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Best Reissue Campaign of 2025: The Great Motown Sounds

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Best Reissue Campaign of 2025: The Great Motown Sounds

Best Reissue Campaign of 2025: The Great Motown Sounds – by Tony Mastrianni.

For those of you who appreciate classic Motown soul music, the label, in affiliation with international  Elemental Music, released some 29 great all-time classic Motown albums on special 140-gram virgin vinyl LPs. The release campaign began in 2024 and concluded toward the end of calendar year 2025. The LPs were issued incrementally, released in installments every few months throughout the campaign, which was driven by REYBEE Inc. (one of the most prestigious music public relations firms on the East Coast).

These essential soul albums of the 60’s and 70’s were among Motown’s and affiliated label, Tamla’s greatest early treasured releases.  The project has dazzled collectors with some of the greatest soul music of all time. Many were issued in stereo, though some in unadulterated monaural; some were color vinyl variants. The ability to acquire original pressings of these very reissues was not an easy come-by.  If you are a discerning collector, seeking these original pressings in near-perfect condition, you must be aware that you will likely pay a hefty price to obtain them.  However, Elemental Music has made it easy and possible for you to acquire a fresh vinyl LP of these original pressings with each release in the series.  It is important to understand that Elemental has not reproduced these vinyl records with an audiophile mentality in mind, what they have done is to make it possible for collectors to obtain the absolute best reimagined copies of these original pressings: First and foremost, the label has not reproduced these vinyl records with heavy weight audiophile variants as part of their mission. As opposed to modern 180-gram weight modern pressings, they have resolved to not stray away from the original 140-gram standard weight pressings on which these classic releases were originally manufactured. As well, the label was not looking to change or reimagine the visual aspects beyond what the originals were presented with. These are straight ahead, virtually carbon copy reissues by way of mimicry, both visually and physically, all from the original master tapes with original cover and back cover artwork, and (most of the time) the original side label layouts. Imagine going back to the classic era of Soul, and acquiring one of these original pressings.

This series of albums saw the launching of many of the classic Motown releases into the retail music market until it had fulfilled its 29-title commitment.

Let us take a closer look at a few that were reissued during this campaign:

THE SUPREMES ‘MORE HITS BY THE SUPREMES’

. It is an original Motown release which contains the number four and five hits in a row, “Stop! In The Name Of Love,” and “Back In My Arms Again,” respectively. It has “Nothing But Heartaches” as well, which is the tune that charted at number eleven on “Billboard” ending the number one streak at five. Interesting to note is that this 1965 album demonstrates the famous three-woman singers’ showcase of sound. They competed head-to-head with the Beatles for the number One slot with two different songs. All these songs on the LP were written by Holland-Dozier-Holland. The two number Ones are “Stop! In The Name of Love” and “Back In My Arms Again. (Also available in this series is The Supremes WE REMEMBER SAM COOKE and A BIT OF LIVERPOOL (mono edition).  Also reissued were I HEAR A SYMPHONY (green vinyl); and LOVE CHILD.

SMOKEY ROBINSON &THE MIRACLES ‘MAKE IT HAPPEN’ (mono)

This album found international success in 1967. It had two different lives!  First issued as ‘Make It Happen,” and then issued as ‘Tears Of A Clown’. This was just one of several hits; however, the track “Tears…” hit number one in England as well as the U.S. The version on this second release features an alternate lead vocal track by Smokey.  The track was co-written by Robinson and Stevie Wonder. Here it is in blue vinyl and a gatefold cover sleeve!

TEMPATIONS ‘PSYCHEDELIC SHACK’

Motown decided to cash in on the psychedelic trend. While it does not challenge the psych-movement in late ’60s music, it does touch upon social awareness and politics. This song and a few others did well on the charts—going to No.7 on Billboard, and Motown had joined the contemporary era! Also featured is a strong take of the Edwin Starr hit “War.”  Starr received acclaim for doing a remake of this hit a couple of years later.  This LP also features the original front and back cover artwork.  It was the last album Eddie Kendricks did with this classic soul group before embarking on a solo career. Also check out the other remastered albums by the Temptations: MEET THE TEMPTATIONS, CLOUD NINE ,  SOLID ROCK, and  SKY’S THE LIMIT.

FOUR TOPS (self-titled)  MONO.

You cannot say Motown without mentioning THE FOUR TOPS.  This was their debut 1965 LP, spawning the new Motor City Soul Sound.  It includes the smash hits “Ask The Lonely” and, “Baby I Need Your Loving.” A solid first step in perhaps the most formidable Motown four-singer band of all. The original MONO sound is captured flawlessly and spawned the career of this quartet. Who can forget the sublime baritone vocals of Levi Stubbs and company.  Also, check out the group’s other reissued album in this series, STILL WATERS RUNS DEEP.

While all albums in this reissue campaign merit mention, let us present a few more that were reissued as 140-gram LPs.  These include:

–MARVIN GAYE’S IN THE GROOVE; and WHEN I’M ALONE I CRY  (mono)

THE JACKSON FIVE GET IT TOGETHER (red vinyl & die-cut cover); and THIRD ALBUM (red vinyl)

EDDIE KENDRICKS PEOPLE HOLD ON…

GLADYS KNIGHT & THE PIPS  NEITHER OF US WANTS BE THE ONE  TO SAY GOODBYE

THE UNDISPUTED TRUTH (self-titled)

While some might consider these releases to be novel, let me emphasize that this limited-edition series is selling out fast and some titles are already fetching handsome prices on the secondary collectors’ market.

