The Recording Academy is reconsidering its new Best Asian Pop Music Performance category following criticism from artists and BTS’ decision to skip the 2027 Grammy Awards.

Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. confirmed the review on August 14, saying discussions with artists, labels and music communities across K-pop, J-pop, C-pop and India raised concerns about how the category represents Asian music.

Introduced in June as one of five new Grammy categories, the award was designed to recognize Asia’s growing pop scene. BTS announced in July that it would not submit music for Grammy consideration, keeping its comeback album ARIRANG out of contention.

While BTS did not directly name the category, the group said it wanted music to be appreciated without being divided by region or language. Mason initially defended the category but has now acknowledged that some artists feel it does not represent their work as intended.

The Academy’s Board and Awards & Nominations Committee will now review the category and seek further input. The process for introducing new Grammy categories may also come under scrutiny.

The move signals a possible rethink of how the Grammys recognize Asia’s rapidly growing music industry.

GEAR // Yamaha Pacifica Professional and Standard Plus Review

Built to Inspire, Designed to Perform

For more than three decades, the Yamaha Pacifica has earned a reputation as one of the most versatile electric guitars ever made. From its origins as a boutique custom-shop project in Los Angeles to becoming a worldwide favourite among players of every level, the Pacifica has always been designed around one simple idea: giving guitarists the freedom to play anything.

In 2026, Yamaha has delivered the biggest evolution of the Pacifica lineup in years. Rather than introducing a single new model, the company has expanded the family into two distinct platforms—the familiar Pacifica DC (Double Cutaway)and the all-new Pacifica SC (Single Cutaway). Each is available in both Professional and Standard Plus specifications, with a choice of rosewood or maple fingerboards.

Whether you prefer the classic Superstrat-inspired design of the DC or the bold new single-cut silhouette of the SC, the latest Pacifica range is built around the same philosophy: exceptional comfort, expressive tone, and outstanding versatility.

Click to read the full feature

INTERVIEWS /// Seattle thrashers Nevermore spoke about new beginnings

‘An amazing singer’ – Nevermore on Berzan Önen Joining the Line-up

The return of Nevermore has been met with an emphatic response. The band’s current lineup brings together guitarist Jeff Loomis and drummer Van Williams with guitarist Jack Cattoi, bassist Semir Özerkan, and vocalist Berzan Önen. Nearly two years into the reunion, the band says this new incarnation already feels stronger and tighter than before.

That was especially evident in Istanbul, hometown of new vocalist Berzan Önen. In this venue, the fans reportedly began lining up from 7 a.m. for a sold-out show. Drummer Van Williams says the current chemistry has made a tangible difference onstage. Despite rehearsing less, the band is playing tighter, helped by modern in-ear monitoring and a more supportive lineup.

The same spirit carried into Wacken 2026, which both Williams and Önen described as the “mecca of metal.” For Önen, performing there with his favorite band was surreal. “This is what it’s all about,” he said, pointing to the “brotherhood, the sisterhood, the community of metal” and the festival’s sense of inclusion.

Click to read the full interview

SPOTLIGHT //// motko Finds His Way Back on the Slow-Burning Debut Album

Bratislava-based artist motko describes his music as “movies for your ears.” His debut album, home, lives up to that description.

what makes a place feel like home? The album looks at distance, change, and the difficult process of returning to yourself.

Before starting his solo project motko, Shorty played in Millhouse, Symbiosis and IONS. That experience shows in the controlled build of the songs, though the music still keeps a raw edge.

motko doesn’t force the songs towards quick hooks, but allows ideas to develop at their own pace. The vocals often feel close, even when the music around them becomes dense. This contrast gives the album much of its emotional pull.

Read the full review

PODCAST ///// WACKEN TO BANGALORE w Salman U. Syed

Building the Future of Indian Metal

What does it take to build a world-class metal festival? We sit down with Salman U. Syed*, organiser with *Wacken Open Air and founder of *Bangalore Open Air*, for a candid conversation about the business, challenges and future of heavy metal in India.

Salman reflects on the highlights of *Wacken Metal Battle 2026*, how the competition has evolved, and what advice he has for bands who don't make the final roster. We also get an inside perspective on what makes Wacken Open Air one of the world's best-organised metal festivals.

Closer to home, Salman talks about his motivation to keep Bangalore Open Air going, the bands he's excited to bring to India, and his dream bookings for the festival. We also look ahead at the Indian metal scene and ask the big question: where could Indian metal be in the next 5–10 years?

Check out the BOA website

When Liam Gallagher dismissed the inaugural FIFA World Cup Final halftime show “like a bad trip,” he summed up the mood of millions of football fans in six cutting words. Judging by the torrent of criticism that followed, the Oasis frontman was far from alone.

The idea of introducing a Super Bowl-style halftime spectacle to football’s biggest occasion always carried risks. But instead of complementing the drama of the World Cup final, the 11-minute production felt like a disjointed playlist stitched together by an algorithm. Madonna’s opening number, BTS’s energetic cameo, Justin Bieber’s unexpectedly subdued acoustic ballad, Shakira and Burna Boy’s brief burst of energy, and Coldplay’s earnest finale never quite found a common rhythm.

Wayne Rooney’s brutally honest verdict—”I thought it was crap”—captured the frustration of fans who tuned in expecting football’s grandest stage to remain just that: a celebration of the game. Social media echoed those sentiments, with many questioning whether FIFA had borrowed the NFL’s biggest entertainment tradition without understanding why it works.

This is not to say football should resist change. The World Cup has evolved constantly, embracing technology, expanded formats and new audiences. But innovation should enhance the spectacle, not distract from it. A halftime show that overshadows the match—or worse, interrupts its emotional momentum—risks becoming an annual talking point for all the wrong reasons.

FIFA wanted a historic first. It certainly got one. Unfortunately, history will likely remember the debut halftime show less for its star-studded lineup than for the avalanche of criticism it inspired. As Gallagher’s withering assessment continues to circulate online, FIFA may already be wondering whether some traditions are best left untouched.

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REWIND // From Underground to Mainstream: The Evolution of Alternative and Indie Metal

Alternative and indie-influenced metal emerged when musicians began pushing heavy music beyond strict genre rules. In the 1980s, early bands mixed metal with alternative rock, punk, noise rock, funk, and other outsider sounds. That experimentation created a heavier style that still felt open, unusual, and less conventional than traditional metal.

The first wave of this movement grew from underground scenes rather than a single clear scene. Some bands came from hardcore punk, while others drew from grunge, stoner rock, sludge, gothic metal, or industrial music. What connected them was a willingness to break formula. Instead of relying only on speed and aggression, they often used mid-tempo riffs, downtuned guitars, melodic vocals, and unpredictable song structures. This gave the music a more exploratory feel and helped set the foundation for what many listeners would later call alternative metal.

In the early 1990s, the style became more visible. Grunge helped make heavier alternative sounds more acceptable to mainstream rock audiences, and bands with experimental metal elements found larger platforms. This was the period when alternative metal moved from a niche category into a broader cultural conversation. Some acts expanded the sound with progressive, funk, or post-hardcore influences, while others made the music more abrasive and rhythmic.

By the late 1990s, the genre’s evolution took another turn through nu metal. This more aggressive wave kept the downtuned riffs and crossover spirit of alternative metal, but added hip hop, industrial, groove, and hardcore influences. It became the most commercially successful version of the style and brought alternative metal ideas to a massive audience. For a time, this was the dominant face of heavy music in mainstream culture.

After the mid-2000s, nu metal’s popularity declined, and the genre’s mainstream visibility faded. Still, alternative and indie-influenced metal did not disappear. Its legacy remained in bands that continued to blend heaviness with experimentation, atmosphere, and non-metal influences. The genre’s history shows a clear pattern: it began as a rejection of metal orthodoxy, reached commercial peak through crossover appeal, and then evolved into a lasting influence on modern heavy music.

EVENTS /// The B Side Brings Boutique Gear At Bengaluru Residency

The B Side, India’s first appointment-only boutique guitar studio, hosted a five-day residency at Theme Piano World in Indiranagar, Bengaluru, showcasing a curated selection of high-end and boutique guitars, amplifiers, effect pedals and pickups, alongside a vinyl record popup by Bengaluru-based independent label SirCuss Records.

Sanky Chaturvedi and Aastha Mishra of The B Side enjoy the lively sound of guitar players playing over each other. That would be one way to describe the energetic atmosphere at the The B Side’s Bengaluru Residency, where visitors were invited to try out the instruments on display. While there was no sign of anyone playing “Stairway to Heaven“, visitors witnessed guitar shredders melting the faces off anyone who cared to pay attention

The B Side, India’s first appointment-only boutique guitar studio, hosted a five-day residency at Theme Piano World in Indiranagar, showcasing a curated selection of high-end and boutique guitars, amplifiers, effect pedals and pickups, alongside a vinyl record popup by Bengaluru-based independent label SirCuss Records.

More about The B-Side in Bangalore

SPOTLIGHT //// The Rolling Stones - Foreign Tongues

In their 25th release, the legendary band drop bluesy bangers, rock hits and that relentless spirit that shows that they’re showstoppers even after 70 years.

