May Top Tours Top Chart powered by BandsintownThe May Top Tours Top Chart powered by Bandsintown is out. Katy Perry and Bruno Mars lead the May chart with debuts from R3HAB, DAYA and Richie Hawtin.
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Unintended consequences – the year ahead for streamingStreaming may be maturing from a revenue perspective but with two-tier (‘artist centric’) licensing and supremium, 2025 is set to be a year of transformative change in both product and business terms. While each of these initiatives were designed with clear objectives, it is not so much the immediate consequences but the second order consequences that warrant most attention. As is so often the case, it is the unintended knock-on effects of actions that will likely prove to be most impactful, for both the business and culture of music. Here is what some of these may be for two-tier licensing and supremium.

Second order consequences of two-tier licensing:

An industry underclass: It is all too easy to dismiss small, long-tail labels and artists as ‘garbage’ and ‘flotsam and jetsam’ but this risks being seen as an elitist view from the top. The long tail is a mix of the good, the bad, and the ugly – just as commercially successful music is. But the demonetisation of

The Magnolia might be the most alluring synth launched at this year’s SuperboothWhile Frap Tools is typically known for its Eurorack modular synths, the Italian company is branching out. Magnolia comes as Frap Tools’ very first keyboard synthesiser, and it’s rammed with all of the brand’s signature analogue sounds, from the Brenso to the Cunsa.
The Magnolia boasts an eight-voice polyphony, with two ‘Carrier’ and ‘Modulator’ oscillators. The pair of oscillators are derived from the company’s 30HP Brenso, reworking the module’s two triangle-core oscillators.
READ MORE: My Forever Studio: TOKiMONSTA nabs a historic synth
The ‘Carrier’ or ‘West Coast’ oscillator boasts through-zero frequency modulation, allowing you to capture sideband-rich analogue frequency modulation sounds. The oscillator also has a wavefolder and flip sync capabilities. The second ‘Modulator’ or ‘East Coast’ oscillator allows you to toy with pulse width modulation and fine-tune.
Elsewhere, the ‘sound seasoning’ Cunsa module’s quadruple analogue pingable multimode resonant filter has been repurposed for the Magnolia’s filter section. There’s also 24 dB/Oct resonant high-pass and low-pass filters.
Credit: Frap Tools
The Magnolia also understands that good things come in threes. That’s why it comes with three loopable attack, decay, delay, hold, release and sustain envelopes. There are also three digital low frequency oscillators.
Taking one look at the Magnolia, and it’s clear that there’s plenty of room for experimentation. We’ve not even mentioned the arpeggiator, 16-step sequencer, bi-timbral programs (boasting SINGLE, MORPH, DUAL, and SPLIT MODES), or all-analogue signal path yet. And there’s 512 preset memory slots, so you can truly go wild creating new projects.
The synth also has an industry favourite keyboard from Fatar, equipped with polyphonic aftertouch capabilities. You can also keep track of your modes and filters thanks to helpful LEDS on every source – and you can switch modulations on/off with a simple toggle.
The company insists that the Magnolia is “fun to play”, and it certainly looks to be. A promo clip of the Magnolia in action highlights just how versatile and exciting the synth can be.
From alien spaceship glitching, to epic fantasy whirring, to eerie piano tones, the Magnolia seems to be quite an impressive debut onto the high-end keyboard synthesiser market.
Those attending Berlin’s Superbooth this weekend will be able to experiment with two pre-production units at Booth B049. Frap Tools aims to release the Magnolia synth by the end of summer.

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Two new plug-ins from Acon Digital Acon Digital have launched two essential plug-ins designed for the modern drum producer. 

Roland Juno-60 and Moog Rogue among 12-piece Andrew Weatherall gear auctionA collection of studio gear belonging to late British DJ and producer Andrew Weatherall is now up for auction. His family is selling 12 pieces of his production arsenal via Soundgas, including sequencers, vintage synths and pedals.
The auction is now live, and is scheduled to end Sunday May 11 at 11pm BST. Highlights of the collection include a Roland Juno-60, Moog Rogue, Dunlop TS-1 Stereo Tremolo pedal, and an Ensoniq DP/4 parallel effects processor. There’s also a Roland Rhythm TR-77 drum machine, a Sequential Circuits Pro synth, and a Tech 21 Comptortion pedal.

