<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>News – Live Music, Concerts & Music Events | Sofar Sounds</title> <atom:link href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/category/news/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog</link> <description></description> <lastBuildDate>Fri, 29 Aug 2025 19:43:29 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.2</generator> <image> <url>https://sofar-blog-images.s3.eu-west-2.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/favicon.svg</url> <title>News – Live Music, Concerts & Music Events | Sofar Sounds</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>Sofar, So Long, Summer Setlist</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-summer-setlist</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-summer-setlist#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 30 Aug 2025 08:27:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[New Music Alert]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playlists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Videos]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4202</guid> <description><![CDATA[Summer may be winding down, but these fresh drops from Sofar artists prove the show must go on. Some tracks pulse with energy, others go deep into the feels, and yet, they all capture that end-of-August vibe. Consider this your seasonal send-off. Let’s get into it! Olivia Dean | “Man I Need” London’s own Olivia […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Summer may be winding down, but these fresh drops from Sofar artists prove the show must go on. Some tracks pulse with energy, others go deep into the feels, and yet, they all capture that end-of-August vibe. Consider this your seasonal send-off. Let’s get into it!</span></p> <h2><b>Olivia Dean | </b><b>“Man I Need”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">London’s own Olivia Dean is known for her cozy, soul-pop storytelling, and we’re among the many who have been waiting for her next drop. </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1qbmS6ep2hbBRaEZFpn7BX?si=2a1ae9ca95474206" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Man I Need”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> hits that bittersweet spot between braving heartbreak and embracing newfound freedom. Olivia didn’t just stop there; besides </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0Bv6OJO0L5gcf20DMww54a?si=xNIRW-PZRpieLiLRYItJYA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">dropping two additional tracks</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> teasing her upcoming album,</span> <a href="https://www.oliviadeano.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafAdYbgO1-eoM7sgpR6fsBOC2BtXJBR6T-Abe6xx5OaGw4s89aPIfv-f3fM8Q_aem_6tcS_p92UnZsJRhi-6eegA#tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">she’s on tour,</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> including dates opening for Sabrina Carpenter, and hitting festivals until next summer! </span></p> <p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oIv_Y2RPQ_A?si=IzaYiLZXveDWXsm1" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Cool Company | “Hip 2 Hip Hypnosis”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Cheeky meets addictive with </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7wweXc51MLp0BLoGMNCjJR?si=HIUPLiMATAmMMwQqVmAxHQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Hip 2 Hip Hypnosis,”</span></a> and likely why the <span style="font-weight: 400;">Brooklyn duo is, in fact, cool company. The groovy track features Durand Bernarr, cementing their credibility of cool, futuristic R&B music. Warning: side effects may include dancing in public, which you can do live at one of </span><a href="https://www.songkick.com/artists/7031174-cool-company?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAada0F2h5CQGPPOHVupjZ-ZrXW0yv_iv_0_Z3sTOp1M11f0nCvmhjiGerUf7dg_aem_caC2CZBtMdvXoIfz7Ur4IA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">their upcoming shows!</span></a></p> <h2><b>Scarlett Rose | “West Coast X Billie Bossa Nova”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Scarlett Rose has had Sofar shows, (very) viral hits, and covers we didn’t know we needed. The </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/05nj2FXPTBMnGSFsiHHGcH?si=816d244d04674b31" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Dark Times”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> artist is serving up more of her ethereal sad-girl sound. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Dropping a sultry spin on Sofar Alum, Billie Eilish’s </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/1bCMlnbje6Gh6lbrSI8WpK?si=gM1srzT6TYaH2iZRQ-tI4g" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Billie Bossa Nova,” featuring Lana Del Rey’s “West Coast,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is just what we needed from the mysterious, emerging Spanish star.</span></p> <h2><b>Daisha McBride | “Can’t Stop This” </b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">With unapologetic flair, Daisha McBride brings her energizing confidence to what can only be described as a </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">banger</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Her new single, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5KvwAp4O37uULAaqSlXHVB?si=8lfXN64QQ5qIOO245lT8QQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Can’t Stop This,” </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">is a Missy Elliot era resurrection, bound to be a club hit. Catch the energy live at one of her upcoming show dates!</span><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kq5DXlOZrR0?si=3Jg0iW57KoX4Hgcc" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Sam </b><b>Drysdale |</b><b> “Cold Water” </b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sam Drysdale cools things down with</span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/75VpXo7umgZLY6lIF9I3eW?si=V8eodGWYQ0KB6_mfD_zi-Q" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> “Cold Water,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> a ballad that feels like a deep breath after the chaos of summer. His haunting vocals and delicate guitar work hit with that perfect late-night, last-call kind of stillness. It’s the perfect track for a seasonal shift.