Inspired by glowing reviews that called the previous Mystic Highway EP a “great soundtrack for a road trip,” writer/producer Robert Allen embraced the idea and delivered this fresh batch of positive, energetic tracks. The EP captures DownTown Mystic’s signature “vintage yet modern” sound, blending heartfelt storytelling, vintage guitar tones, and analog warmth with contemporary rock power. Influences echo Tom Petty, Bruce Springsteen, Buffalo Springfield, and Rockpile.

Highlights include:

• “Live” (feat. harmonica master Jerry Fierro)
• “Losing My Mind” (feat. guitar virtuoso Lance Doss)
• The previously unreleased unedited “Somebody’s Always Doin’ Something 2 Somebody (Uncut Mix)”, featuring keyboard legend Jeff Levine on piano and B-3 organ

The rhythm section shines with Steve Holley (Paul McCartney, Elton John) on drums and Paul Page (Ian Hunter, Dion) on bass. Additional guitar contributions come from Lance Doss, Bruce Engler, and Justin “JJ” Jordan. The EP was recorded at legendary Shorefire Studios in New Jersey (engineered by Joe DeMaio) and mastered by Leon Zervos (Crowded House, Maroon 5, Pink) at Studios 301 in Australia.

Coming off the success of the On E Street Remix EP (featuring Rock & Roll Hall of Famers Max Weinberg & Garry Tallent of the E Street Band), DownTown Mystic continues a strong run of releases that bridge past and present while keeping rock ‘n’ roll alive and relevant.

“Why not take your own Mystic Highway Road Trip and have a rockin’ summer!” — Robert Allen

About DownTown Mystic

DownTown Mystic is the alter ego of American rocker Robert Allen, whose passion for classic rock recording and songwriting continues the great American rock ‘n’ roll tradition. With music sync-licensed in over 250 TV shows and films, DownTown Mystic delivers timeless, soulful rock that resonates with new generations.

This new version delivers noticeable improvements that make a big sonic difference: re-recorded vocal parts, a full remix, and professional remastering. The result is a brighter, more polished gem that shines even brighter than before.

Legendary Swedish musician David Myhr (The Merrymakers) co-produced the track and contributed wonderful Beach Boys-style backing vocals plus a quirky piano part in the coda. On drums is the outstanding Andreas Quincy Dahlbäck.

“This song – Happy People Won’t Hear – is actually a new version of a single released in 2024. The differences between versions are small but make a big difference. Parts of the vocals have been re-recorded, and the song as a whole remixed and remastered. Big improvement!” — ALIEN FRIEND

In another life, ALIEN FRIEND played guitar and sang in the Swedish band REDMOON. “Happy People Won’t Hear (Album Version)” is part of his vibrant solo project under the Arn-Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends moniker — a vehicle for joyful, melodic, and slightly cosmic pop-rock.

The upgraded track is available now on all major streaming platforms. Perfect for summer playlists and anyone who appreciates feel-good indie pop with a touch of psychedelic whimsy.

About Arn-Identified Flying Objects and Alien Friends

ALIEN FRIEND’s solo project blends catchy melodies, heartfelt songwriting, and a playful cosmic twist. Following years with REDMOON, this project allows for creative freedom and collaborations with top-tier Swedish musicians.

Feel the vibrato of electric guitar strings rattle a world of illusions as the band, led by guitarist, singer, and songwriter Eric Winston, weaves dystopian themes with raw, human energy. Drawing inspiration from Orwell, Huxley, and Socrates, “Problematic” confronts mass propaganda, censorship, artificial intelligence, and militarism against a backdrop of technology-addicted culture. The message is clear: Keep asking questions. Be problematic.

“There is hope that Motihari Brigade’s brand of Rock-n-Roll Thoughtcrime can still save us — perhaps,” the band states. “Motihari Brigade’s new album encourages us to keep asking questions. Be problematic.”

The album was crafted by real flesh-and-blood human musicians using genuine internal organs, no AI shortcuts here. Fans of the band’s previous work will recognize their uncanny ability to manifest reality in prophetic (and sometimes dangerous) ways. As Eric Winston observes, “If that’s true, then we are really in for it this time.”