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On a personal note, A short time ago, I was in Orlando, Florida, and stopped in the MOTOWN CAFÉ for lunch.  The DJ was spinning Motown classics. Then they had a contest. He asked, “Can anyone identify the following song?” and then played the psychedelic sounds of a whammy-bar-gritty guitar, supplemented by bass and drums. The audience was silent.  I then offered: “That’s RARE EARTH.”  It was side B of the Rare Earth GET READY self-titled debut album on MOTOWN, which came in in the early 70’s in the form of a lengthy psychedelic-infused version of their 1970 debut major radio single “Get Ready” improvised to account for the entire B-side. The DJ  then asked if I had any special requests, to which I quipped, “Play some Rick James.” He did. I listened to early Motown tunes, got some psychedelia, a soulful meal,  and still managed to hear some  Ricky J. !  What else can one ask for?  ** ADDITIONAL NOTE: As far as post-funk Rick James, in 1997, a couple of years before his untimely death, he issued a terrific album for Mercury Records, URBAN RAPSODY. This superb artifact  integrated classic funk with the sweet soul and contemporary “urban” sounds, with cameos from Rappin’ 4-Tay and Snoop Dogg (still at the top of  their game.) This one is in my personal collection, and is a must-hear if you can find a copy!

Till Next Time….

Drew Jacobs – Thanks for Asking!

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Drew Jacobs – Thanks for Asking!

Drew Jacobs – Thanks for Asking! – by Liam Sweeny.

Photo by Monique Hilton-Jacobs.

RRX: Every artist’s first song is a milestone. But so is the latest song. Describe the first song/album you recorded, and also the latest song/album you recorded; what are the differences?

DJ: As a teen (14-16). I had a stereo with an eight track recorder and an eight track player (I’m talking about the cartridges, popular in the ‘70s). I would record a guitar, play it back on the player and put the mic next to the speaker to add the next layer (vocal, guitar etc). I thank god those tapes are long gone! My latest song (The Greatest Superpower of Mine) is a pop country track I recorded with studio musicians in Nashville. That’s a bucket list item for me. It is definitely my most commercial sounding recording.

RRX: Music genres are difficult for some artists. Some strictly adhere; others not so much. What is your perspective on the genre you play, or the genres you hover around?

DJ: My genre is comedy music. I’ve had success within the genre (airplay on comedy websites, Dr. Demento, etc). But it’s tough as a performer to get gigs with either music acts, or comedy acts. I’m in no man’s land! (No women here either!) In the 70’s, I saw plenty of comedy song artists opening for either straight music acts or comedians.

RRX: It’s a lot of fun living in the present, but we all collect memories and give birth to dreams. We’re talking dreams here. Where you see yourself next year? In the next five years?

DJ: Next year I am looking to break into the sync market, potentially placing my music in TV or movies. Additionally, I want to continue to play out more. I am developing a set list that includes not only my originals, but funny songs by other artists.

RRX: Artists, musicians, we immortalize. We set it in stone. Is there anyone who has passed that you feel you have immortalized in your work? If so, can you tell us a little about them?”

DJ: Steve Goodman was primarily known as a songwriter (City of New Orleans). However, he also wrote and performed some very clever songs. He was a great picker, showman and singer. He did two Austin City Limits shows which I have on DVD. His biographer heard my first CD (Easy Listening ForThe Hard of Hearing) and compared it favorably to Goodman’s oeuvre.

RRX: We have to play somewhere, and sometimes those places have more going for them than a stage and a power outlet. What is a memorable place you played, and bonus points if it’s not a well-known place.

DJ: In 2019, my wife and I spent four days in Liverpool, England. On the last night, I played an open mic at The Cavern Pub, across the alley from the Cavern Club where the Beatles played. Musicians from all over the world had to play originals, no covers. I had a great set with great response, and I gave away CDs. I told the audience I could go home and tell people I have European Distribution.

RRX: Sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Or so they say. Whether you’re off the wagon, on it, or never been, there’s something you got a thirst for. What are some of your basically harmless vices?

DJ: Usually after a show, I will stop at my local Stewarts and pick up either Hostess Cup Cakes, or Drakes Devil Dogs and chocolate milk. If it’s a long way home, I’ll eat them on the road. If I’m close, I’ll wait until I get home!

 

 

 

More from Liam Sweeny…

VinTri Hill – Thanks for Asking!

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VinTri Hill – Thanks for Asking!

VinTri Hill – Thanks for Asking! – by Liam Sweeny.

Vincenzo Baldwin-Guitar and Vocals, Dimitri Cerrone-Drums, Tyler Munson-Bass

RRX: What would you like fans to know before they come to see you play? (No basic stuff; get specific.)

(Tyler) They are in store for a unique and highly energetic set-every time we take the floor. Whether it’s a small crowd, or a ton of people, we are consistent, and every note hit, and movement, is going to be emotionally charged in a way not many other groups can really match.  We each have our own little antics we pull during the show, whether it’s Vincenzo’s high jumps, or taking a random break during a song and going into the crowd to visit, or Dimitri drumming with a blindfold on, or even getting up from his kit to come watch me run a bass solo. Most shows you will see me shirtless by the end, and hanging off the edge of the stage playing upside down!!!

RRX: “The best laid plans of mice and men…” I don’t really know the quote, but I know this one; sh*t happens. When we least expect it, calamity befalls us. Sometimes just comic inconvenience. Please tell us a story about some comic inconvenience that happened to you whilst performing?

(Dimitri) So we did an outside summer show up at Silver Factory, and the weather outlook initially wasn’t bad. But, the second we started, like the first note we played, the rain drops started falling. It was a great memory for us because it shows a lot about our adversity. It rained for an hour straight, and we played as long as we could-everyone was absolutely soaked and stomping around in the rain. Vin was in the crowd shirtless, and we were not stopping, we just beat the piss out of our shit! It was funny to be defiant and overcome the weather.

RRX: How does practice go? Is the road practice enough, or do you have a practice shack? If so, how does it look? What’s on the walls? What cool sh*t is in there?

