Rock & Alternative
Concert: 10/30 – Steel Panther @ Toad’s Place
When you see a rock band where all members wear Lucha Libre masks, you typically expect something heavy or full of energy, but Los Straitjackets subvert expectations again with their latest album, “Somos Los Straitjackets.” This new album from Los Straitjackets is full of nice, kind of laidback, beach rock instrumental that helps serve as a great reminder that not all rock music needs a vocalist to be good. Los Straitjackets have been performing instrumental rock since the 1980s, giving credit to the Ventures, Duane Eddy, and Dick Dale as some of their inspiration, and to this day, the masked men continue to be some of the best in the genre.
If someone had told me that “Lighten Up” was released in the early 2000s, I would have no trouble believing it at all. In their new album, Bad Cop Bad Cop really captures the sound and energy of pop-punk that was so popular in the 2000s, with energetic beats from the drums and heavy guitars on top of the angst that singer Stacey Dee has in her voice. Everything on this album comes together very well to make a great, polished and authentic pop-punk sound while nailing a lot of great themes like resilience, hope and community. To me, this album proves that punk is still alive and well.
YUNGBLUD is a newer artist who has been getting a lot of attention in the rock community. Rock legends like Ozzy Osbourne or Mick Jagger have given him praise, saying he has brought spirit and life back to the rock genre. Now, rock icons Aerosmith are making music with him as “My Only Angel” is a single from an EP, “One More Time,” that Aerosmith and YUNGBLUD will be releasing together in November of 2025. The collaboration offers a lot of benefits for the two, as YUNGBLUD continues to grow his audience, and for Aerosmith, this is their first time releasing new songs since 2012. The first single has a bit more of YUNGBLUD’s sound than Aerosmith’s, but regardless, the two work together very well.
This summer has been a big one for The All-American Rejects, as they were all over social media doing their house party tour, and now, they’ve released a new single in “Search Party!” This new single is very upbeat and vibrant and felt much more indie rock than some of their hits, so if you like the energy and angst that the band has in songs like “Dirty Little Secret” and “Gives You Hell” this song might not be exactly what you are looking for, but it is still a great new single for fans of the band. This is the third single released from their upcoming 2026 album, “Sandbox,” and already, through the few songs we have gotten, I am excited to see what the rest of the album has to offer.
Pop & Indie
Concert: 12/6 – Pentatonix @ PeoplesBank Arena
“David’s Brother” is a track off The Favors’ debut album, “The Dream.” The title comes from one of the band members’ actual brothers. The Favors consist of Ashe, FINNEAS, Ricky Gourmet and David Marinelli. Ashe and FINNEAS have been collaborating for a while, but the band is brand new. If you are a fan of either artist, I highly recommend giving this song a listen. The vocals on this track are really good, especially on the chorus. I’m not really sure what the song is about, but some listeners have found lyrical comparisons to “Jessie’s Girl.” I’m looking forward to what will come for The Favors.
Lewis Capaldi is back to make us all depressed with his latest single, “Something In The Heavens.” This song is thought to be the second single on a possible third album, but it doesn’t look like anything has been confirmed yet. Capaldi is currently on his UK and Ireland Summer Tour, making it hard to predict if new music is coming soon. “Something In The Heavens” is sad yet hopeful, depicting the feeling that he will see someone he loves again one day. If you’ve enjoyed other songs from Capaldi or just enjoy sad music, I would definitely recommend giving this a listen.
Maeve is a newer artist, having only begun releasing music in 2024. Her new single “Favor” is an upbeat pop song about how being broken up with can be more like a favor than something awful. We know I love a good breakup song, but it’s always nice to see a more positive side to the end of a relationship. Maeve has a similar sound to Masie Peters, making her a great listen for anyone waiting on MP3.