</span><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CuHZLzdcvc0?si=sjymJecMX1JW0UqL" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>AJ McQueen | “Touch Grass”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Everyone needs a reminder to stop and slow down, and AJ McQueen delivers it with </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/5ewDTRmOqHBA51iNs2gFON?si=385d98495c45468f" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Touch Grass.”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Equal parts reminder and mantra, the track gives ‘oldest sibling’ wisdom. When the summer haze gets heavy, AJ keeps us grounded.</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CI3sL1gHPYY?si=NE2Nk-141rTizrms" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h2><b>Chappell Roan | “The Subway”</b></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some of us have been replaying clips of live performances of </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7GlwcUYHB99l7k13I2Hira?si=wMkmju2UTfGI5M4RRtou3w" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The Subway”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for the last year, and finally, it’s here. When vulnerability meets theatre drama, Chappell Roan enters the chat. With upcoming projects, Grammy wins, and </span><a href="https://www.chappellroanshows.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacADhGlPZoMzsJMX12SzQnN4864TpmCdu0VKGBr2YwZSZVTsIYDFmhyanvF8Q_aem_HYBHlhnhUxKWjt7zQPMH9A" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">non-stop show dates</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, somehow she found the time to record and release this treasure.</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/woLfAvD5iXI?si=m5Q_XvXitOz_MMwd" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Catch these artists and more just like them at </span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">a Sofar near you!</span></a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/sofar-summer-setlist/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Top albums of 2025 (So Far)</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/top-albums-of-2025-so-far</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/top-albums-of-2025-so-far#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 09 Aug 2025 05:12:59 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4180</guid> <description><![CDATA[We just passed the halfway point of the year, and the Sofar Artists are already overachieving with Grammy wins, viral hits, and high-demand releases. Here’s our lineup of repeat plays from some of our favorite drops this year (so far). Charly Crockett, Lonesome Drifter Lonesome Drifter’s release was a countdown on the calendar, and it’s […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We just passed the halfway point of the year, and the Sofar Artists are already overachieving with Grammy wins, viral hits, and high-demand releases. Here’s our lineup of repeat plays from some of our favorite drops this year (so far). </span></p> <h3><b>Charly Crockett, </b><b><i>Lonesome Drifter </i></b></h3> <p><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/64lDGn2XUSnXAncXh9Zzow?si=OJE99SpnT1CZxrf-rWiehg" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lonesome Drifter</a>’s release was a countdown on the calendar, and it’s been in the queue ever since. (ICYMI, <a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/new-music-alert-april-2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener">we went deep on this one here</a>). With a fresh rerelease of the major hit, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1V48XXuIxK1jIpVoTI4aqn?si=18a2ecc435b84771" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Jamestown Ferry”, </a>introducing the record, you know you’re in for a treat. The whole album feels like a dusty jukebox in a desert bar, and honestly, we hope it never stops playing.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4183" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="370" height="370" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1469927.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1440w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 370px) 100vw, 370px" /></p> <h3><b>Paolo Sandejas,</b><b><i> the world is so small (after all) </i></b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If Death Cab for Cutie made a soft, nostalgic album for situationships in 2025, it might sound a lot like Paolo Sandejas’ debut. From Manila to LA </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3YPsKU4Msm1egLGNPFC8ON?si=1f1ae459f7a44e08" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">(literally)</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, Paolo revives whimsy indie energy that feels intimate and universal all at once.</span> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3sR3y2tVR2T2gIkXMgsfYY?si=t6a0kkuYQ1a9Cs9C_MPyDg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">the world is so small</span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is an album for people who romanticize airport terminals and text goodnight in lowercase. We’re in.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4182" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="325" height="325" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-1065219.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1280w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 325px) 100vw, 325px" /></p> <h3><b>Youssef Swatt’s</b><b>,</b><b><i> Chute Libre</i></b></h3> <p>There’s viral, and then there’s <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3t9W4GzEstRi1M0KQb8FPS?si=9190b16ebe1d4020" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Générique de Fin”</a> viral, with 11 million streams and counting. Youssef’s performance of the hit on <i>Nouvelle École Season 3 </i>won, <i>and </i>won the world over. