Kelly Walsh, Author at SRO PR

February 15, 2022

THE HU Announce 2022 U.S. “Black Thunder” Tour Following Upcoming Coachella Appearance, Share Q&A On New Album & Touring

DT: February 15, 2021

THE HU
ANNOUNCE NORTH AMERICAN “BLACK THUNDER TOUR” DATES, KICKING OFF WITH THEIR SET AT COACHELLA IN APRIL
AND SHARE NEW Q&A

BAND’S HIGHLY ANTICIPATED SECOND STUDIO ALBUM SET FOR 2022 RELEASE, FURTHER DETAILS TO BE REVEALED IN THE COMING WEEKS VIA BAND’S SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS

Credit: Enkhbat Nyamkhishig

Critically celebrated Mongolian rock band THE HU is set to head out on tour this spring. Today, they announced their “Black Thunder Tour” with a series of headlining dates, beginning in San Diego, CA on April 16 and ending in Mexico City, MX on May 31. The tour, which the band talks about in a new Q&A below, will continue the live music celebrations that the band is set to kick off during their Coachella sets on Friday, April 15 for the first weekend of the musical festival and on Friday, April 22 for the second. Fans will be able to purchase tickets for the tour starting tomorrow, Wednesday February 16, for the fan presale, Thursday, February 17, for the local presale, and Friday, February 18 for the general on sale. All ticket sale times begin at 10AM local time. For more information on “The Black Thunder Tour,” visit https://www.thehuofficial.com/tour-1.

The tour will continue to tease new music from THE HU’s highly anticipated sophomore album, due later this year from Better Noise Music. The album was recorded in their homeland of Mongolia over the last several months, during which, the group gave an update from the studio to fans via their YouTube channel HERE. Fans can also expect special previews of the project with live performances of new songs that the group originally premiered on their North American 2021 tour. See a new Q&A with THE HU discussing the album and touring below.

This past fall, THE HU headlined a tour through North America after joining Halestorm’s headlining tour, where they reunited with frontwoman Lzzy Hale, their special guest on “Song of Women” from their #1-charting debut album THE GEREG. In addition to those tours, THE HU also performed a slew of high-profile festival dates including Austin City Limits, Outside Lands, Rocklahoma, Inkcarceration and more, with the Austin-American Statesman giving a rave review for their ACL set, writing, “File this one under noise you didn’t think you needed. The eight-piece Mongolian band the Hu plays its guitars with bows and man buns, with backing “whoa” chants and punishing drums…It’s music built on tradition with an eye on the past.”

Those dates coincided with THE HU’s appearance on Metallica’s Special 30th Anniversary ‘Black Album’ Reissue Covers Project, for which they covered the legendary band’s “Through the Never.” They appeared on the track listing alongside some of the biggest names in music – Elton John, Miley Cyrus, Yo-Yo Ma, St. Vincent, Phoebe Bridgers, J Balvin with the Neptunes, Weezer, and many more – who offered their own renditions of Metallica’s songs that originally appeared on the iconic LP.

The band is excited to share more news on new music and further touring in the coming weeks on their social media channels and encourage everyone to give them a follow so they don’t miss out on anything: Website, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok

The HU Headlining Tour Dates:
April 15 – Indio, CA – Coachella
April 16 – San Diego, CA – Humphreys by the Bay
April 17 – Las Vegas, NV – Brooklyn Bowl
April 19 – Tucson, AZ – Rialto Theatre
April 21 – Phoenix, AZ – The Van Buren
April 22 – Indio, CA – Coachella
April 23 – Monterey, CA – Golden State Theatre
April 25 – Portland, OR – Roseland Theater
April 26 – Bend, OR – Midtown Ballroom
April 28 – Spokane, WA – Knitting Factory
April 29 – Missoula, MT – The Wilma
April 30 – Bozeman, MT – The ELM
May 02 – Fargo, ND – Sanctuary Events Center
May 03 – Lincoln, NE – Bourbon Theatre
May 04 – Kansas City, MO – The Truman
May 06 – Detroit, MI – St. Andrews Hall
May 07 – Bloomington, IL – Castle Theatre
May 08 – Columbus, OH – Newport Music Hall
May 09 – Nashville, TN – Cannery Ballroom
May 11 – Louisville, KY – Mercury Ballroom
May 13 – Portland, ME – State Theatre
May 14 – Albany, NY – Empire Live
May 16 – Washington, DC – Warner Theatre
May 17 – Norfolk, VA – The NorVa
May 19 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore
May 20 – Raleigh, NC – The Ritz
May 21 – Charleston, SC – Music Farm
May 22 – Daytona Beach, FL – Welcome to Rockville
May 25 – Birmingham, AL – Iron City
May 26 – Little Rock, AR – Little Rock Music Hall
May 27 – Oklahoma City, OK – Tower Theatre
May 28 – The Woodlands, TX – The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion (Buzzfest)
May 29 – Dallas, TX – Dos Equis Pavilion (BFD 22)
May 31 – Mexico City, MEX – Lunario

See full list of the band’s upcoming live shows and ticket information at https://www.thehuofficial.com/tour-1

Q&A WITH THE HU

—Can you tell us which songs from the upcoming album will be performed on the “Black Thunder” tour, why you’re excited to play them and how they represent a new chapter for THE HU?

THE HU: For the “Black Thunder” tour, we’re excited to be performing songs from our new album including “Mother Nature,” “Tatar Warrior” and “ShihiHutu.” We have been working hard on our second album and hope to have it ready soon. It will be focused on showing the unique qualities of the Hunnu Rock genre and consists of many new songs that reinforce the different aspects of it. So far we’ve been getting positive response from our fans and we can’t wait to perform all of our new songs for them.

–What inspired you to call the tour “Black Thunder”?

THE HU: We originated in Mongolia and through our music we try to make our fans feel the freedom and energy of the spirit of our vast land and high mountains. Likewise, the “Black Thunder” name is inspired by the unique scenery that can only be seen in Mongolia in which the thunder rumbles right before the rain in the high mountains, the number of clouds in the sky and the force of the lightning are heard, and seen many, many miles away We tried to communicate the energy and feeling you would get experiencing that and hence we named the tour “Black Thunder.”

—A Coachella performance is a prestigious booking since the festival has always stood for musical integrity. Can you discuss what it feels like to be performing at Coachella for the first time in your career? Are there any other artists you’re excited to see performing on the day you play?

THE HU: It is such an honor to be part of Coachella. We’re more than thrilled to be included and it has always been our dream to be performing on that stage representing Mongolia for the first time. We feel that it’s a great opportunity to meet with many of our loyal fans and artists that we love. There are so many talented great artists playing on the day we perform and for the rest of the festival, and if we get a chance, we would love to see all of them.

–You’ve performed in many cities in North America. Can you tell us what it’s like to play for audiences here and how they might be different from ones in Europe?

THE HU: We’ve toured many cities and several continents and met with so many awesome people. Every place has its own characteristics that can be felt through their greetings, hand gestures and chants before, during and after the concerts. In that regard, we would say the biggest differences that we can recall would be the amount of people who would sing along and who’ve memorized the lyrics. Each continent has different accents on singing in Mongolian and we love all of our audiences and their uniqueness.

–What is your favorite part about touring North America? Do you guys ever have the time to explore cities on days off (restaurants, museums, etc.) and if so, what has that been like?

