As support acts on Poppy’s “Constantly Nowhere Tour,” Thousand Below and LANDMVRKS proved their trajectory is anything but stagnant during their stop at The Pageant. While the tour title suggests a destination of uncertainty, both bands are moving with clear direction, continuing to carve out their place in the heavy and alternative music scene.

My first rave was when I was twenty years old and still coming off the secondhand high of Brat Summer. Whether or not this high was from collective effervescence or poppers fumes is up to you to decide. It was during a fateful Thanksgiving break that my best friend begged me to come with her to the DJ set of a fresh romantic prospect who had an affinity for all things electronic music.

New Orleans has long been a beacon of Southern hip-hop. A scene pioneered by Lil Wayne in the mid-2000s has produced a plethora of names that die-hard hip-hop listeners will know well, like Kevin Gates, Jay Electronica, and Curren$y. Still, the Crescent City has been patiently waiting for another superstar capable of carrying the sound into hip-hop's next era. On his debut album, “Skiddle Bandana,” La Reezy showed that he can be a defining figure in the next generation of hip-hop.

you seem pretty sad for a girl so in love will be the album that changes Olivia Rodrigo’s reputation for the better. I personally adored the teenage melodrama of her first two records. Yet, LP3 is in a different stratosphere, mostly because the stakes feel higher this time. Between a long-distance relationship and gripes with her own artistry, it’s a picture she wouldn’t have been able to paint until now. 

A fiery, politically charged album that infuses punk with the sharpest writing of Staples' career.

The concept and overarching themes of “Cry Baby” create a strong and cohesive project that is by far Staples’ most realized sound to date. The short tracklist keeps the album dense and satisfying. Staples’ writing feels personal, powerful, and enlightening, making it clear that even after 15 years, he is better than ever.

“Iceman” was far from the comeback Drake hoped to deliver on “Make Them Cry.” It was a nail in the coffin for a former hip-hop great whose talent is rapidly fading.

With the sun beating down on hundreds of fans lined up outside, the anticipation surrounding Dayseeker’s Kansas City tour stop was enough to keep the energy high long before doors opened.

“LK99” is a memorable reintroduction to the mainstream for Kali. His soulful energy, captivating instrumentals, and catchy vocal performances result in a project that feels like a breath of fresh air in the modern R&B scene.

I sent the “Animaru” album to my friend Ash, telling him to check it out and let me know if he wanted tickets to go see it live. He was in.

Serving as their first album since signing with Fearless Records in 2025, “Nightmare Tripping” stands out immediately for its tonal shift compared to past albums. This record leans into heavier production, sharper edges, and is more aggressive vocally.

Breaking into the industry in 2023, Chloe Star has steadily established herself as a rising presence in the alternative pop scene. The independent artist’s latest single, “Emergency Contact,” released March 30.

Titled “covet,” the song leans into a dark-pop sound that fits seamlessly into the duo’s evolving discography. While rock elements still appear throughout — most noticeably in the chorus — the track feels noticeably softer than songs like “said & done” and “ego,” their January release.

Sometimes the best concerts are the ones you walk into without knowing exactly what to expect. At Cal in Red’s recent show in Columbia, Missouri, a night of indie rock turned into a dreamy pop experience.

With their 2024 release “Living in the Static,” Livealie has cemented their place in the metalcore scene. Composed of frontman James Harrison (ex-vocalist of Oceans Ate Alaska), bassist and clean singer Jordan Lee, guitarist Andrew Robles, and drummer Brandon Lee, the band bridges New York City and London, collaborating across the Atlantic to put out projects they’re proud of.

Punk has transformed and grown as new generations have emerged but stayed true to its 1970s roots. Bands such as Pierce the Veil, Paramore, Bring Me The Horizon, and Spiritbox have gained popularity spanning from 2010 to now. They have shaped and created the many sub-genres now beneath the punk umbrella. Today’s punk scene is experimental, inclusive, innovative, and paving the way for future decades.

The Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack has served its purpose: To enhance the films' nostalgia, connections among characters, connections between characters and audience, sense of adventure, and humor.