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3wu9LCZmrwiRo0Z3kS3vQb" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The album </a>channels the same energy: bold, honest, unforgettable.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4187" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="352" height="352" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/640x640.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 640w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 352px) 100vw, 352px" /></p> <h3><b>Gigi Perez, </b><b><i>At The Beach, In Every Life</i></b></h3> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/artist-merch-picks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">We recently raved</a> about Gigi’s hand-drawn illustrations for this record, but spoiler: the music is just as stunning. Led by the dreamy momentum of the success of <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/21IYMdzTrzSe191Cy5eMap?si=fc0c8ab971744418" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Sailor Song,” </a>her <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/1iCnM8foFssWlPRLfAbIwo?si=ThbF-SR1QzWKR0tHHTrHsA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">full-length debut</a> strikes a balance between indie angst and cinematic ease. Needless to say, we’re ready for more.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4185" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="360" height="360" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7195573.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1440w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 360px) 100vw, 360px" /></p> <h3><b>Julia Mestre,</b><b><i> Maravilhosamente Bem</i></b></h3> <p>Julia Mestre gave us a Latin Grammy-winning dream of an album with <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/41WBawAEfGcI24LMvARHfK?si=rdEBMFI1SmmB2HTzByUiFQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i>Maravilhosamente Bem</i></a>. The record is a charming, soft, synth-soaked masterpiece. <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3slzmULxqCvVyg1vGO8Zla?si=b7f617dbd5424198" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Sou Fera”</a> is a hip-shaking standout; effortlessly cool, vibey, and hypnotic. Mestre’s whole album feels like an invitation to stay up late on a warm night by the beach. Consider this our RSVP.</p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4184" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="381" height="381" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/image-7159254.jpeg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1440w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 381px) 100vw, 381px" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/">Catch these artists and others just like them at a Sofar show near you!</a></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/top-albums-of-2025-so-far/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Sofar, So Good (for you)- and Here’s the Science to Prove It</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/science-of-sofar</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/science-of-sofar#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 02 Aug 2025 06:58:38 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Sofar Tips & Tricks]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4173</guid> <description><![CDATA[We’re not saying your doctor is about to prescribe a Sofar show, but we’re also not not saying it. Research indicates that live music, dancing, and shared experiences can help reduce stress, enhance mental health, and improve brain function. Basically, science confirms what your heart already knows: Sofar shows are good for you. 1. Music […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We’re not saying your doctor is about to prescribe a Sofar show, but we’re also not </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">not</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> saying it. Research indicates that live music, dancing, and shared experiences can help reduce stress, enhance mental health, and improve brain function. Basically, science confirms what your heart already knows: Sofar shows are good for you.</span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;"> 1. Music</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Literally</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Boosts Your Brain</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That post-show glow you feel? It’s not just the lighting, it’s </span><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10765015/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">neuroscience</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">! Music releases dopamine (that feel-good chemical) and reduces cortisol (the not-so-fun stress hormone). It </span><a href="https://magazine.hms.harvard.edu/articles/how-music-resonates-brain" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">activates multiple regions of your brain</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, much like a festival: each stage and set improves mood, focus, and emotional regulation. And live music? Even better. Research suggests it can </span><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4354683/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">enhance memory and increase cognitive flexibility</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Bottom line: Sofar shows may be doing more for your brain than your Sudoku app. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">2. Dancing = Joy (and a cardio)</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Propaganda we’re not falling for: dancing is just for extroverts and TikTok trends. Whether you’re swaying, line-dancing, or jumping with the crowd like it’s Ozzfest 1999, </span><a href="https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2024/02/12/dancing-may-be-better-than-other-exercise-for-improving-mental-h.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">movement triggers endorphins</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, those all-natural mood-enhancers that don’t let stress and anxiety into the party. Plus, dancing </span><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11298280/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">boosts cardiovascular</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> health–more of that, please!