARD”
Rising R&B/Soul singer iyla returns today with her first offering of new music in 2025, in the form of the refreshingly hypnotic “Overboard.”
“Got you floating up defying gravity. No need to talk about it, no we don’t waste time. Fingers tips they dancing on my waist line,” she coos over pulsating beats, before taking it to the chorus, “I’m gon’ have you begging me for more. Tell me are you sure? Begging me for more. Ready to go overboard. Imma have you begging me for more.” Describing the new track, iyla reveals, “’Overboard’ is a soulful vocal rollercoaster that exudes sexiness and confidence that splashes you in the face.”
Listen to “Overboard” HERE .
“Overboard” follows the release of last year’s “Strut,” (LISTEN) an in your face, no holds barred banger, hailed by Rated R&B as “a much-needed bounce-back anthem,” with VIBE proclaiming, “in the world of blue-eyed soul, iyla is back,” calling the song “a bold contrast from her ballad, ‘Blue Eyes,’ iyla’s beautiful and emotional ballad, released one year after the passing of her beloved mother and best friend, following a hard-fought eighteen month battle with cancer. The official music video for “Blue Eyes,” directed by iylaincorporates nostalgic snippets from childhood videos and sees iyla paying tribute to her mother, tossing roses into the ocean, in a beautiful, heart-wrenching homage.
Watch the official music video for “Blue Eyes” HERE .
Since the release of iyla’s debut EP, ‘
War + Raindrops
,’ (including fan favorites ‘
Juice
’ and ‘
Flowers
’) its subsequent follow-up, 2020’s ‘
OTHER WAYS TO VENT
’ (featuring standouts
‘Strings
,’ ‘
Tattoo Tears
’ and the Method Man-assisted ‘
CASH RULES
’) and most recently, 2023’s
Appetite For Disaster
’ (including ‘
Impala (Feat. Symba)
, and ‘
Lost Me (Feat. Benny The Butcher)
’) the young Los Angeles-born artist -- whose influences include Destiny’s Child, Brandy, Aaliyah, SZA, Kehlani and H.E.R – has amassed more than 200 million streams across all platforms. She has achieved Top 40 success at rhythmic radio, been appointed by YouTube Music as one of their Foundry Artists (following in the footsteps of ROSALÍA and Dua Lipa), reached No. 11 on iTunes’ R&B charts, No. 16 on Apple Music’s R&B charts, and was named by Complex as one of their top 20 R&B artists to watch in 2023. In addition, iyla has opened for Demi Lovato and headlined her first ever North American tour with sell out shows in San Francisco, New York, Chicago, and Toronto, to name a few. With 3 EPs under her belt, iyla has received critical acclaim from the likes of FADER, V Magazine, NYLON, MTV, and Vogue.Stay tuned for more news and music from iyla, coming soon.
“Overboard” is available everywhere today .
Apple Music | Spotify
Official Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube
January 30, 2025
New Wave classic from PEARL HARBOR & THE EXPLOSIONS reissued with bonus tracks
OF PEARL HARBOR & THE EXPLOSIONS, A 1979 BAY AREA
NEW WAVE NUGGET FROM THE BAND OF THE SAME NAME
PEARL HARBOR & THE EXPLOSIONS TOURED THE U.S.,
SHARING STAGES WITH TALKING HEADS,
THE POLICE, THE CLASH, AND THE B-52's
PEARL HARBOR & THE EXPLOSIONS ARRIVES IN STORES APRIL 25
ON SKY-BLUE VINYL, CD, AND DOWNLOAD,
ALL FEATURING BONUS TRACKS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | January 30, 2025 — Liberation Hall today shares details of its expanded edition re-release of the sole album from San Francisco new wave band, Pearl Harbor & the Explosions. Originally issued by Warner Bros. Records in January 1980, the self-titled album anticipated the phenomenal rise of MTV the following year as it featured videoclips for the tracks “Drivin’” and “You Got It (Release It)/Up and Over.” The expanded edition CD and download will feature seven bonus tracks while the “opaque sky-blue” vinyl LP will feature one. All formats are released April 25 and will be distributed by MVD Entertainment Group (USA). Pre-order is available now on Bandcamp.
