Shane, the Brooding bachelor Stardew Valley, known for its captivating characters, features Shane, an enigmatic resident of Pelican Town. Initially seen as a brooding JojaMart employee, Shane's character evolves as players explore his complexities. Living with his aunt Marnie and serving as Jas's godfather, Shane offers a unique perspective on the game's narrative through his relationships and struggles. Shane's story is raw and redemptive, and his music reflects that: metal, grunge and alt-rock with working-class angst. What would Shane actually listen to when he's working at JojaMart, hanging around the ranch or having one of his quieter evenings? Stardew Valley gaming screenshot of the farm. Music from Shane In Stardew Valley: A Fantastic Playlist Given Shane’s penchant for solitude, battles with depression, and reliance on coping mechanisms like beer and pepper poppers, his musical tastes gravitate towards genres offering profound emotional connections. Shane’s Playlist: "Devil Himself" by LaLion "Dark Horse" by Our Last Night, originally by Katy Perry “The Less I Know, The Better” By Tame Impala “Fluorescent Adolescent” By Arctic Monkeys “Castle Of Glass” By Linkin Park "Alejandro" by Lady Gaga "Figure You Out" by VOILÀ “Simple Man” By Lynyrd Skynyrd “Fast Car” By Tracy Chapman "Unholy" by Our Last Night, originally by Sam Smith, Kim Petras All In All, What Do You Think Shane In Stardew Valley Would Listen To? For more gritty, cathartic playlists, head to Sebastian's emo-metal lane or Alex's 2000s rap/rock mix. Check out playlists for other Stardew Valley Characters right here: Alex Elliott Harvey Sam Sebastian Shane Abigail Emily Haley Leah Maru Penny

Curious about what the youth in Stardew Valley would listen to? So are we. Ginger Islands’ Little Brother from Stardew Valley Exploring. Who is Leo? In the vibrant world of Stardew Valley, Leo stands out as a mysterious and gentle soul. Born on Summer 26 and living on Ginger Island, Leo’s unique background adds depth to the charming, pixelated landscape. Leo lives on Ginger Island and was raised there after becoming separated from his family. He has developed a close connection to the island's wildlife and spends much of his time exploring nature. Leo found solace on Ginger Island when his parents were lost at sea, considering the parrots that inhabit the island as his family. What would Leo listen to while exploring Ginger Island with his parrot friends? Leo is the gentle, island-raised child; his music is tender, hopeful and Phil Collins-adjacent but no stranger to some screeching vocals. Leo’s Music Taste in a Playlist “Strangers Like Me” By Phil Collins from Tarzan (1999) “Roar” By Katy Perry “When Will My Life Begin?” By Mandy Moore From Tangled (2010) “Just The Way You Are” By Bruno Mars ”Karma Chameleon” By Culture Club What do you think? This playlist is ultimately our interpretation, and we'd love to hear yours. Did we get it right, or would you give this character a completely different soundtrack? If this playlist doesn’t vibe with you, try our picks for Vincent and Jas next. Check out playlists for other Stardew Valley Characters right here: Jodi Kent Lewis Linus Marlon Marnie Pam Pierre Robin Willy Dwarf Birdie Bouncer Governor Grandpa Henchman Junimos Krobus Leo Morris Mr. Qi Old Mariner Professor Snail Sandy Wizard

“A true angler has respect for the water... don't you forget that.” — Willy The Stardew Valley soundtrack is undeniably amazing. However, have you ever thought about what type of music Willy might enjoy? We're intrigued as well, so we've put together a list of music genres, artists, and a few songs that would likely be the kind of music the character would listen to. Meet Willy, The Fisher of Stardew Valley Let’s meet Willy, the amiable angler of Stardew Valley. Willy is not just your average angler. He grew up traversing the Fern Islands, and now, he is settled in the picturesque south of Pelican Town on The Beach. Willy runs a quaint shop selling fishing supplies and bait to fellow villagers. His shop is a daily hub of activity, but on Saturdays, if the weather allows, Willy takes a break to indulge in his passion for fishing. Did you know that Willy's shirt can be tailored with 1 Cloth and 1 Dish O' The Sea to create the Shirt O' The Sea? What Music Would Willy Listen To? As the town’s resident fisherman, Willy spends most of his days surrounded by the ocean, and his taste in music would probably be just as laid-back, weathered and salt-of-the-earth as he is. From Otis Redding’s soulful “Sitting on the Dock of the Bay” to Bruce Springsteen’s anthemic “The River,” Willy’s curated playlist reflects the essence of the ocean and fishing. Join us on a musical journey that encapsulates the spirit of Stardew Valley through Willy’s discerning and evocative music preferences. Willy’s Music Taste Playlist Check out these songs if you are looking for music that perfectly complements Willy’s character in Stardew Valley. “Sitting On the Dock of The Bay” By Otis Redding "Storm" by Jorge Rivera-Herrans, Armando Julián, Cast of EPIC: The Musical “Fish In the Sea” By Storm Weather Shanty Choir “Sea Of Love” By Phil Phillips and The Twilights "The Flood" By Ben Caplan "Missing Piece" By John Michael Howell “Fisherman’s Blues” By the Waterboys “Keep Hauling” By Fisherman’s Friends "Santiana" by Sail North "The Night Pat Murphy Died" By Great Big Sea The Heart of Willy’s Playlist Willy’s love for the sea and maritime life is reflected in his musical taste. His playlist includes a range of sea shanties and soulful melodies with nautical themes. The songs are carefully selected to complement Willy’s character in Stardew Valley, blending coastal vibes with subtle references to fishing. Check out playlists for other Stardew Valley characters: Caroline Clint Demetrius Evelyn George Gil Gunther Gus Jas

