Review by: Josue Cambara | Intuit Dome (Los Angeles, CA)   | August 31, 2024 Hazze Media was invited to attend and cover Future's concert by celebrity publicist, Abesi Manyando of Abesi PR . Earlier this year, Future and Metro Boomin announced their highly anticipated collaboration album, We Don’t Trust You , which was met with praise from fans and critics alike. Their undeniable chemistry has produced viral hits over the years, including the nine-times-platinum single “Mask Off” and the anthem “Jumpman,” which peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100. Following the release of We Don’t Trust You , the duo delivered some of their biggest songs to date, including “Like That” featuring Kendrick Lamar and “Type Shit” featuring Playboi Carti and Travis Scott both of which have reached No. 1 and No. 2 on the Billboard charts respectively. Riding the wave of that album’s success, Future and Metro Boomin released a follow-up album, We Still Don’t Trust You , a 25-track project that featured collaborations from The Weeknd, Chris Brown, J. Cole, Lil Baby, and A$AP Rocky. With two major albums released this year, fans were buzzing when the duo announced their summer tour, making it the must-see concert of the year. On August 31st, Future and Metro Boomin brought their We Don’t Trust You  tour to Los Angeles, performing at the brand-new Intuit Dome, a perfect venue to end off the summer with an electrifying rap show. The concert kicked off with Metro Boomin performing a DJ set, hyping the crowd with some of the biggest tracks he’s produced since the late 2010s. The setlist included bangers like “Father Stretch My Hands, Pt. 1,” “Bad and Boujee,” “Bank Account,” “Too Many Nights,” and “Ric Flair Drip.” The crowd went wild, with mosh pits forming and fans shouting every lyric back at Metro Boomin. Once Metro left the stage, Future’s DJ, TJ Banks, hyped up the crowd before Future made his grand entrance amidst fireworks and pyrotechnics, dressed in all white as he opened with “Stick Talk.” The stage design was sleek, featuring multiple sections divided by stairs, while the camera work on the arena's massive screens created the feeling of watching an action movie. The pyrotechnics added to the spectacle, matching the high energy Future brought to the performance. While Future's set featured many of his solo hits, he also showcased his versatility by slowing things down with more intimate tracks like “Wait For U” featuring Tems and his Rihanna collaboration, “Loveeeeeee Song.” He ended his solo set with the fan favorite “March Madness,” a personal highlight of the night for me. After a brief pause, the screens flickered, smoke filled the stage, and the opening notes of Metro Boomin’s “Superhero (Heroes & Villains)” began to play. As fireworks ignited one by one, two shadowy figures appeared at the top of the stage, Metro Boomin and Future, dressed in all black. Metro Boomin paid homage to fellow Atlanta legend Andre 3000 by wearing a jumpsuit he wore from Outkast's iconic 2014 reunion tour, with the phrase “Which Type of Stereo Are You?” A powerful way to honor and pay homage to one of hip-hop's greatest groups. Seeing Future perform alongside Metro Boomin, who waved a WWE Championship Belt and engaged the crowd was unforgettable. The chemistry they’ve developed in the studio translated effortlessly to the stage. Together, they performed several of their collaborations, including “I Serve the Base,” “Low Life,” and “Thought It Was a Drought.” Their dynamic was electric, and they fed off the crowd’s energy, at one point even calling Los Angeles the best audience of the tour so far. Future and Metro Boomin powered through hit after hit “Like That,” “Type Shit,” “Mask Off” before closing the show with the slow, reflective track “We Still Don’t Trust You.” They thanked the crowd for an incredible night, wrapping up what was easily one of the best rap performances of 2024. The We Don’t Trust You  tour delivered an unforgettable experience, combining masterful production, an epic stage design, and the raw energy of two of hip-hop’s most influential figures. I’m thrilled I got to witness the magic of Future and Metro Boomin, a producer-rapper duo that continues to shape the sound of modern hip-hop.