“Friends Don’t” featuring Lauren Spencer Smith is a single off Alexander Stewart’s upcoming sophomore album, “What If?” releasing Oct. 24. The song is extremely similar to Maddie & Tae’s pop-country song with the same title. While the lyrics are different, they tell a very similar story of two friends who are becoming more and not admitting it to themselves. Stewart’s song clearly shows that he doesn’t expect them to last long, unlike Maddie & Tae’s. I found it interesting how similar the songs are, but they both used completely different lyrics to tell almost the same story. I really recommend listening to both of them.
Julia Michaels is known for cowriting songs for artists including Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo, Conan Gray, Selena Gomez, Lady Gaga, Justin Bieber, Kelly Clarkson, and more. She also wrote the theme song to Disney Channel’s “Austin & Ally.” She’s written some of your favorite songs by other artists and made her own music. Her latest single, “No Heartbreaks Killed Me Yet,” is a pop song that really shows her talent. You can tell she has worked with other artists through the lyrics and sound of this song. She talks about not being terribly affected by heartbreak and almost reassures the other person that she’s okay. I recommend listening to this song if you’re a fan of any of the artists listed above or her own work. She should definitely be recognised more for the number of popular songs we all know.
Country & Folk
Concert: 10/25 – Matt Maeson @ Toad’s Place
It has finally arrived! My second most-anticipated album of the year, only behind Parker McCollum’s self-titled masterpiece, was released this past weekend. Rice, who was in my first Weekly of the year, is one of my favorite artists, and when he announced “ELDORA” months back, I started my countdown.
This is Rice’s third album of its kind, that kind being a slower, authentic sound with little connection to the industry. The first of those albums, “I Hate Cowboys And All Dogs Go To Hell,” deals with themes of loss, both romantic and familial. Rice lost his father in 2008, and sings about their bond in songs like “For A Day.” Rice’s father even features on the cover, with a gnarly mustache, cowboy hat, and holding two Coors Banquets.
The second of the albums, “Go Down Singin’,” is my favorite of the three so far, considering my little exposure to “ELDORA.” I don’t believe there is a single skip on the album, with my favorite being “Oh Tennessee.” This album marks the midpoint between “I Hate Cowboys’” upbeat feel and “ELDORA’s” western vibes, being a mix of the two.
Songs like “Fireside,” “Arkansas” and the aforementioned “Oh Tennessee” all feel like they could be on his latest record, whereas “You in ‘85,” “Numbers” and “If Drinkin’ Helped” could be on “I Hate Cowboys.” Rice features on the cover of this one, emulating the look of his late father by rocking a multicolor puffer jacket, mustache, and, of course, two Banquets.
On his new album, my favorites are “Cowboy Goodbye,” a song Rice released on a previous live EP from Eric Church’s Nashville Bar, Chief’s, the title track and “Circa 1943,” the highlight of the album. The song, which bears the names of Rice’s grandparents but does not relate to them, is about a soldier falling in love with his wartime nurse, presumably during World War II. Lyrics like “I think you’d love it out west, think you might never leave my side” and “They only had four days, but, boy, did they make ‘em count” help to show the love the pair had for each other. With a gut-wrenching twist at the end of the song, “Circa 1943” is Rice’s magnum opus and sure to be on repeat by me in the coming months.
Other songs like “Tall Grass” featuring Kashus Culpepper and Elvis Shane, “Two Tone Trippin’” with Wyatt McCubbin and “Cottonmouth” bring a backroad spirit to the album, something the previous albums had less of. The latter describes Rice’s first time experimenting with a particular leafy plant and the effects it had on him.
Another thing I love about this album, and something I appreciate about his two previous works as well, is who Rice decides to collaborate with. He ditched high-profile names like Florida Georgia Line for artists whom he respects, some of whom are his songwriters. Names like McCubbin, Lori McKenna and Oscar Charles understand the path Rice is going down, and help to write songs that fit that vibe.
