June 3, 2026 — July 3 sees the release of one of the most anticipated live albums of the metal year, a full all-format release for Live From The Guild Theatre, recorded almost exactly one year earlier at the onstage launch of L.A. Guns’ most acclaimed album in years, the mighty Leopard Skin.
It nails it here, too, sliding in between “Hellraisers Ball” and “Like A Drug,” but Live From The Guild Theatre is explosive from start to finish, the Gunners firing off killer versions of fan favorites tracing as far back as the band’s debut album – “Sex Action,” for example, probably hasn’t featured in the repertoire since the eighties, but it’s alive and kickin’ here.
Sophomore set Cocked and Loaded, meanwhile, spits out some of the most powerful shotgun blasts in the band’s entire arsenal – “I Wanna Be Your Man,” “The Ballad of Jayne,” “Rip and Tear,” and the set-ender, “Never Enough.” And Leopard Skin gets both a triumphant airing and a delirious response.
In fact, longtime vocalist Phil Lewis and the man who put the Guns in L.A. Guns, Tracii Guns, have never sounded better – quite an achievement for a band that’s been tearing up the stages of the world since 1983! Ace Von Johnson (guitar), Johnny Martin (bass) and Shawn Duncan (drums) complete the line-up.
The first single from the album, “Electric Gypsy” which is now available to stream and download HERE, is another from the self-titled debut, and it sounds as fresh now as it did way back then…drop it into your streaming playlist and it won’t simply wake up the neighbors, it’ll have them hammering on your door, demanding to know what you’re listening to.
Yes, you’ll tell them it’s L.A. Guns – who else could it be? But you can also tell them that it’s not only coming out on CD and vinyl, but there’s a DVD and a cassette.
Here’s the track listing for LIVE FROM THE GUILD THEATRE:
1. Intro – Taste It 2. Cannonball 3. Electric Gypsy 4. Sex Action 5. Hellraisers Ball 6. Hit and Run 7. Like a Drug 8. Speed 9. One More Reason 10. Theremin Jam 11. Over the Edge 12. Guitar Solo 13. I Wanna Be Your Man 14. Lucky Motherfucker 15. Never Enough 16. The Ballad of Jayne 17. Rip and Tear
New York power pop sensations The Lemon Twigs return to the Brudenell for a sold-out 2-night stand promoting their 7th studio album ‘Look For Your Mind!’. Brothers Brian & Michael D’Addario have been crafting the perfect harmony-soaked tunes for more than a decade now, and with a now stable four-piece lineup, completed by bassist Danny Ayala and Uni Boys singer/guitarist Reza Matin on the drums, it seems The Lemon Twigs have hit their peak musically, sonically and maybe even commercially on their new opus.
Their brand of jangly, harmony-filled tunes evokes the best of The Beatles, The Byrds and The Beach Boys. For me, they bridge the gap between Redd Kross and the much-missed Jellyfish, and they are a band that is renowned for their energetic live performances. This was a show not to be missed.
First up, though, we have fellow New Yorkers The Stones. Who, apart from choosing the worst band name ever and having no online presence that I could find (try Googling The Stones!), are actually pretty tasty. The four-piece is about as retro as you can get, but not in the same way as the headliners. The singer channels early 90’s Chris Robinson so well, he could front a Black Crowes tribute band, while his guitar-wielding bandmate goes for an early 2000s Strokes look.
Their brand of ramshackle rock n’ roll fits the bill nicely, coming across like a heady mix of The Faces and The Libertines. They certainly have a swagger, and with an energetic and confident performance that goes down well with the packed crowd. I’d like to hear more…if only I could find them!
The Lemon Twigs are the real deal live. What we have here are four lead singers/multi-instrumentalists playing a set of songs so well crafted and so well played that they are just timeless. The sound from the PA tonight is great as well and benefits the multi-layered harmonies and jangly guitars. The opening salvo of recent single ‘Look For Your Mind’ and the glorious ‘My Golden Years’ sets the pace. It’s a great mix of classics and soon-to -be classics.
Both brothers take lead vocals on their respective written songs, and band members switch instruments for certain songs. So, you may get Brian on bass, Danny on keyboards and Reza and Michael swapping instruments at some point. There is more ‘jump-shot’ action than a classic Van Halen show, which is unexpected given the laid-back approach of the songs, but it sure keeps the photographers on their toes. The brothers laugh and joke with the crowd and amongst themselves, everyone is having a jolly good time. Michael even suggested we all “go get cheesy chips after the show”.