Is his cockiness just a facade to mask his crushing self-doubt? Is he using his sports dream to fill the void left by the disappearance of his parents? Or is he just a brazen youth trying to 'look cool?'” — Dev Update #12 Alex is one of the first people you'll meet when you arrive in Pelican Town. Living with his grandparents, George and Evelyn, Alex spends much of his time working out, playing sports and dreaming about becoming a professional athlete. He can come across as confident (even a little arrogant), but getting to know him reveals a much more thoughtful side. Stardew Valley’s Bachelor – Who Exactly Is Alex? Stardew Valley is set in the charming town of Pelican Town, where players are introduced to a diverse cast of characters, including Alex. He is an athletic and charismatic villager who exudes confidence but has some self-doubt. Alex can be found southeast of Pierre’s General Store and is not just the town’s resident jock but also a simple soul. He grapples with self-doubt and the emotional aftermath of his parents’ disappearance. Every character in Stardew Valley has their own personality, interests, relationships and quirks. Some are energetic and outgoing, while others are quieter and more introspective. Some spend their days working, creating, exploring or taking care of others. Naturally, all of that got us wondering: what would their taste in music actually look like? Playlist Peaks: The Songs That Mirror Alex’s Highs What would Alex actually listen to when he's working out, hanging out at the beach or dreaming about making it big? Alex is a confident and athletic character in the game Stardew Valley. Despite his outward demeanour, he has a complex personality that is reflected in his playlist. "Check Yes, Juliet" By We the Kings “Eye Of The Tiger” By Survivor "Battle Rage" by Jonathan Young from the album Baldur's Gate Bardcore “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen “Shut Up and Dance” By Walk the Moon “Radioactive” By Imagine Dragons "Can’t Stop" by The Red Hot Chilli Peppers “Shut Up and Dance” By Walk the Moon “Radioactive” By Imagine Dragons "Running' 2 Death" by Alex O'aiza "Just a man" by Jorge Rivera-Herrans and the cast of EPIC: The Musical What do you think? This playlist is ultimately our interpretation, and we'd love to hear yours. Did we get it right, or would you give this character a completely different soundtrack? If Alex's soundtrack resonates with you, you'll probably vibe with our picks for Sam and Shane next. Check out playlists for other Stardew Valley Bachelors and Bachelorettes right here: Alex Elliott Harvey Sam Sebastian Shane Abigail Emily Haley Leah Maru Penny

Stardew Valley Parodies. Yep, you heard that right. Stardew Valley has inspired a surprisingly rich universe of fan-made parody songs, from comedic odes to the game’s addictive grind to full-blown musicals that retell the farmer’s journey in verse. These tracks range from clever rap tutorials to animated musical numbers and even pop parodies of current hits reimagined for Pelican Town and its residents. As you’ve most likely noticed, Switching Styles portrays musical artistry in all its forms, including serious and not-so-serious content. Today’s article is not so serious. We’re taking the peaceful, serene soundtrack of Stardew Valley and showcasing its parody side. We’ve mentioned Stardew Valley in earlier articles. Showcasing the amazing work of Eric Barone, who single-handedly created the game’s plot, design, soundtrack and visuals. He’s created a world in which players can create their own story, their own home, and, of course, their own fun. Joke Time: What happened to the illegal business in the sewers? They got Krobusted. Joke Time: Why did the manager of Joja stock up on so many products? He thinks Morris better. That joke foreshadows what is to come in this article: great jokes and even better parodies. Now that your giggles are ready to go. Here are hilarious parodies just for you. “I Stardew” Stardew Valley Parody Song by Brentalfloss “STARDEW VALLEY THE MUSICAL” Animated Parody Video by LHUGUENY “Stardew Valley” Rap Song by Jake Llaguno “A Million Beans” a Parody of A Million Dreams from The Greatest Showman by Fuslie Stream Highlights “Quiet Country Town” Stardew Valley Song by Shadrow "To Your Doom!" A Song for Elliott (Stardew Valley Original) by Campusanis Let us know in the comments which parody made you giggle the most! As well, check out more Stardew Valley Parodies, Jokes, and Puns through Reddit!

