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Off Record Blog •

Legacy and Fury: The ‘Feel the Evil Like A Knife’ Tour with Exciter and Midnight Ignites Houston

Metal bands Exciter and Midnight team up for the ‘Feel the Evil Like A Knife’ summer tour, which began its trek at White Oak Music Hall in Houston.


It was a humid July evening in Houston, the kind that makes the air feel thick and heavy. Assembling a co-headlining tour that spans generations of extreme metal lineage and legacy, the ‘Feel the Evil Like A Knife’ summer tour began its trek at White Oak Music Hall. The crowd buzzed with anticipation, eager for a night of relentless metal mayhem....
Off Record Blog •

From Seoul to Soul: The Volunteers Ignite the Bronze Peacock

On a humid July evening in Houston, the Bronze Peacock at House of Blues was buzzing with anticipation. 


The Volunteers, a South Korean rock band that had captured hearts even before their official debut in 2017, were about to light up the stage for their North America Tour. Their fans, a diverse mix from all walks of life, filled the venue, each with their own story of how TVT’s music had touched their lives.

The Volunteers consists of members Yerin Baek, Jonny (Kwak Min-hyeok), and Chiheo...
Off Record Blog •

X-Men ’97: A Phenomenal Official Soundtrack

We’re diving into the fascinating journey of the Newton Brothers as they brought a modern twist to the music of the recently rebooted X-Men ‘97, a continuation of the 1992 series, X-Men: The Animated Series.

John Andrew Grush and Taylor Newton Stewart, professionally known as the Newton Brothers, were announced as the composers for X-Men ‘97 in July of 2022. As they revisited the original series, they realized the music didn’t match their childhood memories and found that many of the original...
Off Record Blog •

Adam Lambert Drops Bold New Pride Anthem: “LUBE//WET DREAM”

In time for Pride Month, Adam Lambert has unveiled his latest single, “LUBE//WET DREAM,” showcasing a more open and liberated expression of himself and his sexuality. This single serves as a tantalizing preview of his upcoming EP, Afters, set to be released on July 19th. Let’s dive into the details!


Starting with the first track, “LUBE,” Lambert revisits the dance and expressiveness that characterized his debut album, For Your Entertainment, but with a fresh house music twist. This song feels...
Off Record Blog •

Dead Poet Society Shakes the Bronze Peacock With Their Energy

On Saturday, May 25th, Dead Poet Society played to a sold-out crowd at the Bronze Peacock during their FISSION tour. Excitement buzzed through the air as the audience eagerly anticipated the upcoming performances.


Andrés was the first to take the stage, starting with the piano melody of “Self Aware.” The performance featured an interactive twist with an AI character named Buddy who introduced the band. This AI added an engaging element to the show, entertaining the audience with witty banter...
Off Record Blog •

Gustaf’s Stellar Performance at White Oak Music Hall

Gustaf performed at White Oak Music Hall’s Upstairs on Tuesday, May 14th, as part of their North American tour. The night was filled with unique and mesmerizing sounds that captivated the entire venue.


The night began with Texas native Órpheus Von Doom taking the stage with their song “Plastic Essence.” Known for their ‘genre-less’ style, the band showcased this versatility by blending influences from Latin, rock, indie and more, crafting a truly unique and captivating sound. Each instrumenta...
Off Record Blog •

Exploring Gaypop and the Artists Defining the Sound

What is Gaypop? Many interpretations of this niche genre have recently become viral. In my view, it is about queer storytelling within songs that have been deeply embraced by the queer community. Here, I will delve into artists that I feel have defined the genre!


One of the most underrated artists of this genre, Adam Lambert’s discography is filled with queer storytelling. His music and career have undeniably been intertwined with queer storytelling and representation. Lambert himself is an o...
Coog Radio at University of Houston - Riding the A •

Bad Bunny Takes Over Houston: A Night to Remember

Bad Bunny, the international recording sensation, graced Houston again on April 30th for the eagerly anticipated ‘Most Wanted Tour’ at Toyota Center. Enthusiastic fans filled the venue, eagerly awaiting the show’s commencement as the celebration of the album Nadie Sabe Lo Que Va a Pasar Mañana would soon begin.


The venue boasted two stages and a bridge, integral to the unfolding spectacle. As the lights dimmed, attention shifted to one stage where a symphony, complete with strings and brass,...
Off Record Blog •

Incredible Intensity: Asking Alexandria Dominates House of Blues Houston

House of Blues pulsed excitedly on Saturday, April 13th, as Asking Alexandria’s All My Friends tour took center stage. Enthusiastic fans poured into the bustling venue, eager for an evening brimming with sensational performances.