A Tour of the Album:

• “Cowboy Armageddon” opens this dystopian science-fiction movie soundtrack, leading into the title track “Problematic”, which lays down the signature Motihari groove and establishes the album’s philosophical core.
• “Chatbot Don’t Like It” explores our amusing new AI robot masters (complete with a “Bonus Track: Radio Clean Edit” that bleeps out the bad word).
• “Save Ourselves” asks the urgent question: Where do we go now that society has become the cult?
• “The Great Refusal” delivers a razor-edged guitar riff and the timely warning that “Karma is going to be a bitch.”
• The mini rock opera “The Hubris March” (featuring “Heedless Of The Storm” and “Ten Years Time”) examines the disastrous cycle of war, with a visceral “Guitar Bombs” transition created on Winston’s detuned Fender Stratocaster.
• An explosive cover of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Fortunate Son” drives home the militarism critique.
• “Pleasure Craft” invites listeners to dance to the drug of immediate gratification, while “Problematic (Reprise)” brings the signature groove full circle.
• The album closes with “Someone’s Dream”, a haunting reflection on memory set against a planetarium space satellite soundscape.

“Not What They Seem” anymore in this slightly menacing Rock-n-Roll Socratic exploration.

Motihari Brigade derives its name from Motihari, India, the birthplace of their truth-seeking spirit animal, George Orwell. The band’s sound is the singular invention of Eric Winston, who continues to push rock music toward independent thought and fearless expression.

“Problematic” is available now on all major digital streaming and download platforms, as well as on compact disc.

About Motihari Brigade

Motihari Brigade creates “Rock-n-Roll Thoughtcrime” for independent minds. The band’s music challenges listeners to question authority, resist digital conformity, and reclaim critical thinking through electrifying rock.

The track began as a raw acoustic guitar and vocal recording captured on a phone, later transformed in Valmonte’s basement studio into a soaring, anthemic soundscape. Blending live instrumentation with thoughtful production, “Down on the River” creates a cinematic, participatory experience the kind of song built for crowds to sing along to in unison. While rooted in personal reflection, its expansive arrangement invites listeners to share in the emotion and rise together.

Valmonte, who works independently while exploring the creative intersection of human-written lyrics and AI-assisted production, crafted the song out of a deep desire to revive the epic, chant-worthy stadium rock energy he felt was missing from today’s music. Inspired by legendary moments like Queen’s 1985 Live Aid performance and Metallica’s massive outdoor shows, “Down on the River” delivers a modern rallying cry that feels both deeply personal and collectively empowering.

“I missed the epic, anthemic, stadium sounds from eras past,” says Valmonte. “I wanted to hear a song that a group can chant on a topic that listeners can relate to.”

True to his artistic philosophy, Valmonte views this release as a starting point rather than a finished product. He actively invites covers, remixes, and reinterpretations from other artists, believing that collaboration and evolution are central to the creative process.

About Neil Valmonte

Neil Valmonte is a solo producer, songwriter, and musician based in Westport, Connecticut. Working from his basement studio, he crafts anthemic rock soundscapes that fuse the participatory spirit of 80s and 90s arena rock with contemporary production techniques. His work celebrates human creativity while thoughtfully embracing new tools, always with the goal of creating music that connects people and inspires hope.

Stream “Down on the River” now on all major platforms.

Written, performed, and produced entirely by Cruz himself, the track delivers raw urgency through dirty, overdriven guitars, a heavy groove, and a vocal performance that carries surprising emotional depth and lived-in conviction. With the defiant hook “I play it loud and dirty till the walls fall down,” Luca captures the tension of pushing forward when everything feels uncertain, turning vulnerability into unstoppable momentum.

Blending classic blues DNA with a sharp modern edge and youthful intensity, “Walls Fall Down” feels both timeless and fiercely present. Guided by respected Australian blues guitarist Michael Vdelli, the single showcases Cruz’s rapidly developing musical identity while staying true to the guitar-driven traditions that shaped him.

“Some artists spend years searching for their voice. Others arrive with it already fully formed.” — Haymai Magazine

About Luca Cruz

A gifted guitarist, singer, songwriter, and producer based in Perth, Western Australia, Luca Cruz fuses blues-rock foundations with modern alternative rock influences. Raised on the expressive playing of The Jeff Healey Band and Gary Moore, alongside the heavier sounds of Metallica and Pantera, he creates music defined by soaring melodies, hard-hitting riffs, and honest songwriting.