When The Lemon Twigs do rock out, they do it well. ‘Bring You Down’ rocks the house like The Beatles in Berlin, and main set closer ‘Rock On (Over & Over)’ is a Bolan-esque glam rock stomper to be proud of.
Brian returns with just an acoustic for his usual solo section. In recent times, it’s rare to silence a crowd during the quieter moments of a set, there are always some idiots who continue to chat, but you could hear a pin drop during his stunning rendition of ‘Joy’ from the new album. His very own ‘Blackbird’ probably gets the biggest reaction of the set so far. He follows it with the twee falsetto-drenched ‘Corner Of My Eye’, before calling back the “rest of the group for a few more numbers”. As Michael plays the riff to the Bobby Fuller Four’s ‘Let Her Dance’, you know it’s the perfect moment for those down the front to let their hair down and dance like no one’s watching, before the band bow out with the sun-drenched anthem ‘How Can I Love Her More’.
While it’s easy to pigeonhole the likes of The Lemon Twigs, they do seem to literally be a band out of time. While sometimes their melodies may drift a bit too close to their heroes for some, they do that multi-layered harmony thing perfectly. For me, they are a band that just gets better and better with each album. At the end of the day, a good song is a good song, and The Lemon Twigs have loads of ‘em!
I’ve seen them twice now, and they are fantastic live, and I would not hesitate to see them again.
Coming out of Waterford, Ireland, Pillastone have a love for gentle lilts with fiddles and a waft of Americana running through their music. Think a gentler, less drunken/troublesome Green On Red and a lot of the good stuff, maybe some Jesse Malin and Ryan Adams for good measure. The album opens with the first single ‘Run Fox Run’, an electric run through the louder moments, whilst ‘September Sun’ is the gentler side with those fiddles and acoustic guitars cut up with some rim shots and lush melodies leaning into the countrier side of the Waterboys. Very well produced and superbly delivered and arranged. It’s rooted in the themes you might expect call it playing safe if you like but if you deal in Americana with some wholesome rock n roll then thats who you are and the amps are turned up for ‘Wait In This World’ maybe a dash of Brian Fallon is present jammign on some Mellencamp there are polenty of reference points jumping out all over the place and a late evening summer sunshine record it might be but the performances on show are excellent and the arrangments let the music shine bright.
‘Fog Of War’ is some roots rock n roll with a great sound and production, but it never all out breaks free from the restraints of the acoustic and lush, fulsome bass groove, but it does have a very nice guitar solo raging quietly. I also like ‘Wise Up’ and the more uptempo ‘Cry’, but the standout track is ‘Like A Fool’ with its picked acoustic guitar like a less miserable Ryan Adams, and the barroom piano dropping in and out lifts the track.
The loudest track has to be ‘Hammer That Nail as the band veers into Drive By Truckers territory, and it’s something they do really well. The closing track is ‘Call For Mercy’ which paints an upbeat vibe and closes off a very impressive record proving that light and shade are required in one’s palette and this worked really well on a Sunday morning or a late night listen. Go check ’em out.
Jack Grisham and the Life Undone is a new project by Jack Grisham and Lars Triesch. Grisham is known as the frontman of TSOL and The Joykiller. He has been active for over four decades—in literature, film work, and most importantly, independent music—with more than 70 million streams and over 2,000 live shows under his belt. Grisham remains a constant figure in and beyond the American punk scene. TSOL were and are one of the finest bands to have been birthed from the 77 punk scene in the USA.
Triesch comes out of the German ’90s punk and hardcore scene, later moving into indie with his band Profession Reporter. A fella that hasn’t appeared on my radar until now.
The power of this here interweb came into play, and Jack and Lars had many a Zoom meeting working on tunes that can now be heard on this magnificent album. Firstly, there would be no point in Jack making a new TSOL record with cats from another continent. This is most definitely not a TSOL record, even if Jack’s distinct tone is front and centre. This record leans on melodies and soundscapes not often ventured into by his band. This record from the first play is one hell of an earworm as the sonic assault takes hold, pianos tinkling here, there and everywhere over subtle melodies and layered vocals with lush guitars on big backing vocals. This is a huge-sounding record that fills your heart to bursting, then explodes in colour. Take ‘These Things’ as an example. Could and should be a huge global hit. But let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves. The album opens with ‘Pain Goes Around’, which is effectively a summer pop song with a mega hook and lush Bvs and a melody that just screams joy. Worry not, it all fits perfectly, it’s not a record that will have you recoiling in horror, just the opposite to be honest. The second track is full of boundless energy and a wicked riff, ‘Piece Of The Sun’, with a chorus to die for.