Pearl Harbor & the Explosions formed in 1978 during the same San Francisco punk rock/new wave uprising that brought forth Romeo Void, Dead Kennedys, the Avengers, the Mutants, the Units, Tuxedomoon, and many others. However, Pearl Harbor & the Explosions were more tuneful and melodic than their brethren, taking cues from local pop/rock group the Tubes with whom singer Pearl E. Gates had gotten her start as a backup singer and dancer. When Gates was recruited from the Tubes to join Jane Dornacker in her band Leila and the Snakes, she met brothers Hilary and John Hanes (who billed themselves with the surname “Stench”). After 18 months, the trio decided to split from the Snakes and go in their own direction. Pearl (vocals, percussion), Hilary (bass, vocals) and John (drums, vocals) recruited guitarist Peter Dunne (stage name “Peter Bilt”) and Pearl Harbor & the Explosions were born.
YOUTUBE SHARE: "Drivin'" by Pearl Harbor & the Explosions
Based on the success of debut single “Drivin’” — which sold 10,000 copies for the fledgling 415 Records — Pearl Harbor & the Explosions were quickly signed by Warner Bros. Records. The band name “The Explosions” and Pearl’s name switch from Gates to “Harbor” were done in the spirit of the punk rock times during which they were working. However, Gates now admits that the names caused trouble, especially when it came to conservative-leaning radio stations. “Yes, we were met with resistance,," Gates told Insounder.com last year. “But to be honest, I didn’t really care because I just wanted to do what I wanted to do. That’s how I’ve always been and I’m still that way… But it’s true that it wasn’t a very smart move to call the band Pearl Harbor & the Explosions because Americans did not like it.”
The group’s self-titled debut album was an early production by David Kahne, who went on to work with the Bangles, Tony Bennett, and Paul McCartney, among many others. For historical perspective, Pearl Harbor & the Explosions was released at the start of January 1980, during the same month that the world learned the name Chrissie Hynde with the arrival of The Pretenders’ debut album. In addition to “Drivin’,” Pearl Harbor & the Explosions’ debut featured eight tracks that presented a unique blend of pop, R&B, rockabilly, jazz, and new wave energy. The jangly pop-rocker “You Got It (Release It)” was another spirited track that won favor at radio.
After a year on the road, Gates was feeling disenchanted by the direction of the band, with Bilt and the Stench Brothers wanting to go in a more “jazz fusion” direction. Much to the displeasure of Warner Bros., she decided to take a walk. “I wanted to be in a rock & roll band and they didn’t,” summed up Gates. The singer soon got her wish as she moved to London, hooked up with members of the Clash and Ian Dury’s Blockheads, and recorded the fervent rockabilly platter, Don’t Follow Me, I’m Lost Too (1980). The album was given a new lease on life in 2023 when it was also released in an expanded edition by Liberation Hall.
Gates, who is now in remission after a cancer diagnosis, enjoyed last year’s promotion for Don’t Follow Me, I’m Lost Too, and is eager to share her memories of Pearl Harbor & the Explosions. Liberation Hall will be releasing the same tracklist of the album that was reissued in 2019 by Blixa Sounds — including live covers of Ron Wood’s “I Can Feel the Fire,” Nick Lowe’s “Let’s Eat,” and Joe Bennett & the Sparkletones’ “Black Slacks” — but is now out of print. The CD, vinyl LP and download will all feature rare photography from Pearl’s archive alongside a liner notes essay by author and former San Francisco Chronicle music columnist Joel Selvin. Longtime fans of the band might be surprised by the album cover. Liberation Hall’s new package will feature the original UK album jacket, which is a colorful photo of the band, rather than Warners’ stateside 1980 design of an orange logo against a black background.
PEARL HARBOR & THE EXPLOSIONS – Pearl Harbor & The Explosions (LP: LIB-2126; CD/DL: LIB-2125)
TRACKLIST: 1. Drivin’ | 2. You Got It (Release It) | 3. Don’t Come Back | 4. Keep Going | 5. Shut Up and Dance | 6. The Big One | 7. So Much for Love | 8. Get a Grip on Yourself | 9. Up and Over | 10. Busy Little B Side | 11. Drivin’ (415 Single Version) * | 12. Release It (415 Single Version) * | 13. Let’s Eat (Nick Lowe; Live 1979) * | 14. Black Slacks (Jimmy Denton, Joe Bennett; Live 1979) * | 15. I Can Feel the Fire (Ron Wood; Live 1979) * | 16. 1979 Radio Spot *
* Bonus tracks available on CD and download
Tracks 1-9 appeared on the Warner Bros. Records album, Pearl Harbor & the Explosions.
Tracks 1-10 appear on Liberation Hall’s 2025 vinyl LP reissue of Pearl Harbor & the Explosions.
Track 10 appeared as the B-side of the Warners 45 RPM single, “You Got It (Release) It.”