Mind you, you’re listening to a band that was considered the alternative rival for The Beatles. A band that very naturally became the choice for a gritty, harder blues sound and delivered music that wasn’t necessarily theme-driven about love, like the boys from Liverpool. 70 years later, this band from the 60s is still making real rocking music, and it comes at a time when we need that kind of pride the most. Any sane person would have thought their 2023 album Hackney Diamonds would be their last. Respectfully, they are going to make music till they stop. This one is hitting a legendary quarter century. Give it up for their mind-boggling 25th album, Foreign Tongues.

Album Review: The Rolling Stones-Foreign Tongues

The global music industry has introduced a voluntary labelling system aimed at increasing transparency around the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in music creation.

Announced on July 10 by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), and six other industry organisations, the initiative is designed to help listeners understand whether and how AI has been used in music recordings.

The framework introduces two labels: one for music created entirely with generative AI and another for “AI-assisted” recordings. To qualify as AI-assisted, a track must be created primarily by humans, with lead vocals and primary instrumental performances provided by people, while AI may contribute certain expressive elements.

“Fans want to know whether and how generative AI has been used,” IFPI CEO Victoria Oakley and RIAA Chairman and CEO Mitch Glazier said in a joint statement. The organisations said the labels are intended for broad global adoption, including across music streaming platforms.

The initiative comes as AI-generated music continues to surge. Streaming platform Deezer recently said AI-generated tracks now account for nearly half of all new uploads. In June, the company launched an AI music detector it claims is 99.8 per cent accurate. Earlier this year, an Apple Music executive told Billboard that more than one-third of new uploads to the platform were created entirely using AI.

The Digital Media Association (DIMA), representing Apple Music, Amazon Music and Spotify, welcomed the move, saying improved AI metadata would enhance transparency for listeners. Meanwhile, Spotify has expanded its efforts to address AI-related concerns, introducing its “Verified by Spotify” label in April to help users identify authentic artists and combat impersonation.

LISTS // International Concerts in India 2026: Every Major Artist Still Set to Perform

India’s concert calendar remains packed with global talent in the second half of 2026. Here are the biggest international artists officially scheduled to perform, along with a must-listen track before the show.

Anyma

Date: November 21, 2026
Venue: Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Mumbai

Italian-American producer who became the first electronic artist to headline the futuristic Sphere venue in Las Vegas – Anyma is bringing his acclaimed ÆDEN audiovisual show to India for the first time. His performances combine melodic techno with cinematic visuals, making them among the most immersive live electronic experiences in the world.

Guns N’ Roses

Dates: November 2026
Cities: Bengaluru and Guwahati (venue details to be announced)

Rock icons Guns N’ Roses return to India with two concerts, including their first-ever performance in Northeast India. Expect classics like Sweet Child O’ Mine, Paradise City and November Rain. Their debut album Appetite for Destruction is the best-selling debut album in U.S. history.

Fred again..

Dates:

• December 5, 2026 – Leisure Valley Ground, Delhi NCR

• December 9, 2026 – Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Mumbai

• December 13, 2026 – NICE Grounds, Bengaluru

Grammy-winning producer Fred again.. finally makes his India debut. His emotionally charged live sets blend house, garage and pop influences with real-life voice recordings, creating a unique concert experience.

In the past, Fred has collaborated with artists including Skrillex, Brian Eno, Ed Sheeran and Swedish House Mafia.

The Chainsmokers

Dates:

• December 18, 2026 – Mumbai

• December 19, 2026 – Delhi

• December 20, 2026 – Bengaluru

The Grammy-winning duo returns to India with a three-city tour, bringing their signature mix of EDM and pop that has dominated global charts for nearly a decade. Their smash hit Closer spent 12 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Foo Fighters

Dates:

• January 29, 2027 – Bengaluru LIVE, Bengaluru

• January 31, 2027 – Mahalaxmi Racecourse, Mumbai

Although scheduled for early 2027, Foo Fighters’ India debut is part of the current 2026–27 concert season. Led by Dave Grohl, the band remains one of the world’s biggest arena rock acts. It is known that Grohl recorded nearly every instrument on Foo Fighters’ self-titled debut album before assembling a full band.

Opeth

Dates:

• October 3, 2026: Mumbai – Bighorn Arena

• October 4, 2026: Bengaluru – Bighorn Arena

Swedish prog metal band Opeth is coming back to India after 7 long years. The tour is named after their last studio album The Last Will And Testament released in 2014. The album is a concept record marking their death growls comeback, along with a WW1 era dark storyline, including collaborations with Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull).

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SPOTLIGHT /// The Wow! Signal by Muse

Muse might need a reintroduction, especially for a whole generation of music lovers. Mind you, they are already legends in their own right. They were the first rock band to sell out the new Wembley Stadium with their performance. With the style that has blended some of the finest sub-genres of rock and a simulation-heavy theme, the band has always been at the fore of creating incredible narratives and storylines.

After 2022’s Will of the People, a certain hope was retained back in this band’s powers. Welcome to The Wow! Signal.

Leave it to Matt Bellamy to find something interesting and expand it into a whole new universe of fan fiction. In August of 1977, Ohio State University’s radio telescope picked up a 72-second radio signal from Sagittarius. It matched the existing profile of an extraterrestrial transmission, which Jerry R. Ehman circled and wrote Wow! in the margin. It has neither been explained nor identified and is the strongest alien signal that has ever been detected.

Like the magazine The Guardian pointed out, there seemed to be a new tidal wave of conspiracy elements in most of Muse’s music. However, I have always seen it as Bellamy devoting himself to a fictional world rather than what is around simply for the sake of the fantastical themes that he can explore.

Click to read full feature

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame-inducted, 15-time GRAMMY-winning band will perform in Bengaluru on January 29 and Mumbai’s Mahalaxmi Racecourse on January 31, 2027, as part of their Take Cover Tour.

The lineup features Dave Grohl, Nate Mendel, Chris Shiflett, Pat Smear, Rami Jaffee and Ilan Rubin. Support across both dates will come from The Pretty Reckless, Die Spitz, Still in Therapy, Alain Johannes, Mali and Pinkshift.

The announcement follows days of speculation sparked by a teaser campaign from BookMyShow Live and Bandland, with fans correctly identifying clues linked to the band’s iconic ray gun imagery.

The long-awaited debut marks Foo Fighters’ first-ever performance in India, adding another major international act to the country’s growing live music calendar. General ticket sales begin tomorrow via BookMyShow Live.

Keep an eye here for the tickets.

SPOTLIGHT // Your Favorite Toy by Foo Fighters

Foo Fighters return with an album that clings on to their legacy with a few good tracks. The few tumultuous years Grohl has gone through after But Here We Are (2023). Your Favorite Toy has great sound and good songs but remains an average release for one of the biggest rock bands on Earth.

Let me begin this review by saying I am a massive Foo Fighters fan. YouTube knows this and has taken me all the way to show Dave Grohl’s running ‘Fresh Pots!’ joke with Them Crooked Vultures and even him tracking drums for The Killing Joke. If the previous sentence meant nothing to you logically, we’re not the same level of fans of the Foo Fighters. I’ve listened to EPs, live shows and live EPs that they released in the MMDDYYYY format. Their music and energy has helped me through significant lows in my life and will continue to do so. With Your Favorite Toy, Dave Grohl has wandered into very different spectral themes, and many of them are relevant to what is going on in his life. But the FFF (Foo Fighters Fanbase) also appreciates all the other band members that make the songs.

CLICK READ FULL REVIEW

LIST /// The top Foo Fighters tracks on our radar

1. Everlong

Album: The Colour and the Shape (1997)

Everlong captures Foo Fighters at their most powerful and melodic. Dave Grohl pairs soaring vocals with driving guitars, creating a song that has become the band’s signature anthem and a staple of modern rock.

2. My Hero

Album: The Colour and the Shape (1997)

My Hero turns an everyday person into a larger-than-life figure. Its steady build, memorable chorus, and uplifting message helped make it one of the band’s most enduring hits.

3. Learn to Fly

Album: There Is Nothing Left to Lose (1999)

Learn to Fly showcases Foo Fighters’ knack for writing catchy rock songs. The upbeat melody and optimistic energy helped the band reach a wider mainstream audience.

4. The Pretender

Album: Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace (2007)

The Pretender starts with tension and explodes into a full-throttle rock assault. Its sharp lyrics and explosive chorus made it one of the band’s biggest modern-era singles.

5. Best of You

Album: In Your Honor (2005)

Best of You combines raw emotion with arena-sized hooks. Grohl’s passionate vocal performance drives a song that remains a fan favourite and live-show highlight.

6. All My Life

Album: One by One (2002)

All My Life balances quiet suspense with bursts of heavy riffs. The song’s dynamic structure and relentless energy earned Foo Fighters one of their biggest rock radio successes.

7. Monkey Wrench

Album: The Colour and the Shape (1997)

Monkey Wrench races forward with punk-inspired energy and sharp guitar work. Its infectious chorus and intensity helped define the band’s early sound.