I could literally talk about these three albums for hours, so I will stop where I am. However, if anyone has listened to any of them, I am all ears. I’m not quite sure where Rice’s career reversal will take him after “ELDORA,” but if it’s anything like his past three albums, I am sure to like it.
Sad country music fans, rejoice. One of the most controversial names in country music, but one of my favorites, HARDY, released “Dog Years” this weekend. The country-rock genre-bending artist is returning to his roots following his 2024 album “QUIT!!” The album was fully rock, the first of its kind from HARDY, who has done half-country, half-rock albums in the past. It featured names like Chad Smith of the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Fred Durst of Limp Bizkit, and while good, it was not one of my favorites. HARDY’s new album, titled “COUNTRY! COUNTRY!,” is set to be released in a week, meaning this won’t be his last time on this weekly.
“Dog Years” is slow, maybe even a ballad. It is masterful storytelling, something HARDY is quite good at. He sings the song from the dog’s perspective, something that is actually somewhat common in the genre. If you have a dog, and you love it the way HARDY loved his, this song will tug at your heartstrings.
Country music’s best-kept secret, Dylan Davidson, released a stripped version of his new song, “Baptized.” The original, which came out in August of this year, is the embodiment of Davidson’s style of music. The artist has been releasing music since 2019, but has really found his sound over the past year or so. Davidson is on a generational run in my opinion, beginning with “Wine Night.” The single, released back in March, is my favorite song of the year and will for sure be No. 1 or 2 in my Spotify Wrapped. After that, Davidson released “So Help Me, Darlin’” and now “Baptized.” All three songs are fantastic, and have me really excited for hopefully an eventual album.
Avery Anna, whom I have discussed all too much, sings background vocals on this song as well, as she and Davidson are good friends. They frequently write songs with each other and are huge supporters of one another’s work. Both of them actually opened for Parmalee when I saw them in Boston, where I got to meet all three after the show. After Davidson finished his set, where he sang “Wine Night” and a cover of Chris Stapleton’s “Broken Halos,” he made his way through the crowd. I was able to meet and take a photo with him, and talk to him about the Celtics, his and my favorite basketball team.
Am I using this entry as a flex, and to plug one of my favorite small artists? Possibly. Is it actually a really good song, though, and a sign of good things to come from an exciting new artist? For sure.
Hip-Hop/R&B
Concert: 11/4 – OsamaSon @ Toad’s Place
After seven years, Cardi B is back with a new album, titled “AM I THE DRAMA?” This album includes 23 songs, 10 of which have features. Featured artists include Summer Walker (twice), Selena Gomez, Kehlani, Lizzo, Cash Cobain, Louridiz, Janet Jackson, Tyla and Megan Thee Stallion. What surprised me most was the inclusion of the 2020 hit, “WAP,” and the 2021 hit, “Up.” Although this album includes many future hits, in my opinion, my favorite from the album is “Hello.” In this song, she repeats “Hello, it’s me,” which I feel is a great welcome back after seven years.
2025 has been a great year for Lil Yachty, after 12 single releases in addition to an album. Although most well known for the 2016 hit “Broccoli”, he has proved time and again that he is still in the game. “Silver lining” gives a slower vibe than other Lil Yachty songs. Although not my favourite of his recent releases, I do enjoy Sauce Walka’s part in the song, which occurs towards the end.
Youngboy Never Broke Again released a new single titled “Out The Window.” Although it was only two minutes and 39 seconds, as soon as I heard this song, I knew it would be a favorite. This song includes a fun and vibey beat, with Youngboy Never Broke Again’s personal sound and vocals. This is the 11th single he has released this year, on top of the two albums he has released in 2025. Youngboy Never Broke Again has truly been on the grind this year, and I am hoping he receives the publicity he deserves for his recent releases.