THE HU: Our favorite thing about touring in North America is visiting different places and meeting people. Not only do the restaurants and establishments differ, but each one of them has a unique style. On our days off, we’ve had a chance to taste the most amazing barbecue in Texas, Asian fusion mixed with Mexican spices and sushiritto, etc and explore around everywhere we go. Like their cuisine, Americans are always willing to go the extra mile to make people feel welcome and accepted–we’ve had many people guide us through their cities and towns.

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About The HU

In 2019, an NPR story put a spotlight on “a band from Mongolia that blends the screaming guitars of heavy metal and traditional Mongolian guttural singing,” accurately highlighting the cultural importance and unique musical identity of The HU. Founded in 2016 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, The HU, comprised of producer Dashka along with members Gala, Jaya, Temka, and Enkush, are a modern rock group rooted in the tradition of their homeland. The band’s name translates to the Mongolian root word for human being, and their unique approach blends instruments like the Morin Khuur (horsehead fiddle), Tovshuur (Mongolian guitar), Tumur Khuur (jaw harp) and throat singing with contemporary sounds, creating a unique sonic profile that they call “Hunnu Rock.”

Their debut album, 2019 ‘s The Gereg, debuted at #1 on the World Album and Top New Artist Charts. With it, the band have accumulated over 250 million combined streams and video views to date and have received critical acclaim from the likes of Billboard, NPR, GQ, The Guardian, The Independent, Revolver, and even Sir Elton John himself.

Proving their global appeal, The HU have sold out venues across the world in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, with scheduled festival appearances at Coachella, Lollapalooza, Download Festival, and more, creating a community of fans from all walks of life. They quickly grabbed the attention of the industry, leading to collaborations with Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach and Lzzy Hale of Halestorm. And most recently, the band received praise from fans and critics for their Mongolian rendition of Metallica’s “Sad But True,” which Metallica themselves acknowledged on their social media accounts, seemingly giving the band their official seal of approval. The band has also explored eclectic ways to reach audiences with their sound, most notably writing and recording music for EA Games’ Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.

Readying their next chapter as a global force, The HU are putting the finishing touches on their highly anticipated sophomore album, which is due for a global release later this year from Better Noise Music. The project will include a selection of tracks that were premiered live on the band’s critically acclaimed North American tour at the end of 2021, coinciding with their appearance on Metallica’s 2021 retrospective covers album The Metallica Blacklist, alongside other high-profile guest artists like Miley Cyrus, Chris Stapleton, Phoebe Bridgers, J Balvin, St. Vincent, and so many more. The HU’s forthcoming 2022 headlining tour will kick off with a special set at Coachella this April.

Connect with The HU

Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok

PR Assets

ABOUT BETTER NOISE MUSIC

BETTER NOISE MUSIC is the premiere independent music label under BETTER NOISE ENTERTAINMENT, a content creation and marketing company that produces music, books, films, documentaries, TV shows, theatrical productions, and tours. Better Noise Music (formerly Eleven Seven Music), founded in 2006 by music industry veteran and independent pioneer Allen Kovac, focuses on artist development and has grown into a music industry independent powerhouse, with a roster including Five Finger Death Punch, Asking Alexandria, Bad Wolves, Dirty Heads, Nothing More, The HU, AWOLNATION, All Good Things, From Ashes To New, Cory Marks, and Fire From The Gods. Partnering with FUGA, AMPED and Membran, the company operates a global marketing and distribution platform with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Berlin, Paris, Toronto and Sydney.

In 2021, Better Noise Music dominated Billboard’s Year End charts in the rock space, landing at #1 on the Mainstream Rock Imprint, Hard Rock Songs Imprint, Hard Rock Songs Label charts and ranked as one of the top Mainstream Rock Label for the year.

For information, visit: http://betternoise.com/

CONNECT WITH BETTER NOISE

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For press inquiries, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh / kwalsh@sropr.com
Mitch Schneider / mschneider@sropr.com

Better Noise Music
Jimmy Harney – jimmy@betternoise.com

February 3, 2022

Nashville Singer-Songwriter & Musician MACKENZIE GRANT Shares Cover of Joni Mitchell’s “Borderline” In New Music Video

DT: FEBRUARY 3, 2022

FM: KELLY WALSH, MITCH SCHNEIDER/ SRO PR

MACKENZIE GRANT
–NASHVILLE SINGER, SONGWRITER AND MUSICIAN—
SHARES NEW SINGLE/VIDEO FOR HER COVER OF
JONI MITCHELL’S “BORDERLINE”

MARKS THE SECOND SINGLE FROM HER SOPHOMORE ALBUM
‘WONDER WORLD’
OUT MARCH 18 VIA BLACKBIRD RECORD LABEL

WATCH THE “BORDERLINE” VIDEO HERE

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Coming on the heels of last month’s single/video “Putting Down Some Things,” Nashville-based singer, songwriter and musician MacKenzie Grant has shared the video for her cover of Joni Mitchell’s timeless 1994 single “Borderline” (from her Grammy Award-winning Turbulent Indigo album). This marks the second single from MacKenzie’s sophomore album WONDER WORLD, due March 18 via BlackBird Record Label. The video can be viewed here and was premiered yesterday (February 2) by Americana UK which noted that “Grant’s version of the song is beautiful; the exquisite melody is delivered in her clear, pure voice while Josh Kaler’s fine pedal steel flows beneath.”

The intimate “Borderline” video—praised by Americana UK as ““a clever concept for a video of a cover song, showing respect and love for the original”—was directed by MacKenzie and filmed by her husband Murrey Smith and takes viewers on a tour of the Woodbine/Glencliff neighborhoods in Nashville, TN, where MacKenzie resides. She is seen visiting her local record store, Phonolux, picking up a vinyl copy of Turbulent Indigo and taking it home to become fully absorbed in the song. Since Turbulent Indigo was never released on vinyl despite fan petitions, MacKenzie created a mock copy using the CD’s original artwork. She also referenced the CD’s artwork in the cover art for her single by replacing Joni’s image with a self-portrait, as seen above.

“I first heard Joni Mitchell’s ‘Borderline’ when I was a freshman in college,” says MacKenzie. “I was studying political science at the time and engaging with students and professors who all had strong opinions about the state of our world. This song hit me directly between the eyes in my own reckoning of personal beliefs and how we navigate relationships with others whose ideologies are different from our own. I kept returning to the idea that so many of our beliefs might make us feel righteous, they also immediately set up a dichotomy, a dividing line between you and others. ‘Borderline’ is about how we can lose sight of our common humanity when we align ourselves too stringently with our opinions and views. Turbulent Indigo is possibly my favorite Joni album and one that I think gets overlooked, even though it won a Grammy. I feel this song is as compelling and timely today as it was 28 years ago and wanted more people to know about it. But then that’s the magic and genius of Joni’s work; compelling and timeless.”

The WONDER WORLD album marks MacKenzie’s return to music after a 15-year break.

Produced and engineered by Phil Dubnick, the album was inspired by GRANT’s time away from music working as a school counselor in a high-poverty and high-trauma preschool covering themes such as self-reckoning, feminine empowerment and overcoming negative mindsets.

WONDER WORLD features songs written by MacKenzie beyond the cover of “Borderline.” The album’s first offering was “Putting Down Some Things,” the video for which was premiered by Americana Highways. Beautifully written and sung by MACKENZIE, the song is a moving and infectious country song about self-renewal which Americana Highways praised, stating that “Grant’s songwriting is informed by witnessing a wave of these elements of the human experience, and the gentle easiness of her vocals helps to soothe the soul.” Read the press release here.