8. Times Like These

Album: One by One (2002)

Times Like These reflects on uncertainty while embracing resilience. The song’s gradual build and hopeful message have made it one of Foo Fighters’ most meaningful tracks.

9. Walk

Album: Wasting Light (2011)

Walk celebrates perseverance and new beginnings. Built around a memorable chorus and powerful finale, it became one of the defining songs of the band’s later career.

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PLAYLIST //// ASYLUM ARCHIVES

Embark on a journey through the dark and twisted halls of the Asylum Archives: Into the labyrinth of the insane

Legendary rock band Guns N’ Roses will return to India in 2026 for a two-city tour as part of the Asia leg of their ongoing World Tour. The band will perform in Bengaluru and Guwahati this November, bringing their iconic live show back to Indian fans.

The first concert will take place at Nice Grounds in Bengaluru on November 14, 2026. The tour will then move to Khanapara Ground in Guwahati for a second headline performance on November 17, 2026.

Known for iconic albums such as “Appetite for Destruction,” “Use Your Illiusion I & II,” and later, “Chinese Democracy,” GnR remain one of the most influential rock bands in the world. In March, Indian fans speculated their return when the hard rock titans declared dates for the South-East Asian leg of the tour.

Fans eager to secure tickets can take advantage of the exclusive Nightrain presale. Presales for both India shows has begun today, Monday, June 8, at 5 PM IST. The early access sale offers members a chance to purchase tickets before the general public.

The announcement marks the band’s highly anticipated return to India and is expected to generate strong demand from rock music fans across the country.

The event is headed by Bandland on Tour in assosciation with BookMyShow Live. More ticketing and event details are expected to be announced soon.

SPOTLIGHT // ‘I Built You a Tower’ BY DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE

Ben Gibbard and Death Cab for Cutie reflect on relationships again with the introspective, melodic tomb that is I Built You a Tower. Another failed relationship later, the definitive rock band does what it does best: make memorable songs about relationships.

Death Cab for Cutie are definitive to alt-rock the same way The Pixies are. The major difference lies in their disposition of this world and their perception of it. After Ben Gibbard’s second divorce, we are looking at an album that is deeply personal, uses a major contextual shift, and might also reflect the departure of Chris Walla. “I Built Your Tower” has to be listened to in the same way a novel is read, and Gibbard has given us the bookends.

Click to read the full feature : Album Review: Death Cab for Cutie- I Built You a Tower

PODCAST /// Suraj Mani - MOTHERJANE

This episode feels like catching up with your childhood hero. Suraj opens up about returning to the band, the emotional and creative journey behind the new record, and what it means to revive something that shaped an entire generation of Indian rock listeners.

We get into the legacy of Maktub and Insane Biography, the evolution of his artistry, spirituality, songwriting, and how the band is approaching this new chapter without losing what made them special in the first place. It’s honest, reflective, and full of those moments that remind you why Motherjane hit so hard back in the day — and why this comeback matters!

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PLAYLIST //// SINUSOIDAL’S ROCK MONTHLY MIX

Enjoy the most electrifying mix of Rock music from around the world. Curated and updated each month with passion.

Fender is facing growing backlash after reports emerged that the company has sent cease-and-desist letters to boutique guitar builders over Stratocaster-style instruments, raising concerns across the custom guitar industry.

The legal action follows Fender’s March 2026 court victory in Germany against Chinese manufacturer Yiwu Philharmonic Musical Instruments Co. In that case, the Düsseldorf Regional Court ruled that the Stratocaster body shape qualifies as a “copyrighted work of applied art” within the European Union.

According to documents reportedly sent by law firm Bird & Bird on Fender’s behalf, several guitar makers have been ordered to stop producing guitars that resemble the Stratocaster design. The letters allegedly demand companies halt sales, destroy unsold inventory, disclose sales figures, and potentially pay damages and legal fees.

The letters argue that the Stratocaster body is not merely functional, but a unique artistic creation developed by Leo Fender in the 1950s. Fender reportedly claims the EU ruling now confirms that copying the body shape constitutes copyright infringement.

California-based boutique builder LSL Instruments was the first company to publicly confirm receiving such a notice. The family-run brand says Fender demanded it stop selling, recalling, and destroying all of its Saticoy guitars worldwide.

“We make less than 500 guitars a year, while Fender makes 500,000,” LSL said in a public statement. “Our small business poses no threat to them.”

LSL has since launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover legal expenses, warning that fighting the case independently could bankrupt the company.

The controversy has ignited debate throughout the guitar community, where Strat-style instruments have long been a staple of boutique manufacturing. While Fender appears determined to aggressively protect the iconic design, it remains unclear how broadly the ruling can ultimately be enforced — especially outside the European Union.

SPOTLIGHT // ‘The Unlikely Mariner’ by Cody Fry

Cody Fry might have had a lot of things in his favour. Being the son of Garry Fry, a master composer and orchestrator in his own right, Cody never really slunk around in his shadow.

The musical movements that he was going through were more defined by pop and the kind of music the internet was consuming at the time. From his 2017 album ‘Flying’, a single song exploded on TikTok.

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GEARS /// Yamaha Launches THR models in India

The Yamaha THR series redefines home guitar practice with rich tone, compact design, and immersive stereo sound. Powered by advanced modelling technology, it blends studio-quality audio with everyday usability.

Originally launched in 2011, THR makes playing at home more inspiring, convenient, and sonically rewarding than traditional practice amps. The primary research-led development of the THR series was directed towards catering to the needs of the modern guitarist’s lifestyle and spatial identity.

Read the full product review > An amp for Every Desk – THR5, THR10 & THR5A

PLAYLISTS //// Serenity Sessions: Lo-fi

Serenity Sessions awaits…

A handpicked collection of calming and soothing lo-fi study beats, jazz hop and chill hop tracks to alleviate stress and melt away tension!

Justin Bieber’s Coachella performance sparked widespread debate after fans noticed he didn’t perform his classic hits in full.

The pop star, who hadn’t appeared on a major stage since Rock in Rio 2022, delivered a set largely centered on his recent SWAG-era material while still acknowledging older fan favorites in an unconventional way.

During the show, Bieber incorporated snippets of iconic tracks like “Baby,” “All That Matters,” and “Sorry,” playing their music videos on a large screen while singing along briefly instead of performing full renditions. The creative choice left some viewers puzzled and fueled online speculation.

A viral social media post claimed the decision was tied to Bieber’s 2023 deal selling parts of his music catalog to Hipgnosis Songs. The theory suggested he avoided full performances to bypass licensing complications and royalties tied to his former label.

However, a source close to the deal dismissed the claim, calling it “nonsense” in comments to Billboard. According to the source, selling music rights—whether masters, publishing, or royalties—does not limit an artist’s ability to perform their own songs live.

Industry insiders speculate that the real reason was artistic direction. Bieber’s set was designed to highlight his newer work, and performing older tracks in full may have disrupted the flow. Instead, the brief throwbacks allowed him to balance nostalgia with his current musical identity.

The performance ultimately blended past and present, while throwing in a bonus for Billie Eilish fans when he called her to the stage for “One Less Lonely Girl”.

SPOTLIGHT // Nine Inch Noize by Nine Inch Nails

Nine Inch Nails return after their powerful Tron: Ares soundtrack for a collaboration with tone perfect Boys Noize. The result is a mashup we always knew we needed, called Nine Inch Noize. A cinematic revelation, from start to finish.

When Coachella 2026 announced their lineup, people were confused as to seeing a mistyped version of Nine Inch Nails. Surely, any festival producer knows about NIN and the impact they’ve had. Soon, fans figured out it was a collaboration between German-Iraqi electronic music producer Boys Noize (Alexander Ridha) and Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross as tentpoles. It’s electronic music getting that industrial aftertaste, and rust has never tasted so good. They’re here to present Nine Inch Noize.

Read the full review here.

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LISTS /// Universal Audio Launches Free UAD Explore Bundle with 8 Plugins and LUNA DAW

Universal Audio has unveiled its UAD Explore FREE bundle, giving music producers access to eight high-quality plugins and the LUNA DAW at no cost.

Unlike previous limited-time promotions, this package is permanently free and does not require any UA hardware, making it accessible to a much wider audience.

Classic Compression Tools
At the core of the bundle are two legendary compressors: the 1176 Classic FET Compressor and the Teletronix LA-2A Tube Compressor. The 1176 is known for its fast, punchy response, making it ideal for drums, vocals, and bass. In contrast, the LA-2A offers smooth, optical compression that excels on vocals and melodic elements. Together, they form a classic signal chain widely used in professional studios.

Analog Warmth and Effects
The bundle also includes the UA 610 Tube Preamp & EQ Collection, which adds warmth and character through tube saturation and musical EQ. Complementing this is the Pure Plate Reverb, a simple yet rich-sounding reverb that helps create depth without complex tweaking.

Guitar and Character Processing
For guitarists, the Showtime ’64 Tube Amp delivers clean tones inspired by vintage amplifiers, ideal for blues, surf, and indie styles. Meanwhile, the Vibe Analog Machines Essentials provides quick analog-style coloration, allowing users to add subtle warmth or heavy vintage character to tracks.