"Your Guide on How to Begin Writing Music for Self-Care" guest written by Mia Barnes You can find tons of value in creating music of any scope and range, even if it isn’t to the caliber of Rush or Alanis Morissette. The beauty of creating lyrics or a melody on any instrument is the best opportunity to express yourself creatively or practice a meditative form of self-care. Feel free to tap into your musical self, even without training, with these ideas. You may find it therapeutic. Reconnect With Your Inner Musician You probably picked up at least one instrument as a child, whether it be a piano lesson or band class in school. Results from Canadian music programmes show that early exposure to learning an instrument can support brain development, vocabulary and attention. Dust off whatever you have lying around and refamiliarize yourself with how it felt to be enchanted by it. You should also pull out any sheet music you have or watch a video of your favourite musician to get yourself in the mindset. Everyone has a touch point that got them to pick up an instrument in the first place. Engage with it by playing a few chords or notes. It can feel calming and nostalgic to reconnect with that part of your childhood or form of creative expression. Don’t overthink it or worry about perfection. If you only focus on creating sounds at this stage, it will feel rewarding no matter what. It will feel relieving to let go of any expectations. Embrace the Digital Age of Music You can also create music without an instrument, if that feels more intuitive. Experiment with tons of free programmes and online tutorials. These resources can take you on their own inspiring journey. Apps like BandLab and GarageBand let people make music on a computer, tablet or smartphone, with many free instruments to play. Push a few buttons, and you can simulate playing synths, or mash a few keys to get the thumps of a drum machine. You can even sample voice lines from your favourite TV shows and movies to layer over other sounds — it’s a playground. Layer them together to create a beat, as many have done during the chillhop and lo-fi revolution. In 2021, one Canadian chillhop creator spoke about how thoughtful and accessible digital music can be, saying, "When it comes to form, simplicity is a key factor in my method, with an inclination toward gradually introducing each element into the mix, almost like actors in a play. At times they may leave and re-enter, coupled by a new element and supplying some refreshment in texture." Capture Your Spontaneous Creations You can make music in even lower-stakes environments if you think of it as journaling. Equate your feelings to a sound, and embrace however it comes out. You can do this in a few ways, like using voice memos on your phone to record you singing an emotion you feel or a sound you hear during a walk. Seeing the beauty in every moment and environment is one of the best ways to practice presence and incorporate self-care into more pockets of your day. Think of this collection as a snapshot of your life that you permitted yourself to catalogue in a creative way. Engaging in these activities is like doing your own music therapy, which has many benefits, including: ● Better sleep. ● More supportive social connections. ● Improved mood regulation. ● Anxiety management. ● Increased emotional awareness. Build Your Personal Soundtrack for Self-Care Using these tips, you’ll start to practice writing music more often and find more places to source inspiration. You’ll have a sizable collection of lyrics, sounds and ideas. Every piece is a representation of your mental health, so when you layer them together to form a song, you’ll be able to hear how you felt. In 2023, the Canadian Mental Health Association challenged people to create playlists of songs that made them feel as a way to combat the depressive feelings incited by stressful global events. Respondents said it was a wonderful way to process emotions, which you can do yourself by creating a self-care playlist based on your ideas. Every sound is an insight into your growing resilience, creativity and well-being. Then you can use this soundtrack or playlist at any time during your mental health journey. The Sounds of Lasting Well-Being Everyone deserves to create without feeling like they have to become a legend. If you want to start making music as a form of self-care, you can start now. A joyful hum, a pluck of a string, or a line of lyrics culminates into a scrapbook of your emotions. Hopefully, these tips will help you find freedom and contentment in art.