(Vincenzo) Dimitri and Tyler come over to my place, where we have a practice space in the basement. It is quite the fun set up, we have a plexi drum shield and foam pads on the walls and corners to contain the sound-that being said, all volumes at 11 and no earplugs allowed. Aside from the guitar racks, amps and gear, we have some band posters from our favorite records, a few keep-sake show posters from some memorable shows we’ve done (FC Inc., Kool Keith, The Fleshtones). We have stage style curtains that close and block off the band space from a lounge area-there we have a futon, tv, games, a couple diy end tables, and a fake window-which has an inspirational poster in it of one of our favorite local bands-looking in on us. It helps us not feel agoraphobic.

RRX: We have to play somewhere, and sometimes those places have more going for them than a stage and a power outlet. What is a memorable place you played, and bonus points if it’s not a well-known place.

(Tyler) I definitely have to talk about a place we hit on our mini-tour down South in October. There’s this sick DIY venue in Richmond, Virginia called ‘The Kitchen,’ and the people that run it are so cool. It’s in this backyard of a house in this awesome college neighborhood, simple, but with great aura-carpets for the stage area, lights running along the porch and stair rails, and hand painted sheets that block off the yard from the alleyway. It draws a wide variety of genres and groups that perform in front of young and energetic crowds. The night we played, we were with three bands from the area, Mega Fauna, Gap Tooth, and Squish, and they were all so welcoming and amazing, but that crowd, mixed with a little wind and rain whipping up from the incoming hurricane…..it was absolutely off the charts, high energy, and good times!!

RRX: Tell me about your most recent song, album, or video (you pick.) Tell me a story about what went into making it. Not a process, but a cool story that took place  within the process.

(Dimitri) We made our music video for ‘Without Me’ in the basement of a local college. Now don’t get me wrong, we are so appreciative that they let us use the space, however, it was like a fucking oven. So, it’s like forty-five degrees outside, and a hundred and ten in this room. Now, this might not be considered cool, but we learned we were right next to the boiler room, and there was this neat pathway that leads from the room we were in, to the boiler area-it had this wild underground tunnel vibe to it-brick and dirt, random supplies along the way. Back to being cool, the room we filmed in was so hot, we all had this gloss on us from our sweat, and it made the video look sick-we were shining!

RRX: We let it out differently when we play music. The happy, sad, good and back; it can all be put out musically. Overall, do you feel better when you sing about the better times, or the worser times? Is there a difference you can describe?

(Vincenzo) Overall, I feel better when I sing about the worser times, because it lets me get things off my chest. When I’m happy, I don’t feel as much of a need to write about it or sing about it, that’s why it feels good to sing about general discontent, or things I’m stewing on, because I feel like I’m venting or doing something about it, in a creative way. I’ve written a handful of songs regarding happy topics too, there is a circumstance and emotion behind each song that helps fuel it as we are playing it. It’s fitting, us being a Punk Rock band, we aren’t singing about unicorns and rainbows.

Photo provided.

 

More from Liam Sweeny…

Melissa Stone – An Xperience Interview

Joshua Scarselli
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Melissa Stone – An Xperience Interview

By Joshua Scarselli.

Have you ever looked at your food and thought, “I would really like a side of radiation with this?” Well then, you have come to the right place. Uranium glass aficionado Dr. Melissa B. Stone tells us everything we need to know about the beautiful world of uranium glass.

Photo provided by Melissa Stone

RRX: What is uranium glass?

MS: Uranium glass has been produced since the 1830s and involves the addition of uranium oxides to glass, which results in a color change. Because of the addition of uranium, all uranium glass is radioactive to some extent and glows under UV light. Most uranium glass is vintage or antique, but some is still produced to this day, mostly by smaller, individual glass workers, though. Uranium glass can be any color (typically not clear, colorless glass, though), but green and yellow glass are the most common colors of uranium glass by far. Regardless of glass color, though, all uranium glass glows green under UV light. However, when uranium glass was first produced, UV lights didn’t exist, so why did they bother adding uranium to the glass? The main reason is that the addition of uranium typically changes the overall color of the glass. Secondly, though, many owners of uranium glass over the years would put their glass pieces in windowsills to view the glow. During dawn and dusk, when the UV radiation from the sun is at just the right angle, uranium glass has a faint, green glow to it. So although UV lights didn’t exist back when uranium glass was first produced, many still enjoyed the faint glow their pieces had during low light hours. Uranium glass remained fairly common in the US until the 1940s, during WW2, when the US began the Manhattan Project. Most uranium was funneled towards making weapons rather than glassware during that time, and commercial use of uranium in glass almost stopped. After WW2 ended, however, some companies continued using uranium in their glass, and many collectors have their pieces in their collections today, oftentimes not even knowing their pieces glow. To the best of my knowledge, though, the major companies producing uranium glass over the years have all shuttered their doors, so most uranium glass is now vintage or antique.

RRX: Are there other types of glass that glow, or is it only uranium glass?

MS: Yes! There are other additives to glass that can cause it to glow under UV light. Manganese glass, which is often confused with uranium glass, has a yellow-green glow to it, and is typically found in clear, colorless glass but can also be found in glass of other colors. Aside from uranium, cadmium and selenium are the most well-known additives collectors like to collect in glass. Cadmium causes glass to glow a yellow to orange color, while the addition of selenium in glass results in a beautiful pink to red color when glowing under UV light. Cerium glass also causes glass to glow (it glows a very pretty blue) but is very common, even in today’s modern glassware and is not highly sought after. Boron nitride also causes glass to glow a yellow color. Boron nitride was used as a mold-releasing agent while glass was blown in mold, and some of it would mix with the glass, leaving behind a mixture that glows under UV.

Photo provided by Melissa Stone

RRX: What got you interested in uranium glass?