</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And get this: researchers say </span><a href="https://thegatehouse.org/dancing-as-a-form-of-healing" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">dance can improve emotional expression and social connection</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. So yes, your awkward performance of ‘the sprinkler’ is technically therapeutic.</span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">3. Human Connection Heals</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Your social brain is just as hungry for Sofar shows as you are. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Group music experiences </span><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5815947/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">release oxytocin</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, a.k.a. the “bonding hormone.” It helps build trust, warmth, and that sweet unspoken vibe between strangers in the same cozy room. </span><a href="https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/the-importance-of-connections-ways-to-live-a-longer-healthier-life/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Harvard University also found</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> that strong social ties are essential for happiness and a long life. Why do we think that is? Group music experiences, especially in intimate settings, </span><a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589004224011866" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">create shared emotional resonance</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, thus building a healthier, stronger community.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">At Sofar shows, you’re not just meeting people, you’re recharging your social brain and community.</span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">4. Supporting Artists and Venues = Feel-Good Altruism</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Supporting local artists and small venues isn’t just a neighborly thing to do; it actually</span><a href="https://biobehavioralinstitute.com/blog/f/benefits-of-altruism-helping-others-is-a-way-to-help-yourself" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> ignites your brain’s reward system</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Science reveals that acts of generosity and community support </span><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5508200/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">boost happiness more than personal gains</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">! When you support emerging musicians and indie spaces, you’re fueling a creative, cultural ecosystem and yourself.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">That ticket you bought? The tee you’re wearing? All scientifically proven to spark feel-good vibes. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">5. Curiosity Sparks Creativity</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Saying yes to the unfamiliar is brain-boosting- exploring new experiences</span><a href="https://centerforbrainhealth.org/article/trying-new-things" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> keeps your mind open, agile,</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and eager to take in more! </span><a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10023963/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Novelty triggers dopamine and charges neuroplasticity</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">; your brain’s ability to grow, adapt, and think in new ways.</span><a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7102/14/10/1111" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Continued curiosity can </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2227-7102/14/10/1111" target="_blank" rel="noopener">create </a>improved</span> problem-solving, enhanced emotional regulation, and increased resilience. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sofar shows are built on curiosity: new artists, new spaces, and zero setlists until the music starts.</span><a href="https://centerforbrainhealth.org/article/trying-new-things" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Your brain loves it</span></a>,<span style="font-weight: 400;"> and your curiosity = fed.</span></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ready to give your mind & body a boost with some live music? Find a Sofar Show near you!</span></a></p> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/science-of-sofar/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Support Local Sounds: Shop These Artist-Approved Merch Picks</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/artist-merch-picks</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/artist-merch-picks#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 12 Jul 2025 08:09:39 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4143</guid> <description><![CDATA[For some artists, merch is a tour date t-shirt. For others, it’s a carefully designed extension of their world. These Sofar artists are treating physical goods—prints, books, tapes, even smoking accessories—as a continuation of their artistic craft. The result? Merchandise tables that feel more like a boutique than a souvenir shop. Explore the artists turning […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For some artists, merch is a tour date t-shirt. For others, it’s a carefully designed extension of their world. These Sofar artists are treating physical goods—prints, books, tapes, even smoking accessories—as a continuation of their artistic craft. The result? Merchandise tables that feel more like a boutique than a souvenir shop.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Explore the artists turning merch into a medium (and a potential purchase).