If this sounds like one of those right-place-at-the-right-time things, it is. Jack sounds happy, and this record has no weak links. The songs are all well-crafted and sound amazing. Easily one of the best records I’ve heard in ages.
After the boundless energy of the previous track, ‘John Says’ is more dreamy and laid back with such an infectious melody and vocal from Grisham.
Grisham and Lars are joined by Trevor Lucca—a guitarist known for his onstage work with Dick Dale and T.S.O.L.—and the whole project was guided by the production team of Kurt Ebelhäuser and Michel Wern.
Thirteen tracks were laid down in ten days—the bulk of the album—and additional vocal and keyboard recordings were done in Los Angeles at Kitten Robot Studios, engineered by Paul Roessler, and this is a record they should be so proud of making.
We have acoustic guitars and cellos for ‘Loser’ and the stunning ‘Angel Funeral’ where Grisham wrings every bit of emotion out of his well-worn voice. The flip side is the full tilt rocker of ‘Lazing In The Bed All Day’, which is more familiar territory and a full-bloodied riff, but it’s the night and day as the record seemlessly shifts from light to shade where the magic lies.
‘Black Ties’ has a Bowie feel to proceedings with the distressed snare roll and lush strings, showing a wonderful, darker side. This is a record that needs to be listened to with a clear head and given undivided attention to fully appreciate how fuckin good it is. ‘Phone Call’ sounds menacing and dark, with the strings and soft acoustic guitar, with Grisham almost whispering into the speakers. Then the record finishes off with the broad acoustic chords of ‘Darker Side Of Nowhere’. This record won’t be for everyone, but I instantly got drawn in and can’t get enough of it. Being a big fan of Graham’s work with TSOL, Joykillers, Tender Fury, and Manic Low, the guy has never put a musical foot wrong in my eyes or ears. It’s great to hear him spread his wings and deliver a different flavour of alternative rock n roll and do it so well on what I can only describe as a magnificent album packed with magnificent tunes, and every play drags out a different reaction to the previous play. Get this album in your ear and let it take hold. You’ll be delighted you listened. Buy it!
Ricky Warwick returns with ‘Fire & Vengeance’, the explosive new single and title track from his forthcoming album coming out September 4th via Earache. The album will be available across multiple colour vinyl variants, signed editions, exclusive bundles and more via Earache Records, with special early bird pricing available for fans who pre-order early.
Speaking about the track, Ricky says, “‘Fire & Vengeance’ is a song about not knowing when you’re beaten… and refusing to let the politicians, the pressure, or the noise grind you down. It’s about standing in the wreckage with your fists still clenched and your spirit still intact.”
The accompanying video captures the reality of life on the road – candid backstage moments, travelling, stage walks, live crowds and the grit and camaraderie that fuel Ricky Warwick & The Fighting Hearts night after night. Watch the video here.
Driven by raw guitars, defiant energy and Warwick’s unmistakable voice, Fire & Vengeance captures the spirit of resilience and rebellion that has defined his career for decades. The album also features special appearances from Phil Collen (Def Leppard), Doug Aldrich (Whitesnake / The Dead Daisies), Charlie Starr (Blackberry Smoke) and Darren Holden (The High Kings).
Speaking about the album, Ricky says, “I wanted to make an album that captures everything I love about rock’n’roll – its power to bring people together, to make us dance and connect with one another, even in a world that often feels consumed by fire and vengeance. At its core, this record is about finding hope and unity in the chaos.
“A huge thank you to Phil Collen, Doug Aldrich, Charlie Starr and Darren Holden for bringing their musical talent to this record. I was also honoured to work on all of the songs with my good friend Keith Nelson once again – if you think we played all of our cards on my last album, ‘Blood Ties’, think again!
It’s a record that showcases a musician at the very peak of his powers, able to switch from tattooed blue-collar anthems to Stones-y balladeering and even the traditional Irish music that surrounded him growing up in County Down, Northern Ireland. Lyrically, he’s up there with the very best – a working-class poet whose songs combine the autobiographical, the observational, the political, the cynical and the heartfelt.
From fronting The Almighty and leading Black Star Riders to his acclaimed solo work alongside Ricky Warwick & The Fighting Hearts, Ricky Warwick has remained one of rock’s most respected and enduring voices and one of rock’n’roll’s last true rebels.