There’s something simply classic and elegant about a piano. However, classical doesn’t mean traditional or boring, as many perceive orchestral music. It’s energetic, subtle, and elegant. As an instrument, the piano emphasizes power and subtle gentleness to every note. That’s exactly what the pianist Alvaro Arizcun is known for. Online, he’s known as Rhaeide. In his arrangements, Rhaeide shows everything that the piano is and more: energetic, subtle, powerful, elegant, classical, graceful and even rocking. Alvaro Arizcun has been a pianist since a young age and continues to this day. Featuring Rhaeide Barcelona is where he got his start. Ever since the young age of 5, Rhaeide played the piano, loving every minute of it. A friend of the family-owned a musical school by the name of La Antártida. This is where he began his piano lessons and music theory classes. Music has been a strong presence in his home from a very young age. “I remember music was always playing loud at home as a kid. My mom used to have plenty of old cassettes and vinyls full of many different styles that let her sing and dance along,” He said. But it wasn’t just his mother that had a passion for music, his step-father did as well. His step-father, Xavier Manau, is the trombonist for the band, ‘La Vella Dixieland.’ He travelled worldwide, performing in a classic old-school jazz band. Music wasn’t only a love, passion, and way of life within his home. This shaped Rhaeide not only with the mere presence of music but also with the passion for it. “I guess travelling to many of their gigs around the region shaped me somehow too, “He was immersed in a musicians’ lifestyle while he was growing up, “although up to this point, I’ve never had the drive to learn to play jazz music.” As he grew as a person and a musician, his family let him develop his talents independently with his initiative – pushing only to stop him from quitting. His family still supports him even though they aren’t expressive about it. One person is highly supportive, and he’s vocal about it. “My dad, on the other hand, has always embraced it with endless devotion, pushing me into making more videos, reacting to them passionately, promoting me and being my number one fan.” With the encouragement to continue playing, but by his ambition, he flourished. By 14 years old, he was beginning to compose and arrange for the piano and the orchestra. “As a musician, I would say my creativity started developing at 14,” he reminisces. He bought his first Yamaha keyboard for €300 ($438.19 Can) and spent hours playing music. With over 250 voices and a 6-track song recorder, he started to create his original works of music. Rhaeide continues his career on YouTube. In 2008, he started uploading his talent to YouTube, showing off his talent on his channel under the pseudonym Rhaeide. Starting the YouTube channel, however, didn’t have such a clear line of inspiration. There wasn’t a specific trigger for the first uploaded video; instead, he admits it’s more of following what was popular then. “I started only three years after YouTube’s release, it was the novelty,” He said, “I wanted to see how would it be to share my recordings with people from around the world like other artists were doing at the moment in a very fast-growing platform that YouTube was”. Alvaro Arizcun created the name Rhaeide for his musical career. The origin of the Pseudonym of Rhaeide Rhaeide is not a name that originated from this world. The musician who came up with it was a big fan of fantasy stories, which had always inspired him. He was creative with music and enjoyed creating fictional stories in his mind. Although he had thought about publishing them, he never got around to it. One of the stories he worked on for several months featured Rhaeide as one of the main characters. Rhaeide was a powerful conjurer on a mission to save a child whose fate was tied to a series of prophecies. The story’s arc was inspired by works such as Tolkien’s and Dragonlance’s, while the names were influenced by Game of Thrones’ “A Song of Ice and Fire” series. The musician chose a similar but unique name, coming up with Rhaeide. Initially, the pronunciation was considered only in a Spanish context, and many English speakers had trouble pronouncing it. “I found I didn’t know how to pronounce it in English. If it ever reached the point of having to be pronounced somewhere, I would say something similar to ‘Raid’ or ‘Raidy,'” he explains, “but for me, the Spanish pronunciation is the one I’m familiar with. Any other just sounds ‘weird.'” Cover Songs Galore Regardless of the reasoning behind it, it paid off. His YouTube channel has nearly 50K subscribers. His videos have over 16 million views. The first video he posted was a Prime Suspect Piano Solo, reaching almost 7K views at the start of 2020. The internet had a significant part to play in promoting and publishing his music and making it possible as a career. This is a channel that’s