As a naturally gifted musician who is a classically trained pianist, MacKenzie has been writing and singing for as long as she can remember. A native of Syracuse, New York, and the daughter of two classically trained musicians, she effortlessly blends the clarity of her singing voice with the raw emotion in her lyrics. After three years at the University of Michigan, she transferred to Berklee in Boston, where she received positive feedback on her songwriting from her professors and peers alike. GRANT relocated to Nashville in 2000 after visiting the city with friends on spring break and discovering that it immediately felt like home.

Just before moving, she’d made an independent album that attracted the attention of a hit songwriter in Nashville, who invited her to write and record together if she ever came to town. That connection helped open the doors to the city’s songwriting community, as she developed an audience through playing writers rounds and releasing the 2006 album, The Laundry Room Glamour Hour. Around this same time, she also married and started a family, but gradually she became disillusioned with the music industry and her first marriage ended.

Now remarried and raising three children (a high schooler, a middle schooler, and a preschooler), she is once again using music as a way to connect with others and herself.

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For more information on MacKenzie Grant, please visit:
WEBSITE | IG | FB | TWITTER

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For press inquiries, please visit:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com
Mitch Schneider – mschneider@sropr.com

January 31, 2022

Emerging Rock Acts Join Forces on ‘Living Like I’m Dead Tour’ feat. UNCURED with VERSUS ME & MADAME MAYHEM

DT: JANUARY 31, 2020

FM: KELLY WALSH, SRO PR

EMERGING ROCK ACTS JOIN FORCES ON
‘LIVING LIKE I’M DEAD’ U.S. TOUR
FEATURING
UNCURED
WITH SUPPORT FROM
VERSUS ME + MADAME MAYHEM
FEBRUARY 23 – MARCH 20

TICKETS ON-SALE NOW AT
UNCUREDBAND.COM

Three of the nation’s top emerging rock groups will join forces this February and March on the newly announced “LIVING LIKE I’M DEAD” tour. The tour is headlined by New Jersey hard rock group UNCURED, which features brothers and guitarists/vocalists Rex and Zak Cox. Wisconsin rockers VERSUS ME and NYC rock singer-songwriter MADAME MAYHEM will join UNCURED on the month-long run. Tickets are on-sale as of today, January 31, via www.uncuredband.com.

The tour will support the upcoming release of UNCURED’s third album LIVING LIKE I’M DEAD, due March 4. LIVING LIKE I’M DEAD delivers massive choruses with stunning vocal harmonies, catchy melodies and blistering guitar solos. UNCURED will play the entire album live, plus singles from their previous LPs EPIDEMIC and MEDUSA.

UNCURED is a member of the Schecter Guitars official artist roster, and Schecter is a sponsor of the tour. Schecter will be giving away three guitars to three lucky fans who purchase advance tickets to an upcoming show. For details, please visit: www.uncuredband.com/win.

‘Living Like I’m Dead’ Tour Dates:
2/23 – Detroit, MI @ Diesel
2/24 – Madison, WI @ The Annex
2/25 – Hobart, IN @ Art Theater
2/26 – Racine, WI @ Route 20
3/1 – Bloomington, IL @ The Stable
3/3 – Joliet, IL @ The Forge
3/5 – Minneapolis, MN @ Cabooze
3/6 – Des Moines, IA @ Lefty’s
3/7 – Kansas City, MO @ Vivo Live
3/8 – Wichita, KS @ The Wave
3/9 – Springfield, MO @ Outland Ballroom
3/10 – Tulsa, OK @ The Vanguard
3/11 – Katy, TX @ Wildcatter
3/12 – Lubbock, TX @ Jake’s
3/15 – Shreveport, LA @ Sand Bar
3/16 – Birmingham, AL @ Zydeco
3/18 – Huntsville, AL @ Sidetracks
3/19 – Johnson City, TN @ Capone’s
3/20 – Greensboro, NC @ Blind Tiger

“Uncured had the opportunity to play 25 incredible shows during the summer of 2021,” shares Rex. “Audiences have been starved for the adrenaline surge that only comes from the excitement of live music.” Zak adds: “Our touring partners Versus Me and Madame Mayhem have become favorites on the active rock radio scene, and their epic songs and powerful live performances will make this tour an event that can’t be missed.”

The members of VERSUS ME agree. “All of us in Versus Me are very excited to hit the road with Uncured and Madame Mayhem. We’ve been eager to take our live show on the road and this is the perfect opportunity. Our fans have been asking us to hit the road and we can’t wait to hang out with everyone and play our new music.”

“We’re so excited to get back on the road and perform live with Uncured and Versus Me,” adds MADAME MAYHEM. “More than anything we can’t wait to reconnect with all of the rock music lovers out there after not touring for so long! These shows are going to be something special for sure.”

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Lineup [l-r]: Zak Cox, Rex Cox
Credit: Conclave Studios

With a resume that includes over 250 live shows in 14 countries, UNCURED has won over fans worldwide with its virtuoso guitar skills and energetic, engaging live performances. Lauded by Guitar World as “technically dazzling”, UNCURED has been seen on major tours with acts including Lacuna Coil, All That Remains, Cradle of Filth and Jinjer, just to name a few. Most recently, UNCURED opened for Judas Priest and Sabaton at the 2021 Warlando Music Festival in Orlando. Their debut album Medusa was named one of the “10 Best Metal Albums of 2017” by AXS.com while their 2019 cover of Slayer’s classic hit “Disciple” received the title of “Cover of the Year” from SiriusXM’s “Liquid Metal” show.

UNCURED have released three singles from LIVING LIKE I’M DEAD, including title track “Living Like I’m Dead” along with anthems “I Won’t Break” and “Take Me Away,” all of which can be found streaming across all digital platforms. Watch the official music video for “Living Like I’m Dead” streaming below.

Find UNCURED online at:
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | SPOTIFY

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Lineup [l-r]: Lee Milibrandt (bass), JJ Johnson (drums), James Milibrandt (vocals), Dustin Hansen (guitar)

Wisconsin’s own VERSUS ME is a band for today’s rock crowds. They have crafted multiple songs featuring the type of crowd-ready anthems heard in stadiums, while simultaneously harnessing the heaviness and earnest delivery found each year on the Warped Tour’s main stage and in the pages of Alternative Press, Rocksound, Kerrang! and Big Cheese. The band’s diverse influences, their varied experiences on the road, and the ascent of likeminded bands like Bring Me The Horizon, Asking Alexandria and Ice Nine Kills have paved the way for Versus Me to quickly connect with fans on a worldwide scale. Their latest single “Down” is out now via oneRPM. Stream its music video below.

Find VERSUS ME online at:
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | SPOTIFY

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Manhattan born singer-songwriter and burgeoning rock icon in the making MADAME MAYHEM takes charge of her own anxiety, hurt, and alienation, crushing it with sheer force of will, then channeling the remaining ether into pulse-pounding anthems, instantly connecting with anyone who has struggled. Madame Mayhem doesn’t fit comfortably in any one box, shifting seamlessly from pile driving to almost precious with skilled frenzy. In fact, Madame Mayhem boasts the arena-ready thrill of Disturbed, the soaring chest-pounding sensibility of Breaking Benjamin, the brazen, clever, and rad attitude of Pat Benatar, all delivered with the grand theatricality of Iron Maiden and the operatic thunder of Evanescence. Those who yearn for the electric catharsis of loud guitars, driving rhythms, hypnotic hooks, and the strength of shared experience have a new muse in Madame Mayhem. Her latest single “I Am More,” produced by Johnny K (Disturbed, Megadeth, Sevendust, Finger Eleven) is out now; stream its music video below.