What sets Luca apart is his creative independence. At an age when many are still finding their direction, he is already fully self-producing his material and bringing a clear, authentic artistic vision to every release.

“For a debut release, it’s an extraordinary introduction.” — Haymai Magazine

“There is authenticity here. No imitation. No nostalgia for nostalgia’s sake.” — Haymai Magazine

Day 1 features hard-hitting Rap/Hip-Hop bars with Strong & Qweta, Funk Clan, Koga, BrownY Original, Yuzy, Shinohidden, and Dgueulasse Gold.

Day 2, enjoy the experimental sounds of Fusion with Arinass and Oxor, Metrotune, Ighouliden Band.

Day 3 will close out with pure, unapologetic energy from the Rock/Metal scene with Anora, Darih, 2min Away, Lixivia.

The best part? It’s completely free! Get ready to support the next generation of Moroccan underground music. Who are you most excited to see live?

L’Boulevard Tremplin 24th Edition

The highly anticipated **L’Boulevard 2026 Tremplin** competition is coming back to Casablanca this September. As Morocco’s top launching pad for underground talent, the 3-day competition format showcases the country’s diverse urban music scene:

* **Sept 17 (Rap/Hip-Hop):** Featuring local stars like Strong & Qweta and Funk Clan, Shinohidden, Dgueulasse Gold, Koga, Browny Original, and Yuzy.

* **Sept 18 (Fusion/Current Music):** Spotlighting genre-bending acts like MetroTune and Ighouliden Band, Arinass and Oxor.

* **Sept 19 (Rock/Metal):** Expect heavy riffs from 2Min Away, Lixivia, Anora, Darih.

Since it takes place in Stade R.U.C, in an open space, this is a must-see event for anyone who wants to have a feel of the real heart of the Moroccan indie music industry.

> The 24th edition of L’Boulevard’s Tremplin competition is taking place this September 17-20 in Casablanca! 🔥 Three days of 100% free Moroccan talent on Rap, Fusion, and Rock/Metal stages. The underground culture is alive and well! 🇲🇦🎸🎤

“Verstas” (Finnish for “workshop”) draws directly from his father’s life of creativity, independence, and craftsmanship. Through thoughtful lyrics and self-produced sound, Selin transforms a lifetime of collected memories into a heartfelt homage, celebrating a multitalented man whose life was cut short but left an enduring legacy. The song’s title and album artwork both stem from this powerful family story.

A fiercely independent artist, Petri Selin maintains complete creative control over every aspect of his music, from songwriting and composition to performance and production. He has deliberately kept record companies at a distance to preserve the purity of his artistic vision. Performing exclusively in his mother tongue, Finnish, Selin blends folk-pop sensibilities with subtle rap influences, creating a distinctive and authentic sound rooted in tradition and personal storytelling.

“Verstas is my second single. My debut single was published 8 years ago, in 2018, and was named ‘Kesä saapuu vihdoin Helsinkiin’. These both singles are mostly self-made and played. Lyrics, music, and voice are also self-created. Not any record company is allowed to influence them,” says Selin.

This patient, thoughtful approach defines his work: songs built from words and memories gathered over a lifetime, waiting for the perfect moment of inspiration. “Verstas” is more than a song; it is a son’s mission to honour his father’s lifestyle, philosophy, and remarkable skills with the positive recognition he deserves.

About Petri Selin

Petri Selin is an independent Helsinki artist known for crafting intimate, narrative-driven folk-pop. With nearly a decade between releases, he focuses on authenticity and emotional depth rather than trends. His music reflects both Finnish roots and contemporary experimentation, delivered with honesty and care.

Stream “Verstas” now on all major platforms.

“We Painted the Sky Red is what happened when I stopped hiding behind the music and became part of it,” says Kiro’s Stigma. The track serves as more than a standalone release; it’s part of a complete emotional experience, inviting listeners to connect their own stories to its immersive soundscape.

Working closely with producer trynacommunicate, Kiro’s Stigma crafts a distinctive sound influenced by artists like WISP. Late-night recording sessions and even using an old phone for ad-libs give the music a nostalgic, grunge-tinged quality that enhances its emotional depth. Rather than chasing trends, the Manila-based artist focuses on documenting feelings exactly as he experiences them, creating music that feels intensely personal yet universally relatable.