been around nearly as long as YouTube itself. Rhaeide likes YouTube as a platform without getting bored with it. “It’s true there are things that I don’t like or haven’t liked in the past, but I’m a person that always chooses to focus on the positive aspects of things when the negative isn’t in my hands to solve,” He explains, “So in the case of YouTu, be I’ve enjoyed it a lot, both as a consumer and artist.” The videos he uploads are covers with compositions arranged by himself. All of them, he has written by himself. Using a Canon Powershot G7X Mark II camera to shoot his performances, he gives his audience a ‘hands-on’ show. Under the genre of epic piano arrangements, he doesn’t have a specific sound for his music. He says they’re flexible and faithful, “I would describe it as ever-changing, but mainly uplifting, since the way I do create is by following my emotions, and I can only play and find inspiration if I’m in an uplifting mood.” Rhaeide Cover Songs Cover songs, in essence, change the song in one way or another, whether in the style, genre or anything the musical desires. In Rhaeide’s case, he does his best to keep the music intact, merely written for the piano. His covers are a way to give people an opportunity to revive the good memories associated with a particular song while enjoying the now. When asked about his favourite cover, it was hard for him to choose since he has multiple favourites for different reasons. A few of them have been inserted here. “Dead Silence” “My favourite arrangement to listeto n myself is the ‘Dead Silence Theme’ because I believe I was able to transfer the soul of the movie into my recordi,ng and I really feel the chills every time.” “The Avengers Theme” “The arrangement I’m most proud of is ‘The Avengers theme’; I still remember the amount of blood I sweated to solve the puzzle with that one.” “Baldur’s Gate 2” “On the other hand, I consider the ‘Baldur’s Gate 2 Theme’ to be the most beautiful I’ve played for the memories it personally brings. Also because it was my first ‘viral’ video and because I was able to perform it in a wonderful Steinway & Sons piano.” “Beauty and The Beast” “Finally, the one that has brought more satisfaction in terms of public response is undoubtedly the ‘Beauty and the Beast Prologue’. It’s the fan-favorite.” “Some other special mentions: ‘The Goonies Theme’ for its difficulty and energy, ‘The Christmas Piano Medley‘ because it always brings my mood up, ‘Les Misérables’ for being the most emotional one, and of course, ‘The Horror Medley Part 1′ since it’s the one that put me on the map of Horror music on YouTube.” But that’s not all Rhaeide does. He also has original compositions. There are some featured below. “Autumn Maze” There are several projects that he’s currently working on. As Halloween approaches, there are ideas for the season of spookiness. Tutorials and a few collaborations are also in store for Rhaeide’s audience. In terms of the distant future, it’s up in the air. “I don’t really like to foresee the distant future, and I don’t have a specific goal that I want to achieve. Could it be composing? Or joining a band? Or performing around the world? Time will tell.”

"The Impact of Music Therapy on Mental Health", Guest written by Mia Barnes Music can shift how you feel in minutes. One song can calm your breathing, soften muscle tension or help you feel a little less lonely. That emotional pull is why music therapy matters. It turns something you already love into a structured, evidence-based way to support your mental health. What Is Music Therapy? Music therapy is more than putting on a playlist when you feel low. It is a clinical practice led by a trained professional who uses sound to support specific goals. That can include singing, listening, songwriting, rhythm work or guided movement. The aim is not musical talent, but emotional support, stress relief and healthier ways to process what you feel. Mental health support does not always have to start in crisis. Auditory guidance can also work as a proactive tool that you can use when you need it. Instead of waiting until stress knocks at your door, you can head it off with music-based support to help gently regulate your mood. A recent study on Canadian students from McMaster University found that group music sessions helped reduce anxiety over time. The study indicated that 71% of participants found the therapy helpful, and most would use it again. How Sound Changes Your Brain Music’s power lies in its immediate engagement with the brain, activating various regions. It stimulates areas linked to memory, emotion, pleasure, motivation and movement, which is why you may sway to a song or remember something when you hear a familiar sound. Rehearsal of the Pasdeloup Orchestra at the Cirque d’Hiver by John Singer Sargent It works in real time — you hear it, your brain responds, and your body follows. Over time, repeated musical experiences can help shape new communication