Photos and Review By: Sarah Hyun Joshua Bassett, one of the stars of “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” and a talented singer-songwriter and pop artist from Oceanside, Calif., performed the last date of his North American “The Golden Years”   tour at the YouTube Theater in Los Angeles’ Inglewood neighborhood on September 3rd, 2024. Thomas Day, singer-songwriter from Nashville who gained his recognition from making it far in season fifteen of America’s Got Talent, joined 23-year-old Bassett as the opener. He did not disappoint with his phenomenal set full of dancing, jumping, belting, and incredible singing. The energy was truly palpable, and excited fans at the barricade held up signs in support. One fan was spotted with a sign that read, “Thomas Day? Thomas BAE.”  After Thomas’s set, the flashing lights dimmed and the room quieted down — but the crowd was still abuzz with excitement. The pre-show playlist was full of hit songs that kept fans hyped — Chappell Roan, One Direction, Harry Styles, Billie Eilish and many more. After the last song of the pre-show playlist ended, the lights turned off. Deafening screams . The rumble of a bass. Another uproar. Then, the deep boom of a drum, followed by loud cries from anticipating fans. And then Bassett, emerging from seemingly nowhere, ran onto the stage singing his title track, “The Golden Years.” Fans responded hysterically as he scaled across the stage with unmatched energy, greeting fans, shaking hands, walking up to the barricade and kicking his feet high into the air. After singing his recent song “Cherry Blossom,” Bassett handed out signed CDs to four lucky concertgoers. Shortly after, he invited three fans to the stage to teach him a dance after reading their sign that said, “let’s take you in CIRCLES, dance with us.”  Later, Bassett left the stage and re-emerged through the back doors, where he greeted fans in the seated sections and upper balconies. Fans dressed in merch, flowy skirts, glittery tops and cowboy hats screamed in excitement as Bassett made his rounds to every part of the venue. Young girls, teenage fans, fathers and grandparents alike watched him in amazement as he sprinted through the stairs and rows in his sparkly outfit. Bassett has done this at past shows, proving time and time again his honest love and dedication to his fans.  A true highlight of the night was when Bassett brought out Jenna Raine—20 year old pop artist and actress who was featured on Joshua’s latest album—during their song, “Don’t Let Me Down.” Their voices blended in harmony like butter, and concertgoers listened in awe, soaking in their performance. At the end of the night, Joshua jumped off of his piano stage during his song, “Set Me Free,” which again, triggered a round of screams from his excited fans. Seeing Bassett in concert is an experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime, if given the chance. Even if you don’t particularly listen to his music, the vibes of his shows are truly magnificent — never before have I seen another artist bring 110% of their energy to a single night. Seeing him in Inglewood was my second time attending one of his shows for a reason.

Review by: Danaer Mensah | August 21, 2024 A dense fog enveloped the venue, complemented by dynamic, pulsating lights that embodied his distinctive and edgy horror-themed aesthetic.  Occasionally appearing as a mere silhouette, he masterfully crafted an ambiance that accentuated both the audience's lively enthusiasm and his carefully curated vibe.  As attendees immersed themselves in the immersive realm of A Great Chaos, the evening unfolded with relentless energy, captivating visuals, and a profusion of eagerly anticipated new music—a standard that would endure throughout the night.

Kayla, you're just 14 years old, and you've already accomplished so much in your acting career. Can you tell us about how you first got started in the industry and what motivated you to pursue acting at such a young age? My journey into acting began with various roles in school plays and community theater. I made my first feature-length film when I was seven years old and the positive responses I received encouraged me to pursue it professionally You're taking on a lead role in "From Embers" alongside Matthew Morrison. How was it working with him and the rest of the cast, including Kara Wang and Kathryn Morris? Did you have any memorable moments or challenges during filming?  Matthew Morrison is a very talented, generous, and intelligent actor. In this movie, I play his thirteen-year-old daughter. Matthew taught me personal connection and emotion are at the core of good performances. Establishing a genuine connection with the material helps create a deeper impact on the audience. Kara Wang and Kathryn Morris are also amazing actors. I had several scenes with them. I think we created a beautiful film together. Their talent, spirit, courage, and dedication have been an inspiration and an incredible gift to me.    In "From Embers” your character is a significant part of a story about a mother trying to uncover the truth about her husband's death. How did you prepare for such a complex and emotional role? I got the role a month before the filming started. I carefully read the script multiple times to understand the story and its themes and to analyze my character’s motivations, relationships, and development throughout the narrative. The character, Chloe, is very similar to me, a girl who loves art and is full of love for people. You wrote the theme songs "Maybe This is How Life Should Be" and "Panorama" for the film. Can you share what inspired these songs and what it was like to work on the music side of the project alongside Heather Morris and Matthew Morrison? How do you hope these songs will enhance the film’s narrative? “ Panorama ” is a sweet and heartfelt song. I tried to imagine how the character of “Chloe” would feel about her father and put those feelings into the song. I think that helped to give the song a more authentic feel. I really enjoyed working with Matthew Morrison on that song. He was very supportive and gave me really good advice. He was generous and taught me things no one else ever had. His patient and non-judgmental manner helped me feel comfortable while filming and recording our song together. Panorama link. “Maybe This Is How Life Should Be” was inspired by a child writing to her mother. It’s deep and sincere with the lyrics representing the sadness that was shown throughout the film. I am so honored to have become a part of the magic in this film. Love is the universal language. Sometimes love takes us [to] places we can’t imagine, and sometimes it takes us to places we don’t want to go. Both make us who we are! Heather Morris performed “ Maybe This Is How Life Should Be .” Can you tell us about that experience? I was so excited to meet Heather and collaborate with her. I loved her in “Glee”! She is one of the most talented people I know. It’s a hard song to sing, but she nailed every note! I really love how she approached it. She brought the song to life with such grace and emotion. I was in the studio when she was recording it and was impressed by her modest elegance. Her singing touched me deeply. Through the emotion she [brings] to it, every verse conveys the soul of the protagonist of the movie. It has become one of the strong storytelling voices of the film. I am so grateful for the opportunity to have worked with her. What was the most rewarding part of working on “From Embers,” both in terms of your acting role and your involvement in the film's music? There was a scene where I had to run in the rain at midnight, and I had to fall down countless times. I remember that I was drenched by the early morning, cold, and exhausted. But I gritted my teeth and finished it, even though I was in pain. I was honored to have composed the two theme songs for this movie. Music and performance have always been important to me and helped get me through the challenges of this film. It’s been a special journey.  