</span></p> <h3><b>Khruangbin</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">To know Khruangbin is to know perspective. <a href="https://shop.khruangbin.com/collections/a-la-sala-tour-art-prints" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Khruangbin’s tour prints</a> are hyper-local, deeply curated, and effortlessly timeless. With fan-designed prints tailored to each stop, and a rotating vault of vintage offerings, their visual identity is as groovy as their sound. You’ll be torn between which city to pick, guaranteed!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4144" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=240&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="327" height="408" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=240&wpsize=medium 240w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=819&wpsize=large 819w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=960&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1229&wpsize=1536x1536 1229w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/khruangbin_1731834016_3503200098364805691_1298902100.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1638w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 327px) 100vw, 327px" /></p> <h3><b>Gigi Perez</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">An illustrator as much as a songwriter, Gigi Perez’s hand-drawn stories reflect consistency in her artistry. Her <a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/58vZavXqh1P5uoTXteudWl?si=8yUbzl9-R5a_dJkEILX1qg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i>At The Beach, In Every Life</i></a> </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">tapes, CDs, and temporary tattoo packs(!) are wrapped in her sketches, giving her songs a series of canvases. Of course, Gigi’s consistency includes impact; her limited-edition t-shirt is raising proceeds for The Trevor Project, a purchase you won’t regret adding to cart. </span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4145" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-11-at-11.42.25%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=245&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="319" height="391" /></p> <h3><b>Marcus King Band </b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Marcus King’s music leans into nostalgia, and he does the same visually with pieces that are true to his country character. <a href="https://shop.marcuskingofficial.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lighters, rolling papers,</a> and the overt retro influence feel like hidden heirloom treasures. Grab a ticket and a koozie for one of his upcoming tour dates, some cities featuring fellow Sofar Artist, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3mZYlwYjFmhMOxUIcbncHF?si=wtySukG0Sp-_gLaSctDREQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Angel White</a>!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4147" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-11-at-11.46.32%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=299&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="375" height="374" /></p> <h3><b>Tiny Habits</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This isn’t merch for the masses—it’s merch for the group chat. Tiny Habits’ bundle can only be described as bringing back a sense of whimsy. Accompanied by a <a href="https://www.tinyhabitsofficial.com/store/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">one-of-a-kind friendship bracelet, a tiny music box </a>will play the melody of their single, “Wishes.” On brand, adorable, and eager for their <a href="https://laylo.com/tinyhabitsofficial/either?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf3xXWFRHqmFYdfu-o7D5ZcfNhQyPZ8ZaB7VXlvWMR-xrSTwWZfXRUmFzO5_Q_aem_CY_18vn6zNczQP8EWHOsSA" target="_blank" rel="noopener">newest single to drop</a>– with or without a music box!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4148" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-11-at-11.49.53%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=288&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="352" height="338" /></p> <h3><b>AJ McQueen</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">As an accomplished lyric writer and poet, it only makes sense that AJ McQueen would publish his words on paper, too. A collection of poems, </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href="https://ajthegreat.com/merch/p/the-oak-that-grew-from-concrete" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Oak That Grew From Concrete</a>,</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> invites fans another chance to connect, and the upcoming restock is proof that its contents are as good as his music.</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4149" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-07-11-at-11.50.53%E2%80%AFAM.png?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=png&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=186&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="242" height="390" /></p> <p><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Art, stories, and live music—catch it all at a Sofar near you.</span></i></p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/artist-merch-picks/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>5 Noteworthy Artists Who Played a Sofar Part 4</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-noteworthy-sofar-artists-pt-4</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-noteworthy-sofar-artists-pt-4#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 14 Jun 2025 06:58:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[blackwave]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Jorja Smith]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Khruangbin]]></category> <category><![CDATA[rainbow kitten surprise]]></category> <category><![CDATA[shakey graves]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4103</guid> <description><![CDATA[Headliners, Grammy-winners, and millions of plays- Sofar Alumni are no strangers to talent or success. We’re sharing 5 Sofar shows that will make you want to time travel back to these small sets, with big names. Welcome to Noteworthy Artists who played a Sofar show, part 4. Kruangbin | Sofar Bristol Chances are you’ve heard […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Headliners, Grammy-winners, and millions of plays- Sofar Alumni are no strangers to talent or success. We’re sharing</span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/noteworthy-artists-sofar-part-3" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> 5 Sofar shows that will make you want to time travel back to these small sets, with big names</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. Welcome to Noteworthy Artists who played a Sofar show, part 4.