Having spent almost 40 years marching to no beat other than his own, Fire & Vengeance comes just 18 months after the #25 UK album Blood Ties, a record that saw Warwick return home to his native Northern Ireland after almost 20 years living in California.
Working quickly has given the 10 songs that make up Fire & Vengeance their undeniable energy. “I’m not one of those guys who needs to disappear into a cabin in the mountains with all this fancy gear,” Warwick says. “All I need is a room and a guitar, and the ideas come. It’s a working-class thing, something I had instilled in me when I was a kid.”
To celebrate the release, Ricky Warwick will hit the road across the UK and Ireland this November.
Ricky adds, “I cannot wait for you to hear ‘Fire & Vengeance’ in full. Thank you for rocking with me all these years – here’s to many more together!”
FIRE & VENGEANCE TOUR – NOVEMBER 2026 Thu 5 Nov Limerick – Dolans Fri 6 Nov Dublin – Grand Social Sun 8 Nov Belfast – Limelight 2 Tue 10 Nov Edinburgh – La Belle Angele Wed 11 Nov Wolverhampton – KK’s Steel Mill Thu 12 Nov Nottingham – Rescue Rooms Fri 13 Nov Manchester – Gorilla Sat 14 Nov Newcastle – Anarchy Brew Wed 18 Nov Southend – Chinnerys Thu 19 Nov London – 100 Club Fri 20 Nov Norwich – Waterfront Sat 21 Nov Cambridge – Mash Sun 22 Nov Bristol – Thekla Wed 25 Nov Portsmouth – Kola Thu 26 Nov Trecco Bay – Planet Rockstock
Some bands just have ‘it.’ There is a rush for me when I hear those bands for the first time, and it happened here in a big way. I heard the band thanks to my finely tuned YouTube algorithm knowing to show me new music videos by new bands. Show Pony’s songs turned into one of those nights where the songs went on repeat multiple times. They have released their debut EP, serving up a five-song platter of excellence. Hailing from Winnipeg, Show Pony have brought together ingredients from different genres to create a sound that is both fresh and familiar. The band are a trio who manage to create a full sound with just one guitar and drums.
Opener ‘Dead and Gone’ provides a great introduction to the album with hypnotic vocals in the verse working perfectly with the guitar riff and drums. It builds into an explosive chorus that will stick in your head. I described the band’s sound to someone as hints of punk, guitar rock, pop hooks, and a scoop of new wave. All those influences come together here. Lyrically, these songs hit hard and deep as they dive into the stages of grief and honestly remind me that I am still working through some of these from losing my Dad last year. Next up is ‘Lightning’, possibly my favourite from the album, where I can feel some early Blondie combining with X. This song has hook after hook throughout it. There are subtle nuances in the vocals that really elevate the song. Closing out the first side of the vinyl, ‘Makes No Difference’ brings in some great backing vocals in the chorus, and the musical change through the chorus provides a great change in tempo. The urgency continues to build in the song and leaves the listener feeling the train move faster and faster.
‘Superstar’ snaps out of the speaker with a killer guitar riff and reminds me a bit of 90’s bands like Fur, NY Loose, and the Goops crossed with some hard-hitting Brit-Rock flourishes a la Grand Theft Audio and a dose of Wargasm UK as the vocals remind me a bit of Milkie Way. ‘You Just Know’ closes out the album with another great rocker coated with extra sticky earworms.
At five songs, the band experiences the one criticism you probably don’t mind as a band… I simply wish there were more songs here. It provides a great introduction to the world for the band. Musically, this is timeless, and, years down the line, we hopefully get to look back on this EP and consider how the band evolved over the years. Definitely recommended!
‘Show Pony for the Masses’ is available now. Buy Here
Legendary guitarist Dave Hill announces the release of his long-awaited solo album, Dirty Foot Lane, due for release in October—a rich, autobiographical collection of songs reflecting a lifetime of music, creativity, and personal discovery.
Best known as a founding member of Slade, Hill steps into a new artistic space with a record that blends rock, blues, folk, and atmospheric soundscapes. The album captures both the energy of his live-performance roots and a more reflective emotional depth shaped by recent years.
Dirty Foot Lane is deeply rooted in Hill’s personal history. The title itself refers to a real place not far from where he grew up and still lives today, underscoring his identity as a true local lad. More than just a location, Dirty Foot Lane serves as the emotional and symbolic heart of the album, representing the centre of Hill’s family memories and formative experiences.