MS: I’m a big fan of social media, and one day while scrolling through Facebook, I saw a post by someone displaying their gorgeous green glowing glassware, or uranium glass, and I had to learn more about it. So I joined a few uranium glass groups and started looking up everything I could about it. After a few months of this, I finally mustered the courage to go hunting for it myself. I still remember the first pieces I ever found. The very first uranium glass “pieces” I found were two glowing uranium glass marbles, and shortly after, I found my very first uranium glass plate and juice cup. It was so exciting finding the marbles and then the glassware that I was automatically hooked! Every time I find a new piece, I feel the exact same amount of excitement. It’s such a fun hobby!

RRX: What interests you the most about uranium glass?

MS: I love the green glow! I think it’s so exciting to find it too! I also love finding pieces with a history. Looking up the makers and years of production sometimes sends you down a rabbit hole of information. I get such a kick out of each piece’s history, and the radioactivity of each piece is an added bonus. I also like finding deals and just shopping in general. So when I find a piece for $10 at an estate sale that’s actually worth $450 on eBay, I get a rush of adrenaline like no other! Then, when that piece GLOWS on top of it, I feel almost euphoric while buying it. It’s such a fun hobby, I highly recommend trying! Finally, uranium glass is perfectly safe to own and wear (I have a small jewelry collection, too). But it’s fun to know the pieces I’m admiring for the day have an almost sinister secret – they’re made with the same element as the atomic bombs in WW2. But conversely, each piece has an almost magical beauty to it, unlike the destruction that was caused by the bombs.

RRX: Where can I find uranium glass now?

MS: Uranium glass is typically found at antique stores, thrift stores, flea markets, antique fairs, and estate sales. Some people like using Facebook marketplace and online vintage/antique shopping, like on eBay, Goodwill online, or whatnot. If hunting in person, though, shine your UV light on all the glass you see (just don’t shine in anyone’s eyes!), and you’ll be amazed at what a different world of glow you’ll find yourself in. And yes, people will ask you what you’re doing!

Photo provided by Melissa Stone

RRX: What’s the process like when you go uranium glass hunting?

MS: The first tool you’ll need in order to hunt for glowy glass is a UV flashlight. These can be found anywhere from Walmart to Amazon for dirt cheap, but for uranium glass, you’ll want at least a UV 395 nm flashlight. This is the wavelength that in general, if you shine it on glass and it glows green, you’ve found uranium glass. Another wavelength, UV 365 nm, also causes uranium glass to glow green, but that wavelength can also pick up the sickly green manganese glow that’s found in quite a bit of glass. Now, there’s nothing wrong with manganese glass, but it’s not radioactive like uranium glass; it’s far more common, and it’s generally less sought after. I use a dual UV 365/395 nm light that I carry with me everywhere I go. I think I have five or six of them, actually! But when hunting, you’ll want to shine your light on all the glass you see. Even some ceramic glazes have uranium in them (think of Fiestaware and Drip-o-lator), but they will only react to UV 365 flashlights, and they tend to be very spicy! “Spicy” is slang for radioactive if you’ve never heard the term used like that before. The higher the radioactivity, the spicier the piece!

It’s really very easy to find uranium glass once you’ve got the light, though. Antique shops tend to have it, and thrift stores, estate sales, and flea markets are great places to hunt. Just set the wavelength on your flashlight to 395 nm and start shining it on glass! A general rule of thumb is that clear/colorless glass that glows green is usually manganese glass and not uranium, so make sure to focus more on colorful glass. Green tends to be the most common uranium glass color (all uranium glass glows green regardless of the glass color, though), but blues, yellows (vaseline glass will always glow!), custard glass, jadeite, and even the oddball carnival glass have the potential of glowing from uranium content. So just shine your light on every piece you see, and if it glows a bright green color, chances are you just found uranium glass! The only way to be certain, though, is to test the glass with a Geiger counter, and yes I do own one of those!

RRX: How did you start making videos about uranium glass?

MS: I have a few hyper fixations, and uranium glass is very much one of them, but I first started making videos on social media to connect with people and make them laugh. I’m chronically ill and disabled, and social media is somewhat of a lifeline to the outside world for me. I don’t leave my house very often, except to go hunting for glass or to go to a doctor’s appointment. Once I started collecting uranium glass, though, I began to meet people through our shared love for glowy glass, and I realized we all have shared experiences of going hunting for glass, finding amazing bargains on vintage glass, and even being judged for collecting radioactive antiques. Yup, people judge us! So, for the hell of it and just to get some laughs, I started making short comedy skits highlighting the struggles of the uranium glass hunter! I’ve even spun off onto another account that discusses the struggles of chronically ill and disabled people. Social media is such a great way to connect with people, whether to discuss the best price for our next glass haul or to commiserate over the costs of medication.

RRX: Is there anything you’d like to add and where can people follow you?

MS: Uranium glass hunting can be a really fun hobby if you’ve got the extra time to go thrifting! Prices of each piece range from a dollar, anywhere up to thousands of dollars so there is something for almost everyone! And if you go hunt enough, you may even score a free piece or two (I’ve gotten a couple free pieces in my day)! Once you’ve gotten past looking weird with a uv light (I recommend keeping what you’re doing to yourself – some people like to increase prices once they know you’re looking for glowy glass, although that is very bad business in my opinion), you’ll have the best time seeing the world through the eyes of UV light, and it can be mesmerizing! Then, when you find that very first piece, you’ll feel a rush like no other! Every time you find a piece after that, you’ll feel that exact same rush, and omg does it feel good!! So good luck and happy hunting!! I hope you find some good deals, and feel free to show them to me – I love a good glow pic!

If you’d like to follow me, I can be found on Instagram and TikTok under the username, @gregarious.glass, by Mel Stone.

 

All photos provided by Melissa Stone

 

Jukebox – Music News Cuts – 1/9

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Jukebox – Music News Cuts – 1/9

Jukebox.

David Lee Roth

David Lee Roth will be launching a 30-city Spring 2026 North American tour. It’s being called “A Night with David Lee Roth and begins April 16th at Airway Heights, Washington, and will continue through Anaheim, California, Austin, Texas, and concludes June 20th in Milwaukee.