</span></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Kruangbin | Sofar Bristol</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chances are you’ve heard Khruangbin, and if you haven’t, chances are you have and didn’t know it. The Texas-native, alternative-indie trio has been making waves in the industry for over a decade. With Grammy noms, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/24ntSW3QVJzR79lHAAOTaY?si=6c0d6109bde14399" target="_blank" rel="noopener">collaborations with Leon Bridges</a>, and unmistakable talent, Khruangbin persists on the Sofar radar. If you’re not sold yet- see them<a href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/2mVVjNmdjXZZDvhgQWiakk/concerts" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> live on their European tour</a>, and thank us later.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DAY1WVZDl2g?si=BfTBYzhMiVaLXEGp" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Shakey Graves Sofar | Austin</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Speaking of Texas, ~</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">take us back~ </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">to 2012 at </span><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/cities/austin" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Sofar Austin</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> for the Shakey Graves Sofar set. Born as Alejandro Rose-Garcia, the Americana folk artist didn’t just play a Sofar show before his music success; he also acted in roles for TV shows: </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Friday Night Lights</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spy Kids. </span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">From winning ‘Best New Artist’ at the 2015 American Music Awards to playing stages </span><a href="https://tribeza.com/arts/luck-presents-spring-concerts-2022/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">alongside Modest Mouse and Willie Nelson,</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> his creative resume is only getting started. </span><a href="https://www.shakeygraves.com/tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Catch Shakey Graves on his North American tour, </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">playing venues big </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">and</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> small.</span><br /> <iframe loading="lazy" title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iZBS-JUBAXQ?si=Vc5MaNL34FRhIXwU" width="560" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">blackwave. | Sofar London</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Since their 2019 Sofar London show, blackwave. has been making a lot more than waves. The experimental duo has </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">millions</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> of streams to show for it. Since the success of their hit <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/2wSKzkZZJo45qRCBxM13wk?si=fb4685c882874a9e" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“Elusive,”</a> the duo followed up with two albums, each progressing in popularity for their hip-hop, R&B, blues, and jazz-y style. Don’t take our word for it, see for yourself at </span><a href="https://www.bandsintown.com/e/106811047?app_id=spt_feed&came_from=281&utm_medium=web&utm_source=spt_feed&utm_campaign=event" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">their set at Pukklepop in August! </span></a></p> <h3><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4110" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/4V09TTzt-Social_Universal-BLACKWAVE_JANEJIMENEZ.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></h3> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Rainbow Kitten Surprise | Sofar London</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/7Ew5us0FuyUZZ4p6jRP2r3?si=e05ba604d81d478e" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Superstar-</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;">dom</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, the can’t-be-put-in-a-box band, Rainbow Kitten Surprise, gave a historic Sofar London show back in 2018. Despite the band’s 2023 announcement that they would be taking a break to rest, they lost no time with the drop of </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/2bOwdC37gg057sITTY8Ovj?si=95skBNvNSvK97xfDlO5e7g" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">another hit album</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> last year, and </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5absPtnH7lb3sFE6MudIa8?si=RJJ_V0iFQIKwtViydYnhQg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">released a single earlier this year.</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Catch up with them </span><a href="https://tr.ee/xurqazK4t7" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">live on tour</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">– featuring festival </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">and</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Sofar alum appearances!</span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4111" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-rainbow_kitten_surprise-london-ben_sykes.