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Dave Matthews Band photo credit: Sanjay Suchak // courtesy of Shore Fire Media

Concert calendar: Dave Matthews Band, Chameleons, Jo Dee Messina, Chest Fever, Arkells, The Academy Is..., The Fell

Fri, Mar 13th 2026 05:50 pm

Press releases

Dave Matthews Band will perform July 22 at the Darien Lake Amphitheater.

The U.S. headline tour will kick off with a trio of Texas shows: May 8 at The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands, May 9 at Dallas’ Dos Equis Pavilion and May 11 at Moody Center in Austin. On June 10, the group will return to New York’s historic Forest Hills Stadium. Dave Matthews Band will also perform during the inaugural seasons of three new venues: Mystic Lake Amphitheater in Shakopee, Minnesota (June 23); Morton Amphitheater in Kansas City, Missouri (June 24); and Acrisure Amphitheater in Grand Rapids, Michigan (July 7-8).

Visit https://davematthewsband.com/warehouse and http://www.davematthewsband.com.

Dave Matthews Band is the highest-ranked American headliner on Pollstar’s list of the “25 Most Popular Touring Artists of The Millenium,” coming in at No. 4. The group has sold 19.5 million tickets in the past 25 years and is one of only three artists in the top 25 with more than 1,000 shows recorded in the box-office archives since 2001. Since debuting in 1991, Dave Matthews Band has sold a combined 38 million CDs and DVDs and more than 25 million tickets, making them the second-largest ticket seller in history.

Named as a UN Environment Goodwill Ambassador in 2019, Dave Matthews Band has a long history of reducing its environmental footprint, going back to its first shows in 1991. The band is renewing its partnership with Live Nation venues to further minimize the environmental footprint of its tour. This summer’s shows will mark the third year of the “On The Road To Zero Waste Tour,” which achieved a milestone of over 90% of fan-generated waste at Live Nation venues reused, composted, recycled or donated in previous years. Dave Matthews Band will also join forces again with environmental nonprofit REVERB, celebrating 21 years of partnership focused on making the music industry more sustainable and fan-driven action more measurable.

In 2026, DMB continues its longstanding support of The Nature Conservancy’s global reforestation efforts. Seven years strong, this work is rooted in a simple belief that healthy forests help create a healthier planet. With 6 million trees already planted, DMB is committing to plant 1 million more this year, bringing the total to 7 million trees in 2026. These trees help rebuild critical forests that clean our air and water, provide habitat for wildlife, and support a more stable climate for future generations. Learn more about this work with The Nature Conservancy at dmbtrees.org.

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Image courtesy of Reybee Inc.

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Chameleons announce North American tour in support of ‘Arctic Moon’

Press release

Heralded by a stream of overwhelmingly celebratory reviews for their latest full-length album “Arctic Moon” (their first in over 24 years), Chameleons are launching a North American tour that will kick off April 7 in Minneapolis. The Chameleons will perform at Toronto’s Mod Club on April 12.

While their albums, including 2025’s “Arctic Moon,” have been overwhelmingly embraced by new and old fans alike, their live shows are the stuff of legend. The Spill Magazine wrote of their Toronto show in August 2024, “The band played a tight set and are all incredible musicians. Special mention must be given to Vox, whose vocals are as strong as ever. The man simply does not age. When they performed songs from their debut album as encores, it was as if time stood still.”

Bestowed with triumphant and across-the-board stellar reviews, “Arctic Moon” found Chameleons growing exponentially both musically and in popularity. Containing seven new songs including the single "Saviours Are A Dangerous Thing" (stream | video), a rerecorded version of the 2024 single "Where Are You?", plus longer compositions such as the slow-burning epic "David Bowie Takes My Hand," the new album has garnered a four star review in MOJO ("The Manc lizard king's mix of head shop philosophy and mournful stadium jangle has aged well"); a 9 out of 10 review in Vive Le Rock ("It’s rare for a band to recapture the magic of their youth so ably, but that’s exactly what they have done here"); and an 8 out of 10 from UNCUT ("“The muscular opener confirms they mean business, with further shape-shifting amid gothic jangles and a convincing anthemic passion recalling former moody heights, while the more sprawling tracks best illustrate their 21st century relevance").

Although signaling something of a departure from the sound of their earlier albums, “Arctic Moon,” nevertheless” remains rooted in the same emotional depth, spirit and intensity that has always defined their output.

“There is an obvious maturity to the songwriting on this record, and anyone familiar with our past work will hear that this is a positive step forward,” bassist and singer Vox (Mark Burgess) has previously stated. “While we’re proud of the band’s legacy, we really wanted to forge something fresh while retaining that profound and imaginative quality we’re known for. We think that we have managed to do that and deliver a very strong record!”

Chameleons are Reg Smithies (guitar), Vox (bass, vocals, lyrics), Stephen Rice (guitar), Danny Ashberry (keyboards) and Todd Demma (drums).