Presale is underway at Ticketmaster.

David Lee Roth’s 2026 Tour Dates:
04/16 – Airway Heights, WA @ Spokane Live
04/18 – Grand Ronde, OR @ Spirit Mountain Casino
04/20 – Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
04/22 – Tucson, AZ @ The Rialto Theatre
04/25 – Albuquerque, NM @ Revel
04/27 – Lubbock, TX @ Buddy Holly Hall
04/29 – Austin, TX @ ACL Live at The Moody Theater
05/01 – Memphis, TN @ Graceland Soundstage
05/03 – Orlando, FL @ Hard Rock Live Orlando
05/06 – Nashville, TN @ Ryman Auditorium
05/09 – Virginia Beach, VA @ The Dome
05/12 – Wilmington, NC @ CCFC’s Wilson Center
05/14 – Greensboro, NC @ Tanger Center
05/16 – Washington, DC @ Warner Theatre
05/19 – Glenside, PA @ Keswick Theatre
05/21 – Niagara Falls, ON @ OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino
05/24 – Boston, MA @ House of Blues
05/26 – Schenectady, NY @ Proctors Theatre
05/29 – Hampton Beach, NH @ Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom
05/31 – Wallingford, CT @ Toyota Oakdale Theatre
06/03 – Port Chester, NY @ The Capitol Theatre
06/05 – Asbury Park, NJ @ Stone Pony Summer Stage
06/07 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount
06/09 – Huber Heights, OH @ Rose Music Center at The Heights
06/11 – Fort Wayne, IN @ Foellinger Theatre
06/13 – Battle Creek, MI @ FireKeepers Casino Hotel
06/15 – Sioux Falls, SD @ The Monument
06/17 – Moorhead, MN @ Bluestem Amphitheater
06/20 – Milwaukee, WI @ Summerfest
08/07 – Sturgis, SD @ Sturgis Buffalo Chip

Editor’s Note: This article was updated on January 6th with the artist pre-sale code.

Bush

To back up their latest album, Bush will be launching a 2026 U.S. Tour called the “Land of Milk and Honey Tour.” First show will be in Pittsburgh on April 7th, and will roll through Brooklyn, Seattle, Boston, and DC. The tour ends on May 17th in Columbus, Ohio.

The album is called “I Beat Loneliness,” and the tour is named after one of the songs.

Bush 2026 Tour Dates:
04/07 – Pittsburgh, PA @ UPMC Events Center *
04/09 – Washington, DC @ The Anthem *
04/10 – Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Paramount *
04/12 – Boston, MA @ MGM Music Hall at Fenway *
04/14 – Raleigh, NC @ Red Hat Amphitheater *
04/15 – Charlotte, NC @ Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre *
04/17 – Biloxi, MS @ Crawfish Music Festival (Mississippi Coast Coliseum) *
04/18 – Brandon, MS @ Brandon Amphitheater *
04/21 – Irving, TX @ The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory *
04/22 – San Antonio, TX @ Freeman Coliseum *
04/25 – Indio, CA @ Stagecoach (Empire Polo Field)
04/28 – Portland, OR @ Theater of the Clouds *
04/29 – Seattle, WA @ WAMU Theater *
05/01 – West Valley City, UT @ Maverik Center *
05/03 – Denver, CO @ Fillmore Auditorium *
05/05 – Moline, IL @ Vibrant Arena at The MARK *
05/06 – Oshkosh, WI @ Oshkosh Arena *
05/08 – Bonner Springs, KS @ Azura Amphitheater *
05/09 – Camdenton, MO @ Ozarks Amphitheater *
05/12 – Hollywood, FL @ Hard Rock Live *
05/13 – Clearwater, FL @ The Sound *
05/15 – Franklin, TN @ FirstBank Amphitheater *
05/16 – Columbus, OH @ Sonic Temple Festival (Historic Crew Stadium)

* = w/ Mammoth and James and the Cold Gun

The Black Crowes

A new album will be coming out from The Black Crowes called A Pound of Feathers. It follows Happiness Bastards.

“We made this record in eight to ten days,” said singer Chris Robinson. “Bringing the high and inspiration from Happiness Bastards into this album, it was a natural progression. We experimented more, we wrote on instinct and how we were feeling in the moment. Rich brought a spontaneity to the record that I can’t describe, but it’s the best shit he’s ever done.”

Language of the Land – The Weird Side of the Internet

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Language of the Land – The Weird Side of the Internet

Language of the Land – The Weird Side of the Internet – by Liam Sweeny.

When you go to the hospital for a surgery, it is the fervent hope of all that you will come out of the procedure better than when you went in. But the basic thought it “better” means normal. You’re not going to come out of surgery with the ability to make a perfect flan. Like you’re going to come out of surgery with the same math score in he sixth grade final.

It’s so weird when you think about all of the superheroes in Marvel and DC, not one that comes to mind that got their powers through botched brain surgery, or even non-botched surgery. Nope, just yellow suns and spiders.

So let’s talk about Steven Chase. He had knee surgery and just un poco Espanol. But he woke up, and he’s speaking fluent. He didn’t even realize he was speaking it to answer questions, and we’re talking “native” speaking level.

Chase said that he grew up around Hispanic people but never bothered to learn the language beyond high school.

I’m really struck by the ability that surfaced here. Chase just had knee surgery, so if he was under general anesthesia, couldn’t have been for that long. And, unlike what I mentioned before, it wasn’t brain surgery.

But what if it was? How many switches in the brain can be flipped once the cabeza is open? What can a human do or be under the wrong surgical conditions. Languages is great, but I want the legit psychic stuff and throwing eighteen-wheelers around telekinetically.

If it was me, just saying if it was me, I’d whore myself out. Appendix? Take it out, let’s see what happens. Electroshocks? Hell yeah, but I’m gonna need an IQ test and a dartboard after each shock to see where I’m at. Because no, I don’t want to be shocked without it leading somewhere super powery.