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p> <h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jorja Smith | Sofar London</span></h4> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before the release of her debut album, Jorja Smith was getting our attention with her single, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/471LijcvJ7tV7ePoX4S0RE?si=ZrFL01tfRoOJXV3SJXuEfA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“On My Mind,”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and on the Sofar stage. The London R&B Grammy-winner kept it local with her 2017 Sofar London show–just shy of her ‘Best New Artist’ title. While her success has global recognition, she’s staying close to home this summer on her</span><a href="https://laylo.com/jorjasmith/m/falling-or-flying-UK" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Falling or Flying</span></i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> UK tour!</span></a></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4113" src="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium" alt="" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=300&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=300&wpsize=medium 300w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1024&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1024&wpsize=large 1024w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=150&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=150&wpsize=thumbnail 150w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=768&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=768&wpsize=medium_large 768w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=crop&fm=pjpg&h=400&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=400&wpsize=square 400w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=1536&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=1536&wpsize=1536x1536 1536w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fit=scale&fm=pjpg&h=2048&ixlib=php-3.3.1&w=2048&wpsize=2048x2048 2048w, https://sofar-sounds-blog.imgix.net/wp-content/uploads/Social_Universal-Jorja-Smith-_-Maverick-Sabre-London-Ryan-Bound.jpg?crop=faces%2Centropy&fm=pjpg&ixlib=php-3.3.1 1080w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Which artist will be featured in the next Noteworthy round-up? Find out at a Sofar show near you!</span></a></p> <p> </p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/5-noteworthy-sofar-artists-pt-4/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>New Music Alert: June</title> <link>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/new-music-alert-june-2025</link> <comments>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/new-music-alert-june-2025#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[cat.kiene]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Sat, 31 May 2025 05:38:17 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Artists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Community]]></category> <category><![CDATA[New Music Alert]]></category> <category><![CDATA[News]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Playlists]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Video Round-up]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Videos]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/?p=4086</guid> <description><![CDATA[It’s been a busy year for Sofar artists, and we’re only halfway through 2025(!). June is jam-packed with new releases and new artists to watch. We have New Yorkers cultivating community, artisan skincare at the merch table, and a rebrand for the Y2K bubblegum idea of a “Popstar.” It’s all too good to gate-keep. Here’s […]]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">It’s been a busy year for Sofar artists, and we’re only halfway through 2025(!). June is jam-packed with new releases and new artists to watch. We have New Yorkers cultivating community, artisan skincare at the merch table, and a rebrand for the Y2K bubblegum idea of a “Popstar.” It’s all too good to gate-keep. Here’s your New Music Alert!</span></p> <h2> 1. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Blake Anthony | </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BDE</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Blake Anthony’s artistry cannot be put into a box (unless it’s a box with his sold-out skincare, of course). Blake is a multifaceted creator, getting inspiration for album art from anime and making </span><a href="https://www.blakeanthony.shop/product-page/honey-mask-blake-s-body-butter" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">artisan body butter</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> by hand. The Twitch Streamer and Seattle-based hip-hop artist just dropped his latest album, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/5KrkOqUO5pNPWMqWMaoq13" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">BDE</span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">—a refreshing compilation of clean, classic hip-hop and R&B. While giving us smooth, soon-to-be-classics, Blake keeps it Blake on tracks like </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1txaMCF60EFbKuQWAFankl?si=bf75fe6394ef4496" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Sailor Moon”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/0s1mQqCGTffdBmZ8SQxonw?si=cd8f2c34c8b14d75" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Grand Kai-”, </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">shouting out homages to anime and his Twitch community. If you can’t catch him on his next livestream, maybe you can at an upcoming show. (Sofar Seattle—we’re looking at you!)!</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="PINK LACE by BLAKE ANTHONY prod. by PHESO ft. Dont3 (Official Music Video)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ba2kJExgFbA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 2. <span style="font-weight: 400;">La Lulu |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Lululandia</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Check the temps, because this album drop is hot. La Lulu, the Colombian-born, Brooklyn-raised artist, just released </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/3lJ6Y0lsXhrwv4BVfd6F8O?si=BBewydPhTWOcrKDysvVYPA" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lululandia</span></i></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, her first nearly self-titled album. The Latin Grammy-winning violinist isn’t shy with her experimental style. La Lulu smoothly blends her Latin roots with New York influences, creating the heat we’re talking about.