All-in-One Channel Strip
The Century Tube Channel Strip combines a tube preamp, EQ, and compression into a single plugin. This makes it a convenient tool for shaping sounds during recording or mixing without needing multiple separate plugins.

Synth and Sound Design
Rounding out the bundle is the PolyMAX Synth, an eight-voice polyphonic instrument inspired by classic analog synths. It is well-suited for creating pads, leads, and textured sounds, with features like FM synthesis, hard sync, and built-in effects.

LUNA DAW and Availability
The inclusion of the LUNA DAW provides a full recording and mixing environment, particularly optimized for UA workflows, though it works independently of UA hardware. However, its MIDI capabilities are more limited compared to some established DAWs. The entire bundle runs natively on macOS and Windows and is installed via the UA Connect app.

With a combination of professional-grade tools and a complete DAW, the UAD Explore FREE bundle stands out as a strong entry point for beginners and a valuable addition for experienced producers alike.

PLAYLISTS //// Sinusoidal’s Pop Monthly Mix

A frequently updated playlist with the best pop music hits from the 2000s to present times. Find Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, Dua Lipa, Coldplay and more!

Eric Clapton has officially announced the return of the Crossroads Guitar Festival for 2026, set to take place September 26–27 at the Moody Center in Austin. Marking its seventh edition, the festival celebrates 28 years of the Crossroads Centre Antigua.

The two-day event will feature an all-star lineup of guitar icons including John Mayer, Gary Clark Jr., Buddy Guy, and Joe Bonamassa, alongside debut appearances from Trey Anastasio and Pete Townshend. Clapton himself will perform on both nights, continuing the festival’s tradition of collaborative, genre-spanning performances.

Returning as exclusive retail partner, Guitar Center will host an immersive on-site experience featuring major brands like Fender and Gibson, plus a rare showcase of historic instruments; including Clapton’s “Blackie” Stratocaster and Stevie Ray Vaughan’s iconic “Lenny.”

Tickets go on sale April 3, with proceeds supporting addiction recovery initiatives through the Crossroads Centre.

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SPOTLIGHT // ‘Full Circle’ by Tom Misch

From a midnight messiah who uploaded songs at 3am on Soundcloud in anonymity, Tom Misch returns to the bedroom folk roots that made him fall in love with music in the first place. A gentle, introspective and cohesive listen.

Tom Misch only ever wanted to be a musician. The youngest of three siblings, he watched his small Southeast London home move slowly. His escape and resolve were in these tunes he made, inspired by J Dilla and Robert Glasper, along with Roy Hargrove, Erykah Badu and the legend Herbie Hancock. Tricks that made him be able to sit at home in his room, press the record button and enjoy just looping licks and having a good time. After the breakout years, he realised he had become bigger than he ever intended to, in his words. He returns to the reasons he made music with Full Circle.

LISTS /// Studio-Grade Tone Without the Amp Stack: The Most Trusted Guitar FX Plugins Right Now

Below is a precise, expert-curated list of 10 top-rated, widely used guitar effect plugins. Based on real user adoption, reviews, and industry recommendations. These are modern studio standards, not obscure picks.

Best Overall – Waves GTR3 Bundle

A long-standing industry staple, Waves GTR3 delivers a complete ecosystem of amps, cabinets, and stompbox effects in one intuitive interface. Its strength lies in versatility: covering clean, crunch, and high-gain tones with ease. Ideal for producers needing quick, mix-ready sounds without heavy tweaking, it remains a reliable studio workhorse.

Price: ~₹2,800
Manufacturer: Waves Audio
Compatibility: VST, VST3, AU, AAX (Mac/Windows)

Universal Audio Guitar Amp Bundle

Universal Audio’s bundle is revered for its near-perfect analog emulation, capturing tube warmth and dynamic response exceptionally well. Designed for professionals, it excels in mix realism and responsiveness. The plugins feel like real amps under the fingers, making them a favorite among session guitarists and engineers.

Price: ~₹43,000
Manufacturer: Universal Audio
Compatibility: VST, AU, AAX (Mac/Windows, some require UAD hardware)

Blue Cat Axiom

Axiom is a modular powerhouse combining amp simulation, effects chains, and plugin hosting. It allows deep customization of signal paths, making it perfect for experimental or advanced users. Guitarists love its flexibility and tone-shaping precision, especially for complex productions and sound design workflows.

Price: ~₹23,500
Manufacturer: Blue Cat Audio
Compatibility: VST, VST3, AU, AAX

FabFilter Saturn 2

Though not guitar-specific, Saturn 2 is widely used for guitar tone shaping. Its multiband distortion engine allows precise control over harmonic content, making it excellent for modern production. Clean UI, high-quality algorithms, and creative modulation make it a favorite among mixing engineers.

Price: ~₹7,400
Manufacturer: FabFilter
Compatibility: VST, VST3, AU, AAX

Neural DSP Archetype-style Plugins (Industry Standard)

Neural DSP-style plugins (and similar boutique amp sims) are widely regarded as the most realistic digital guitar tones available. Users praise their “mix-ready presets” and responsiveness. They excel in modern rock/metal production, often requiring minimal tweaking to sound professional out of the box. (GuitarClan)

Price: ~₹10,000–₹15,000
Manufacturer: Neural DSP / Universal Audio (similar tier)
Compatibility: VST, AU, AAX

Kuassa Efektor Bundle

Kuassa’s Efektor series focuses on stompbox-style effects with authentic analog character. Known for affordability and tone quality, it excels in modulation, delay, and drive effects. Great for guitarists who want pedalboard realism inside a DAW without overcomplicating the workflow.

Price: ~₹8,500
Manufacturer: Kuassa
Compatibility: VST, AU, AAX

UJAM Finisher VOODOO NEO

UJAM’s Finisher series is built for speed and creativity. Instead of complex routing, it offers macro controls that instantly transform guitar tones. Perfect for producers and beginners, it trades deep tweaking for musical results, making it ideal for quick inspiration and modern genres.

Price: ~₹5,500
Manufacturer: UJAM
Compatibility: VST, AU, AAX

Sugar Bytes Effectrix 2

Effectrix 2 is less about realism and more about creativity. It slices, sequences, and modulates audio for glitch, EDM, and experimental guitar tones. Widely used in electronic production, it transforms static guitar parts into rhythmic, evolving textures.

Price: ~₹14,700
Manufacturer: Sugar Bytes
Compatibility: VST, AU, AAX

Blue Cat Destructor 2

Destructor 2 is a distortion-focused plugin offering extreme tonal flexibility. With advanced modeling and dual-channel processing, it can replicate subtle warmth or aggressive high-gain tones. It’s especially popular among metal producers and sound designers seeking unique textures.

Price: ~₹11,300
Manufacturer: Blue Cat Audio
Compatibility: VST, AU, AAX

UAD Paradise Guitar Studio

This plugin combines premium amp modeling with studio-grade processing tools. Known for clarity and depth, it’s ideal for polished recordings and professional mixes. Its strength lies in realistic mic placement and tonal depth, making it a go-to for high-end production workflows.

Price: ~₹14,000
Manufacturer: Universal Audio
Compatibility: VST, AU, AAX

🎛️ Final Take

• Best overall: Waves GTR3 (value + versatility)

• Best realism: UAD / Neural DSP tier

• Best creativity: Effectrix / UJAM

• Best advanced users: Blue Cat Axiom

PLAYLISTS //// Hip-Hop and Rap’s Heavyweights

A playlist of of raw, unapologetic and hard-hitting Hip-hop and Rap tracks in our exclusive playlist!

Checkout the playlist on Spotify

Rock musician Jack White criticised U.S. President Donald Trump after Washington and Israel launched airstrikes on Iran under Operation Epic Fury. White mocked Trump’s peace rhetoric, calling the military action hypocritical.

The White Stripes frontman Jack White has sharply criticised Donald Trump following the United States’ joint aerial strikes on Iran alongside Israel in an operation Trump described as targeting Iran’s nuclear programme.

Posting on Instagram on Saturday (February 28), White mocked Trump’s televised announcement of the strikes, writing: “Don’t you love seeing him declare war on a country while wearing a trucker hat that says ‘USA’ on it?”

He also took aim at Trump’s recently established “Board of Peace,” an initiative the president introduced in early 2026 with a stated mission of promoting stability and reconstruction in conflict zones. “Behold the leader of the ‘Board of Peace,’” White wrote sarcastically, suggesting the military action contradicted the administration’s peace messaging.

In the same post, White criticised Trump’s broader foreign policy posture, referencing tensions involving countries such as Venezuela, Greenland and Cuba. He also mocked the president’s past remarks about deserving a Nobel Peace Prize.

In his address, Trump described Iran’s leadership as a “very wicked, radical dictatorship” and defended the strikes as a “noble mission” aimed at long-term security, while acknowledging that American casualties were possible.