 

 

More from Liam Sweeny…

Christine Bile – Thanks for Asking!

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Christine Bile – Thanks for Asking!

Christine Bile – Thanks for Asking! – by Liam Sweeny.

RRX: We all get a little support from those around us. And we also can be impressed by our fellow performers. Who do you admire in your community, and why?

CB: There are so many great performers in both the Capital Region and the Berkshires. I really enjoy The E-Block—they’ve got this groovy vibe and are such kind musicians. Ky McClinton is another one I love; he does amazing John Mayer covers, but his originals are just as strong. His band is really making some great music. The Accents always put on an awesome show—I love catching them at Carson’s Woodside Tavern, Frog Alley, or Vapor in Saratoga. And in the Berkshires, Gina Coleman and Misty Blues are incredible—they make killer blues music and are known internationally. I also admire Melissa A. Brinton—she’s such a kind person and a wonderful singer and musician all around.

RRX: A band is a business. A business of love, but you got to work for it. Let’s pretend, instead of a band, you all owned a business. What would it be, and why would it be good?

CB: I actually do have another business outside of music—I’m a therapist and run my own practice. What I do there is provide compassionate care, give people tangible coping skills, and help them set achievable goals. I really focus on empowering people to make decisions that feel right for them and to move forward in ways that work best for their lives. My business is great because I have the experience, education, and licensure to assist my clients!

RRX: Cover art is cool. It shows listeners what the artist thinks the album is all about. Because music can be felt visually. If you had to give the public a visual image that you think they would see and just “get” your groove right away, what would it be?

CB: It would be a beautiful Black woman with braids, running through a field of sunflowers with a guitar on her back. To me, that captures what my music is about—empowerment, relationships, and finding strength through challenges, whether that’s bullying, heartbreak, or just navigating life.

RRX: Artists, musicians, we immortalize. We set it in stone. Is there anyone who has passed that you feel you have immortalized in your work? If so, can you tell us a little about them?”
CB: Yes—Tina Turner. She’s been such a huge influence on me. Her voice was so powerful, and she carried so much freedom and strength in the way she performed. She went through a lot in her life, and she still made music about her hopes and dreams, all while being this absolute rockstar. I always think of that photo of her hanging off the Eiffel Tower—it’s fearless and so inspiring. I carry that kind of spirit into my own music.

RRX: Stereotypes are a bitch. I mean, aside from the really bad ones, you have cultural stereotypes about everything, including music. What do you think is the stereotype for the music you play, and how far are you away from it?

CB: I play acoustic pop-folk, but sometimes people expect something different from me because of the way I look. I’ve had people assume I sing R&B before they even listen. Folk music does sometimes get put in a box, like it’s for a certain group of people, but really, folk is storytelling—and every culture has its own way of doing that. My music is me telling my stories, with catchy melodies and honest lyrics. Sometimes my music leans into R&B or indie sounds, but at the end of the day, I’m just a human being sharing my experiences through music—whether it’s a song sung to acoustic guitar, ukulele, or a track I made with MIDI instruments.

RRX: Our style comes from the extension of our influences. It’s like an evolution. We’re influenced, and it inspires us to influence. What can you say about your influences, and what you feel you’ve done with their influence as a musician or band? Have you extended their work?

CB: Some of my biggest influences are Michael Jackson, John Mayer, Tina Turner, and Beyoncé. Michael Jackson was just one of the most creative performers ever—he brought so much soul and fun, and you could really feel his emotions in his songs. John Mayer is such an amazing songwriter and guitarist—his music can make you cry, laugh, or just vibe. Tina Turner, as I said, showed so much resilience and freedom in her art. And Beyoncé is the ultimate performer—she’s all about empowerment but also about joy.

I try to take pieces of all of that—connecting with people emotionally and writing songs they can relate to. Some of my songs are emotional, some are quirky, but they all come from an honest place. I just hope my music does justice to the artists who inspired me and those who listen.

Links to Christine music:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/49cNe5DOIGbNA4SZu2j5Ih?si=Iqzyt9peTgyJc2l3PqkrEA

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUYyym3XMHu4ZoZyAuq7czw

Socials: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christine_bile_music/reels/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChristineBileMusic

Website: christinebilemusic.net

 

Photo by Visions Portrait Studios.

Music Notes – an Xperience Article

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Music Notes – an Xperience Article

Music Notes – an Xperience Article – by Peak Music Studios.

Let me say something that might sound uncomfortable at first.

Most people don’t fail at music because they lack passion. They fail because they spend an incredible amount of energy avoiding the very thing they want to get better at. We call it preserving our dignity. But if we’re honest, what we’re really preserving is fear:

Fear of failing.
Fear of looking bad.
Fear of being the person in the room who doesn’t quite have it yet.
And sometimes fear of success, because success means we have to change how we see ourselves.

So we do this dance.

We say, “I’ll start January first.” We buy a book or an online course because it feels productive, but it doesn’t ask us to risk anything emotionally. We set aside time. We skip the first week because, well … New Year’s Eve. The next week we make progress, we learn a chord, we sing a song, we feel good. Then work explodes. Life happens. Two or three weeks go by. We give it one more big push.

Then something else happens. Family, stress, summer plans. And somewhere along the way, a quiet thought creeps in: this was probably never going to work anyway. So, we say, “Maybe next year.”

Here’s the truth: that isn’t a passion problem. That’s a structure problem. The science is actually very clear on this. Skill isn’t built through motivation. It’s built through consistency. Your brain doesn’t care about big promises. It responds to repetition.

Neuroscience shows us that short, focused, daily practice creates stronger neural pathways than long, sporadic sessions ever will. Fifteen minutes a day, done consistently, with the proper guidance, will move you forward faster than hours of practice done once in a while. You don’t need to feel inspired every day. You need a system that still works on the days you don’t.