This is an intensely personal body of work, tracing Hill’s journey from childhood to global success. The album explores his upbringing, the influence of his parents and family, his early ambition to become a musician, and his rise to international fame. It also addresses more challenging chapters, including struggles with mental health and the profound impact of the COVID-19 lockdowns, ultimately arriving at a place of reflection and appreciation for life.
Leading the production is Django Holder, who also plays a key role in engineering and shaping the album’s sound. As the son of Noddy Holder, his involvement adds a meaningful generational connection to Hill’s musical legacy.
A key contributor to the album is Hill’s long-time collaborator John Berry, whose career includes work with Mud and The Sweet. “I’ve known John for over twenty years,” says Hill. “He’s incredibly talented, honest, and always gives you his very best. That’s invaluable.” Berry plays a particularly important role on some of the album’s heavier tracks, while Hill performs the majority of the lead vocals. Producer and musician Rob Childs also contributes to the project.
Songs like “Play It to the Crowd” and “Back in the Air Again” capture the exhilaration of live performance, written during lockdown as a response to the absence of touring. “I wanted to recreate that feeling of walking into a packed arena—the energy, the buzz, the connection with the audience,” Hill explains.
In contrast, Dirty Foot Lane also explores more personal and complex themes. “She Had a Troubled Heart” stands out as a deeply moving track addressing love, loss, and mental health, inspired by real-life experiences. “It’s about what happens when love becomes one-sided,” says Hill. “And the impact that can have on people’s lives.”
The album draws on every stage of Hill’s journey. “Thanks for the Good Times” serves as a tribute to fans, collaborators, and shared success, while “Reasons to Succeed” reflects his lifelong ambition. “Only Fools and Horses” revisits the unpredictable early days of the music industry, and “Fast Train” captures the intensity of Slade’s rapid rise. Elsewhere, “Dust My Axe” channels a blues-driven response to modern life, while “Sweet and Tender” offers a heartfelt tribute to his mother.
The title track, “Dirty Foot Lane,” stands as the emotional centrepiece of the record. Reimagined with Django Holder, it blends folk and ambient elements into an intimate, atmospheric soundscape. “It’s my story—my family, my home, my journey,” Hill says. “Everything connects back to that.
Stripped back and deeply expressive, the track encapsulates both the personal and artistic essence of the album.Together, the songs form a narrative that is both intimate and universal, grounded in memory, resilience, and a lifelong passion for music.
Dirty Foot Lane marks a significant step forward for Dave Hill—an artist still driven by creativity and curiosity after decades in the industry. “I’ve always been driven,” he says. “And I’m still looking for the next challenge. This album is part of that journey.”
Dave Hill is best known as the lead guitarist of Slade, one of the UK’s most iconic rock bands. With a career spanning over five decades, he continues to record, perform, and connect with audiences worldwide.
Dirty Foot Lane – Track List
Thanks for the Good Times
Back in the Air Again
Dust My Axe
She Had a Troubled Heart
Sweet and Tender
Fast Train
Only Fools and Horses
Play It to the Crowd
Reasons to Succeed
Dirty Foot Lane
Album:Dirty Foot Lane Artist: Dave Hill Release Date: October 2026 To pre-order / pre-save, go to: https://linktr.ee/dirtyfootlane
TOM MORELLO PRESENTS: POWER TO THE PEOPLE FESTIVAL
A CELEBRATION OF PEACE, JUSTICE, SOLIDARITY, MUSIC AND COMMUNITY ACTION
FEATURING DAVE MATTHEWS, FOO FIGHTERS, JOAN BAEZ, , BRITTANY HOWARD, DROPKICK MURPHYS, JACK BLACK, SERJ TANKIAN, CYPRESS HILL, KILLER MIKE, THE LINDA LINDAS, & A SPECIAL PERFORMANCE BY BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN
JUST ANNOUNCED – TICKETS ON SALE TOMORROW – OCTOBER 3RD IN THE DC AREA
Tom Morello has released his new single “Adjourn It” from his forthcoming album on Mom + Pop. The track features Serj Tankian and Morello’s 15 year old son Roman and it calls on the listener to resist the rising tide of fascism. Earlier this year, Tom and Bruce Springsteen went to Minnesota to protest the Minneapolis ICE raids and the murders of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, and this month in New York City he joined with the organization Hands Off to protest ICE and its abuses outside of 26 Federal Plaza – an Immigration Court in Manhattan. Read more about it HERE and listen to “Adjourn It” HERE. The track was produced by Zakk Cervini (Bring Me The Horizon, Yungblud) and written by Tom, Serj, Zakk, and Roman. Watch the visualizer: HERE
Tom Morello on “Adjourn It”
At this historical juncture every act of art is an act of resistance and “Adjourn It”, a collaboration with long time friend Serj Tankian and my 15 year old guitar wiz son Roman Morello, is a clarion call for justice in unjust times. Produced by Zakk Cervini (Bring Me The Horizon, Yungblud, Aerosmith) this latest tune from my upcoming solo album combines multi-generational Morello bulldozer riffs with the great Serj Tankian’s prophetic wailings. Inspired by the persecution of immigrants across the land and the heroic resistance to the rising tide of fascism it’s just about damn time to rock for freedom, justice and equality.