The strikes mark a significant escalation in West Asia and have triggered global reactions, including concern over regional stability and energy security — issues closely watched in India due to their potential impact on oil prices and trade routes.

White, a longtime Trump critic, has frequently spoken out against the president’s policies and rhetoric in recent years.

SPOTLIGHT // ‘The Mountain’ by GORILLAZ

Gorillaz present their 8th album on grief, death and love – ‘Parvat (The Mountain)’

Gorillaz have been widely influenced by several bands and artists. I really mean several. Over 8 albums, Damon has been able to capture themes from his life and extrude it into this project from the start. As a huge fan of hip-hop, he has been able to design verses into his music that many artists haven’t delivered in their own music in years. It’s this nature of sharing that works so well in Gorillaz. In Parvat, Damon arrives in India like The Beatles did. It’s a spiritual awakening through music, and he wants to gift the awakening to us.

SPOTLIGHT // ‘DEADLINE’ by BLACKPINK

BLACKPINK drops cinematic and triumphant ‘DEADLINE’ post 4-years hiatus

The solo eras were definitely something. They were rich with individual flavours that showcased their distinct identities. From Rosé’s Grammy-nominated collaboration with Bruno Mars on “APT.” and Lisa’s cinematic turn in “The White Lotus,” to Jennie’s chart-topping “Mantra” and Jisoo’s high profile team up with Zayn Malik, the members conquered fashion, television, and the Billboard charts individually. But now, they’ve returned as a united front.

INTERVIEWS /// Reble

We sat down with Daia Lamare aka Reble during her Bengaluru gig at Humming Tree last weekend to discuss her journey as an upcoming indie rapper

Reble has steadily carved out a space for herself in India’s alternative hip-hop scene. From early releases like Terror to film soundtracks and more recent independent singles, her journey reflects both experimentation and self-discovery. Backed strongly by listeners from the Northeast who see her not just as an artist but as a representation, she continues to expand her reach while staying rooted in instinct, and over the last few years, that reach has extended into cinema.

“Because that is my sonic space, you know, I never got like the chance to actually like make music the way I wanted to. When I first started out, I had to work with a lot of people. Almost like 90% of it was just not my song. That was when I took over and I was like, I’m gonna do my own thing. I’m not hearing anything from nobody.”

Read Interview Excerpts

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PLAYLISTS ////

These 7 alternative anthems were already iconic long before TikTok and Reels turned them into viral sounds. From Deftones and Radiohead to Paramore and Arctic Monkeys, this list revisits the tracks fans had on repeat years before the algorithm caught up.

There’s a special kind of happiness in hearing a song blow up on TikTok or Instagram Reels and thinking, wait, I’ve known this for years. Alternative music fans know the feeling well. One day it’s your late-night comfort track, the next it’s the soundtrack to millions of edits and slow-motion montages.

What are the alternative songs that went Viral on TikTok and Reels?

<sub>1. Change (In the House of Flies) – Deftones
2. No Surprises – Radiohead
3. Teenagers – My Chemical Romance
4. 505 – Arctic Monkeys
5. Running Up That Hill (A Deal With God) – Kate Bush
6. Misery Business – Paramore
7. Chasing Cars – Snow Patrol</sub>

Click the link below to

Read More on Website

Linkin Park fans had a collective “wait… what?” moment after the official White House socials dropped a Trump hype video soundtracked by Somewhere I Belong. Yes, that song. The emotionally bruised nu-metal anthem about identity crises and inner turmoil, not exactly “mission accomplished” energy that the American president was aiming for.

The clip went live around New Year’s Eve and immediately set the internet on fire. Fans slammed the use of the track, calling it a total misread of the song’s meaning and a disrespectful grab at nostalgic emotional power. Comment sections filled up faster than a festival pit at chorus time.

Linkin Park’s team moved quickly. Manager and marketer Adam Ruehmer told fans they were “aware and taking action,” and soon after, the video quietly vanished from White House accounts. No dramatic statement. Just poof! Gone. Loud silence achieved.

Once again, politics tried to borrow rock’s emotional credibility without permission. Once again, it didn’t work.

Moral of the story: Linkin Park is not your campaign playlist. Now everyone please return to blasting Meteora and pretending this never happened.

Full Feature

PODCAST //

SkillBox CSO Amarjeet Singha

In this episode, we sit down with Amarjeet Singha, CSO of SkillBox, one of India’s leaders in the live music and events ecosystem.

We explore the formative days of SkillBox, Amarjeet’s quirky early experiences promoting metal gigs at burger joints, and how the company evolved into a full-stack solution for events, venues, promoters, and artists. This episode maps the realities of the Indian live events industry — the challenges, the opportunities, and the trends shaping what’s next.

From venue infrastructure issues to gig grievances to macro shifts in India’s music economy, this is one of the most honest and insightful conversations you’ll find on the state of live music in India today.

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WATCHLIST //

The best of upcoming indie music from India in 2026

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LISTS //

Best Music Videos Of 2025

Paramount-owned MTV has decided to shut down their dedicated music channels by the end of 2025. In the age of Instagram reels, where we barely grab the listener’s attention to listen to a full song all the time, are music videos still relevant? While the question is up for debate and yes, music videos do seem like a dying art form, we simply cannot deny it still matters. Here goes our top 10 picks from this year’s videos in no particular order:

<sub>10. Doechii – Denial is a River
9. Sabrina Carpenter: Tears
8. Doja Cat – Gorgeous
7. Fontaines DC – It’s Amazing to be Young
6. Little Simz – Young
5. Gorillaz – The Happy Dictator ft. Sparks (Official Visualiser)
4. OK Go – Love
3. Rimon – Where Do We Go?
2. Clipse – So Be It
1. Lorde – What Was That</sub>

SPOTLIGHT //

K6R6NZ6N : “War Against Reality”

Based in Barcelona, Spain, K6R6NZ6N collapses fractured creative identities into a single, aggressive engine. Rather than follow inherited forms, the project rejects structure in favor of pressure and psychological force. However, this collapse does not abandon control; instead, the artist uses electronic precision to engineer instability. As a result, the work frames itself as confrontation rather than spectacle, positioning sound as a tool of disruption.

War Against Reality, the project’s debut EP, delivers six tracks built around interruption rather than release. Moreover, the record functions as an endurance test, blending dark wave, witch house, and ritualistic electronica that challenge comfort and meaning while asserting tension as narrative.

PLAYLIST //

Healing with Nature

This is a playlist to relax and heal yourself with mild ambient songs with elements of nature in them; includes beautiful guitars, keyboards, and a calming, gentle atmosphere.

Echoes of Earth 2025 returned to Bengaluru last weekend, bringing together music, sustainability and immersive art under its latest theme, Sixth Sense. Held on December 13 and 14, the eighth edition of the festival explored the innate ability of nature and living beings to adapt, survive and coexist.

Regarded as India’s greenest circular music festival, Echoes of Earth once again transformed the city into a space where environmental consciousness met global soundscapes. The two-day event featured nearly 30 artistes and bands from India and abroad, blending electronic, fusion, jazz and alternative music across multiple stages.

Alongside popular acts, the festival spotlighted several lesser-known international performers, including Belgian outfit Stavroz, the Vilnius Jazz Ensemble from Lithuania, and Badfocus from Czechoslovakia, offering audiences a diverse and exploratory lineup.

The festival grounds featured striking stage installations inspired by wildlife, with venues named after species such as the Red-Headed Vulture, Golden Silk Orb-Weaver Spider and Mimic Octopus. Performances ran from 2 pm to 10 pm, creating a visual contrast as the setting shifted from daylight to night.

One of the key highlights was the Big Tree Solar Stage, which offered a 360-degree surround sound experience. Artists performing across the four stages included Jatayu, Harvey Sutherland, The F16s, Sunju Hargun, and DJ Chris Tofu with vocalist Debbralee Wells.

Festival founder and director Roshan Netalkar said the event’s recognition through global awards for circularity, sustainability and conservation reflected its growing impact. “We were thrilled to scale the festival further and welcome our community back,” he said.

Pernod Ricard India, a festival partner, echoed the sentiment, stating that the event fostered creativity that was conscious, inclusive and aligned with a sustainable future.

Echoes of Earth 2025 reaffirmed its position as a leading platform where music, art and environmental responsibility converged.

GEAR // The Lost Big Muff Returns: JHS and EHX Revive a Fuzz Legend

JHS Pedals and Electro-Harmonix have unveiled the Big Muff 2, a long-lost fuzz circuit discovered during research for a new Electro-Harmonix history book. Found as a hand-drawn schematic by Big Muff inventor Bob Myer, the design reimagines the classic pedal using dual op-amp technology from the late 1970s. Built around a red chassis with familiar Volume, Sustain, and Tone controls, the Big Muff 2 delivers a sharper edge, higher output, and the most powerful low-end and midrange of any Big Muff to date. Featuring a unique clipping structure and added gain stage, the pedal blends vintage DNA with modern punch and is now available for $249.