Find MADAME MAYHEM online here:
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | SPOTIFY

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For press inquires and/or review ticket requests for the “Living Like I’m Dead” tour, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com

January 20, 2022

JACK KEROUAC Centennial Birthday Event Schedule Announced via THE JACK KEROUAC ESTATE & KEROUAC @ 100 COMMITTEE

DT: JANUARY 20, 2022
FM: KELLY WALSH, SRO PR

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THE JACK KEROUAC ESTATE AND KEROUAC @ 100 COMMITTEE
SHARE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS FOR
CENTENNIAL BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
FOR FAMED NOVELIST, WRITER, POET AND ARTIST
JACK KEROUAC
TAKING PLACE IN HIS LOWELL, MA HOMETOWN
STARTING IN MARCH

EVENTS TO INCLUDE RETURN OF ORIGINAL
‘ON THE ROAD’ SCROLL
ON LOAN FROM THE JIM IRSAY COLLECTION, GUIDED BUS TOURS, MUSICAL EVENTS, READINGS, ART GALLERIES & MORE

To mark the centennial birthday anniversary of world-renowned “Beat Generation” pioneer, novelist, writer, poet and artist JACK KEROUAC, THE JACK KEROUAC ESTATE and the Kerouac @ 100 Committee have planned an array of events and happenings to take place in his Lowell, MA hometown starting in his birth month of March. See a full list of happenings and details below.

“March 12^th, 2022 will be the 100th anniversary of the birth of Lowell, Massachusetts’ favorite native son, Jack Kerouac, and folks the world over are weighing in on the enduring legacy of his work,” states Jim Sampas, Literary Executor of the Estate of Jack Kerouac. “The celebration of his centennial this March in his hometown will include important artifacts, such as an exhibit of the original ‘On the Road’ scroll manuscript, and for the first time ever in one place, all the photographs of Kerouac taken by one of his dearest friends, Allen Ginsberg. There will be readings, film screenings, and musical performances, all paying tribute to one of the most important authors of our time, and the versatility and openness of Kerouac’s work.”

Kerouac has been praised and cited as an influence for several of the most well-known public figures in music, entertainment, literature, fashion, and politics ranging from President Barack Obama to David Bowie to Francis Ford Coppola to Hunter S. Thompson and many more. Kerouac was recently the inspiration for DIOR HOMME creative director Kim Jones’ 2022 fall show with a collection that nodded to the Beat Generation style and featured an 80-meter-long facsimile of Kerouac’s generation-defining literary classic ‘On The Road.’ See photos from the show in London via Vogue HERE.

The upcoming festivities will feature the return of a portion of the original 120-foot-long ‘On The Road’ scroll–which Time Magazine included as one of the best novels of the last 100 years—on loan from The Jim Irsay Collection as part of the exhibit ‘Visions of Kerouac’ which will be free to the public on Friday, March 18 at the Lowell National Historical Park’s Boott Cotton Mills Gallery. Further details are included below.

“The ‘On the Road’ scroll manuscript is one of the most important and fascinating manuscripts in American literary history,” proclaims Michael Millner (Director, UMass Lowell Kerouac Center). “American literature and American culture more broadly were never the same after ‘On the Road,’ and this is rare opportunity to experience the manuscript–and it is certainly an experience.”

JACK KEROUAC CENTENNIAL BIRTHDAY EVENT SCHEDULE

FREE ADMISSION FOR ALL EVENTS

MARCH 4 – MAY 1: “Reflections from the Road” Art Exhibit

Arts League of Lowell Gallery – 307 Market St. (Lowell), All Ages

An art exhibit featuring regional artists who create works of art inspired by specific passages of Kerouac’s writing. Held in Greenwald Gallery, paintings by Judith Bessette, photography by Paul Bessette.

FRIDAY, MARCH 11: “Kerouac Night of 100 Poems: Blues & Haikus”

Pollard Memorial Library – Ground Floor Meeting Room Lowell

6:00-9:00 PM, All Ages

Join us on the eve of Kerouac’s 100^th birthday as we read aloud 100 of his musical blues choruses and American haiku poems. Light refreshments and musical accompaniment. For further info and reader signup, please visit LowellLibrary.org.

SATURDAY, MARCH 12: JACK KEROUAC CENTENNIAL BIRTHDAY

“Kerouac Sites of Lowell Tour”: Guided bus tour of the Jack Kerouac sites of Lowell. 1:00-3:00 PM

“Kerouac Biographers Panel”: Featuring Dennis McNally and Holly George-Warren, moderated by Todd Tietchen. Academic Arts Center – 240 Central St. (Lowell) – 4:00 PM, All Ages

“Poetry Reading”: An evening of poetry with Anne Waldman, Scarlett Sabet and Paul Marion. Academic Arts Center – 240 Central St. (Lowell) – 7:00pm, All Ages

“Musical Event”: A night of music with Frank Morey and Willie Loco Alexander. Warp And Weft – 197 Market St (Lowell)- 9:00 PM (directly following Poetry Reading), 21+ event

“Music was important to Jack Kerouac as Jack was to countless music makers,” says Chris Porter, President of the Jack Kerouac Foundation Board of Directors. “Both Willie Loco Alexander (who released his well-known song ‘Kerouac’ in the 1970’s) and Frank Morey have been significantly touched by Jack’s writings and their respective performances will be perfect finales to a special day of talk, poetry, and song celebrating Kerouac’s 100th birthday.”

SUNDAY, MARCH 13

“Kerouac Sites of Nashua Tour”: Guided bus tour of the Jack Kerouac sites of Nashua, NH. 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM, starts & ends in Lowell

“Jack Kerouac’s Road – A Franco-American Odyssey” film screening

Luna Theater at Mill No. 5 – 250 Jackson St., Lowell

2:00 PM

Part documentary, part drama, this 1987 Canadian Film Board production weaves reenactments, archival film and photographs, and interviews with French-Canadian and American writers and artists of the 80’s (including Allen Ginsberg and Lawrence Ferlinghetti) to paint a portrait of Lowell’s thoroughly Franco-American novelist and poet.

TUESDAY, MARCH 15: “Tribute to Jack Kerouac: 100 Years, Still Alive”
Virtual Panel, 6:00 PM (ET)

A virtual bilingual panel on Jack Kerouac moderated by cultural journalist Tanya Beaumont (Radio-Canada) with panelists Herménégilde Chiasson (director of the film ‘Le grand Jack,’ based in New Brunswick), Susan Pinette (Director of Franco-American Studies at Canadian-American Center & Professor of Modern Languages at University of Maine, based in USA), Jean-Christophe Cloutier (Author La Vie est d’hommage and Associate Professor of English and Comparative Literature at University of Pennsylvania, based in USA)

FRIDAY, MARCH 18 – Week of APRIL 25: “Visions of Kerouac” Special Exhibit

Lowell National Historical Park – Boott Cotton Mills Gallery – 115 John Street, Lowell, MA 01852

12:00 – 5:00 PM daily

This unique special exhibit will include the return of a portion of the original “On The Road” scroll. The scroll in its entirety stretches to 120 feet and is one of the most extraordinary and highly valued manuscripts in American literary history. It will be on loan from The Jim Irsay Collection. Irsay, owner of the Indianapolis Colts, has a renowned collection which includes historic and iconic artifacts from rock music, American history and pop culture. The 24-foot portion will be available for viewing along with archival books, writings, personal objects, and photographs including never-before-seen images of Jack Kerouac taken by fellow Beat Generation pioneer Allen Ginsberg. There will also be a collection of photographs by John Suiter. More details on the exhibit location can be found here: www.nps.gov/lowe/planyourvisit/boott-cotton-mills-museum.htm

SATURDAY, MARCH 19: “An Evening with David Amram”

Luna Theater at Mill No. 5 – 250 Jackson St, Lowell (Time TBA)

Acclaimed composer and jazzman David Amram–now in his 92nd year–will reflect on his days with Kerouac as he recounts them in his book ‘Offbeat: Collaborating with Kerouac.’ He will also show the film ‘Pull My Daisy,’ in which David appears and Jack Kerouac narrates.