As the lights dimmed, cheers erupted from the crowd as the first performer graced the stage. Nerv kicked off their set with the electrifying track “Bad Nature,” showcasing their intense stage presence and unleashing a surge of raw energy that electrified the audience...
Off Record Blog •

Under the Sea with ONEUS: Their Enchanting Performance at Bayou Music Center

On April 5th, 2024, ONEUS amazed Bayou Music Center as part of their La Dolce Vita tour, marking their second world tour. Excitement rippled through the crowd as TOMOON anxiously awaited the band’s arrival on stage.


The lights dimmed until only the screen of the stage could be seen. The instrumental of “Baila Conmigo” was heard through the speakers as the members stepped onto the stage. With loud cheers, they began their performance. With stellar choreography and impeccable vocals, ONEUS domi...
Off Record Blog •

An Electrifying Night: NOAHFINNCE Live at the Bronze Peacock in Houston

NOAHFINNCE took the stage at the Bronze Peacock within the House of Blues on Friday, March 29th, 2024, as part of his Growing Up On The Internet tour. The venue was brimmed with enthusiastic fans eagerly anticipating the performances to come.


The Teenage Joans kick off their performance by introducing themselves, setting the stage for their rendition of “What’s New Scooby-Doo?” They engage the crowd, prompting everyone to sing the iconic theme song. Transitioning seamlessly, they delve into t...
Coog Radio at University of Houston - Riding the A •

Amaarae’s Stellar Performance at White Oak Music Hall

On Saturday, March 30th, 2024, Amaarae took the stage at White Oak Music Hall for her Fountain Baby tour, and fans eagerly anticipated her performance.

Kicking off the evening, DJ Jino Spinz energized the audience with a vibrant blend of popular songs from Afrobeats to Hip-hop, setting the stage for the night’s opening act. Spinz enthusiastically introduced Blaqbonez to the stage as the artist delivered a spirited performance of his track “ROAD RUNNERS.” Blaqbonez rallied the crowd, asking if...
Off Record Blog •

J-Hope’s ‘Hope on the Street’ Vol.1 Review

One of the most anticipated releases is J-Hope’s special album, Hope On The Street Vol. 1, a realization of his journey from before BTS to where he is now. This release highlights J-Hope’s deep connection to dance and provides insight into his artistic evolution. Undeniably, he pours his spirit into this project, delivering an unforgettable musical experience that enchants audiences worldwide.

With Hope On The Street Vol. 1, he unveils a distinct expression of his artistic persona. He ignites...
Coog Radio at University of Houston - Riding the A •

Juanes Lights Up the Stage at 713 Music Hall - Coog Radio

On Thursday, March 21st, 2024, Juanes thrilled a massive crowd of fans with his Vida Cotidiana tour performance at 713 Music Hall. Anticipation filled the venue as the lights dimmed and Juanes stepped onto the stage.


As Juanes fully stepped onto the stage, the spotlight illuminated him while the instrumental of his song “Gris” resonated through the speakers. His captivating, melancholic vocals enveloped the venue as he skillfully played his guitar for the audience. Juanes is a Colombian music...
Coog Radio at University of Houston - Riding the A •

Mahalia Mesmerizes: A Night to Remember at House of Blues

On March 9th, 2024, Mahalia took the stage at House of Blues Houston as part of her In Real Life tour. The audience eagerly anticipated her performance, brimming with excitement for what was to unfold.


Alicia Creti is the first to grace the stage, her fingers gently coaxing the opening notes of her song “Epiphany” from the piano keys. Her soulful vocals captivate the audience, eliciting cheers of admiration and support. Creti is a rising singer-songwriter known for her captivating performance...
Coog Radio at University of Houston - Riding the A •

SXSW Music Festival Day Three: Music and Intensity

On Wednesday, March 13th, the SXSW Music Festival intensified as musicians showcased their talent throughout downtown Austin. The energy culminated when, at night, music of all kinds could be heard on every street downtown.