pathways in the brain. That doesn’t mean it “fixes” everything, but it can support the brain in ways that bring immediate relief. Music Therapy for Everyday Stress and Anxiety Stress and anxiety often build quietly. You may notice poor sleep, irritability, racing thoughts or that heavy feeling of always being “on.” Musical treatment offers a low-pressure way to interrupt that cycle. In the Canadian campus study, students who took part in weekly 45-minute group therapy sessions showed reductions in stress and anxiety, both in the short term and across the six-week program. Yale School of Medicine notes that sound-based mindfulness may treat symptoms of anxiety and depression. It points to the need for more community-based, affordable mental health options, which music can provide. Not everyone can access long-term treatments right away, but sound and song can always be part of your life. Creating Calm: Music and Sensory Regulation Mental health is about more than just your thoughts. It is also about what your body and nervous system are handling. For some, such as those on the autism spectrum, sensory overload can make stress much worse and lead to emotional reactions, withdrawal and difficulty engaging in everyday activities. It can also make noisy or visually busy spaces harder to manage. Music can help create a calm space within the chaos. Using sound as a sensory break creates moments when your nervous system quiets and you engage in calming activities. Melody can help regulate feelings and unify the disrupted environment that usually triggers emotional outbursts or withdrawal. A steady rhythm, familiar tune or guided listening session can create a more predictable environment. The sense of predictable structure creates expectations that differ from person to person. Simple Ways to Use Music for Wellness There are no rules about what sounds work or don’t, as it depends on the individual. Create playlists for your specific needs. One can help you focus, another promotes rest, while a third lifts your mood on difficult days. Instrumental tracks, soft vocals or repeating rhythms often work well to settle your system. Try mindful listening. Put on one song and give it your full attention. Notice the tempo, lyrics and instruments. Become aware of how your breathing changes. Even a few minutes can help you feel more present. Overlay a busy room with a soothing track, and the experience quiets. Why This Connection Matters Music therapy draws science and life together. It awakens the brain with rhythm, memory and emotion. But it also exists wherever you are. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, carrying daily stress or trying to create a calmer routine, music can be a practical form of support. While it may not replace counselling and necessary medical care, it can help you shape a gentler, more balanced way to look at your mental health.

The Decimate Metalfest occurred this past June and was an absolute blast. For those who crowded into the arena, the weekend was a whirlwind of powerful riffs, memorable performances, and genuine connection. If you missed it, take this as your cue: start planning for 2027 now. Decimate Metalfest continues to provide a platform for bands like Godfall to flourish. Known for its community-first approach and inclusive, all-ages setting, the festival fosters an environment where fans and artists can connect on a more personal level. Godfall Q&A Interview with Switching Styles and Godfall Godfall, based in Calgary, Alberta, is known for their powerful sound and engaging performances. This interview features the metalcore band Switching Styles and their collaboration with Godfall. It offers insights into their creative process, inspirations, and the vibrant metal scene in Canada.The Q&A covers various topics, including the band's formation, musical influences, and the evolution of their sound over time. How would you describe the Decimate Metalfest to someone who’s never heard of it? As a staple in the Alberta music scene! Bands that have made it from Alberta to be bigger acts have been involved with Decimate in one way or another. A celebration of the alt culture! What does it mean for the festival to remain all-ages in today’s metal scene? Pretty important, as a band with some members having kids ourselves, it gets to be a family affair. What role do community and local partnerships play in bringing Decimate Metalfest to life each year? I would say pretty important. As I mentioned earlier, it’s a celebration of the alt and metal culture, so a festival like Decimate brings everyone together. What value do festivals provide that streaming music and social media can’t? Discovery grounded in the reality of being able to walk the talk. A lot of bands may be able to put out good music but fall flat live; festivals are a great way to establish themselves as serious bands. What makes a festival performance unique compared to a standalone show? Bigger and higher quality