READ MORE: Moog Messenger: Everything you need to know on features, pricing, and availability

Andrew’s brother Ian says the family’s intention with the sale is to get his gear into the hands of musicians so it can continue to be used for music making.
“We have kept [Andrew’s] whole archive/possessions in storage, with plans for display/exhibition in the near future,” Ian writes. “Musical equipment does not appreciate being stored away, unused, for great lengths of time… and with that in mind we have instructed Soundgas, as experts in their field, to help us re-home Andrew’s collection.”
He says it’s important that Andrew’s gear continues to be used to “create, push boundaries, but above all, see the light of day, and be cherished by people who recognise Andrew’s contributions to music and beyond”.
“This is what Andrew would have wanted, so if you are successful in purchasing anything sold here, please cherish the fact that you own something of Andrew’s,” Ian concludes.
Many of the items have already seen bids, with the Moog Rogue sitting at a bid of £1,029.99 (significantly past its estimate of £500-£750). The Roland Juno-60 currently sits at a bid of £1,600, but bear in mind there’s still two days to go, so they’re likely to go for quite a bit more.
View the full collections and, if you wish, place a bid, over at Soundgas.
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Flou: An Affordable AI Music LawyerTired of handshake deals turning into legal nightmares? Confusion at live shows because there was no contract? Can't afford a "real" lawyer? While not a substitute for music attorneys, Flou is an affordable AI music lawyer that helps musicians, producers, and managers create and manage music contracts.
The post Flou: An Affordable AI Music Lawyer appeared first on Hypebot.

Fircomp 2 by Jon V Audio is now available for FREE
Jon V Audio has updated the pricing of Fircomp 2, a digital compressor plugin previously priced at £23, to a pay-what-you-want model, with no minimum. You can now download this outstanding compressor plugin for free or choose to support the developer with a donation. Fircomp 2 is one of the cleanest, most transparent digital compressors [...]
View post: Fircomp 2 by Jon V Audio is now available for FREE

Teenage Engineering just gave its Field System a sleek black makeover – and we want it more than everIn search of gear that matches your studio’s dark, minimalist vibe? Look no further, for Teenage engineering is giving its ultra-portable Field System a fresh look.
Starting 10 June, three of the tech company’s compact audio devices – the TP-7 recorder, TX-6 mixer, and CM-15 microphone – will be available in a sleek black finish.
While the internals remain unchanged, the updated exteriors give the devices a distinctly different vibe, adding a chic twist to the company’s signature retro-futuristic aesthetic. One device, however, is being left out of the blackout treatment: the OP-1 Field, which will retain its current silver finish.

READ MORE: Novation just launched a slew of new products at Superbooth, including a limited-edition Bass Station II with artwork from an acclaimed graphic designer

TE’s original Field System included the OP-1 Field, the TP-7, TX-6, CM-15, and most recently, the OP-XY – a $2,299 sequencer, synthesizer, and sampler.
A successor to the Swedish brand’s OP-Z synth, the OP-XY is billed as an “all-in-one powerful synthesizer and composer with deep, direct sequencing capabilities”. It takes the advanced sequencing of the OP-Z and places it in a smaller enclosure, reminiscent of the iconic OP-1.
In other news, Teenage Engineering’s EP-133 K.O.II recently received its first major OS update, nearly one and a half years after the sampler was released.
The new OS boasts a slew of “knockout features” including the introduction of resampling and hands-free sampling, increased polyphony from 12 mono and six stereo sounds to 16 mono and 12 stereo sounds, allowing for denser and more expressive arrangements.
There’s also a new song mode, which makes it easier to “chain scenes and create longer, more structured track arrangements,” as well as sidechaining, which allows “one sound to control the volume of another” – perfect for controlling those kick and bass grooves.
Learn more at Teenage Engineering.
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LANDR Sampler uses AI to organise your sample library – could this be a godsend for producers?LANDR Sampler is a new AI-powered sample organising plugin described as the “smartest way to play your sample library”.
Building off the Montreal-based company’s reputation for integrating AI into music production tools, LANDR Sampler functions as both an instrument and a sample library organiser.

READ MORE: Will GTA 6 change the way gamers discover music?

Users can drag in their entire collection of samples – whether they are from LANDR’s sample collection or not – and the plugin uses AI to categorise them. From there, a simple click prompts the AI function to search through the library for similar sounds and even create new combinations. Any singular sample or newly created sound can then be played chromatically using the standard keyboard interface.