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Jo Dee Messina (Photo credit: Madison Sharp // courtesy of Big Hassle Media)

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Country music icon Jo Dee Messina announces ‘Bridges’

Press release

Chart-topping, two-times-Grammy-nominated country music icon Jo Dee Messina, known for her powerful vocals and extensive catalog – including nine No. 1 hits and 16 Top 40 songs, as well as awards and nominations from Billboard, ACM’s, CMA’s, and AMA’s – is thrilled to announce that “Bridges,” her first new album in over 10 years, will be released this summer. The first single from the new album, “Some Bridges,” arrives today.

Most albums reflect a season; Messina’s new album is 10 years' worth of seasons rolled up into one. The love, the life, the pain, the fight, the learning – and the living through it all.

“Some Bridges” was written with celebrated songwriters Kat Higgins (Carrie Underwood, Kenny Chesney, Ashley McBryde) and James T. Slater (Martina McBride, Keith Urban, Tim McGraw), and mixed by five-time Grammy-winning producer, engineer and mixer Chris Lord-Alge. Lord-Alge has mixed many of Messina’s biggest songs, including the 1996 hit “Heads Carolina, Tails California” and is setting the emotional foundation for “Bridges.”

On “Bridges,” Messina grapples with the notion that life is all about change – and sometimes that change is hard.

“We are often told not to burn bridges – and it's good advice,” Messina said. “I've lived long enough to know that's true. But there are also exceptions, and sometimes it's OK to let that baby burn. In life, sometimes we just need to look forward and keep going.”

WATCH:

A true icon, Messina has become a North Star in the music world, carving a path for artists and inspiring the younger generation from Ella Langley and Lainey Wilson to Cole Swindell’s ode to “Heads Carolina, Tails California," and Sierra Ferrell and Nikki Lane’s cover of “Lesson in Leavin’.” She’s more than merely a country icon. Her influence spreads across multiple generations and genres.

Over the past decade, though, Messina, like all of us, has encountered road bumps both minor and heartbreaking – loss, struggle and sicknesses – her music, her children, and her faith have been key saviors in her life, and each is woven into the fabric of “Bridges.”

Messina has also announced several tour dates that will bring her to select markets across the country. She’ll perform at Batavia Downs on Aug. 14. For all news and up-to-date information, visit jodeemessina.com.

Connect with Jo Dee Messina: website | TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | X

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Chest Fever (Photo credit: Erica Joan // image courtesy of devious planet media)

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Chest Fever

Chest Fever, the official revival of The Band, will perform at Buffalo Iron Works on April 15.

The show is billed as The Music of Bob Dylan & The Band with Chest Fever & Tyler Bagwell.

2025 marks Chest Fever’s third year on the road touring North America. Chest Fever shows their respect for The Band while remaining true to their own original vision. The stories, legend and community of The Band live on through the passion and magic of Chest Fever, newly embodied in the live performance and burning energy they bring to every stage.

Officially approved by Robbie Robertson and The Band Official, the group began hitting the road and playing venues in North America in 2022. From their hometown of San Diego to North Ontario, Chest Fever has performed in almost every state and province across the U.S. and Canada, with many highlights including a sold-out show presented at Toronto’s revered Massey Hall on Nov. 18, 2023 – celebrating the 45th anniversary release of “The Last Waltz.”

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Arkells, "Between Us" tour. (Image courtesy of The Syndicate)

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Arkells will ‘Ride’

Nine-times Juno-Award winners Arkells have released a breezy summertime-feeling single, “Ride” (featuring GROUPLOVE)” via Universal Music Canada and Virgin Music Group. “Ride” is the fourth single from Arkells forthcoming album, “Between Us,” due April 17. The track pairs GROUPLOVE’s signature balance of soft vocals and punching falsettos, with Arkells’ comforting indie-pop groove.

“On its face, the song is about riding a bike in the city,” admits frontman Max Kerman. “That unbridled feeling of pedaling along to the song in your head. But beneath the surface, the bike's a metaphor. When life tries to bribe you with a litany of material things, can a simple, utilitarian object like a bicycle be all you need? We asked GROUPLOVE to join us because, when Christian and Hannah sing together, we feel a chemical reaction to their voices. That pure, explosive freedom we needed in the song.”

“Between Us” was produced by L.A.-based John Congleton (St. Vincent, Death Cab for Cutie, Wallows). "Ride" follows the latest song release, “Next Summer,” with its instantly hummable chorus, the previously released radio favorite “Money” (featuring Portugal. The Man), and the punchy tune “What Good?,” to round out the first taste of new music from this “Between Us” era.

On release week, the Arkells will kick-off their U.S. tour with two shows in Buffalo at Town Ballroom (April 17-18). Hailing from Toronto, this is about as close to a hometown show as they can get in the U.S.!

Whether they’re rocking stadiums, making a beeline for the discotheque, or gathering around the campfire, the implicit message of Arkells is always the same: Everyone is welcome here. Since the beginning, Arkells have never wavered in their mission to be the house band that soundtracks the greatest nights of your life and provides emotional support in your darkest hours. And that communal spirit is reflected in an ever-evolving sound that hits all the perennial pleasure points – fusing the anthemic power of alt-rock, the pulpit-shaking passion of vintage soul, the off-the-cuff intimacy of singer-songwriter music, the urbane edge of 21st-century indie, and the futurist aesthetics of modern R&B.