And one of the most powerful systems we have is learning with other people. Most of us are afraid of being the worst player in the room. But that room, the one where there are people better than you, is precisely where growth happens. The best musician in the room usually isn’t improving that much. It’s the people reaching for that level who are moving forward.

And here’s something important to know: real musicians, the ones who are actually good, are almost always kind. They remember what it was like to struggle. The people who put others down are usually protecting their ego, not pursuing mastery.

So as this new year begins, I want to offer a simple invitation: Stop listening to the fear that says you can’t do it.

You’re not too old.
You’re not too young.
It’s not too late, and it’s not too early.

Find a qualified teacher. Find a real musical community. Commit to doing something every day, even if it’s just a few minutes. Life is always ready for the bold. Especially those willing to risk a little embarrassment today for a lifetime of music.

Happy New Year!

Peak Music Studios

This Month in Music History

January 1, 1967
The Beatles release “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.”

January 3, 1969
Led Zeppelin releases “Led Zeppelin I.”

January 10, 1970
Simon & Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water” hits No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

January 13, 1968
Johnny Cash records “At Folsom Prison,” changing the idea of what a live performance could be.

January 16, 1957
Elvis Presley records “All Shook Up,” later becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time.

January 26, 1980
The final episode of “The Muppet Show” airs, having introduced millions of children to live musicians and orchestras.

January 30, 1969
The Beatles perform their iconic rooftop concert in London, their last public live performance.

Weird Music Fact: January

On January 30, 1969, during The Beatles’ rooftop concert in London, the band had no official plan for how long the show would last. They simply kept playing until the police shut them down for noise complaints. One of the most iconic moments in music history ended not with a grand finale, but with London authorities asking the greatest band in the world to please turn it down, a fitting end to a journey down rock and roll lane. John Lennon later joked that he wanted to respond, “We’re just trying to get an audition.”

 

 

More from Peak Music Studios….

New Year’s Eve at Ophelia’s

Timothy Reidy
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New Year’s Eve at Ophelia’s

New Year’s Eve at Ophelia’s featured Ginger Geezus, Psycho Mutton Chops, Hallelujah Hat Trick, and the Ky McClinton Band.

 

Photography by Timothy Reidy.

More from Ophelia’s here …

 

 

Whassup in the 518? – Weekend Shows

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Whassup in the 518? – Weekend Shows

Whassup in the 518?

Friday, January 9th

Adam Pascal & Anthony Rapp, Proctors Theatre, Schenectady

Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp, original stars of RENT, team up in a brand new duo show celebrating 30 years of friendship and music!

Adam and Anthony bring their friendship and history together for an unforgettable and celebratory night of music, stories, and fun. Expect songs from highlights throughout their careers, music that has influenced their lives, and of course, a few of the iconic hits from where it all began- meeting at RENT.

Dave Matthews Tribute Band, Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 7:30pm-9:30pm

DMTB is a celebration of the music of the Dave Matthews Band – a time machine to a funky tea party in the 90’s, a boisterous era of tape trading, sing-alongs, and exploration into a new sonic landscape spearheaded by complex guitar riffs, soaring violin melodies, smooth sax lines, and explorative-explosive drumming.

Gratefully Yours, Rustic Barn Pub, Troy, 8pm-11pm

First Friday Back at The Eleven with Peg ‘n Awl (Free Show), Lark Hall, Albany, 6pm-8pm

Join us for our FIRST show of 2026 with Woodstock folk duo, Peg ‘n Awl at The Eleven at Lark Hall. 6pm//Free

Peg ‘n Awl is a traditional American folk, hillbilly and mountain music duo leaning heavily on harmony singing styles from the late 1800s to the early 1950s. Whether singing old time traditional music or their own tunes, Kenny Roby and Amy Laber take a stripped-down instrumental approach on guitars and banjo and perform in a way that keeps the focus on the vocal styles of the Carter Family, Blue Sky Boys, Delmore Brothers, Callahan Brothers and many other duo and family harmony groups that dominated the southeastern US and Appalachian region music of their time

The Wheel performs Englishtown 9/3/77, Lark Hall, Albany, 8pm-11:59pm

Join us as for our first show of 2026 with The Wheel and their recreation of the classic Grateful Dead show in Englishtown,NJ on 9/3/77

Buckle up and shift into high gear with The Wheel, the Capital Region’s winner of the “Listen Up” 2024 Favorite GD Cover Band Award.

Known for their dynamic performances and deep connection with audiences, The Wheel takes listeners on a memorable journey through the iconic music of the Grateful Dead, infusing each song with their own driving, thoughtful, and expressive spin.

Jenna Nicholls with Jon LaDeau, Caffe Lena, Saratoga, 7:30pm

With a voice that feels cinematic and timeless, Jenna Nicholls invites listeners on a journey through the golden age of American songcraft. Her music drifts effortlessly from 1930s Parisian cafés to New Orleans juke joints, from Tennessee hills to the wide-open skies of the American West.

From “Bar People.”