About the Release “we painted the sky red.” explores life-altering moments that forever change one’s perspective. With its dark, cinematic production and vulnerable storytelling, the single reflects themes of self-discovery and emotional evolution, all born from quiet, immersive sessions in the artist’s room-turned-studio.

About Kiro’s Stigma

Kiro’s Stigma is an emerging artist from Manila, Philippines, known for crafting deeply personal and atmospheric music. His unconventional creative process, recording primarily at night to capture the exact emotional mindset, results in honest, genre-defying tracks that resonate on a profound level.

For fans of introspective, cinematic alternative music with raw emotional honesty.

Stream “we painted the sky red.” now on all major platforms.

“Blank” captures the band’s signature sound: 90s-inspired grit meets modern Finnish sludge. Think early Nirvana colliding with heavy, honest emotion, the kind of song that hits you straight in the chest and refuses to let go. It’s the perfect introduction to Aspesti’s uncompromising attitude and youthful rebellion.

At just 17 years old, band members Nooa, Kalle, and Rasmus are proving that the spirit of grunge is alive, louder, and angrier than ever. Formed in Espoo, Aspesti channels the rebellious energy of the 90s while sounding unmistakably like today’s restless youth. With distorted guitars, driving rhythms, and raw, honest lyrics, the trio doesn’t just play grunge; they live it.

In spring 2025, Aspesti was signed to the fast-rising Love Is Punk Records and has since been tearing up the live circuit with Stupido Booking. “Blank” marks a bold new step for the young band as they push their music to wider audiences.

Quote from Aspesti: “We are three 17-year-olds who play 90s-inspired grit and love it. ‘Blank’ is a track with crunchy riffs and honest energy; we can’t wait for people to hear it.”

Perfect for grunge, alternative rock, and indie playlists, “Blank” is now available on all major streaming platforms.

About Aspesti

Aspesti is a raw, unfiltered alternative/grunge band from Espoo, Finland. Formed by three seventeen-year-olds, Nooa, Rasmus, and Kalle, the band blends the rebellious spirit of 90s grunge with the fresh intensity of today’s youth. Signed to Love Is Punk Records and represented live by Stupido Booking, Aspesti is young, hungry, and ready to shake the scene.

Blending emotional storytelling with arena-ready energy, “Fire & Stars” captures the tension between life’s struggles and the hope that keeps us moving forward. The track explores themes of love, sacrifice, and determination in the face of uncertainty, delivered through Dean RÖK’s signature sound: raw, visceral, and deeply cinematic.

“Fire & Stars” follows the release of his debut EP, The Electric Gospel, and previous singles including “Falling in the Dark,” “Bad Wedding Day,” and “Watch Me Waste My Love.” With this release, Dean RÖK continues to carve out a distinctive space in modern rock, one rooted in emotional honesty, powerful hooks, and a strong visual identity.

About the Song: Inspired by the battles we all face, “Fire & Stars” delivers strength without sacrificing depth. Its driving guitars and soaring chorus create a soundtrack for anyone pushing through darkness toward light, a declaration of resilience that hits both the heart and the soul.

About Dean RÖK Dean RÖK is the international rock project of Portuguese actor and musician Diogo Lima. After years of touring Europe under different artistic identities, he forged Dean RÖK as a bold new chapter, louder, dirtier, and more visceral. Drawing from decades of experience across music, theatre, television, and film, Lima channels a lifetime of scars, stages, and reinventions into music that feels personal yet larger-than-life.

With influences spanning classic heartland rock to contemporary cinematic rock, his sound mixes blues depth, modern grit, and dramatic storytelling. Dean RÖK creates songs for listeners who crave authentic music about desire, loss, rebellion, redemption, and the hunger for freedom.

“A sound made for big stages, hot lights, and hearts ready to be broken open.”

Previous Releases:

• The Electric Gospel (EP)
• “A Place Where I Burn”
• “Falling In the Dark” (including Stripped Version)
• “Bad Wedding Day”
• “Watch Me Waste My Love”

For fans of anthemic rock, cinematic storytelling, and powerful melodic rock.

Stream “Fire & Stars” now on all major platforms.

About Dean RÖK

Dean RÖK is the international rock project of Portuguese actor and musician Diogo Lima. Combining cinematic storytelling, powerful melodies, and decades of artistic experience, his music explores themes of love, loss, redemption, resilience, and the full spectrum of the human journey.