APRIL 8 & 9: “The Town And The City” Festival”

This two-day music and arts festival produced by Chris Porter will take place in various event spaces, bars, cafes and galleries throughout downtown Lowell, MA. The festival is named after Jack Kerouac’s earliest novel which was primarily set in this historic mill city. More info at www.thetownandthecityfestival.com

OCTOBER 6-10: “Lowell Celebrates Kerouac Festival”

Location & times TBD.

The October Festival features tours of Kerouac’s Lowell places–including many sites described in his Lowell-based novels-panel discussions, reading, jazz and folk music, films, open mike events, as high poetry competition, book signings, and more. Kerouac fans and scholars from across the United States and around the world travel to Lowell for the festival. More info at www.lowellcelebrateskerouac.org

Some additional events transpiring around the centennial celebration will include:

– Famous quotes from Kerouac’s works being made as banners and hung on light poles in downtown Lowell, MA

– The Jack Kerouac Foundation has been created to establish a Jack Kerouac museum and performance venue in Lowell, MA. Their first initiative will be funding to pursue the establishment for the museum and performance center in the magnificent St. Jean Baptiste Church where Kerouac was an altar boy and the site of his funeral in 1969.

– Adventure Lab is a new app and platform in development from the team at Geocaching HQ that allows you to play and share unique outdoor scavenger hunts, experiences, and games. The free Adventure Lab® app guides players through the process of finding clues, solving puzzles, and completing adventures one location at a time. Jack Kerouac‘s Adventure Lab has between 5-8 points located in Lowell which will allow visitors to discover places important to Jack Kerouac‘s story while having fun!

– DIY Lowell will work with Kerouac @ 100 Committee on various historical markers, a “little library” and chalk walk.

– Unreleased works of Kerouac, as well as authors who were inspired by Kerouac, will be published via Sal Paradise Press—the content development arm of The Jack Kerouac Estate formed by Sampas and music industry veteran Sylvia Cunha (Director of Marketing and Development for The Jack Kerouac Estate).

– Launch of the Kerouac And Me podcast/audio project which will see stars of music, film/tv, literature, politics, sports and business share stories of how their work was inspired by Kerouac and was created by Sampas and Cunha for Sal Paradise Media and New York Times bestselling authors Dave Wedge and Casey Sherman for Fort Point Media.

About the KEROUAC @ 100 Committee:

The Kerouac @ 100 Committee consists of The Kerouac Center at UMass Lowell, Lowell Celebrates Kerouac, Lowell National Historical Park, Lowell Office of Cultural Affairs, the Pollard Memorial Library, Lowell’s Franco-American Day Committee, and Québec Delégation of Boston .

KEROUAC @ 100 is funded in part by The Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, The Greater Merrimack Valley Convention & Visitors Bureau, Kerouac Center at UMass Lowell, Allen Ginsberg Estate, Massachusetts State Senator Edward Kennedy, City Of Lowell, Pollard Memorial Library Foundation, Lowell National Historical Park, Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union, George Duncan/Enterprise Bank, Lowell Cultural Council, Greater Lowell Health Alliance, Québec Delégation of Boston, and Moses Greeley Parker Lecture

Series.

A person with his arms crossed Description automatically generated with medium confidence Credit: Tom Palumbo

For more information on THE JACK KEROUAC ESTATE, please visit: https://jackkerouac.com/

https://www.facebook.com/KerouacEstate
http://www.instagram.com/KerouacEstate
https://twitter.com/kerouacestate

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For press inquiries regarding THE JACK KEROUAC ESTATE, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com

January 13, 2022

THE BLACK MOODS Reveal “Saturday Night” Video Teaser; VIP Upgrade Added for 2/19 Headlining Show @ Talking Stick (Scottsdale)

DT: JANUARY 12, 2022

FM: KELLY WALSH, SRO PR

ARIZONA’S
THE BLACK MOODS
TEASE NEW TRACK “SATURDAY NIGHT”
IN ADVANCE OF VIDEO PREMIERE
@ TALKING STICK RESORT (SCOTTSDALE) SHOW
FEBRUARY 19

LISTEN TO A PREVIEW HERE

VIP TICKET UPGRADES INCLUDING PRIVATE ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE NOW AVAILABLE
TICKETS & UPGRADES ON-SALE HERE

Tempe, AZ modern classic rockers THE BLACK MOODS are excited to hit the stage on Saturday, February 19 for a headlining hometown show at Talking Stick Resort where the band will premiere the music video for their anthemic new track “Saturday Night” in advance of its February 25 digital release. The song is the second sampling of new music from their anticipated third full-length album due out this spring via Wit Hustle / The Orchard / Steelhorse Entertainment following its debut track “She Gets Out” which premiered via Loudwire last November. Listen to a teaser clip of “Saturday Night” HERE.

THE BLACK MOODS have also announced a limited run of VIP upgrades for the 2/19 show which are on-sale today and include:

A private acoustic performance from the band following soundcheck
Invite-only screening of the “Saturday Night” music video with the band
Socially distanced meet & greet and photo opp + exclusive VIP laminate
An exclusive VIP merch item
Priority entry into the venue
Early access to merchandise before general admission doors open.

For tickets, please visit: https://www.talkingstickresort.com/phoenix-scottsdale-concerts-entertainment/entertainment-listing/the-showroom/the-black-moods, for VIP upgrades, please visit the band’s website: www.theblackmoods.com.

Vocalist/guitarist Josh Kennedy, drummer Chico Diaz and bassist/backing vocalist Jordan Hoffman have continued to “lead(ing) the charge in bringing back melodic rock here in the 21st Century” (Loudwire) despite the onset of a global pandemic attempting to halt their momentum. The trio released their critically acclaimed sophomore album SUNSHINE in 2020 which saw them grace the cover of their hometown weekly paper Phoenix New Times (May 7, 2020) and achieve radio success with their first-ever Top 20 Billboard Active Rock single, title track “Sunshine,” as well as land four of the records previous singles in the Top 30.

Unable to tour due to the halt of the live entertainment industry, THE BLACK MOODS, kept writing new material and temporarily moved their makeshift home studio from AZ to Kennedy’s hometown of Wheaton, MO (population 690) to remotely record the new songs with Sunshine’s Grammy award-nominated producer Johnny K. (3 Doors Down, Disturbed, Pop Evil). They also enlisted legendary Grammy award-winning producer Eddie Kramer (Led Zeppelin, The Beatles) who worked with the band completely virtually as he was based in Canada using new, state-of-the-art computer technology. Stay tuned for details on the new album in coming weeks.