This week from stage with Bruce Springsteen, whom Morello has been touring with for the last month, Tom announced The Power To The People Festival — a non-partisan celebration of peace, justice, solidarity, music, and community action — taking place Saturday, October 3, 2026 at Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, MD. The general on-sale is happening this Saturday, May 30 at 10AM ET. For more information visit www.powertothepeoplefest.com.
The one-day festival will feature intimate, collaborative and special performances from an extraordinary lineup of artists and activists including Dave Matthews, Foo Fighters, Bruce Springsteen, Joan Baez, Killer Mike, Brittany Howard, Dropkick Murphys, Jack Black (featuring Roman Morello, Revel Ian, Yoyoka Soma and Hugo Weiss), Serj Tankian, grandson, The Neighborhood Kids, Taylor Momsen, Matt Cameron, The Linda Lindas, Darryl “DMC” McDaniels and Tom Morello, alongside artwork and a DJ set by legendary artist Shepard Fairey. Curated by Tom Morello, Power To The People Festival brings together artists, fans, activists, organizations and community leaders for an unforgettable day celebrating the power of music and collective action to inspire change.
In addition to performances across two stages, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with nonprofit organizations, advocacy groups, artists, and community partners in the festival’s Freedom Village — an immersive space highlighting opportunities for civic engagement, grassroots organizing, education, mutual aid, and social impact initiatives. A portion of the proceeds from all ticket sales will be donated to VoteRiders, a pro-democracy, pro-voter organization working to restore and strengthen democracy by eliminating confusing and restrictive ID-related barriers to the ballot box, and Headcount, who will also be on site to help fans register to vote and learn more about how to participate in upcoming elections.
Tom Morello has a long history of organizing activism-oriented concerts, rallies, and events, including 2011’s L.A. Rising at the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, which featured performances from Rage Against the Machine, Muse, Rise Against, Ms. Lauryn Hill, and Immortal Technique. Morello continues to be a leading voice for social justice causes and labor movements across the country and around the world. In addition to his solo work with The Nightwatchman and his role in Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave, Morello remains one of modern rock’s most influential guitarists and outspoken activists.
Tour Dates
Jun 4 – Sweden Rock Festival 2026 – Sölvesborg, Sweden
Jun 5 – Rock im Park 2026 – Nürnberg, Germany
Jun 6 – Rock am Ring 2026 – Nürburg, Germany
Jun 8 – SO36 – Berlin, Germany
Jun 9 – Klub Stodoła – Warszawa, Poland
Jun 11 – Nova Rock 2026 – Nickelsdorf, Austria
Jun 12 – Rock for People 2026 – Hradec Králové, Czechia
Jun 14 – Download Festival 2026 – Castle Donington, United Kingdom
Jun 15 – Electric Brixton – London, United Kingdom
Jun 16 – Bataclan – Paris, France
Jun 18 – Graspop Metal Meeting 2026 – Dessel, Belgium
Jun 20 – Hellfest 2026 – Clisson, France
Jun 21 – Pinkpop 2026 – Landgraaf, Netherlands
Jun 22 – Doornroosje – Nijmegen, Netherlands
Jun 24 – Copenhell Festival 2026 – Copenhagen, Denmark
Jun 26 – Tons of Rock 2026 – Oslo, Norway
Jun 27 – BBK Music Legends Festival 2026 – Bilbao, Spain
Jul 26 – Newport Folk 2026 – Newport, RI
Sep 19 – Louder Than Life 2026 – Louisville, KY
Oct 3 – Power to the People Festival at Meriweather Post Pavilion – Columbia, MD
Roger Clyne’s music and I go way back to the days in the 90’s when the Refreshments were playing at the Yucca Tap Room in Tempe, Arizona. Their independently and locally released ‘Wheelie’ CD was played by me constantly when it was released. The band made the leap to Mercury Records, where they released two albums but somehow never found the wide commercial success they deserved. Nationally, the Gin Blossoms had broken through, and it seemed like the diversity of awesome bands in Arizona at the time was never really acknowledged by others outside of Arizona. Bands that got lumped into the Gin Blossoms box, if you will, included Dead Hot Workshop, the Pistoleros, and the Refreshments. None of these bands struggled to find their own identity, though. After the Refreshments went their separate ways, Roger Clyne and P.H. Naffah