Even still, stuff inevitably falls through the cracks, or it may not necessitate its very own article. Rather than just go unreported, however, we'll be doing these semi-regular music news roundups. With a focus on assorted news stories, newly-announced albums and upcoming concerts, it's our hope these offerings will be just another place for us to share how music further grows and shapes our beloved city.
And if we miss anything further, you have our permission to scream and yell at us directly.
News Tidbits
Tool outline plans to record new albumMaynard James Keenan may be busy running a winery and filming jiu-jitsu movies, but he hasn't forgotten about Tool. In fact, in a recent interview with Summa Inferno, bassist Justin Chancellor said the band would begin work on a new album after the band's South American tour. The jaunt spans just a handful of dates and winds down March 30.
"We'll dedicate the next three months," says Chancellor of the recording process. "We’ve all shared our individual ideas with each other, and we have a really good pile of stuff."
Better get to stomping those grapes while you still can, Mr. Keenan.
"SNL" turns 50
This past weekend, "SNL" reached a milestone when the iconic sketch comedy show commemorated 50 years of being on air. Creator-producer Lorne Michaels and dozens of former cast members, musical stars and guest hosts commemorated the affair with an entire weekend of performances, skits and other comedic displays, demonstrating that "SNL" still holds at least some star power after so many years. Below are just some of our musical highlights of the weekend, with musical performances by Miley Cyrus, Paul Simon, Sabrina Carpenter and Lady Gaga, among others.
Miley Cyrus, The Roots and Brittany Howard, "Nothing Compares 2 U" (Sinead O'Connor cover)
Paul Simon and Sabrina Carpenter, "Homeward Bound"
Paul McCartney, "Golden Slumbers," "Carry That Weight" and "The End"
Robyn and David Byrne, "Dancing On My Own"
The Lonely Island and Lady Gaga, "Musical Medley"
Album Announcements
Japanese Breakfast, ‘For Melancholy Brunettes (& sad women)’March 21 via Dead Oceans
Singer-songwriter Michelle Zauner has already earned herself the prize for "best album title" of 2025. As if that weren't enough, though, Zauner has crafted a "creepier, more guitar-driven record" for her fourth studio album. Already we've heard a couple tracks from the LP: the elegant "Orlando in Love" and the grounded but forceful "Mega Circuit." These cuts prove that "For Melancholy..." has more than a superb title but also heaps of magic from the ever-beguiling Zauner.
Bon Iver, ‘SABLE, fABLE’
April 11 via Jagjaguwar
In October 2024, Justin Vernon released "SABLE," the first new Bon Iver music in some five years. Now, the project has announced plans for its "epilogue," the 12-track "SABLE, FABLE," which features cameos from Flock of Dimes and HAIM's Danielle Haim. This "epilogue" is seemingly more poppy and accessible than other Bon Iver tunes, as lead single "Everything Is Peaceful Love" finds the group exploring love and life with newfound warmth and playfulness.
Melvins 1983, ‘Thunderball’
April 18 via Ipecac Recordings
Melvins 1983 have been deemed an "alternate configuration" of the legendary noise rock band, with original drummer Mike Dillard returning to the fold. However, as they prove with lead single "Victory of the Pyramids," Melvins remain as curious and confrontational as ever even as they sound like their "old selves." Time may keep on marching, but Melvins 1983 have frozen a profound rock 'n' roll moment in ceaseless amber.
Upcoming Shows
Tuesday, Feb. 18Cursive
7:30 p.m. at Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. 2nd Ave.
$30 via Ticketweb
The indie rock veterans are currently touring behind their 10th studio album, "Devourer." Despite their experienced status, Cursive remain as sharp and curious as ever across that LP. Expect them to bring the same intensity on stage and also find new ways to promote a proper experience over another just another rock show.
Dream Theater: 40th Anniversary Tour
7:30 p.m. at Arizona Financial Theatre, 400 W. Washington St.
$64 to $206 via Live Nation
In the band's four decades, Dream Theater have pushed the boundaries of progressive metal. This reunion tour, though, isn't just about nostalgia, as drummer Mike Portnoy returns to the fold for the first time in several years. As such, a newly-revitalized Dream Theater will have both something old and something new to bring to hungry audiences.
ALMOST MONDAY
8 p.m. at Valley Bar, 130 N. Central Ave.
$25 to $50 via Ticketweb
This indie pop trio isn't as established as other acts listed here, but what they lack in experience they make up for in passion and commitment. Their debut album, last autumn's "Dive," is made for the stage as it's a lively exploration of youth and young love that almost demands your active and enthusiastic participation.
Wednesday, Feb. 19
Kerry King
7 p.m. at Nile Theater, 105 W. Main St.
$42.50 via Ticketmaster
You will best know Kerry King from his genre-defining work with Slayer. But as a guitarist and songwriter, King's solo work is just as prolific and unwaveringly intense across various shows/releases. The whole show is about balancing past and present, and King is a savage in every sense of the word.
THE SLAPS
7:30 p.m. at Valley Bar, 130 N. Central Ave.
$17 via Ticketweb
In terms of an apt band name, Chicago's own The Slaps couldn't have done much better for themselves. The trio captain a fusion of jazz, alt rock and post-rock, a rollicking mix that's as heady as it is akin to a punch to the abdomen. They may not be the biggest or loudest on stage, but they generate their own unique power regardless.
Thursday, Feb. 20
GloRilla and Sexyy Red (Powerhouse 2025)
8 p.m. at Footprint Center, 201 E. Jefferson St.
$55 to $135 via Ticketmaster
If you're old enough, this is like the Jay-Z/Kanye West joint "Watch the Throne" tour circa 2011. Only the duo of GloRilla and Sexyy Red have their own kind of charisma and stage presence, and together they should make for something altogether more intense, charming and just the right kind of raucous.
Friday, Feb. 21
The Rush Tribute Project
7:30 p.m. at Mesa Arts Center's Ikeda Theater, 1 E. Main St., Mesa
$19.50 to $49.50 via Mesa Arts Center
Since the one true Rush retired circa 2015, a tribute band really is the best we'll ever get these days. However, The Rush Tribute Project are all long-time and/or classically-trained musicians, and they bring a different energy and edge to your old favorites. Plus, at this point, any version of "Tom Sawyer" will instantly bring us to life.
The Noodles
8 p.m. at Last Exit Live, 717 S. Central Ave.
$57 via Ticketmaster
If Rush tribute bands aren't your thing, there's always a band that brings to life the Grateful Dead. The Noodles have been repping Jerry Garcia and company for several years now, and while they're not the real deal, their homage is totally fun and inspired. Bring your tie-dye T-shirts regardless.
Saturday, Feb. 22
bbno$
8 p.m. at The Van Buren, 401 W. Van Buren St.
$79.90 via Live Nation
If you've been online in the last half-decade or so, you've heard bbno$'s many viral hits (including "Lalala" and "edamame"). Luckily, the singer-rapper-producer isn't just a web warrior, and his live show brings the same high energy and hijinks as his virtual presence. This fella is all money, ya dig?
Monday, Feb. 24
Amy Grant
7:30 p.m. at Celebrity Theatre, 440 N. 32nd St.
$57 to $19 via Ticketmaster
Some of you know Amy Grant only as a squeaky-clean '90s singer. The rest of us, however, know that Grant is more than just some "moniker" — she's got the vocal prowess and songwriting chops that made her a proper name in music's most weird, overalls-heavy decade. Add a little respect to Grant's name as you give this true songbird her flowers.