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SPOTLIGHT // ‘Feux’ by Theorem of Joy

In just a few years, Theorem of Joy has emerged as a remarkable force in the contemporary jazz scene. Founded in 2017 by double bassist and composer Thomas Julienne, Theorem of Joy is all about reimagining jazz with a bold and poetic vision. Their music is richly inspired by a fusion of diverse influences, including the melodies of Indian and Middle Eastern traditions, classical harmonies, post-rock sounds, and electronic vibes. This combination results in a soundscape that feels both organic and conceptual, yet remains relatable.

CLICK FOR FULL REVIEW

INTERVIEWS // Gihon

Gihon is a musical project by Texas-based guitarist, composer, and producer Dhananjay Pepalla, known for his edgy and contemporary metal music that combines the best of metallic rock and electronica. A sound that’s a vivid combination of sci-fi and dystopian humanity, his music is slowly rising to the mainstream with its refreshing metal appeal. Infused with a lot of vibrance, humanness, melancholia and an irresistible artistic charm, his songs are an aid for the aching souls. Gihon aims to put out metal music that truly stands out.

“I started writing music with my first band, Abandoned Element, in 2011! After the band went silent in 2015, I continued writing music, which ended up being branded as Gihon. The first Gihon riff was written in 2015, which came to fruition as The 7th Seal.”

FULL INTERVIEW

PLAYLIST //

15 Rock and Heavy Metal Songs for Your Christmas Playlist

It’s Christmas time again! Time for some Christmas songs. The same old Mariah Carey or Cliff Richard? Again? We say let’s try some rock ‘n’ roll or heavy metal for a change! As AC/DC had said, “Rock ‘n’ roll ain’t gonna die.” In no particular order, this list has 15 greatest rock and heavy metal Christmas songs:

What are some Christmas Rock and Heavy Metal Songs?

1. The Greedies – ‘A Merry Jingle’
2. Alice Cooper / John 5 / Billy Sheehan / Vinny Appice – ‘Santa Claws Is Coming To Town’
3. Lemmy Kilmister, Dave Grohl & Billy F. Gibbons – “Run Rudolph Run”
4. Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers – ‘Christmas All Over Again’
5. Halford – ‘We Three Kings’
6. Ramones – “Merry Christmas (I Don’t Want To Fight Tonight)’
7. Rainbow – “Snowman”
8. Twisted Sister – ‘Heavy Metal Christmas’
9. Billy F Gibbons – ‘Jingle Bell Blues’
10. Dokken – ‘Santa Claus Is Coming To Town’
11. AC/DC – ‘Mistress For Christmas’
12. Magnum – ‘On Christmas Day’
13. Samantha Fish – ‘Run Run Rudolph’
14. The Who – ‘Christmas’
15. Bon Jovi – ‘Please Come Home for Christmas’

Guns N’ Roses have dropped a double bombshell for fans worldwide: a massive run of global tour dates for 2026 and the surprise release of two brand-new singles arriving next week. The hard rock icons: Axl Rose, Duff McKagan, Slash, Dizzy Reed, Richard Fortus, Isaac Carpenter and Melissa Reese -are set to hit stadiums and arenas across North and South America, with an expanded slate of European headline shows added around their summer festival appearances, including a long-awaited return to Download in June.

The upcoming singles, “Nothin” and “Atlas,” will land on Tuesday, December 2 via Geffen. Marking their first new material in several years, the tracks are being billed as high-energy additions to future setlists, hinting that fans will likely hear them live throughout next year’s tour.

The 2026 world tour kicks off March 28 in Monterrey, Mexico, before launching into an extensive run through Brazil in April. May brings the band back to the U.S., followed by a June and July sweep through Europe with multi-night stands in Gliwice, Amsterdam, Berlin and Paris. After a brief break, GN’R return to North America in late July for a string of stadium and amphitheater shows stretching into September; visiting major cities including Raleigh, Toronto, East Rutherford, Las Vegas, Vancouver, San Diego, Arlington and Atlanta.

With new music on the way and a packed touring schedule across three continents, 2026 is shaping up to be one of Guns N’ Roses’ biggest years in recent memory. Fans should prepare for a setlist shake-up, fresh material and the band’s trademark explosive live energy as they gear up to dominate stages around the world once again.

DEALS // Discounted Plugins from Native Instruments, Arturia, UAD & More

Black Friday season is here, and in the world of music production, it has essentially evolved into an entire month of discounts. Instead of waiting for a single day, companies now roll out offers throughout the month of November, making it the ideal time to upgrade your gear & equipment. Many deals are already live, and several are worth serious attention, especially if you are planning to invest in new instruments or effects. So let us dive into some of the best Black Friday Deals to check out this year

Quick Links –

Arturia
Universal Audio
Waves
Native Instruments
iZotope
Minimal Audio
Slate Digital
Output
Softube

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EVENTS // OUTRAGE FEST

CRYPTOPSY and The F16s are leading Outrage 2025

Forget everything you know about “just another festival.” Outrage Festival 2025 is coming in swinging like a wrecking ball on November 29th, where the Indian metal community is set to converge at DLF Avenue, New Delhi, for a full-scale musical rebellion.

Ten bands. One pit. Zero brakes. If you thought last year was wild… buckle up.

Read Full Feature Here!

SPOTLIGHT // WOLF COUNTRY

Wolf Country is a project that will resonate with you. Almost a poetry book of artist Alexa Economos from Columbus, she writes her debut album with great dexterity, feel and detail. There is maturity that is engraved deep within the understandings of these songs. A delightful, complex and overall dynamic album to experience.

This is the self-titled debut called Wolf Country.

Click for full Review

Share Your Monday With Sinusoidal

At Sunday night’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Cleveland, Detroit garage-rock duo The White Stripes were inducted, with punk legend Iggy Pop delivering the introduction and frontman Jack White accepting the honour on behalf of the pair. Drummer Meg White, who stepped away from music after the band disbanded in 2011, was absent.

Opening with the image of the pair as “a 21st-century Adam and Eve who started a rock & roll band,” Iggy Pop passed the mic to Jack White. Speaking on behalf of the band, White conveyed Meg’s regret at being unable to attend and her deep gratitude to fans for their support. He urged young artists to “get your hands dirty… drop the screens, get obsessed” and embrace creativity in their own space.

White also paid tribute to a long list of influences, from The Gories and The Misfits to Pavement, Sleater-Kinney and Captain Beefheart -many not yet recognized by the Hall of Fame.

The tribute performance featured Olivia Rodrigo and Feist opening with a tender acoustic rendition of “We’re Going to Be Friends.” They handed over to duo Twenty One Pilots, who launched into the driving classic “Seven Nation Army,” paying fitting homage to the guitar-and-drums format the White Stripes made their own.

This year’s other inductees include OutKast, Cyndi Lauper, Soundgarden, Bad Company, Chubby Checker and Joe Cocker, while icons Warren Zevon and Salt‑N‑Pepa were honoured with the Musical Influence Award.

INTERVIEWS // Yogi (Pineapple Express)

It finally happened, we finally sat down with Yogeendra Hariprasad (Yogi) — the powerhouse vocalist, composer, and creative mind behind Pineapple Express, one of India’s most loved Carnatic Progressive Rock bands. Somewthing that’s been in the works our 3rd episode with Karan Katiyar (Bloodywood)

Yogi opens up about his childhood and early musical influences, his time as a young musician in Bangalore’s vibrant scene, and his journey from competing in local battle of the bands to fronting a genre-bending act that reshaped Indian fusion music.

We dive into Pineapple Express’ evolution, what’s next for the band (including two new members and brand-new music after half a decade!), and Yogi’s unique philosophy towards composition, collaboration, and creativity.

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REVIEWS // Cosplay by Sorry

If you’re an actual indie fan, Sorry is a celebrity band. Legends from the Windmill scene along with black midi, there’s something about friends getting together to make music that makes primal, imbibed sense. They’ve never been genre boxed, rather boxed themselves out of genres when music has felt too constrained. Post 2020, they were a gust of live shows and pop-up shows in the indie scene. They return with their 5th full length album (fine 4 with a 2 parter as their debut) called Cosplay. They sure do know how to dress the hell up.

PLAYLISTS // Indie Alchemy

The best of global Indie music from rock vibes to dancehall mixes. Everything under one umbrella. Updated regularly!

Albert Einstein’s first violin, which he safeguarded from the Nazis in 1932, has sold at auction for £860,000—nearly three times its estimated value of £300,000. With the buyer’s premium of 26.4%, the final price exceeds £1 million, potentially setting a record for a violin not owned by a concert musician or made by Stradivarius.

The previous record was held by Wallace Hartley’s Titanic violin, which fetched £900,000 in 2013.

Einstein acquired the 1894 Anton Zunterer violin, affectionately named “Lina,” as a teenager while living in Munich, playing it throughout his early adult life. Before fleeing Nazi Germany for the U.S. in 1932, he entrusted the violin, along with his bicycle and a philosophy book, to physicist Max von Laue. Two decades later, von Laue gifted them to Einstein admirer Margarete Hommrich, whose family kept the items for 70 years before consigning them to Dominic Winter Auctioneers in Cirencester.