formed Roger Clyne and the Peacemakers (RCPM), where they embraced some honky tonk and country into their Refreshments DNA for their first album. Ensuing albums would find the band continuing to expand their sound to build an awesome musical catalogue of rock songs with all types of musical accents from the U.S. Southwest. ‘Hell to Breakfast’ is the band’s 9th studio album as RCPM and first since ‘Native Heart’ back in 2017. I have seen interviews with Clyne where he talked about the process of finding inspiration to write this album and discovering what he now has to say as a writer. He and the band have assembled an album that hits the sweet spot and connects with me the most since their ‘Americano’ album from 2004.
Kicking off with the rock n roll flavoured ‘Fireflies’ serves as a great start to the album with Clyne’s witty lyrics on full display before the huge chorus explodes. This song would have sounded just as at home on a Refreshments’ record as it does here. The transition to ‘American Drugs’ works great, as this one contains hints of the ‘Americano’ album and tells an awesome story from down near the Arizona/ Mexico border. The tempo is slowed, and I can see this one being very popular in the live set. ‘You Got Lightning’ is another instant hook into the brain and one of the up-tempo songs from the album. My favourite line from the song is ‘while you feel like a b-side, always spinning face down.’
The diversity amongst the songs and approaches serves as a strength to the album for me. The tempo slows down again for both songs at the end of the first side of the album. ‘Sleepin’ With My Rifle’ is one of my favourite songs from the album, with another narrative-filled lyric. Trumpet is always a welcome addition to an RCPM song, and this is no exception. The musical breaks and the way the chorus flows at the end are simply perfection. ‘Sail Into Silver’ switches to acoustics with lyrics that hit the soul very powerfully at my age. The melody is beautiful, and it provides a great end to the first half of the album.
‘Special Guest ‘ gets us back to the rocking material with a song that I think will be extremely powerful live. The chorus simply explodes out of the speakers. Next up is the first song released from the album back at the end of 2025, and one that has become one of my all-time favorites by the band- ‘Agua Caliente.’ This one is as catchy as a wave of tumbleweeds across a New Mexico mesa. The trumpets and Mexican influences are divine. Growing up in New Mexico and Arizona, I could play this song for a stranger and say this is what home sounds like for me. The band changes gears with ‘Getaway’ which could be more of a challenge in a live setting, depending on the venue’s acoustics, with the long-sustained guitar notes that provide the backdrop of the song. This one has Shelby Stone dueting with Clyne to great effect.
Reaching the final turn of the album, ‘Wake Up Whistlin’ slows the tempo back down again with some acoustic guitars, but also some twists and turns. This one has been a real grower over the past couple of months. I love the way the piano notes close out the song. Closing out the album is the uniquely titled ‘Yeh Shoobeh’, where the band locks into a midtempo groove and a catchy chorus. While I don’t know if the band could ever top ‘Nada’ or ‘Leave an Open Door’ as an album closer, this one works perfectly for this album.
For me, this album has connected with me the most since their ‘Americano’ album, with my biggest complaint being that they have gone the old school route of 10 songs in under 40 minutes. Simply put, if you are an RCPM fan or Refreshments’ fan, this one should have already been added to your collection. If you have never heard the band, this also serves as a great starting point, and I don’t think you can say that about records from bands that have been playing for a few decades. Here’s to Life!
Once again, I find myself travelling to London this time accompanied by RPM main man Dom Daley, roll back to October 2025, and an announcement that I never thought would happen, the legendary Sugar announce their first gigs in 31 years!!!
When the dates were announced, three New York shows and then two in London, it was a no-brainer that we had to be at a date. Thankfully, tickets were secured, hotel and travel sorted, then the 8-month wait, and it was well worth it, even if it was the hottest day of the year!