Tracks 11 & 12 appeared on the “Drivin’ 45 RPM single released in 1979 by 415 Records.
Tracks 13-16 appeared on the 2019 expanded edition album from Blixa Sounds.
PEARL HARBOR & THE EXPLOSIONS at the video shoot for "Drivin';
L to R: John Stench, Hilary Stench, Pearl E. Gates, Peter Bilt
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Gates of Light Share "Advance" Video, 'Gates Of Light II' LP Out Feb. 14th on Vinyl + DSPS via Last Night From Glasgow
Gates Of Light II LP Out Feb. 14th on Vinyl + DSPS
via Last Night From Glasgow
Photo Credit: Brian SweeneyWATCH/LISTEN & SHARE: Gates of Light - "Advance"Stream | Watch Praise For Gates of Light:
‘I just love the vibe! Very much a Glasgow headspace…’
-AMY LAME, BBC RADIO 6 MUSIC
‘Blissed out, mellow and beautiful’
-VIC GALLOWAY, BBC RADIO SCOTLAND
‘Absolutely gorgeous’
-JANICE FORSYTH, BBC RADIO SCOTLAND
'Electro Queen Lou'
-RICK FULTON, DAILY RECORD
'A tour de force'
-POSTCARDS FROM THE UNDERGROUND
-IS THIS MUSIC
Dream-pop collective Gates of Light unveil the captivating music video for their new single, Advance, which is out now via Last Night From Glasgow. This mesmerising visual narrative offers fans a glimpse into the band's forthcoming Gates Of Light II Vinyl Edition, set for release on February 14th, 2025. Shot in the iconic Berkeley Suite in Glasgow, the video combines the moody allure of cult classics with a whimsical tale of love, nostalgia, and nightlife.
Directed by award-winning filmmaker Uisdean Murray, the music video takes inspiration from the moody aesthetics of The Hunger and Only Lovers Left Alive. It tells the story of Tristan and Isolde, a pair of 297-year-old clubbers whose nocturnal escapades spark nostalgia and a yearning for forgotten times. Shot at the iconic Berkeley Suite in Glasgow—the very place where Gates of Light collaborators Louise Quinn and Scott Fraser first met 12 years ago—the video brings to life a whimsical, vampiric narrative steeped in dark humour and retro-futuristic allure.
Director Uisdean Murray on the video: “Collaborating with Louise Quinn on a music video is always an exciting experience, filled with intriguing ideas. The challenges and time constraints of low-budget filmmaking often inspire fresh creativity, and this shoot was no exception. As always, we had a fantastic cast and crew, including longtime collaborator Ray Tallan behind the camera, all of whom felt perfectly at home filming in a nightclub for vampires.”
Louise Quinn reflects on the shoot: “It’s always a pleasure to work with Uisdean and Ray on a new film project and Scott was fangtsatic (!) in his acting debut as Tristan, one half of a couple of aging clubbers who are nocturnal and slightly anemic! The Berkeley Suite was the perfect venue to capture the atmosphere, and shooting there was extra special since it’s where Scott and I first met. The cast and crew were incredible, and I’m thrilled with the results."
Advance channels the infectious grooves of Blondie with the shimmering sheen of Giorgio Moroder. Originally conceived as an expansive 8:25 opus, the track has been reimagined into a radio-friendly cut by legendary pop producer Yoad Nevo (SIA, Air, Goldfrapp), delivering an irresistible sound. Louise shares:
“I wrote the words and vocal melody on a sunny day whilst riding the number 6 bus into Glasgow. When collaborating with Scott, I often imagine he’s sampled an old record he found in a charity shop. Recording the vocal, I pictured myself as a 70s soul-jazz singer named Tina Sparkle.”
Scott adds: “I wanted to create a disco track for this record. Inspiration struck when I revisited Body Double by De Palma—that iconic Frankie Goes to Hollywood scene. DMX, matrix vibes, arpeggios… it all fell into place. This track feels like an advance, pushing forward but rooted in classic vibes.”
Previous Gates Of Light II releases, including the Glasgow Edition (featuring Finlay MacDonald) and the Paris Edition (produced by French trip-hop legend Kid Loco), have garnered widespread radio support from BBC Radio Scotland, BBC 6 Music, and Amazing Radio, with their first single Embrace The Night named Single of the Week by The Afternoon Show. The second EP The Paris Edition produced by French trip-hop legend Kid Loco also received strong support at radio.
Gates of Light - "Advance"GATES OF LIGHT LINKSInstagram | Facebook |X | Soundcloud | Spotify