A picture containing text, person, net Description automatically generated Lineup (l-r): Josh Kennedy, Jordan Hoffman, Chico Diaz
Photo Credit: Jim Louvau

For more information on THE BLACK MOODS, please visit:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE

SRO PR Assets + Releases: http://sropr.com/portfolio/the-black-moods/

###

For press inquiries or review ticket requests, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com

January 12, 2022

Dave Navarro And Billy Morrison Offer Thanks For December Sold-Out “Above Ground” Benefit Concert; Organization Makes $50,000 Donation To Musicares®

DATE: JANUARY 12, 2022

FROM: MITCH SCHNEIDER/MARCEE RONDAN/KELLY WALSH

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DAVE NAVARRO AND BILLY MORRISON
OFFER THANKS FOR DECEMBER sold-out “ABOVE GROUND”
BENEFIT CONCERT; ORGANIZATION MAKES $50,000 DONATION TO MUSICARES^®

IN ONGOING EFFORT TO
PROMOTE AWARENESS AND RAISE FUNDS
FOR THE TREATMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH

As Dave Navarro (Jane’s Addiction) and Billy Morrison (Billy Idol) look forward to the fourth “ABOVE GROUND” benefit concert later this year (date TBA), the guitarists and “ABOVE GROUND” co-founders want to thank the artists who supported the third event last month (December 20) at The Fonda Theatre in Hollywood, CA, the fans who attended and the team involved in putting together another successful benefit. Following the sold-out event, ABOVE GROUND made a $50,000 donation to MusiCares^® (the leading music charity that acts as a safety net for the music community) in ongoing effort to promote awareness and raise funds for the treatment of mental health. (See full set list below.)

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“When you are fortunate enough to do something you love, and simultaneously spread a positive message and raise much needed funds at the same time, it can never be called work,” Billy Morrison says. “Above Ground has become just such an event for Dave and I. Our third show exceeded all my expectations, both in terms of the incredible musical performances by our core band and all of our guests, and in the amount of love and support we got from our audience, our partners and our sponsors. I’m proud of what Above Ground is achieving in the mental health space and urge us all to keep the dialogue flowing. Roll on Above Ground 4!”

“This year‘s Above Ground event has to have been my favorite so far,” Dave Navarro says. “Not only were we able to create an environment to share our love of music with the people closest to us in our lives but we did it for such an important cause. Spreading awareness and raising funds in support of mental health makes these events so fulfilling for us. On a personal note, I never thought in 1 million years I would share the stage with Perry Farrell and Anthony Kiedis in the same night. A lot of healing took place on that stage as well. None of that would have happened had we not had the honor of participating in this annual event. Being in a position to offer support and help to others while simultaneously walking away enriched and full of gratitude is a very special, magical thing. I will never forget Above Ground 3 and cannot wait for Above Ground 4.”

Hosted by Dr. Drew Pinsky with an art installation by Risk Rock, the evening featured performances of two musically/culturally seismic albums: Lou Reed’s Transformer (1972) and Sex Pistol’s Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols (1977). The all-star line-up–led by Navarro and Morrison–featured special guests (alphabetically) Anthony Kiedis (Red Hot Chili Peppers), Chris Chaney (Jane’s Addiction), Corey Taylor (Slipknot), Courtney Taylor-Taylor (The Dandy Warhols), Dave Kushner (Velvet Revolver, Sons Of Anarchy), Dexter Holland (The Offspring), Donovan Leitch, Franky Perez, Jason Aalon Butler (Fever333), Jerry Harrison (Talking Heads), Josh Freese (The Offspring, A Perfect Circle, Danny Elfman), Laura Mace, Mark McGrath, Mickey Avalon, Otep, Perry And Etty Lau Farrell, Piggy D (Rob Zombie) and Steve Stevens (Billy Idol).

The ABOVE GROUND 3 set list is as follows:

Lou Reed’s Transformer
“VICIOUS,” Corey Taylor
“ANDY’S CHEST,” Courtney Taylor-Taylor
“PERFECT DAY,” Billy Morrison
“HANGING AROUND,” Mark McGrath
“WALK ON THE WILD SIDE,” Anthony Kiedis
“MAKE UP,” Mickey Avalon
“WAGON WHEEL,” Laura Mace
“SATELLITE OF LOVE,” Perry and Etty Farrell
“NEW YORK TELEPHONE CONVERSATION,” Donovan Leitch
“I’M SO FREE,” Corey Taylor
“GOODNIGHT LADIES,” Franky Perez
**“SWEET JANE,” Billy Morrison

**Bonus track

Sex Pistols’ Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols
“HOLIDAYS IN THE SUN,” Corey Taylor
“BODIES,” Corey Taylor
“NO FEELINGS,” Mark McGrath
“LIAR,” Jason Aalon Butler
“PROBLEMS,” Billy Morrison
“SEVENTEEN,” Franky Perez
“SUBMISSION,” Jason Aalon Butler
“ANARCHY IN THE U.K.,” Perry and Etty Farrell
“NEW YORK,” Mark McGrath
“GOD SAVE THE QUEEN,” Dexter Holland
“PRETTY VACANT,” Dexter Holland
“EMI,” Billy Morrison/Mark McGrath

Here’s some critical feedback on ABOVE GROUND 3:

It doesn’t take long for the concert to begin when, almost quietly, Dave Navarro calls the first super-guest of the evening to the stage: and it’s none other than Anthony Kiedis. The amazement of the public, but also of us photographers placed at the foot of the stage, is tangible. No one had any idea that the Red Hot Chili Peppers frontman had been invited to sing ‘Walk on the Wild Side,’ the most iconic track on Lou Reed’s album and career. The presence of Kiedis, the melancholy atmospheres of the song and the soft lights make the moment magnetic, at the end of which Kiedis and Navarro embrace and the latter reaches the microphone to remind everyone that they had not been on stage together for 25 years.

“With the second set the pace is definitely changed. The introspective and minimalist sounds of Transformer give way to the cheeky ones of the Sex Pistols. Corey Taylor is back, and after him also Perry Farrell, the ‘usual’ McGrath and a real stage animal like Jason Butler of Fever 333, who devours that same stage on the notes of ‘Submission.’”

“Nowadays, the mere fact that these kinds of events are still a reality should cheer us up. And all the better if they are linked to an important cause. Maximum support, therefore, to Dave Navarro and Billy Morrison. The world of rock needs people who believe in it. People like them.”

–Rolling Stone Italy, 12/22/21

“Navarro and Morrison took turns introducing vocalists for each of the songs throughout the evening. Corey Taylor led the evening off as he covered Lou Reed’s ‘Vicious.’ The next highlight and first surprise of the night came during ‘Walk On The Wild Side’ as Navarro welcomed Anthony Kiedis, the Red Hot Chili Pepper frontman and former bandmate. After giving Navarro a big hug, he brought life to the classic song that was easily the biggest hit off this iconic album. Perry Farrell and his wife Etty later joined the party on ‘Satellite Of Love.’”

“A confetti blast kicked off the second half of the show with Corey Taylor again on-stage, this time representing the Sex Pistols 1977 release, Never Mind The Bollocks. The punk rock vibe was alive and well as Mark McGrath, Jason Butler, Billy Morrison and Franky Perez all took turns covering songs from the album.”

“Together Navarro and Morrison have created a solid platform and great annual tradition. Partnering with MusiCares, this benefit show has quickly proven itself and continues to improve with each iteration.”

– Live Music Today , 12/22/21

“Billy Morrison blew the crowd away with his beautiful rendition of ‘Perfect Day,’ and we couldn’t have been happier as it is a favorite among Lou Reed fans.”

“Singer Franky Perez was the album closer and was dressed in his late-night crooner attire with fitted suit pants, button-up shirt, and undone tie. Perez sang “Goodnight, Ladies” and left the crowd and other musicians in utter shock of his immeasurable voice.”