As a young actress with such impressive achievements, what are some of your future goals in the industry? Are there specific roles or projects you're particularly excited about? I hope I can have a chance to act in a comedy. I’ve never done that before. I also hope to act in a movie where my role is true to myself, where I can unlock new skills and have fun with other actors my age. Your performance in “KAYLA” earned you several awards and recognitions. How did winning these awards influence your career and your approach to acting?  I made “Kayla” when I was seven years old. Winning the awards really meant a lot to me. The film is unforgettable for me. I grew a lot and experienced some amazing moments with the cast. They were like mentors to me, teaching me how to get into the role. “From Embers” deals with themes of loss, mystery, and personal struggle. How did you emotionally prepare for a role in a film with such heavy and complex subject matter? Did you find any particular strategies or support systems helpful during this process? Three years ago, my favorite cat went missing. Whenever I think of him to this day, my eyes tear up. This helped me to know what it means to lose a loved one or a beloved pet. This gave me a lot of creative inspiration, which helped me write the theme songs for this movie. Each line of lyrics is like telling a story. You may lose what you love, but in the end, love will always come back in one way or another. This year is your freshman year of high school. Do you think you are ready? In addition to acting and music, do you have any other hobbies? I am excited to kick off this school year with energy, enthusiasm, and tons of pride. I’m getting better at balancing work, life, and keeping track of school events. In academics, I try to tackle a diverse range of subjects. I especially love English, History, and doing charity work. I care a lot about people and my environment and I want to do well and help others do the same. I’m also on my school’s surf, swim, and tennis team. I know I’m ready for a year filled with inspiration, innovation, hard work, and fun!  Lastly, given your experience and success at a young age, do you have any advice for other aspiring young actors who are looking to break into the industry? Like many other young people, I have many hopes and dreams. I think it’s important to learn and keep growing every day. If I could give someone some advice, I think I would tell them to never give up. There will be disappointments and tears along the way, but that is part of the process. While there will be ups and downs, I think you should never give up on your hopes and dreams. Where can people find more information about your work and upcoming projects? I am active on Instagram @kayla.bohan  and YouTube @KaylaBohan . My website is  kaylavbohan.com . And you can find my music on all the major music platforms.

Interview By: Ezzah Rafique Q: How have you been so far into the year? Tell us about yourself! What inspired you to pursue music? My name is Emily Mest (aka Box Blonde) & I am a singer & actor based in LA. I am beyond excited about this new music & have been writing for this project for the past three years. I’m just so happy that this year I finally have been able to start releasing the music & the visuals that I’ve been holding onto for so long. I was inspired to become a musician because I was surrounded by music growing up. My parents were always playing the music they loved & never babied my brother & I when it came to art. I was moved by Stevie Nicks, Carly Simon, Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Wings, Abba, Nirvana, & so many more of the artists my parents were listening to. I started playing guitar & writing songs at 16 & I’ve never stopped.   Q: How did you choose the name Box Blonde? Is there a story behind it? There’s a bit of a double meaning to the name. There’s the obvious meaning of box-dyed blonde hair, but there’s also this concept I’ve been drawn to around not putting a blonde in a box. It’s also whatever you want it to mean.  Q: To someone who hasn't heard your music before, what do you hope they take away from it? What atmosphere are you trying to create with your music?" I hope they feel everything. I hope they feel sexy, joyous, heartbroken, contemplative, nostalgic… The atmosphere I want to create is a sense of safety to feel whatever you want to feel. I think that music can also feel cinematic & I hope people feel that way listening to my music. Q: Every artist has a different method of making music, how do you tackle a project? What's your creative process like or how would you describe it as?" It varies with every song, sometimes starting on the guitar or the piano & then writing lyrics or vice versa. Very rarely do I write to a track for myself but sometimes that happens when I write for other artists. Sometimes I will start with a song title/concept & write around that & others I will just free write (usually when there’s a lot of feelings and I haven’t sorted them out in my head yet). I am one of those people who experiences their most creative moments (& my deepest worries) late, late at night, which can be frustrating for a sleep schedule! But whenever the ideas come, I just have to jot them down because I’m always grateful to be inspired. Q: What is the backstory to your most recent single, 'Warmer'? I’d like to keep it open to interpretation, but it’s a song about self-love ;) Q: As a songwriter, you have a favorite lyric or verse from ‘Warmer’? I wrote this song with my friends Zach Palmer & Alex Kinsey and I think we all really love the lyric “Cupid’s drunk, it’s such a bummer.” I loveeeee a cheeky lyric, & Cupid deserves some bad press. Q: What was it like for you creating the music video for ‘Warmer’? As an independent artist, it was such a fun & challenging experience. Playing so many roles at once, from stylist to prop designer to producer, I learned a lot. I even spray painted a treadmill all white, which was a journey in & of itself! Luckily, I have incredibly talented friends who wanted to be a part of it & I wouldn’t have been able to make a music video without them. Many of the same team of friends worked on my second music video for the stripped-down version of “Warmer.” I directed this video for the first time, & it was such a juicy experience as a control freak. Having control over every aspect from conception to editing the video was truly a dream come true for this Virgo. I plan to continue to make visuals for most of my songs because I find them very important to telling the story & I hope to direct most of them. Q: Do you have a dream collaboration or dream project you’d love to work on in the future? Oh my goodness, the list is quite long, but a dream in the next bit of time would be to open up for an artist I love & be able to go on their tour. I would love to be a 4th Haim sister for a day or be in the studio with The Japanese House—can you imagine?! Also, I could die a happy woman if I ever had a chance to work with Stevie Nicks. Q: What was the process like for you when it came to creating ‘Warmer’? This was one of those times that the song started with a concept & came together quite quickly. We were building an instrumental track & writing melody/lyrics at the same time & it came together fully written with a demo within a couple of hours. I had some great reference tracks for us because I knew I wanted a groovy, sexy vibe since most of my songs can be quite sad. My dad calls many of my songs “lover’s laments,” which I don’t dislike. I wanted something up- tempo this time, even if the lyrics are a little melancholic. Q: Lastly, what can fans expect from you in regards to new music or upcoming projects? More music & more visuals coming in the latter part of this year & the start of the new year. Hopefully some shows! Getting very excited about putting together what a Box Blonde show would look like & cannot wait to get out & sing these songs live.