Arkells’ 2026 tour in support of “Between Us” strives to create unique experiences in a variety of settings, largely up-close and personal.

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The Academy Is… (Photo credit: Jonathan Weber // courtesy of Big Hassle Media)

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The Academy Is... share ‘L Train’ ahead of new album

Press release

Influential and beloved Chicago alt-rock band The Academy Is… have shared “L Train,” the final single from their long-awaited new album, “Almost There,” arriving March 27 via I Surrender Records. Rhythmic and driving, “L Train” captures the intrigue of a big night out in Chicago. The band reminisce on late nights and the emotional chaos that can ensue. Airy riffs bounce through William Beckett’s vocals as the evening carries on, bubbly synths punctuating every moment.

“ ‘L Train’ is a song about those nights where you’re stuck in your own head; alone in a crowded room, surrounded by social ghosts,” the band explained. “The song is dreamy, but there’s a haunting, nervous energy running through it. It’s our lens into a Midwest mind trip where you’re replaying memories over and over…”

listen to “L Train.” Watch the official lyric video. Pre-save or preorder “Almost There.”

The first new The Academy Is… studio album in over 18 years, “Almost There,” was heralded by the release of the urgent and melodic lead single, “2005,” available now on all digital platforms. Bursting with shimmering guitars, driving rhythms, and one of Beckett’s most emotionally direct vocal performances to date, the first single captures the band’s ability to fuse youthful immediacy with hard-won perspective. An official music video is now on YouTube.

Last month, the band shared “Miracle.” The song sways between intense, driving guitars and reflective moments underlined by glimmering tones. The band throws itself into the iridescence headfirst, as Beckett sings, “I need to love again/Turn me on my head/I need to feel the warmth/Tell me I’m not dead.”

“ ‘Almost Here’ was the beginning. ‘Almost There’ is the reflection,” Beckett said. “It’s about checking in with who you thought you’d be 20 years later, seeing what changed, what stuck, and what still feels like home.”

Listen to “Miracle.” Watch the “2005” official music video.

After some teasing and speculation, The Academy Is… announced their return last year with the “Almost Here 20th Anniversary Tour.” Fans were treated to high-energy sets built around the songs that defined the mid-2000s, performed with the intensity and emotion that made the debut record a cult classic. The show blends past and present, weaving in refreshed arrangements, new creative elements, and glimpses of what the band is creating next.

The response has been overwhelming, with many markets selling out instantly and demand continuing to climb. The band recently announced a second leg to meet the momentum, marking this as one of their most anticipated touring moments in years. The first date kicks off on April 10 at Town Ballroom in Buffalo, with dates throughout April and May.

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The Fell, “Footprints.” From left: Billy Sheehan, Mike Krompass, Toby Rand and Nick Chiarore. (Image courtesy of Chipster PR & Consulting, Inc.)

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New rock supergroup The Fell unleashes new single, ‘Footprints’

Press release

Rock supergroup The Fell, featuring legendary bassist Billy Sheehan, multi-Platinum producer Mike (K.) Krompass, and Australian vocal powerhouse Toby Rand, recently issued their debut EP, “Killswitch,” as well as a new single, the melodic yet rocking "Footprints."

“ ‘Footprints’ perfectly blends everything I love about making records – a little bit of heavy, big, pop-leaning melodies, and radio-ready hooks, all wrapped in a big, modern rock production," Krompass said. "Toby Rand and I poured ourselves into this one and our collective personalities brought it to life.

“ ‘Footprints’ is that song where all the pieces fall into place – the energy of modern rock, the lift of a pop melody, and those undeniable radio hooks. One of my favs on the record. Toby Rand and I wanted to capture the sweet spot between modern rock intensity and hook-driven pop. It’s got riffs, melody, and a production that punches – it’s just us.”

Sheehan explained why the song remains so special to him: " ‘Footprints’ is one of the very first songs I heard from Mike and Toby and I was instantly hooked! I love this track! And it led to the formation of The Fell!"

Rand also offered his support of the track: " 'Footprints' is about realizing that sometimes we wander down the wrong path and find ourselves searching for redemption. By retracing our footprints, we can see where we took the wrong turns – and where we found success. It’s a reminder to keep navigating and to keep finding our way in an ever-changing, chaotic world. 'Footprints' was also the first completed song we created as a band, and became the barometer for the style of music we were writing. Excited to share this remix with the world."

View the video by visiting https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hRHqWT7PnpA. To hear the single, visit https://orcd.co/km313v. To order the EP, visit
https://rockpapermerch.com/products/killswitch-ep?_pos=1&_sid=8693f5a0f&_ss=r.

The Fell will perform Wednesday, March 25, at the Evening Star Concert Hall in Niagara Falls. For more information, or for tickets, visit https://photocitymusichall.com/.

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