</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="La Lulu - Poppin | Sofar NYC" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uuLR1f1HolE?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 3. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Benicio Bryant |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Popstar</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Benicio Bryant has arrived to your dance playlist, and a VMA can’t be too far behind. His latest hit, “</span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/0RtnJn4LQKCUUfcPeB8kKE?si=mhr4aEU5TZuodxTlSUzQsQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Popstar”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, throws punchy hooks alongside a level of “this-must-be-viral” vocal control. At 20, he’s already serving arena-ready performances with the ease and commitment of someone who’s been doing this for decades. Oh, and he’s</span><a href="https://beniciobryant.com/#tour" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;"> teasing a tour</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">? Maybe then we can clear up the time-traveling rumors, Benicio!</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Benicio Bryant - POPSTAR (Official Video)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mMD0s7_xosQ?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 4. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Netam |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> iki</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Netam is back—and </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7lHi1zx8H7vDVocim9grLm" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">iki</span></i></a> <span style="font-weight: 400;">is a deep dive into texture, rhythm, and cinematic electronics. With layers of (his!) trumpet, house, and a heartbeat that feels almost elemental, this latest release is tailor-made for thinking, moving, or taking yourself a little mental walk. If you’re in </span><a href="https://2025.daad.hu/highlights/whomadewho/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Hungary for DAAD Gathering </span></a><a href="https://open.spotify.com/concert/2KJdo2Nhx0jYP7ZMc6HAJL?si=72612c7a494349ba" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">on June 18th</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, you won’t want to miss this set!</span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Netam ft. Damla Temel - Toprak | Sofar Ankara" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PHE1oPYOjng?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 5. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Steff Reed |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Into The Wilderness</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Steff Reed doesn’t just write songs—he creates frameworks for social change. His latest project, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/16a13fzWtvAq7lgzZzlWEq?si=fiFCDUtBTS283WndDa08Dg" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Into the Wilderness,</span></a> <span style="font-weight: 400;">balances bold vulnerability with grounding softness. The album is rooted in years of education, activism, and unflinching self-reflection. Ever since Steff’s 2018 standout track, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1LWEr9h2xZPHItwsc9itQI?si=c75091bb34c14b72" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Power of Love”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, his music has been doing more than just sounding good: it connects, empowers, and makes us feel good, too. </span></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Steff Reed - Power of Love (Music Video)" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TtthBB5kGvs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <h2> 6. <span style="font-weight: 400;">Rebecca Porter |</span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Payday Loans</span></i></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Raised in the Shenandoah Valley (yes, </span><i><span style="font-weight: 400;">the</span></i> <a href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1YYhDizHx7PnDhAhko6cDS?si=f1ecada43b0c4f6d" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Country Roads”</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">), Rebecca Porter embodies all its wise-mountain magic—allith a fresh honey-like voice, sharp pen, and the kind of storytelling that’d make Dolly proud. Her new EP, </span><a href="https://open.spotify.com/album/1m1xPQ6j3PlGFqZy65hrMX?si=jpLj5mqDREWBwyOE70BE6A" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Payday Loans</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, puts working-class grit front and center, weaving regional folk with delicate country harmonies. Her debut album is set for release in August, but in the meantime, catch new tracks live at one of her </span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rebeccaportermusic/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">upcoming festival sets!</span></a></p> <p><iframe loading="lazy" title="Payday Loans" width="500" height="375" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/eWC7vrfGdIU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> <article id="post-4009" class="post-4009 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-artists category-community category-new-music-alert category-playlists category-videos tag-cat-ridgeway tag-chappell-roan tag-charley-crockett tag-dende tag-ian-flanigan tag-nicotine-dolls"> <div class="entry-content single-content-width text-20"> <p><a href="https://www.sofarsounds.com/">Catch these artists and others just like them at a Sofar show near you!</a></p> </div> </article> <div class="container mx-auto footer-divider text-center"></div> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://www.sofarsounds.com/blog/articles/new-music-alert-june-2025/feed</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>