Review by: Mudit Mahajan | August 30, 2024 Since the festival’s start in 2008, Bay Area residents and visitors alike have packed out Golden Gate Park in San Francisco for Outside Lands Festival. Last weekend brought in a turnout of 75,000 each day, adding to the numerous activities the park already boasts.  Our first day was eventful with sets from Rocco, underscores, Shaboozey, Knock2, Renee Rapp, Kevin Abstract, Daniel Caesar, Tyla, and more. The crows were filled with good vibes and energy, people turning up to keep themselves warm in the frigid weather. Knock2’s performances amongst the California rave community have gained massive recognition, and it’s evident why. Shaboozey’s country songs had the entirety of the Sutro stage singing along in awe as the artist ran around the stage. Seeing Kevin Abstract, Tyla, and Daniel almost back to back brought an enormous crowd to the area. They performed both throwbacks and newer albums, Daniel promoting his latest album, Never Enough . Friday’s lineup could have appealed for anyone, regardless of genre. It was a glimpse into what makes Outside Lands such a well-rounded festival.  Day two we had a chance to check out Sabrina Carpenter, Schoolboy Q, Channel Tres, Men I Trust, and AG Club. My personal favorite was AG Club. The Bay Area native hip hop group hailing from Antioch didn’t disappoint, raging with the crowd and biking on the stage while screaming lyrics to hit song, Memphis . Channel Tres has been making waves, and for a good reason. The DJ brought out his mixes and had everyone dancing, the noticeable house influence making a massive return in 2024. Q has been in the game for so long that you can feel the authenticity ranging from TDE in LA back up to the Bay, expressing their love for the city. Going from a most calm Men I Trust crowd on one end of the park to the other for Sabrina’s set, a large portion of the field was already in clusters. The singer was indeed working late, Golden Gate Park chanting lyrics to Espresso  and Please, Please, Please.   On the way to the third and final day, I witnessed Chappell Roan entering the park in a disguised van with a full police escort. It then kicked off with acts including Wisp, BADBADNOTGOOD, TV Girl, Killer Mike, Victoria Monet, Post Malone, and KAYTRANADA. Chappell’s performance filled almost the entirety of the main stage, Lands End. I have never seen this many people gathered for one performance in my life. A highlight was KAYTRANADA, easily one of the most fun sets to just take in. The artist performed not too far away at Cow Palace last year to close out 2023, a sort of redemption moment seeing home close out our Outside Lands experience. Outside Lands is a worthwhile experience. The food is phenomenal, local vendors line up to serve classics alongside unique and cultural dishes. Music lovers, wine enthusiasts, and cannabis consumers, all uniting for their shared appreciation of these performers is what makes this festival special. 60 degrees with 20 MPH winds, rain, hilly and rocky treks to get from one stage to another. I wouldn’t want it any other way.