1/9 5:00 PM Gianna Robustiano & Ben Zoleski- Frog Alley Brewing

1/9 5:00 PM Josh Breden & Friends- Fort Orange Brewery

1/9 5:00 PM Pat Decker- Saratoga Winery

1/9 6:00 PM Christine Spero- Panza’s

1/9 6:00 PM Dan Dekalb- 677 Prime

1/9 6:00 PM Dave Gleason- The Wishing Well

1/9 6:00 PM Dave Render- Powers Pub

1/9 6:00 PM Derrick Forget- Spa City Tap & Barrel

1/9 6:00 PM Dylan DiCaprio- Hank Hudson Brewing

1/9 6:00 PM Had the Radish- Inn at Saratoga

1/9 6:00 PM Mile O’Donnell- Cock & Bull

1/9 6:00 PM Nick Horace- Hilton Garden Inn,,, 30Park

1/9 6:00 PM Peg & Awl- Eleven at Lark Hall

1/9 6:00 PM Rob Forman- The Scarlet Knife

1/9 6:00 PM Seth Warden Duo- Carsons Woodside Tavern

1/9 6:00 PM Wayne & Joey- Saratoga Elks Club Maple Ave

1/9 6:00 PMS haun McCarthy Trio- Landing Hotel at Rivers Casino

1/9 6:30 PM Hannah Estelle- DIamond Club at Embassy Suites

1/9 6:30 PM Shannon Tehya & Hunter Frost- Artisanal Brew Works

1/9 6:30 PM Stretch Duo- Other One Brewery

1/9 7:00 PM Jeff Walton- Principessa Elena

1/9 7:00 PM Northern Spies Band- Holy Moses Tavern

1/9 8:00 PM DJ Mic Power- Misfit

1/9 8:00 PM Gratefully Yours- Rustic Barn Pub

1/9 8:00 PM Jenna Nichols & Jon Ladeau- Caffe Lena

1/9 8:00 PM Skeeter Creek- Van Slycks at Rivers Casino

1/9 8:00 PM The Wheel- Lark Hall

1/9 8:30 PM Brian Kane and The Beginning- Frog Alley Brewing

1/9 8:30 PM Refrigerators- Vapor

1/9 9:00 PM Pete Sweeney Group- Nine Maple

1/9 9:30 PM Cover Ups- Spa City Tap & Barrel

Saturday, January 10th

Who’s Next: The Ultimate Tribute To The Who, Cohoes Music Hall, Cohoes, 7:30pm-9:30pm

WHO’S NEXT recreate the full Who concert experience with meticulous attention to detail, from exact replicas of instruments and equipment to authentic stage attire. Who’s Next not only embodies The Who’s raw musical power and dynamism, but also features members who bear an extraordinary likeness to the original band members. The group has not only performed at post-concert events for The Who but also shared the stage with the legendary John Entwistle. Don’t miss the chance to embark on The Who’s Amazing Journey with Who’s Next!

Hellseeker Presents: Ronnie Stone / Healng / Architrave / Bare Mattress (Ages 18+), No Fun, Troy, 7pm-11pm

From “Bar People.”

1/10 10:00 AM Brandon Newell- Saratoga Farmers Market at Wilton Mall

1/10 3:00 PM Acoustic Bluestones- Helderberg Mountain Brewing

1/10 5:00 PM Joe Henley- Artisanal Brew Works

1/10 6:00 PM Brian Patneaude Trio- Landing Hotel at Rivers Casino

1/10 6:00 PM Franklin Micare- 677 Prime

1/10 6:00 PM Jeffrey Halstead- Panza’s

1/10 6:00 PM Jim McArdle- Powers Pub

1/10 6:00 PM Justin Joyner- The Scarlet Knife

1/10 6:00 PM Laura Leigh- Eleven at Lark Hall

1/10 6:00 PM Margo Macero- Spa City Tap & Barrel

1/10 6:00 PM New Whiskey River Band- The View at Brookhaven Golf Course

1/10 6:00 PM Northern Borne- Inn at Saratoga

1/10 6:00 PM Rob Aronstein- The Wishing Well

1/10 6:00 PM Sunset Serenade- Carsons Woodside Tavern

1/10 6:30 PM Chris Dollard- DIamond Club at Embassy Suites

1/10 7:00 PM Brian Kane- Forty One Sports Bar

1/10 7:00 PM Christine Spero- Dukes Chophouse At Rivers Casino

1/10 7:00 PM Dan Bernstein- Emack & Bolios

1/10 8:00 PM Big Sky Country- Van Slycks at Rivers Casin

1/10 8:00 PM Chris Sanders & The Better Days- Rustic Barn Pub

1/10 8:00 PM Comedy Night- Artisanal Brew Works

1/10 8:00 PM DJ Chizzzik- Nine Maple

1/10 8:00 PM Kilashandra- Parting Glass

1/10 8:00 PM River Country Band- Sand Bar

1/10 8:30 PM Skeeter Creek- Vapor

1/10 9:00 PM Gadget- Nine Maple

1/10 9:30 PM Tailspin- Spa City Tap & Barrel

Sunday, January 11th

Word Plays: Resplendent, Proctors Theatre, Schenectady

Resplendent means shining brilliantly or characterized by a glowing splendor. Come hear personal stories, folktales from the India, the Middle East and Japan, and a literary story by James Thurber. The story titles include:

Kindness of Strangers: Parisian Style
The Not-so-merry Christmas
The Seal Who Became Famous

Our tellers are: Siri Allison, Fran Combs Berger, Joe Doolittle, Kate Dudding, Margaret French, Claire Nolan, Nancy Marie Payne, and Dee Wind.

Kyshona, Caffe Lena, Saratoga, 7pm-9pm

Storytelling is how we remember, how we teach, and how we carry one another forward. With her new 2024 album LEGACY, acclaimed artist Kyshona digs deep into her family’s 150-year journey—unearthing stories shaped by love, struggle, triumph, and the complicated ways memory moves through generations. In sharing these songs, she invites all of us to remember our own histories, acknowledge our truths, and imagine a more connected future.

From “Bar People.”

1/11 1:00 PM Brandon LaRocca- Dancing Grain Farm Brewery

1/11 1:00 PM Evan Conway & Guests- Second Act Spirits

1/11 1:00 PM Jeff Grippin- Other One Brewery

1/11 3:30 PM Rich Russo- Hank Hudson Brewing

1/11 4:00 PM Triple Trouble wsg Alex Grandy- Artisanal Brew Works

1/11 5:00 PM Bobbie Van Detta- Charlton Tavern

1/11 5:30 PM Bluegrass Jam- Rustic Barn Pub

1/11 6:00 PM Artie Mozeik- Panza’s

1/11 7:00 PM Kyshona- Caffe Lena

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