The last time we saw Bob Mould it was in support of his fantastic last solo effort and we were lucky enough to meet the man in a in store signing, the fanboy I am I thought I’d take a chance at bringing along a few more items for Bob to sign and those items were the three classic Sugar albums, I had absolutely no clue that just over a year later we’d be seeing the original reunited band together, what a treat!!!!
So we get to the venue and pick our spot, and shortly after J. Robbins of Jawbox hits the stage with an acoustic guitar and a mic, so a proper stripped-down affair. Fair play to anyone who does a complete solo set and puts their all into it. I wasn’t familiar with his solo work, but I always liked what I’d heard of Jawbox and possibly their most well-known song, ‘Savory’ was great to hear live, and the crowd definitely enjoyed it too. I’ll be revisiting the Jawbox back catalogue for sure, great stuff.
After a short refreshment break, the anticipation is building and Bob Mould, David Barbe and Malcolm Travis hit the stage and smash instantly the classic opening three songs off the all timer debut album “Copper Blue”, ‘The Act We Act’, ‘A Good Idea’ and ‘Changes’ the hairs at the back of my neck are standing these are songs I have loved for so so long and to finally hear them in their full glory is a emotional moment for myself and the whole audience as the insanely catchy melody’s get under your skin and choruses that the audience scream back to the band!!!
After that frantic start, we move onto the many moments where David takes over on lead vocals with ‘Company Book’ off the massively underrated third Sugar album “File Under: Easy Listening”, the riffs and melody’s shine through and the band isn’t missing a beat and look to be having the time of their lives up there.
Next up, we get a big section of B-Sides and songs that have only officially been released as live recordings. “After All The Roads Lead to Nowhere” is one of the most frantic moments of the set. Bob Mould has always been known for his unbelievable songwriting, but the noise he makes from his guitar is second to none as well, and he is underrated. “In The Eyes of My Friends”, “Where Diamonds Are Halos” and “Running Out of Time” are all songs not on studio albums, most bands would kill to have songs like these. It just goes to show the strength of the songwriting on display here.
Sandwiched in between that lot we were treated to in my eyes not only one of the best songs Bob has ever written but one of the greatest songs I have ever heard, of course it is the classic ‘Hoover Dam’ once more again off legendary “Copper Blue” album, hearing it is just one of those euphoric moments that make you glad to be in the here and now, a moment I won’t be forgetting for a long time.
When you think moments don’t get much better, we are then treated to two classics from “File Under” the monster opening riff off album opener ‘Gift’, the distortion guitar on this is off the scales and then straight into the ridiculously catchy ‘Your Favourite Thing’ two of my highlights of the evening.
A few songs later, and we get the double helping of two brand new songs. Not only did the band come back with tour dates, but they’ve also been in the studio and recorded a 7” single, House of Dead Memories’ and ‘Long Live Love’, which both fit into the set perfectly. Hopefully, there’s more to come from the studio!!
As the set progressed, we noticed that the sound was getting louder and the distortion was off the charts. ‘Fortune Teller’, another classic and one of my personal favourites, which I believe they didn’t play on night one in London, so that was a fantastic moment. I said about the loudness, well it didn’t get any louder than the last two songs before the encore, we are finally treated to the frantic 1-2 off of “Beaster” ‘Tilted’ and ‘JC Auto’, Malcom keeps the tempo up and doesn’t miss a beat, the harmonies are massive and once again Bob’s like a maniac on the stage!!!
The band takes a short well earned break, it is like a furnace in the Kentish Town Forum and then come back out to a huge applause we have a few more songs to go and what better way to get it going than the drum fill that starts the classic ‘Helpless’ another massive singalong ensues, then another personal favourite that opens with a monster riff ‘Gee Angel’ honestly it is ridiculous how many brilliant songs Bob Mould has written over the years, from legendary Husker Du tracks to a stellar solo career and to here, the final song of a unforgettable set possibly my favourite song he has ever written ‘If I Can’t Change Your Mind’ a perfect song of heartbreak and unrequited love that would resonate with almost anyone which never fails to give me goosebumps everytime and to hear it live for the first time was something special indeed!!!
What a fantastic set and performance, one which I will never forget. If that was to be the one and only time I get to see Sugar, it will be treasured, but fingers crossed, there will be more to come if the reception of the audience is anything to go by. The world is a better place with Sugar in it.
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