Photos by: Jimmy Fontaine | Written by: Orchee Sorker | August 30, 2024 New Jersey-based alt-rock artist Joe P is a musician who’s built his career on authenticity and a DIY ethos. Joe chats with Hazze Media and discusses his musical journey, creative process, and the inspirations behind his debut album, *Garden State Vampire*. Joe P has been immersed in music since childhood. He gravitated towards the alt-rock genre due to its blend of powerful guitar work and songwriting freedom. Influenced by classic rock legends like Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix, Joe found his own voice by merging these sounds with the early rock influences. “I got into music to play guitar,” Joe explained. “I loved that you could just sit with a guitar and write a song. But I didn’t want to go as far into that as a folk singer or lose the rock element.” Joe’s debut album, *Garden State Vampire*, is deeply connected to his roots in New Jersey. The album’s title, which is derived from a lyric in a yet-to-be-released song, reflects Joe’s experiences of isolation and his unique connection to his home state. Living in New Jersey, away from the bustling music scenes of LA or Nashville, has allowed Joe to stay true to his artistry. “Living here is my way of tricking myself into thinking that my experiences are unique,” he said. “It lets me believe in myself a little more.” Joe’s creative process is largely solitary, with much of the album being produced in his basement studio. Though he’s collaborated with others, he often returns to his basement to finalize his work, ensuring that his vision remains intact. Music videos are another outlet for Joe’s creativity, and he relishes the opportunity to extend his artistry visually. Working closely with his friend Tony, who directs the videos and plays bass in his live band, Joe approaches each video as a collaborative, fun project. “It's like getting assigned a project in eighth grade to make a video with your friends,” Joe said, describing the excitement of bringing these visual ideas to life. As Joe prepares for his upcoming headline tour, he’s focused on crafting a unique live experience for his audience. He’s excited to showcase new material, even if it means cutting some older songs from the setlist. His live shows are known for their unpredictability and energy, with each performance offering something different. “I hate going to a concert and seeing exactly what I hear on Spotify,” Joe said. “I’d rather see someone make mistakes trying to give you a more unique experience.” Joe also enjoys interacting with the crowd, tailoring his engagement to the vibe of each audience. Whether he’s cracking jokes or sharing spontaneous moments, Joe believes these interactions make the shows memorable. Joe P’s journey as an artist is characterized by a commitment to authenticity, creative freedom, and a deep connection to his roots. As he continues to evolve, both in the studio and on stage, Joe remains dedicated to creating music that’s true to himself, no matter where the journey takes him.

Photos by: Chirag Bachani | August 20, 2024 | Pittsburgh, PA

Photos & Review by: Josue Cambara | August 19, 2024 | San Diego, CA The Marías kicked off their San Diego stop on their North American tour with a mesmerizing performance. Touring in support of their latest album, Submarine , which has received widespread acclaim from both critics and fans, the band delivered an unforgettable night of music, visuals, and heartfelt moments.  From the moment the lights dimmed and the band took the stage, the first thing I noticed was the set design which was both simple and striking, featuring a soft, white circle shape that perfectly complemented the silhouette of lead singer María Zardoya. This design choice set the tone for a night where every detail was thoughtfully curated to enhance the experience and atmosphere.  One of the most captivating aspects of the performance was the creative use of lighting. The Marías used blue lights to accompany songs from Submarine , red lights for tracks from their previous album Cinema , and a mix of neutral colors like orange and white for songs from their EPs and singles. This attention to detail in the visual presentation added a new layer of depth to the performance, making each song feel distinct and special.  As the show progressed, María Zardoya took a moment to connect with the audience on a personal level, asking if there were any Latinos in the crowd. She called out to fans from Guatemala, Venezuela, Ecuador, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico, with the loudest cheers coming from her Mexican supporters. This interaction led seamlessly into a medley of her biggest Spanish hits, including "Ay No Puedo" and "Lejos De Ti," which had the crowd singing along passionately.  A standout moment of the night was when The Marías performed their collaboration with Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny, "Otro Atardecer." Zardoya urged the fans to start dancing, then made a surprise move by running off stage and into the crowd, serenading fans who were further back. This spontaneous interaction created an intimate connection between the artist and the audience, making it an unforgettable night for those in attendance. As the night drew to a close, María Zardoya expressed her gratitude to the fans and her team, emphasizing that none of this would be possible without the hard work of everyone behind the scenes. The crowd erupted in cheers, calling for an encore. Zardoya soon returned to the stage in a completely new outfit, a stunning white dress, before stepping into a tub of water to perform "Paranoia." She closed the show with two of The Marías' biggest hits, "Cariño" and "All I Really Want Is You," leaving the audience in awe.  In summary, this concert was an extraordinary experience, showcasing not only María Zardoya’s energy and charisma but also the band’s impeccable musicianship, particularly the saxophone player and guitar player, a thoughtful set design, and striking visual choices. Fans of The Marías, both old and new, should not miss the opportunity to catch them live and experience their latest album, Submarine .

Photos & Review by: Orchee Sorker | August 20, 2024 | Nashville, TN On a breezy August 20th evening, Ascend Amphitheater buzzed with anticipation as fans gathered for a night of indie pop and rock magic. The dream pairing: BENEE, the New Zealand sensation with her quirky pop sensibilities, opening for Wallows. As the sun dipped below the Nashville skyline, the positive energy in the air was evident. BENEE took the stage first, immediately capturing the crowd’s attention with her magnetic presence. Her set was filled with infectious beats and playful lyrics, making it impossible not to dance along. Highlights included the bouncy “Supalonely” and the introspective “Glitter,” which showcased her vocal range and unique style. Her effortless cool and quirky charm set the perfect tone for the evening, leaving the audience in high spirits and eager for more. As the night fell and the stage lights dimmed, Wallows made their entrance to thunderous applause. The trio didn’t disappoint. Opening with “Your Apartment,” they immediately drew the audience into their world. The seamless transition into “Anytime Always” and “Scrawny” kept the energy high, with fans singing every word. The setlist was a well-crafted journey through Wallows’ discography, blending fan favorites with recent songs. “Bad Dream” and “These Days” resonated with its dreamy melodies “At the End of the Day” and “1980s Horror Film” showcased the band’s ability to blend introspection with catchy hooks, while “OK” and “Are You Bored Yet?” brought a surge of nostalgia, with their upbeat rhythms and reflective lyrics. The night reached its climax. The encore, featuring “Only Friend,” left the crowd buzzing, with everyone still enjoying in the afterglow of an unforgettable performance. BENEE and Wallows created a dynamic and memorable night. Ascend Amphitheater, with its stunning views and stellar acoustics, was the ideal setting for this show, and the audience left feeling satisfied.