The plugin also includes a sequencer and precision slicing tools for creating loops, chops, and other manipulations stemming from the combinations fuelled by LANDR’s AI functionality.
“Hit a creative wall? Break through with one click,” LANDR says. “LANDR Sampler auto-generates unique sample combinations, curated textures, and surprising mashups – perfect for unlocking happy accidents and sparking new ideas.”
Additionally, LANDR Sampler has a chromatic playback function, so you can turn any sample into a fully playable instrument. It also features precision slicing tools for creating loops, chops and rhythms, while a built-in sequencer allows you to quickly create dynamic patterns without leaving the plugin.
“Creators today sit on massive libraries of inspiring sounds that too often go unused simply because they’re hard to find,” says Patrick Bourget, VP of Product at LANDR. “LANDR Sampler changes that. It brings forgotten gems back into the spotlight and unlocks new creative momentum – with just one click.”
LANDR Sampler is available now. For more information, head to LANDR.
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Big Fish Audio releases FREE Momentum v2.0 Loop Slicer Plugin
Big Fish Audio has released Momentum 2.0, an update to their free loop slicer and sample manipulation plugin for Windows and macOS. I covered the first version of Momentum in our news section in 2020; it’s worth reading if you need a refresher. Momentum’s core functionality remains intact in the new version: it’s a powerful [...]
View post: Big Fish Audio releases FREE Momentum v2.0 Loop Slicer Plugin

LANDR Sampler plug-in released LANDR have unveiled LANDR Sampler, a powerful new plug-in which is intended as a tool for transforming bulky sample libraries into a playable, intuitive instrument.

Microsoft employees are banned from using DeepSeek app, president says Microsoft employees aren’t allowed to use DeepSeek due to data security and propaganda concerns, Microsoft vice chairman and president Brad Smith said in a Senate hearing today. “At Microsoft we don’t allow our employees to use the DeepSeek app,” Smith said, referring to DeepSeek’s application service (which is available on both desktop and mobile.) Smith […]

The ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre FestStephen Schwartz and Julie Garnyé performing “The Wizard and I” at the 2025 ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Fest at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. Photo credit: Cheryl Mann ProductionsOn May 5-6, the ASCAP Foundation held the 2025 ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Fest, hosted by legendary composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts (The Wallis). According to a press release, "before the Fest, Schwartz told Variety that 'each night will contain nuggets of enlightenment.' Indeed, the two dazzling evenings offered a behind-the-curtain experience exploring the process and artistry of musical theatre with some of Broadway’s biggest composers.""On Monday, May 5, the Fest opened with 'Songs from the Cutting Room Floor,' a showcase for the unheard musical gems that didn’t make it into some of Broadway’s biggest shows. Schwartz, together with composers, lyricists and librettists Irene Sankoff & David Hein (Come From Away) and Karey Kirkpatrick (Something Rotten!, Mrs. Doubtfire), delivered a beautiful evening of intimate performances and stories about spectacular songs that had to be sacrificed to create a perfect musical. The evening was supported by the Gary Geld Musical Theatre Foundation." "On Tuesday, May 6, Schwartz hosted The ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre & Librettist Workshop, a unique double bill of new musicals that gave audience members a sneak peek at what could be Broadway’s next smash hit. The Workshop kicked off with the creative team of Julian Hornik, Khiyon Hursey and Mark Sonnenblick, who presented selections from their musical, WEEKEND. For the second show of the evening, Roslyn Catracchia and Peter Seibert presented an excerpt of their musical Piney Needlesmith and the Road Less Traveled.""Following the performances, Schwartz hosted a collaborative and instructive discussion with each writing team and expert panelists Kevin Bannerman (Anastasia), Jay Dyer (Alfred Hitchcock Presents), Winnie Holzman (Wicked), and Karey Kirkpatrick (Something Rotten!). The second evening was supported by the Kenward Elmslie Fund."Visit ascapfoundation.org for more info.The post The ASCAP Foundation Musical Theatre Fest first appeared on Music Connection Magazine.