production. How do festivals help build a sense of community among metal fans? Mainly by fans of one band being able to interact with other fandoms as well as discovering bands of adjacent tastes. What opportunities does the festival create for artists beyond performing? Networking! You never know who might be watching, or even if you do, getting to interact with loads of other folks beyond just the local city scene. What are some of the biggest challenges facing independent music festivals today? I would assume funding and the general economy being pretty crappy. Good on Decimate to be able to keep this alive What changes have you seen in the festival scene in general since the pandemic? We are a newer band in the scene, so can’t say much. But I think only the strongest brands have survived. What misconceptions do people sometimes have about music festivals? That they tend to be busts for bands or not being worth the squeeze with the amount of effort that goes into putting into a festival show. I can appreciate where these views come from, but in my opinion, every festival played allows you to learn something more about the music industry, so it’s a great way to keep polishing that grind. What do you hope attendees take away from this year’s festival? If I can be selfish, I hope Godfall gets access to larger crowds and is able to rub shoulders with other fellow bands in the grind! Looking Ahead If Decimate Metalfest 2026 demonstrated anything, it's that the new era of Canadian metal has arrived, with Godfall at the forefront. Their performance was one of the weekend's standout moments, not due to any spectacle, but thanks to their execution, presence, and authenticity. Learn more about both the band and the festival! For more information, updates, and future announcements, follow Decimate MetalFest through their official channels. Learn more about Decimate MetalFest below: Website: www.decimatemetalfest.com Facebook: @decimatemf/ Tiktok: @decimate.metalfest YouTube: @decimatemetalfest Instagram: @decimate_mf/ Learn more about the band, Godfall, below: Facebook: @https://www.facebook.com/godfallband/ YouTube: @https://www.facebook.com/godfallband/ Instagram: @https://www.instagram.com/godfallband/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/50EU10wgTi0W9HEaUQzg0W Bandcamp: https://godfall1.bandcamp.com/ iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/album/make-me-sick-single/1890375560?uo=4 Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/album/952906301 iHeartRadio: https://www.iheart.com/artist/id-35194041/albums/id-391373576 Curious what other bands thought of Decimate Metalfest? Check out the Q&As with Famous Strangers and Valley of Despair!

Summer has a way of inviting us outdoors, encouraging laughter, and inspiring moments that linger long after the sun sets. When the warmth of the season wraps around us, the soundtrack of those days becomes just as important as the company we keep. Curating the Perfect Summer Party Playlist Choosing the right music for a summer gathering requires a delicate balance. It's not simply about playing the latest hits or the most popular tunes. Instead, it's about curating a collection that reflects the spirit of the season and the personalities of those attending. The music should feel like a gentle breeze - refreshing, uplifting, and effortlessly engaging. Cozy backyard setup for a summer party with music Top Upbeat Summer Songs to Brighten Your Playlist Upbeat songs are the heartbeat of any summer party, infusing the atmosphere with energy and joy. They invite guests to move, laugh, and lose themselves in the moment. Here are some standout tracks that consistently bring the sunshine to life: "Electric Feel" by Callum J. Wright, originally by MGMT "Summer of '69" by First to Eleven, originally by Bryan Adams "I Want It That Way" by No Resolve, Originally by Backstreet Boys "I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)" by Fall Out Boy, originally by Whitney Houston "When Doves Cry" by Sarah Jarosz, originally by Prince "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Panic! At The Disco, originally by Queen "Fireflies" by RUUD and Eric Odeen, originally by Owl City "Edge of Seventeen" by The Winde and The Wave, originally by Stevie Nicks "I Was Made for Lovin' You" by YUNGBLUD, originally by Kiss "Black Betty" by Vahtang Beatbox, Originally by Ram Jam These songs, among others, create a vibrant tapestry of sound that keeps the party alive and the smiles wide. Including a mix of global hits and Canadian favourites ensures the playlist feels both familiar and fresh. Elevate Your Summer Party Experience Creating a summer party playlist is a joyful blend of creativity and emotion. By mixing diverse sounds and heartfelt selections, the music becomes a thread that connects memories and friendships. Whether outdoors or in a cozy backyard, the right playlist encourages everyone to dance, dream, and enjoy the pleasure of shared sound.