“To bring it all home, Morrison invited all the musicians that had been on stage that night to join Mark McGrath in singing ‘EMI.’ It was a lovely evening, all in the name f helping others and knowing you and the people onstage were joining together to do good things and help people struggling with mental wellness.

Sometimes, big events don’t live up to the hype. On December 20th, Above Ground definitely lived up to all expectations. It was an event we won’t forget any time soon.”

– OC MUSIC NEWS, 12/25/21

ABOUT ABOVE GROUND
Founded in 2018, by Dave Navarro, Billy Morrison and manager Rick Canny, Above Ground is a registered 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated to raising funds for and awareness to the issues of mental health.

ABOUT MUSICARES
MusiCares helps the humans behind music because music gives so much to the world. Offering preventive, emergency, and recovery programs, MusiCares is a safety net supporting the health and welfare of the music community. Founded by the Recording Academy in 1989 as a U.S. based 501(c)(3) charity, MusiCares safeguards the well-being of all music people through direct financial grant programs, networks of support resources, and tailored crisis relief efforts. For more information please visit: https://www.musicares.org/

For ABOVE GROUND press inquiries, please contact SRO PR:
Marcee Rondan, marcee@msopr.com
Mitch Schneider, mschneider@msopr.com
Kelly Walsh, kwalsh@msopr.com

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January 6, 2022

Nashville Singer-Songwriter MACKENZIE GRANT Shares Video for Motivational Country Track “Putting Down Some Things”

DT: JANUARY 6, 2022

FM: KELLY WALSH, MITCH SCHNEIDER/ SRO PR

MACKENZIE GRANT
–NASHVILLE SINGER, SONGWRITER AND MUSICIAN–
RETURNS AFTER 15 YEARS WITH NEW ALBUM
‘WONDER WORLD’
DUE MARCH 18 VIA
BLACKBIRD RECORD LABEL

SHARES VIDEO TODAY FOR THE ALBUM’S MOTIVATIONAL FIRST SINGLE
“PUTTING DOWN SOME THINGS”
OUT THIS FRIDAY, JANUARY 7

WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

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Photo Credit: Ashley Hylbert

Nashville-based singer, songwriter and classically trained pianist MACKENZIE GRANT has returned to music after a 15-year break with the upcoming release of her sophomore full-length album WONDER WORLD due March 18 via BlackBird Record Label. Produced and engineered by Phil Dubnick, the album was inspired by GRANT’s time away from music working as a school counserlor in a high-poverty and high-trauma preschool covering themes suchs as self-reckoning, feminine empowerment and overcoming negative mindsets.

WONDER WORLD features songs written by MACKENZIE plus a cover of Joni Mitchell’s “Borderline.” The album’s first single is “Putting Down Some Things,” the video for which was premiered yesterday by Americana Highways. Beautifully written and sung by MACKENZIE, the song is a moving and infectious country song about self-renewal which Americana Highways praised, stating that “Grant’s songwriting is informed by witnessing a wave of these elements of the human experience, and the gentle easiness of her vocals helps to soothe the soul.” Watch the music video streaming below or HERE.

“Putting Down Some Things” will be released digitally this Friday, January 7 and can be pre-saved at this link: https://linktr.ee/mackenziegrantmusic.

“As a former counselor, I worked with children affected by poverty, marginalization, domestic violence, generational trauma–all things that were not their fault or theirs to carry as innocents,” shares GRANT. “I tried to foster resilience and self-compassion in them. When I took a break from this work, I found I was crippled by many of the mindsets they lived with on a daily basis: shame, self-blame, fear, criticism, etc. I knew I had to give the same allowance and self-compassion to myself that I had encouraged in them.”

She continues to share the meaning behind the track, stating that “‘Putting Down Some Things’ is born of the idea that the way so many of us treat ourselves, the mental self-degradation, is ultimately just our brain trying to stay safe and protected. But that’s the big lie; that we have to beat ourselves up in order to find motivation and growth. I had to start putting down that self-criticism because it no longer worked. We’re all connected in our suffering and with the events of the past couple of years, we’ve experienced it exponentially. But for most of us it’s our own inner voice doing the most damage. It’s accepting ourselves and giving our suffering compassion that is needed to heal us, individually and collectively.”

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As a naturally gifted musician, GRANT has been writing and singing for as long as she can remember. A native of Syracuse, New York, and the daughter of two classically trained musicians, she effortlessly blends the clarity of her singing voice with the raw emotion in her lyrics. After three years at the University of Michigan, she transferred to Berklee in Boston, where she received positive feedback on her songwriting from her professors and peers alike. GRANT relocated to Nashville in 2000 after visiting the city with friends on spring break and discovering that it immediately felt like home.

Now remarried and raising three children (a high schooler, a middle schooler, and a preschooler), she is once again using music as a way to connect with others and herself.

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For more information on MacKenzie Grant, please visit:
WEBSITE | IG | FB | TWITTER

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For press inquiries, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com
Mitch Schneider – mschneider@sropr.com

December 8, 2021

Arizona Rock Trio THE BLACK MOODS Announce Hometown Show Feb. 19 at Showroom @ Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale

DT: DECEMBER 8, 2021

FM: KELLY WALSH, SRO PR

THE BLACK MOODS
ANNOUNCE HEADLINING HOMETOWN SHOW
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 19
AT
SHOWROOM @ TALKING STICK RESORT
IN SCOTTSDALE, AZ

TICKETS ON-SALE
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 10 @ 10:00 AM MST

“SHE GETS OUT”
–DEBUT TRACK FROM ANTICIPATED SPRING 2022 ALBUM–
OUT NOW

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO HERE

Born in the Arizona desert and reared on stages across North America, rock and roll trio THE BLACK MOODS “are currently leading the charge in bringing back melodic rock here in the 21st Century” (Loudwire) which they will prove as they bring their blazing live show to the Showroom at Talking Stick Resort in Scottsdale, AZ on Saturday, February 19. The concert will see the band perform hit tracks from their critically acclaimed 2020 release SUNSHINE and preview material from their forthcoming album due out via Wit Hustle / The Orchard / Steelhorse Entertainment in spring 2022. General admission tickets go on sale this Friday, December 10 at 10:00 A.M. MST HERE. See a video message from the band below.

THE BLACK MOODS were last seen on tour this fall across the U.S. with The Dead Daisies along with a few one-off shows with hard rockers Royal Bliss and an appearance at Aftershock Festival. Scholastic Perspectives praised their performance in Cedar Rapids, IA stating, “Chico Diaz is so sleek behind the kit, Jordan Hoffman grooves the audience into submission on bass and Josh Kennedy wails on vocals and makes his guitar talk.” (9/4/21).

The first track from their as-yet-untitled third album, “She Gets Out,” was released across digital platforms on November 26 in conjunction with the release of its music video via Loudwire. The song acts as a sequel to their Top 20 Active Rock radio single/title track “Sunshine” continuing the storyline of the video’s troubled main character. Watch/stream “She Gets Out” here: https://orcd.co/shegetsout.

THE BLACK MOODS’ upcoming album was recorded at a makeshift home studio in the Ozarks (hometown of KENNEDY) with SUNSHINE’s Grammy-nominated producer Johnny K (Disturbed, 3 Doors Down) and includes a remotely recorded track with legendary Grammy award-winning producer Eddie Kramer (Led Zeppelin, The Beatles) who was based in Canada. Stay tuned for further details in the coming months.