Neptune’s Core made an indelible mark on the stage of the Woman that Rock unofficial showcase as the inaugural performers. Hailing from the heart of Chicago’s thriving indie-rock scene, this dynamic ensemble is more than just a band; they’re a testament to the power of sis...
Coog Radio at University of Houston - Riding the A •

SXSW Music Festival Day Two: Music and Storytelling

On Tuesday, March 12th, the SXSW Music Festival continues with various diverse artists performing in various parts near downtown Austin. A day of incredible artists, stellar performances and artistic knowledge began.


This featured session, moderated by Bryan Biniak, President of Songtradr and Bandcamp, featured an impeccable panel of Tunji Balogun, CEO of Def Jam Recordings, Chuck D, also known for being leader of Public Enemy and Lady London, an amazing artist from Def Jam Recordings. This p...
Coog Radio at University of Houston - Riding the A •

SXSW Music Festival Day One: Music and Discovery - Coog Radio

On Monday, March 11th, 2024, the SXSW Music Festival began in full swing, spanning a week full of music and discovery. We saw various talents from around the world and learned more about the film and music industry. So, let us dive right in!

This fantastic live session is the first episode of “Visitations,” the second season starts with featuring Jane Schoenbrun, a non-binary and queer filmmaker at A24, and getting to deep dive into the inspirations that have made them into who they are as a f...
Off Record Blog •

Unleashing Musical Magic: Johnny Manchild and the Poor Bastards Illuminate White Oak Music Hall

On February 26th, vibrant melodies filled White Oak Music Hall as Johnny Manchild and the Poor Bastards took the stage for their Rapture Tour. A crowd of enthusiastic fans eagerly anticipated the upcoming performances.


First to take the stage is Redefining Rescue with their song, “When the Sun Goes Down,” from their most recent album, Less Than Perfect. Based in Houston, TX, Redefining Rescue comprises Luis Grimaldo, Jordan Cravens, Mark Garner, Austin Serrett and Jared Knight. Renowned for i...
Off Record Blog •

A Retrospective Analysis of ‘Map of the Soul: 7’ by BTS

Map of the Soul: 7 is the fourth Korean-language studio album by South Korean boy band BTS. Released on February 21, 2020, by Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE), it serves as a poignant exploration of BTS’s collective journey, delving into themes of introspection, self-discovery, and personal growth. 


Through 20 tracks, the album encapsulates the complexities of the human psyche, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences and emotions. In this retrospective, we will focus on songs u...
Coog Radio at University of Houston - Riding the A •

Mipso’s Harmonious Performance at White Oak Music Hall

Mipso stopped by White Oak Music Hall on February 9th for their Book of Fools tour. Many awaited in anticipation for the performances to come.


First to take the stage was Tony Kamel, opening with his cover of the iconic bluegrass song “Raleigh & Spencer.” Kamel is a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter from Austin, TX, best recognized as the frontman and guitarist of the renowned bluegrass quartet Wood & Wire. In his performance, he demonstrates soothing vocals, skilled guitar and banjo playing...
Off Record Blog •

Mesmerizing Depths: Oceans of Slumber’s Enthralling Performance in Houston

A night of fantastic music from Texan artists began at White Oak Music Hall, with Oceans of Slumber’s Tour taking off on Saturday, January 28. The crowd waited in anticipation for the performances to begin.


The band Tulip is the first to take the stage. Hailing from Texas, they are led by the dynamic duo of ex-professional opera vocalist, Ashleigh Semkiw, and skilled guitarist, Colin Parrish, who offers a unique fusion of symphonic metal. Alongside the formidable rhythm section provided by Ry...
Off Record Blog •

Unveiling Resilience: The Musical Journey of Cat Janice

This story is about an artist’s ability to be resilient and optimistic through difficult times—the legacy of music and its effect on those who listen. Music can live on forever and leave an imprint on the world to remember. 

Cat Janice is an indie artist from Washington who brings a fresh wave of creativity to the modern music landscape, blending emotional depth with captivating musicianship. Her music features soaring vocals, dynamic guitar melodies, and euphoric synths, offering a unique tak...
Coog Radio at University of Houston - Riding the A •

SXSW Music Festival 2024: Texan Artists To Look For

In the heart of the SXSW’s lineup, a stellar cast of artists from the vibrant state of Texas is poised to shine. From beautiful soulful melodies to the rhythmic beats echoing the Lone Star State’s diverse musical landscape, these Texas-based talents are ready to make their mark on the renowned festival stages. Join us as we delve into the musical journey of these exceptional artists, bringing a touch of Texas charm to the global stage at SXSW Music Festival 2024 from March 11-16 in the vibrant c...
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