By James Lane Amnesty International said today that Japan’s decision to hang three prisoners after nearly two years without executions is a huge step backwards for a country that has taken positive steps over the last year in terms of the death penalty. Justice Minister Toshio Ogawa authorized the executions of three men, hanged...
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By Lauren Saul At the core of Adventures in Counter-Culture is an honest approach to writing music and an impeccably developed progressive sound. Columbus, OH native, Blueprint (Albert Shepard), is a veteran in the hip-hop industry, and has consciously used his experience to put forth an album worthy of the wait. Seven years since...
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By James Lane Paul Weller’s new album Sonik Kicks was released yesterday in the United States after debuting at #1 on the UK album charts. The album is released under the Yep Roc Records label and is the follow up to the Mercury Prize Award nominated Wake Up The Nation and is also Paul’s...
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By James Lane Marvel Music/Hollywood Records announce the return of Soundgarden with the release of the band’s first song in 15 years, “Live to Rise.” The song will be featured in the end credits to this year’s highly anticipated movie, “Marvel’s The Avengers.” “Live to Rise” is included on Avengers Assemble, a 14-track compilation...
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By Lauren Saul Los Angeles rapper Regan John Farquhar, known by most as Busdriver, provides an unusual take on hip-hop music with his 9th solo album, Beaus$Eros (pronounced Bows and Arrows). Straying from traditional hip-hop, he drives this album with eccentricity and experimentation, producing what may best be described as a “unique experience”. Weird...
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By Grace Cicatello Spanish singer and songwriter Bebe brings us some flair and some fun on her third album, Un Pokito de Rokanrol (or, A Little Bit of Rock n’ Roll). And the album definitely lives up to its name by delivering just a little bit of rock and roll, along with some pop,...
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By Grace Cicatello Point Of Go by Jonquil delivers 11 fresh tracks of bass and beats to the U.S. This is the second full-length studio album by the British band, and the first to be released stateside. For a first attempt at the American audience, I’d say it’s pretty good. It is obvious that...
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By James Lane Country superstar Randy Travis will co-host TODAY, America’s most-watched morning show, on Wednesday, March 21, 2012, teaming with Hoda Kotb during the fourth hour on NBC. The Grammy-winning singer will be filling the chair for Kathie Lee Gifford who is taking the week off. It’s all part of his phenomenal silver...
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By James Lane Each spring in New York City, Left Forum gathers intellectuals and activists from around the world to address the burning issues of our times. It provides a unique space for the generation of ideas crucial to theorizing and building a resurgent Left. The theme for this year’s conference is entitled “Occupy...
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By Jacob Hyman Although they’re ten years into their career as a band – and on what seems like their tenth lineup – this is the first time I’ve delved into Cuff the Duke’s catalog. On Morning Comes, they approach their Canadian brand of Southern Rock from a pop perspective, building catchy hooks and...
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