The violin’s authenticity was confirmed by Dr Paul Wingfield of Trinity College, Cambridge, who had recently produced Einstein’s Violin, a musical about the physicist’s love of music.

Auctioneer Chris Albury described seeing “Lina” etched on the instrument as “hair-raising,” adding it was humbling to think of Einstein playing Mozart and Bach while developing ideas that would shape modern science.

Einstein began playing piano at five and later said, “I get most joy in life out of music.” His wife Elsa once remarked she fell in love with him because of the way he played Mozart.

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INTERVIEWS // Nick Holmes (Paradise Lost)

English Gothic Metal band Paradise Lost have been part of heavy music for over thirty years. With their new album Ascension, they add another chapter to their catalog. We spoke with Nick Holmes about the band’s journey, the new album, and what it means to still be making music together.

“After all these years, it’s always hard to get the ball rolling. When you start with a blank canvas, we never really look back at what we’ve done in the past. Once it starts, you get there eventually, which we have done, I guess.”

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REVIEWS // The King of Terrors by PRESIDENT

Everyone likes to unmask the masked. Whether it is Slipknot when they started, to Ghost & Sleep Token a few decades later-you want to know who is behind the music. Whether the artist does or not-is not something we’ve started caring about. The rule is, if someone makes enough of an impact with their music, you want to know the face and personality behind it. Guesswork begins once more, with PRESIDENT.

Click to read the full Album Review

PLAYLISTS // My 2024 Playlist in a Bottle

A musical time capsule from the past has been unsealed!

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards celebrated a powerful night for female artists, with Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, and Sabrina Carpenter dominating the event at UBS Arena in New York. Gaga led the winners with four awards, including Artist of the Year, bringing her career total to 22 VMAs. She also took home Best Direction and Best Art Direction for her gothic video “Abracadabra,” and Best Collaboration for “Die With A Smile” with Bruno Mars.

Ariana Grande won Video of the Year for “Brighter Days Ahead,” also earning Best Pop Video and Best Longform Video, using her speech to advocate for emotional healing. Sabrina Carpenter claimed three awards, including Album of the Year and Best Pop Artist, and made headlines with a performance supporting trans visibility.

Mariah Carey received the Video Vanguard Award and Best R&B, while Ricky Martin and Busta Rhymes were honored for their lasting impact. Other winners included Rosé, BLACKPINK, Megan Moroney, Doechii, and Shakira. A tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne featured rock legends performing his classics. Despite a muted broadcast, the show powerfully highlighted inclusivity, legacy, and the evolving voice of global pop culture.

INTERVIEWS // Joe Tal (Textures)

Recognized as pioneers of modern technical metal, Textures, from Netherlands carved their mark with albums like Silhouettes and Dualism. In 2011, they signed with Nuclear Blast, the world’s leading metal label, and went on to share stages with Meshuggah, Gojira, and Machine Head.

The past year has seen Textures return to stages across Europe, a comeback after six years that Joe describes with understated warmth.

“It’s like putting on an old pair of shoes. It fits…

Everybody’s a bit more mature and aware of himself. It’s lovely to be in the band now.”

Read the full article.

REVIEWS // private music by Deftones

Deftones have returned after their longest break away from making music-so they made it worth it. Their latest, private music, might be one of their best in terms of how they have matured into making their compositions truly their own. From the moment Around the Fur hit-you could identify them from probably the first note. You’re engulfed in the high tide now.

Click to : Read the full review.

PLAYLISTS // From Crush to Commitment

A Pop playlist that captures the full range of love’s emotions, from the excitement of a new crush to the commitment of a long-term love. Expect nostalgic and timeless songs that evoke feelings of nostalgia and longing!

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Matt Jones, CEO of Medallion and former CEO of Songkick, believes the future of music lies in direct-to-fan platforms — but not through the subscription-based model popularized by Substack.

In a recent op/ed for MBW Views, Jones argues that while Substack’s $100 million Series C funding highlights the growing power of direct commerce in the creator economy, its model doesn’t translate well to the music world.

Substack empowers creators through three core principles: control, direct monetization, and aligned incentives. Writers and podcasters thrive in this model because they regularly publish content and interact consistently with their audiences. Musicians, however, follow different creative rhythms and face structural limitations that complicate direct subscription-based models.

Jones has spent nearly two decades working with artists of all levels, helping them drive hundreds of millions in direct fan revenue. Based on this experience, he sees fundamental challenges with applying Substack’s one-to-one subscription model to music.

Unlike writers, musicians operate in cycles: writing, recording, touring, and resting — making it difficult to meet the ongoing content demands of paid subscriptions. They also navigate complex industry contracts and rights ownership issues that restrict how they can monetize their content.

More importantly, fans experience music differently than written content. While a person might pay for a few favorite newsletters, music listeners crave variety across moods, genres, and moments — not a single-artist paywall. Jones points out that music is deeply personal and often biographical; fans want broad access, not isolated subscriptions.

Instead of replicating Substack’s model, Jones advocates for platforms that foster networks rather than silos. A networked approach would let fans engage with all their favorite artists in one space, while artists could support each other’s growth through shared audiences and collaborative momentum. Such platforms would honor creative cycles, reduce pressure to constantly produce, and still build meaningful fan connections without compromising authenticity.

Ultimately, Jones believes the music industry’s breakthrough will come from building creator-aligned ecosystems, not through minor streaming changes or exclusive content drops. While artist-level subscriptions may succeed for a select few, he argues they won’t scale for 99.99% of musicians. The future lies in building platforms designed for the way music is made, shared, and loved.

INTERVIEWS // Jonas Renkse (Katatonia)

Jonas Renkse reflected on Katatonia’s heavier new album, his rhythm-first writing style, parting with longtime bandmate Anders Nyström, and a friendship with Opeth’s Mikael Åkerfeldt that still runs deep.

Sinusoidal Music sat down with Jonas Renkse, the lead vocalist and principal songwriter of Swedish heavy metal band Katatonia, to talk about the band’s shifting sound, what inspires his songwriting, and his decades-long friendship with Opeth’s Mikael Åkerfeldt. From rhythm-driven writing to side projects rooted in electronic music, Jonas opened up with clarity and quiet intensity.

We had like a musical language that was very intricate with how we wanted things to sound. So I think it’s been a joint effort, but he was obviously more. He was a talented guitar player. I couldn’t really play guitar in the beginning. So I had to tell him what to play and how to play it.

— Jonas on Anders Nyström‘s Legacy

Read full excerpt: Jonas Renkse on Collaboration, Change, and the Future of Katatonia

REVIEWS // METAL FORTH by BABYMETAL

BABYMETAL became one of Japan’s biggest music exports very quickly. From coordinated glamour to instrumentals that have received critical acclaim, it seems like the trio are on the way to making magic every time. After 2023’s The other one, we felt that the music needed a quick ECG. They had strayed a bit-there is the word “metal” which suffixes after “baby”. With some help from friends, this cameo filled album brings what the band is the best at doing. This is called METAL FORTH.

Read the full coverage here.

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PLAYLISTS // Vibes of FuturePast

Our favourite collection of synth based music. A perfect mix of retro vibes and modern beats!

Sheffield’s Tramlines Festival 2025 wrapped up this weekend with a powerful sense of community and celebration, setting a high bar for next year’s event. Hillsborough Park welcomed thousands of festivalgoers for three packed days of music, comedy, and family entertainment.

Among the standout moments was a special hometown performance by iconic Sheffield band Pulp. The group performed “Last Day of the Miners’ Strike” live for the first time, delivering an emotional tribute that resonated deeply with the local audience. The song’s reflection on the region’s mining heritage stirred feelings of nostalgia and pride, bringing the crowd together in a moment of shared history.

First launched in 2009 as a multi-venue event in Sheffield city centre, Tramlines has grown significantly since relocating to Hillsborough Park in 2018. The 2025 edition highlighted just how far the festival has come — with performances from headliners Pulp, Reytons, and Kasabian.

INTERVIEWS // NORTHLANE at Bengaluru, India

A day after their closing show in Bengaluru, we caught up with Marcus Bridge, Josh Smith, and Nic Pettersen, the members of metalcore band Northlane, for a chat that was as relaxed as it was revealing. Still fresh off their three-city India tour, the band was processing the whirlwind of crowd energy, mall-stage oddities, and yes, cows on highways.

Just driving on the road. It’s lawless,” said Marcus, laughing.

Nic added, “No rules. It’s crazy. I’m shocked we didn’t see anyone crash. Everyone seems so comfortable—it’s organized chaos.”

• Full Interview here

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REVIEWS // ‘Monsoon Season’ by Hanumankind

The Indian rap phenom delivers on years of hype, balancing uncooked ability with global stage presence to create a career-making mixtape.

Some come knocking. Hanumankind took the damn door off the hinges.

When Big Dawgs dropped in July 2024, it didn’t merely disrupt India’s underground; it ignited a fuse that travelled to the international arena. One moment, he was freestyling in Bengaluru basements and studio lofts. Next? He was on Fortnite, in Arsenal FC commercials, on Coachella stages, and in your TikTok and Instagram feed screaming bars over wailing nadaswarams like it was wartime. No cosigns. No language changes. No compromises.