Metal musicians are releasing plenty of loud, rocking and downright heavy music. From riff-heavy hard rock to technical death metal, stoner grooves and chaotic mathcore, we're here for it. There’s no shortage of new albums, songs and eps competing for a spot in your headphones. We’re keeping our ears open for the releases worth cranking the volume way up. Releases on our Radar Whether you’re looking for something to soundtrack your next road trip, a new band to obsess over or an excuse to turn the volume knob high, these albums and releases caught our attention. Golaim, Album by Fenris Heavy metal, hard rock, melodic metal. If you like your riffs served with a healthy dose of classic-metal muscle, Fenris’ Golaimis worth excavating. Expect the kind of dramatic, guitar-driven sound that lands somewhere between Metallica, Iron Maiden, Avenged Sevenfold, Bullet For My Valentine and Trivium. Originally released in 2019, Golaim has been digitally reissued and is now streaming on Spotify. Black Mountain, by The Roost Alternative rock, grunge, hard rock. Belgian four-piece The Roost bring a fuzzy, melodic edge to their new mini-album Black Mountain. Fans of Alice In Chains, Foo Fighters, Royal Blood, Stone Temple Pilots and Weezer should find plenty to sink their teeth into, with grunge grit meeting big alternative-rock hooks and bluesy swagger. Violet Crown, by Voodoo Queen Fuzz rock, stoner rock, heavy blues. French outfit Voodoo Queen are digging deep into vintage fuzz, desert-rock grooves and modern stoner heaviness with Violet Crown. Their new music video for “Bright Cage” offers a taste of the debut album’s hypnotic riffs, heavy grooves and introspective songwriting. Fans of Blue Pills, Rival Sons, Graveyard, Kyuss and The Vintage Caravan should feel right at home. Xenotaph, by Fallujah Progressive death metal, technical death metal, extreme metal. Fallujah’s sixth studio album Xenotaph takes the band’s technical and progressive side even further, combining intricate musicianship with a sprawling sci-fi concept. Originally released through Nuclear Blast Records in June 2025, the album expands on the direction of Empyrean while pushing deeper into atmospheric, dynamic and futuristic territory. Fans of progressive and technical extreme metal should give this one a spin. This Is the Way, by Gravemass Black metal, atmospheric metal, extreme metal. Gravemass channel the bleak, ritualistic side of black metal, creating a sound that feels less like a playlist and more like being dragged into the woods at midnight. Their debut album, This Is the Way, is on the horizon for March 2026, promising a suffocating atmosphere, punishing intensity, and an occult edge. Their live presence is just as imposing, making them a band worth watching whenever they appear on a festival lineup. EXTREME METAL, by Dead Kiwis Chaotic hardcore, mathcore, extreme metal. French outfit Dead Kiwis have returned with EXTREME METAL, a release that wastes absolutely no time getting weird. Fans of Dillinger Escape Plan, Converge, Every Time I Die, Frontierer and The Chariot should expect fractured riffs, frantic energy and the sort of controlled chaos that makes you wonder whether the band is playing the song or fighting it. Keep the music rocking. The best thing about keeping an ear on new music is never knowing what will stick. From Canada’s growing heavy-music scene to international bands pushing metal, hardcore and rock into stranger territory, there’s plenty to discover. So turn it up, support the bands making the music. ­ ­ ­

Song lyrics connect with us on an emotional level. They express feelings we sometimes struggle to put into words ourselves. A tattoo with a lyric can serve as a daily source of inspiration, comfort, or motivation. Unlike generic quotes, lyrics often carry a story or a melody that adds depth to their meaning. Lyrics can also reflect identity, values, or a tribute to someone special. Whether it’s a line from a favourite band, a classic ballad, or a modern hit, the right lyric can become a personal mantra or a symbol of resilience. Picking the Perfect Song Lyrics for the Perfect Tattoos Not every lyric fits well as a tattoo. Here are some qualities to look for: Brevity: Short lines are easier to read and fit well on the body. Personal significance: The lyric should resonate with your life or beliefs. Timelessness: Choose lyrics that remain relevant over time. Visual appeal: Poetic rhythm or strong imagery enhances tattoo script. Remember, tattoos are permanent and cover-ups are costly. Examples of Song Lyrics That Work Well as Tattoos Here are some meaningful lyrics from various genres that many have chosen for tattoos. These are just a few ideas for fun and uplifting song lyrics that will certainly make for the perfect tattoo. "You can't always get what you want" by The Rolling Stones "Just like heaven" by The Cure "Somebody once told me" from "All Star" by Smash Mouth "Laughing 'til our ribs get tough" from "Ribs" by Lorde "Let it be" by The Beatles "These diamonds are forever" from "Diamonds Forever" by BBNO$ "Come as you are" by Nirvana "Another stranger in a window street" from "Edge of the Earth" by Aysanabee "Right next to you" from "Die With a Smile" by Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars Now you don't have to use these lyrics. There are thousands of artists whose lyrics are perfect for an emotionally charged tattoo. Tips for Choosing the Right Lyric Tattoo for you Personalize with symbols, illustrations, or handwriting related to the song or your story. Consider placement for visibility, pain level, and sentimentality, like your heart or hands. Choose a font that matches the mood. Avoid questionable choices like Comic Sans for a memorial tattoo. Or fully commit to it. Check spelling and grammar to prevent errors like "No Regerts." Consult with a tattoo artist for assistance with size, style, and placement.