Yamaha launches $50m fund to power music and media startupsThe fund is meant to cement Yamaha's “leadership position as an innovator in the fields of sound and music”
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Soundiron Vibraphone EffectsSoundiron's Vibraphone Effects brings you the most comprehensive and detailed collection of playable concert vibraphone effects you will find anywhere, covering a complete selection of special articulations and extended technique, including various bowing, finger and hand, wooden, and rubber mallet articulations that take you way beyond the range of traditional orchestral and jazz vibraphone playing methods. Produced in collaboration with Pearl Drums, we've carefully recorded every nuance of this 4-octave Adams Alpha with gold anodized aluminum bars. This 24GB virtual instrument is perfect for soundtrack scoring, cinematic effects, modern jazz and avant garde compositions, and any style of music that calls for long-sustaining richly tonal, eclectic and lush-sounding tuned percussion. We placed our microphones exceptionally close to capture an unmatched level of deeply-nuanced resonance and character. Each preset makes creation easy with our advanced feature set, providing you with four intuitively-shapable independent sonic layers so you can build and sculpt your own sound. Each layer module includes an independent articulation selection, arpeggiator, filter system, LFO and shaping controls, as well as its own fully-customizable variable motor speed, so you can smoothly sweep from absolutely steady to total vibrato. This allows you to layer and combine multiple articulations and sound-designed textural elements to create your own unique instruments. There are 5 distinct German Bass Bow articulations: Feathered/Flautando, Spiccato, Staccato, Marcato, Long Note and Sustaining. Each note is captured in soft and loud dynamics, with 4 round-robins per key and dynamic. The 4 Hand and Finger articulations include Finger Taps, Finger Mutes, Scrapes and Flicks with up to 6 dynamic layers, and up to 8 round-robins per key and dynamic. The 4 Rubber Mallet articulations include Small Hard Rubber Mallets, Jumbo Soft Rubber Mallets, Superball Riccochet Fast Bounces, and Superball Riccochet Slow Bounces. The Riccochet articulations also provide an additional ribbon microphone option that has a silky-smooth tonality to provide an alternative sonic flavor. And of course, we've crafted 36 unique sound-designed elements to compliment our Vibraphone Effects, ranging from aggressive and textured leads to undulating and evolving ethereal pads, as well as plenty of classic synthesized waveforms to add even more body, harmony and flavor to your sound. To cap it all off, we've also included a set of 20 creative sound-designed factory presets to take the sound farther and offer instant inspiration, so you can dive right in. The Kontakt interface includes a suite of automation-ready sound-shaping controls to give you total creative flexibility. You have control over swell, attack, release, offset, vibrato, filter, pitch (coarse & fine), articulation switching, cross-fading and layering, and so much more. This library comes with an adaptable LFO system, with selectable LFO shape, modulation target parameter, speed, intensity, tempo-syncing and fade-in time. You can also apply your choice of 12 lowpass, high-pass and FX filters, with assignable modulation targets such as velocity, modwheel, expression, after-touch, key position and step-sequencer table control. Our customizable arpeggiator offers a velocity table and control over arp direction, timing, swing, randomization and duration. We've included a key and scale lock system to constrain your notes to common scales and keys for easy melodic composition and live performance. The interface is rounded-out by our modular FX rack panel, with 27 different DSP effect modules that you can assign in any of 8 available slots, in any order that you wish. You'll find classic phaser, flanger, delay, distortion, amp and cab simulators, compressors, EQ, rotator and so much more. The Reverb effect includes our favorite convolution reverb impulse responses, including 99 different rooms, halls, chambers and outdoor environments, plus another 40 custom FX impulses to radically transform the sound and open up whole new worlds of musical possibility. We've added a great bank of FX rack chain factory presets to get you started. Listen to demos of Vibraphone Effects on Soundcloud Product Specs: 5 Bowed articulations: Feathered/Flautando, Spiccato, Staccato, Marcato, Long Note and Sustaining. 4 Finger articulations: Finger Taps, Finger Mutes, Scrapes and Flicks. 4 Rubber Mallet articulations: Small hard, jumbo soft, superball riccochet fast & slow bounces. 36 ambient pads and evolving drones created from the source content. 21 Powerful Kontakt .nki instrument presets. 15 Powerful Decent Sampler presets. 11,560 stereo samples in unlocked .WAV format. 24 GB Installed. A flexible, intuitive user interface and mixer with pro features and deep customizability. Full FX rack with convolution reverb with custom rooms, halls, chambers & FX environments. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0q4wmz2USw Read More