Photos & Review by: Orchee Sorker | August 16, 2024 | Nashville, TN On August 10, Joshua Bassett delivered a mesmerizing performance at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium, leaving the audience captivated from the first note to the last. The concert was a blend of infectious energy, heartfelt moments, and an undeniable connection between the artist and his fans. From the moment Bassett stepped onto the stage, it was clear that this was going to be a night to remember. His performance was charged with excitement, and the atmosphere inside the Ryman was electric. The lighting design played a crucial role in amplifying the mood of each song, transforming the stage into a vibrant canvas that perfectly matched the emotional depth of Bassett's music. What stood out most was Bassett's genuine interaction with the audience. He truly cares about his fans, and it showed in every moment of the show. Whether he was sharing personal stories or engaging with the crowd, Bassett created an intimate and welcoming environment that made everyone feel like they were part of something special. One of the highlights of the evening was when Bassett brought out guest artist Thomas Day to join him on stage. Together, they delivered a stunning rendition of Coldplay's "Fix You," a moment that left the audience in awe. Fans illuminated the venue with their flashlights, creating a sea of twinkling lights that added to the magic of the performance. Bassett’s setlist was a well-curated mix of songs from his latest album and some of his biggest hits. Each song showcased his versatility as an artist, from the introspective "The Golden Years" to the upbeat "Lie Lie Lie." The performance was a journey through his musical evolution, with standout moments like "Mirror" which was powerful and the crowd-pleaser "She Said He Said She Said," which had everyone on their feet. The full setlist included: 1. The Golden Years 2. Secret 3. Cherry Blossom 4. Circles 5. Biting My Tongue 6. Lie Lie Lie 7. Mirror 8. Lifeline 9. Different 10. Would Ya Tell Me 11. Little Rita 12. All In Due Time 13. Smoke Slow 14. Just Love 15. Feel Something 16. Dancing With Tears In My Eyes 17. Fix You (with Thomas Day) 18. Set Me Free 19. She Said He Said She Said 20. Look How Far You've Come Joshua Bassett’s show at the Ryman was an unforgettable experience that highlighted his growth as an artist and his deep connection with his fans. If you get the chance to see him live, don't hesitate—this is a concert that should be on everyone's list.

Photos by: Camila Molina | August 11th, 2024 | Philadelphia, PA The Still Woozy concert at the Highmark Skyline Stage was an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views that added to the magic of the night. From the moment the show started, the energy was electric; you couldn't afford to blink due to the constant movement and excitement on stage. Check out the photo gallery below!

Written By: Camila Molina | Interview By: Camila Molina | Photos By: Ishan Ghoshal From working together at Guitar Center to living their dream touring across the United States, this alternative band has remained close in their friendship while still exploring their unique individual sounds. Balancing themes of universal sadness and deeply personal struggles, Bay Area pop-punk band Grumpster challenges themselves and the music industry by releasing music that delves into even their darkest moments in their recent self-titled album, “Grumpster.” The band discusses what inspires them to push musical boundaries and how touring with Joyce Manor, the alternative and pop-punk band behind the critically acclaimed album “Never Hungover Again,” improved their songwriting methods, leading to their latest album release. Grumpster’s lineup — Alex Hernandez on guitar and vocals, Donnie Walsh on bass and vocals, Noel Agtane on drums, and Lalo Gonzalez Deetz on guitar — melds a dynamic blend of Northern California roots and East Coast influences. Their strong friendship and authentic lyrics shine through in their latest self-titled album, “Grumpster,” showcasing an unparalleled level of growth, collaboration, and creativity compared to prior projects. The new self-titled album “Grumpster” was crafted during a transformative period for the band, both emotionally and creatively. During the Jawbreaker tour with Joyce Manor, Grumpster realized that their live, authentic sound was not being accurately reflected in their recordings. This realization marked a pivotal moment, prompting them to release songs that truly aligned with their current selves. Looking back on this process, “It was really time too, because our live sound was so much different than any of the previous two periods,” said Deetz. “We were playing shows, but then people would buy a record or something or look us up on the way home, and it [wasn’t] representative of what you're going to see at a show.” Further evolving their process, the band adopted new methods that worked for them, such as writing songs together in “real time” as soon as an idea was born, rather than initially perfecting it before revealing it to the rest of the band. Agtane describes this approach as “very democratic.” Even when it’s with your best friends and you’re going through exciting changes, tour life is debilitating. However, the challenges of life on the road did not stand in the way of this tight-knit band making light of even the most uncomfortable situations. When asked about having a favorite live performance-related memory, Deetz recalled their Orlando show for the Jawbreaker tour and how Alex barely made it to the stage. As soon as the word "Orlando," left Deetz 'mouth,  the band burst into laughter and explained the series of unfortunate events that occurred before the show. Despite everything, they delivered a performance they were proud of, and the fans adored it.  “We had a really, really, really rough day leading into that show, like our wheel almost fell off our van. We had to get a U-Haul. We abandoned our van in another state,” says Deetz. After deciding the only way to still make the show was to just switch vehicles rapidly and move forward, the consequences of standing in the extreme heat started to get to their vocalist and guitarist, Hernandez. Due to complications accessing water once the band arrived at the venue, Hernandez’s condition seemed as though it would not improve in time for the show. Deetz, who plays guitar, recalls feeling overwhelmed with what to do next after realizing Hernandez wasn’t even able to do a soundcheck with the band, and everyone was considering calling 911. “Alex gets like a beer, a cigarette, and a shower, and then comes out of the shower, and we play my favorite set of the whole tour. Apparently, it was great,” says Deetz. The members of Grumpster have done more than just overcome complications on the road; they have faced more ongoing challenges. The band is passionate about being honest about their personal struggles in their music, taking that vulnerability to new lengths by having whoever writes a song on the album be the person who does vocals for it as well. Despite frequently exploring mental health-related topics, many band members are still trying to find a way to create a balance they are comfortable with when discussing these hardships. “I myself have a lot of problems. I never know how open to be with those. I never know [what the line is]. Or like what the actual appropriate thing to say when talking about mental health. Because, especially if it reaches an audience, I don't want to say the wrong thing,” says the band’s drummer, Agtane. “If I was candid, you know, I would be like, ‘oh yeah, you know, like, even though we're doing all this every day, it's still, like, incredibly difficult to do anything. It's super, super hard.’ And I don't want to discourage other people, you know? From pursuing something that makes you feel good.” Walsh, who is on bass and vocals, agrees, stating, “Sh*t is hard to do on a human level, and that's like what the songs are about.” Continuing to embrace and explore how they can be honest with their fan base, members of Grumpster continue to put even the most difficult-to-share parts of their life out there through music. You can connect with the band during their current tour featuring other emerging punk, rock, and alternative bands, including Heart to Gold, Growing Pains, Descendents, and more. You can also stream “Grumpster” on all major streaming platforms.

Written By: Camila Molina | Interview By: Camila Molina | June 20th, 2024 | Photos By: Jay Martin Texas-based solo project Slow Joy is making waves in the alternative music scene with its brutally honest and self-aware narrative-style tracks. Esteban Flores, the creative force behind the project, sat down with HAZZE Magazine for an exclusive interview and explored the deeply personal stories behind the tracks on his latest EP, “Mi Amigo,” while also delving into how he manages career doubts and his journey to becoming the beloved musician he is today. Flores’ connection with music began at a young age. His bittersweet religious upbringing affected more than just his faith, but rather, created somewhat of a default music community. In fact, it was explicitly expected from his family that he contribute musically due to his father being a pastor. “I don’t have a lot of fond memories from the days when I went to church and stuff, but [it’s] a fond memory for me of just how impactful the music side of things was to my family,” said Flores. Although he always had musical talent and countless outlets in his community, he didn't truly develop his unique style until adulthood. It wasn't until then that he was allowed to listen to alternative music icons like the Pixies, Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins — all of whom now heavily influence his craft.  While his biological family sparked his initial love for music, his enduring presence in the industry is fueled by his passion for songwriting and the unwavering support of his chosen family. As he explores the impact of his wife’s love on his career, he recounts times of doubt where he asks himself  “What am I doing?” in fear that he should get a more conventional job. Flores recalls how his wife constantly steers him towards the direction most true to his heart. He shares during the interview how during those moments he’s overjoyed with gratitude as he states, “thank you for being here when I’m just not even thinking sanely,” in light of his wife’s kindness and ability to bring him back down to Earth. Flores does not limit himself to just talking about the highs of relationships. In the second track of the EP,  “Pulling Teeth,” he discusses how he imagines his wife feels during times of emotional turmoil in the relationship. He sings, “I paint the world like a cynic lately / I wear you down by the minute / If I go too far, you’ll still be here / When my head gets dark, I bet you’re sick of pullin’ teeth.” These lyrics express he knows despite these hardships, his partner will still be there for him. However, upon releasing the song, he realized the meaning was getting lost and even misconstrued. “A couple of people got angry about it. They’re like, ‘you’re toxic,” said Flores. “But it’s just a snapshot of a true moment. In a relationship, you’re constantly thankful that the other person is there to hold you up when you’re going through it.” Flores expresses that he wrote the song as an apology to his wife, owning up to his part in those harder times while still acknowledging it is a natural part of being in love and in a long term relationship. Despite the backlash online, what makes him most uneasy about releasing vulnerable tracks is not the reaction of strangers, but rather, the reaction of those closest to him. “My dad loves my music, so he’s constantly listening, and he’s constantly dissecting the lyrics,” said Flores. “So, there will be times where I write a lyric that’s like, ‘oh, he doesn’t know about this yet.’ And I’ll be a bit nervous that he’s gonna read it.” Flores does not let this fear stop him and strives to not let these anxieties get in the way of being honest with both himself and the rest of the world about how he is feeling or what he’s experiencing.  He carries this energy with him in the third song on “Mi Amigo.” “King Cowboy” criticizes the stereotypically expectation of the American dream. “I wanted to put myself in the perspective of someone who loved [the American dream] and wanted to go through it,” said Flores. “But maybe it was more of an ironic, ‘Born in the USA’ or  ‘time to pretend’ type [of] song.” The song reads as almost a story. Flores explains his narrative as he says, “it’s this guy who’s excited. He thinks he’s the king of all cowboys, and he thinks everything's gonna be alright if he just gets married and has kids. And then the second verse [says], ‘let’s raise some kids who hate their lives.’” Flores describes in the interview how he ultimately finds this sentient hilarious.  Flores strives to avoid “self-censorship,” staying true to himself in all his projects. He also expresses this authenticity through his cultural heritage. “I am so proud of just Hispanic culture in general, specifically Chicano culture,” said Flores. “So I try to inject that into everything that I do because there [weren't] a lot of people who look like me making music that I listened to back then.” He expressed that by sharing so much of himself, especially in regards to highlighting his Mexican American roots, he is able to bond profoundly with fans.  You can continue connecting with Slowjoy by seeing him live and streaming his EP, “Mi Amigo .” You can buy tickets here  and stream the EP on all major streaming platforms.

Photos and Review by: Daniel Mensah  | August 9, 2024 Friday night at Wireless 2024 was very incredible to me, because of the diversity the lineup was compared to last few years. Last Year was great, but seeing a lot of artists ranging from American Hip-Hop artists to UK Drill to Afrobeats and Alternative Pop was a breath of fresh air, and I loved the atmosphere of the whole festival, as this was my first time flying internationally. The staff were friendly and had an interesting time there that I will never forget. Friday had the acts of Veeze as a very nonchalant artist with his chill performance, Destroy Lonely having an aggressive entrance, captivating his exciting movements, and him previewing new music, keeping the fans excited for his 4th studio album. Then, Future was the highlight for me. Seeing him live for the first time still feels unreal. Playing classics and seeing him do his silly moves really put a smile on my face when I was shooting him.  Saturday proved to be a delightful experience. As a spiritual individual, witnessing the raw talent of Fridayy during his live performance was truly captivating. His rendition of emotive music, delivered with precision and passionate sounds, left a great lasting impression on me. Fridayy's artistry exudes a sense of smoothness and freshness that is truly remarkable. Likewise, Gunna's performance showcased a similar level of smoothness in his songs, displaying a remarkable versatility that sets him apart as an artist. This was my first time witnessing Gunna's live performance and I was enthralled by the seamless fusion of his Hip-Hop tracks, Afrobeats, and even Gospel renditions. His set was a highlight of the day, leaving me with a sense of fulfillment. Asake's stage presence was equally enthralling, as he did the same entrance of Lil Yachty's grand entrance at Summerstage 2023. Asake's dynamic performance, complete with his flamethrower being his main character to get the audience engaged, is a remarkable ability. He always exemplifies the essence of Afrobeat artistry. His interaction with the crowd, especially him actually going in the crowd, always adding an extra layer of memorable excitement and connection. As for J Hus, seeing everyone sing his songs word to word, was honestly a speechless moment for me. Seeing everyone sing his famous song with Drake,“ Who Told You ,” was truly special. I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of belonging and community in the UK scene. It was a testament to the power of art to break down barriers and bring people together in ways that few other things can. This shared experience was more than just a festival; it was a celebration of diversity, unity, and the joy of living in a world where we can all come together to celebrate music and culture together  Nearing the end of the festival, I kicked off my Sunday with Uncle Waffles, diving into the world of amapiano music. Hearing amapiano music live made me appreciate the genre on a personal level, and her look and her dancers movements were complexed to the max. Rema's live performance was exceptional, showcasing his impressive dance moves, break moves, and flawless performance. His collaboration with Darkoo and Shallipopi was heartwarming, given my admiration for their music. Don Toliver stole the show when he brought out Sexy Red, Cash Cobain, and Rema for an encore that night. And lastly, Doja Cat's performance captivated the audience, especially during " Demons " which energized the entire crowd. The festival's impressivestage designs and the seamless coordination between Doja and Rema were a joy to behold. While my top three acts were Fridayy, Rema, and Doja Cat, I also appreciated Ragz Originale and Teezo Touchdown for their passionate performances and flawless delivery of every lyric. In essence, my experience at Wireless was truly phenomenal, and I am eagerly looking forward to their next event!