Birmingham, July 5, 2025 — Heavy metal closed a defining chapter as Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath delivered their final performance in an emotional, star-studded farewell at Villa Park. The historic Back to the Beginning concert marked the end of an era for the Birmingham-born band that pioneered a global movement in music.

Tens of thousands packed the stadium while billions tuned in worldwide to witness heavy metal royalty bid goodbye. Hosted by actor and metal enthusiast Jason Momoa, the show opened with explosive tributes from artists like Mastodon, Rival Sons, Halestorm, and David Draiman. Yungblud’s piano rendition of “Changes” brought tears to many, while collaborations from Alice in Chains, Billy Corgan, Steven Tyler, and Metallica added further firepower. Guns N’ Roses’ Axl Rose faced mixed reactions online, but fans acknowledged his efforts at 77.

As the lights dimmed, Ozzy emerged on a winged throne, defying health struggles to perform solo classics like “Mr. Crowley” and “Crazy Train.” Supported by Zakk Wylde, Adam Wakeman, Mike Inez, and Travis Barker, Osbourne’s voice held strong throughout the night.

The final curtain call saw Black Sabbath reunite for one last thunderous set featuring “War Pigs,” “Iron Man,” and “Paranoid.” Bill Ward returned to drums, while Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler delivered powerful performances, the latter donning a custom Aston Villa-themed bass.

Back to the Beginning wasn’t just a concert—it was a global farewell to the gods of metal, closing the book on a legacy that shaped generations. Fans wept, screamed, and sang along, knowing they were witnessing history.

REVIEWS // It’s Still Going On by The Cumberland River Project

The Cumberland River Project is known for their alt folk brand. They have a defined style, one that encircles nature with humanity with so much tenderness and naturality. They always leave you feeling connected to something bigger than you. Something you can get perspective out of. Their latest release is ‘It’s Still Going On’ featuring Daniella Goldfine on the vocals. It has some retro country sensibilities, all weaved into a contemporary folk exploration. You’ll see glimpses of Joni Mitchell blended in with ABBA, and Phoebe Bridgers. That homeliness, nostalgia of the former with the distinct liveliness (ABBA) and softness (Phoebe Bridgers) of the latter.

The Cumberland River Project’s ‘It’s Still Going On’ : An Alt Folk Exploration

INTERVIEWS // Mikael Åkerfeldt

We caught up with Mikael Akerfeldt at Graspop 2025! In this rare conversation, catch the Opeth frontman talking about the shifting soundscape of metal and about his own journey through the evolution of his genre. He reflects on his many collaborations, working with artists like Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree) and Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), and shares what it was like to compose the soundtrack for Netflix’s ‘Clark’.

“Get Over Your Pride. This Is Not Your Music. It’s Their Music” – Mikael Åkerfeldt on composing music for Clark

Åkerfeldt also talks about his love for Indian music, the unexpected turns in Opeth’s sound, and how he approaches storytelling through composition.

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PLAYLISTS // Shadows and Echoes

Explore the intense and raw emotions of rock music through the lens of this playlist, featuring tracks that delve into the depths of the human experience. From heart-wrenching ballads to epic anthems, Shadows &amp; Echoes brings you the best of the emotional side of rock.

Click here > The Emotive Edge of Rock

The Lemonheads are set to return with Love Chant, their first album of original material since 2006, arriving October 24 via Fire Records. Ahead of the release, the band has dropped the lead single, “In the Margin,” and announced an extensive North American and European tour.

Frontman Evan Dando describes “In the Margin” as a “riffy” track built around lyrics by Marciana Jones, calling it “a full-on 8th-grade girl revenge song.”

Love Chant features an impressive lineup of collaborators, including J Mascis, Juliana Hatfield, Erin Rae, the Blake Babies’ John Strohm, and Nick Saloman of the Bevis Frond. Co-writers Adam Green and Tom Morgan contributed to the tracks “Wild Thing” and “Deep End,” respectively. The album was produced by Apollo Nove.

Since their 2006 self-titled LP, The Lemonheads have released two covers albums (Varshons and Varshons 2) and have been reinterpreted by artists like MJ Lenderman and Courtney Barnett. Dando is also set to publish a memoir, Rumors of My Demise, on October 7.

EVENTS // GRASSPOP METAL MEETING 2025

Dessel once again became the heart of heavy music. From June 19 to 22, Graspop Metal Meeting 2025 welcomed around 200,000 metalheads to a weekend packed with unforgettable sets, scorching weather, and a lineup that blended legends with loud new blood. Across five stages, over 130 bands put everything they had into their performances at this stellar festival.

Keep an eye on our website for the full day-by-day report!

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REVIEWS // Settle Down by Bryant Thomas

“Settle Down” is the latest single by southern pop rock musician Bryant Thomas. Raised in Mobile, Alabama, and now based in Palm Beach County, Florida. Thomas pulls from a rich musical heritage: country, blues, jazz, and good old rock and roll. He fuses them into something that’s unmistakably his own. There’s something about his sound that feels like your favorite denim jacket getting a fresh lining.

“Settle Down” lands right in the pocket of that fusion. It starts off gently, with a clean guitar rhythm and a lonesome wolf howl somewhere in the distance. It hints at a country rock type leaning ballad, but then in slide the electro beats, followed by smoky, heartfelt vocals that give the track its emotional weight.

Southern soul meets pop rock power in Bryant Thomas’s “Settle Down”

PLAYLISTS // Indie Alchemy

Indie Alchemy is a playlist that combines the best of indie pop and rock, creating an exhilarating musical adventure!

Check out the playlist on Spotify

Renowned music producer and sound engineer, Miti Adhikari passed away at the age of 69 years. Sources close to him have confirmed the news. Adhikari was fighting post-surgery complications. Known as ‘Silver Fox’, the Goa-based producer was known for producing songs for eminent bands. The names include Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Radiohead, Coldplay, and Foo Fighters.

Adhikari shaped some of the most iconic live performances of all time, thus leaving behind a legacy. He spent over 34 years with BBC, working as the chief sound engineer at the iconic Maida Vale studios.

Growing up in Kolkata, Adhikari started out as a bassist for a city band. A 20-year-old Adhikari landed a job as an assistant studio manager at the BBC, thanks to a family friend. He eventually emerged as one of the most influential behind-the-scenes figures in British music broadcasting.

Adhikari was barely a name among the Indian audience until the Foo Fighters dedicated a song to him at the Reading and Leeds festival. A video of this posted online created quite a buzz. After over 34 years of working with festivals like Glastonbury and Live 8, in 2014, the producer decided to return to India.

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PODCASTS // The Sinusoidal Podcast Episode 4

In this raw and deeply personal episode, we sit down with Munz, frontman of The Down Troddence. TDT is one of India’s most iconic and enduring heavy metal bands. With almost 2 decades of unapologetic sound and resistance-driven music, TDT has carved a legacy in the Indian metal scene.

From growing up in Kannur to discovering his voice in the underground metal circuit, Munz opens up about the band’s early struggles, wild beginnings, and how a brotherhood of musicians stood strong through the years. The episode explores the roots of TDT’s sound, how they infused their music with social commentary, and what it truly means to represent Indian metal on a global stage.

We also dive into an emotional segment of the conversation where Munz shares stories of personal growth, grief, and how music became both a weapon and a healing force. For fans of authentic storytelling, hard-hitting metal, and the people behind the power — this one's for you!

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REVIEWS // Gaia by Books of Moods

Books of Moods is an indie rock band from Paris, led by Hugo Sailer. Thriving on exceptional authenticity and heartfelt creations, Books of Moods is all about music that touches the soul and leaves you wanting more. With vivid rock escapism, they create sonical magic with one track at a time.

Recently, Books of Moods released a song called ‘Gaia’. A refreshing, nostalgic rock number with beautiful melodies, surreal progression, and enveloping sonicality, the song pulls you in with its euphoric rock soundscapes and causes an intense surge of emotions. With its unique, moving blend of ’60s and 70’s rock motifs, the song focuses on gentle production with powerful beats, subtle layers of alluring sounds that immerse you in a whirlpool of sonic bliss.

Books of Moods Raises the Bar for Indie Rock with ‘Gaia’

INTERVIEWS // Maluscomas aka Amit Vyas

‘Lost In This Feeling’ by Maluscomas is a sentimental piano-led ballad by the singer-songwriter that keeps its audience captive.

The inspiration for “Lost in This Feeling” comes directly from my relationship with my wife. There are those moments in a profound connection where you just feel utterly overwhelmed by love, almost consumed by it in the most beautiful, breathtaking way. It’s not about grand gestures; it’s about the quiet understanding, the shared glances, the feeling of complete belonging. I wanted to capture that sensation of being so deeply in love that you’re almost ‘lost’ in the emotion, completely immersed and present in that moment. It’s a tribute to our journey together and the incredible bond we share.

Full Interview Here!

PLAYLISTS // Prog Noir

Discover the finest dark and atmospheric progressive rock and metal—haunting melodies and rich soundscapes await.