Global
Concert: 10/28 – Cuco @ College Street Music Hall
Following the conclusion of their first world tour, XG has released a new single, “GALA.” With clear influences and references, there are theories swirling around whether or not the seven-member girl group will be attending the 2026 MET Gala. Hailing from Japan but based in South Korea, XG was formed through the “X-galaxy Project” and made their official debut in 2022, with a completely unique concept. While all of the members are of Japanese ethnicity, their promotions were done in Korea, and all of their music is entirely in English. They have made a name for themselves across the global music market with their beautiful voices, catchy raps and dance, and most of all, their fashion. The group wowed the American crowds with their festival debut at Coachella in April, bringing a new category to the desert stages that fans loved. Throughout their career, watching them grow into a more bold and beautiful fashion taste has been amazing, and I cannot wait to see where they go next. I will always be a fan of the “girl group/ werewolf” concept, so consider me following the pack!
The release of Nonso Amadi’s new single, “DIVE IN”, has been long-awaited, as his third single of the year, following “PILLOW” and “Call On Me”, further cemented his place in the international spotlight to bring Afro-R&B to the table of global marketing. Based in Canada, the Nigerian singer-songwriter and music producer made his musical debut back in 2015 while still attending university. Now, 10 years later, he has released a full studio album and is currently signed with both Universal Music and Def Jam Records, known for launching careers such as those of Ne-Yo, Beastie Boys, and Rihanna. I do not doubt that in due time, people will know Nonso Amadi as a household name as much as any other artist under those labels, especially with releases like “DIVE IN” on the market. Bringing an Afro-R&B style to the track that makes you just want to dance is exactly the kind of music I have been looking for this year, and I am lucky to have found it in Amadi.
“Viendo Estrellitas,” translating directly to “Seeing Stars,” is the latest single that has fans captured in Chuyin’s view. The music market could be directly related to walking through an art fair, where things with bright colors or loud sounds may catch your attention, but nothing will get you to be as curious as the mystery brought from anonymity, and Chuyin has hit that nail on the head. Working under an anonymous mask and not revealing your identity isn’t unheard of and is highly respected in the music community, with larger names like Daft Punk and Marshmello also choosing to keep their personal lives private. Of course, this makes fans more curious, but it also lets the music speak for itself without any kind of bias based on looks. The lyrics of the song are a flirty, fun poke at how fans speculate his appearance with a catchy guitar hook to follow along and dance to. The bass line is addictive, and I cannot wait to see what Chuyin has in store.
Oldies
Concert: 11/21 – Zakk Sabbath, Dark Chapel, and Bonfire @ Toyota Oakdale
(Album) Bustin’ Surfboards by The Tornadoes (1963) (Surf Rock)
– Recommended songs: “Maleguena” and “Bumble Bee Stomp”
Obviously recorded and released in Southern California, this was one of the first pivotal albums when surf rock was just taking shape. This album was released just after the Beach Boys debuted their first album on October 1, 1962! These 15 surf rock songs are basically all you need. I love “Bumble Bee Stop” because it’s like “Flight of the Bumblebee,” but with guitars instead. There’s a “Johnny B. Goode” cover in there, and you can never have too many of those. These songs are also just very jammy and danceable because I love a good surf jam and guitar lick.
(Album) Yes I Am by Melissa Etheridge (1993) (Roots Rock)
– Recommended songs: “I’m the Only One,” “Come To My Window,” “All American Girl”
This album is not underrated; it is very much appreciated and praised, but younger generations can also be exposed to her greatness. Since I went to the concert, I only feel that need even stronger. This was a breakthrough album for her with hit after hit. After coming out as a lesbian in January of that year, she made an album anthem to her story in the height of her career.
(Single) “Shout (Part 1)” B-Side: “Shout (Part 2)” by The Isley Brothers (1959) (Gospel Dance)
This song became a pivotal showcase of the Isley Brothers’ call-and-response music, gospel influence on vocals, and stage presence. Many others followed this same starting journey from gospel to funk like James Brown and Sly and the Family Stone. Also, shoutout to this year’s “Final Destination” movie for making this song one of the murder scenes.