A picture containing text, person, net Description automatically generated Lineup (l-r): Josh Kennedy, Jordan Hoffman, Chico Diaz
Photo Credit: Jim Louvau

For more information on THE BLACK MOODS, please visit:
FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | WEBSITE

SRO PR Assets + Releases: http://sropr.com/portfolio/the-black-moods/

###

For press inquiries or review ticket requests, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com

December 8, 2021

Industrial Rockers CONTRACULT COLLECTIVE Reveal Grotesque NSFW Music Video for New Single “Meek”

DT: DECEMBER 8, 2021

FM: KELLY WALSH, SRO PR

INDUSTRIAL ROCK OUTFIT
CONTRACULT COLLECTIVE
REVEAL GROTESQUE NSFW MUSIC VIDEO FOR LATEST SINGLE
“MEEK”
FOLLOWING REVOLVER MAGAZINE PREMIERE

WATCH HERE

Vice [n.] – 1) an immoral or evil habit or practice 2) a moral flaw or weakness 3) a minor or bad habit
Meek [adj.] – 1) quiet, gentle and easily imposed on; submissive 2) enduring in patience and without resentment 3) deficient in spirit and courage

Los Angeles industrial/hard rock outfit CONTRACULT COLLECTIVE deliver an uncompromising message of taking control of one’s vices in their recent single “Meek,” produced by Arthur Rizk (Ghostemane, Power Trip) which was released digitally on November 26. The band yesterday (December 7) premiered a shocking, NSFW music video for “Meek” via Revolver Magazine who described the song as “an industrialized hard-rock banger,” while stating the video “basically functions as a mini-horror movie with some awesome music soundtracking the scares.”

Directed by Steven Anthony Roe at Media City Studios in downtown L.A., the “Meek” music video shows each band member being forced to confront a terrifying manifestation of their vices, played by contortionist/pole dancer Brynn Route (Kat Von D, Lucha VaVOOM). Watch it streaming via YouTube directly below or HERE.

“Industrial music has always tried to push the envelope of shock and horror, both lyrically and visually,” CONTRACULT COLLECTIVE vocalist SVART states. “Contracult does the same, but with purpose and humility. The song ‘Meek’ is about the vulnerability of addiction and mental health with the lack of accountability for one’s actions within this mental state.”

He continues: “Since there is nothing more horrific than one’s own personal demons, the band and director Steven Roe wanted to present a narrative which visually displayed ours. You will see our friend and talented contortionist/dancer Brynn Route force us to enact our vices of novelty and overconsumption of food and alcohol in a vacant motel room. While the content is triggering, we hope it proves to be as equally provocative as it is grotesque. You’ve been warned…”

CONTRACULT COLLECTIVE was formed by SVART and guitarist CULTPRIT and includes BX on synth/backup vocals. The band—whom MetalSucks lauded as “your new favorite industrial band”—were originally signed to Roadrunner Records and in 2020 self-released two EP’s, A Cult of Opposition and Follow, in addition to being featured in The Pit’s mini-documentary series What Burns in the Soul discussing the relationship between BDSM subculture and heavy music.

The trio recently appeared at Aftershock Festival and Welcome To Rockville, where they first introduced recent singles “Plunge” and their cover of Bad Brains’ “Sacred Love”—both of which are set to be featured alongside “Meek” on their forthcoming debut full-length album due in summer 2022.

For more information on CONTRACULT COLLECTIVE, please visit:
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Website |Tik Tok

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For press inquiries, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com

December 8, 2021

Additional Guests Announced For Dave Navarro & Billy Morrison’s “ABOVE GROUND 3” Concert Benefitting Musicares® in LA on 12/20

DATE: DECEMBER 8, 2021

FROM: MITCH SCHNEIDER/MARCEE RONDAN/KELLY WALSH
SRO PR

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DAVE NAVARRO AND BILLY MORRISON
ANNOUNCE EXPANDED LINE-UP FOR THIRD
“ABOVE GROUND” BENEFIT CONCERT
DECEMBER 20
AT THE FONDA THEATRE IN HOLLYWOOD, CA

JERRY HARRISON (TALKING HEADS),
JASON AALON BUTLER (FEVER333),
OTEP
AND OTHERS ADDED TO BILL THAT INCLUDES
PERFORMANCES FROM
NAVARRO AND MORRISON,
BILLY IDOL,
PERRY FARRELL AND ETTY LAU FARRELL
(KIND HEAVEN ORCHESTRA),
COREY TAYLOR,
TAYLOR HAWKINS,
MARK MCGRATH,
STEVE STEVENS AND FRANKY PEREZ

EVENT TO BE HOSTED BY
DR. DREW PINSKY
WITH ART INSTALLATION BY
RISK ROCK JUST ANNOUNCED

CONCERT WILL PROMOTE AWARENESS AND RAISE FUNDS FOR THE TREATMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH
WITH ALL PROCEEDS BEING DONATED TO MUSICARES^®

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW

In just under two weeks, the third “ABOVE GROUND” benefit concert founded by guitarists Dave Navarro (Jane’s Addiction) and Billy Morrison (Billy Idol) will take place on December 20 at The Fonda Theatre in Hollywood, CA. Newly added special guests Jerry Harrison (Talking Heads), Jason Aalon Butler (Fever333), OTEP, Mickey Avalon, Josh Freese (The Offspring, A Perfect Circle, Danny Elfman), Chris Chaney (Jane’s Addiction, Miley Cyrus), Piggy D (Rob Zombie), Dave Kushner (Velvet Revolver, Sons of Anarchy) and Donovan Leitch join an all-star bill that includes Billy Idol, Perry Farrell, Etty Lau Farrell, Corey Taylor, Taylor Hawkins, Mark McGrath, Steve Stevens, and Franky Perez. Look for the event to also feature host Dr. Drew Pinsky and an art installation by Risk Rock. Tickets are available now HERE.

Following previous successful events in 2018 and 2019, while sitting out in 2020 due to Covid, the evening will celebrate the vinyl album as an art form, with the performance of two seminal albums in their entirety, while at the same time raising awareness and funds for the treatment of mental health. Throughout the event there will be an art installation from multi-talented fine artist, sculptor and graffiti pioneer RISK ROCK.

Proceeds from the event will be donated to MusiCares^®, the leading music charity that acts as a safety net for the music community. “MusiCares has literally saved more than a few of our friends from dying,” share NAVARRO and MORRISON. “Their role cannot be overstated, and we have precious few organizations that actively step in to help people on the brink. On the frontline, finding and paying for beds in treatment, arranging therapy and counseling, and actually speaking up on a public level about the importance of mental health are all reasons why we continue to do what we can to draw attention to this subject.”

Navarro and Morrison, with an array of special guests, will perform two musically/culturally seismic albums: Lou Reed’s Transformer (1972) and Sex Pistol’s Never Mind The Bollocks, Here’s The Sex Pistols (1977). As in previous years, they have kept trend of featuring one American artist and one British artist with former installations featuring Kings Of The Wild Frontier by Adam And The Ants and The Velvet Underground & Nico (2018) and David Bowie’s The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars and the Stooges’ self-titled debut album, on which the world was introduced to Iggy Pop (2019). Read a Q&A with Navarro and Morrison about the event, and why they chose these albums to perform, here.

Click here to watch NAVARRO and MORRISON discuss the event.

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For ABOVE GROUND press inquiries, please contact SRO PR:
Mitch Schneider, mschneider@msopr.com
Marcee Rondan, marcee@msopr.com
Kelly Walsh, kwalsh@msopr.com

MUSICARES CONTACT:
Jenn Kerr for MusiCares
jennifer.kerr@porternovelli.com

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