Rush performed their first concert in 11 years on Sunday at Los Angeles’ Kia Forum, launching their “Fifty Something Tour” with new drummer Anika Nilles replacing the late Neil Peart. The 43-year-old Nilles, with jazz-fusion background and Jeff Beck experience, delivered precise performances of Peart’s complex arrangements while adding her own interpretations. Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson appeared revitalized, with Lee’s voice stronger than their 2015 farewell tour and Lifeson notably trim and musically sharp. The emotional show featured overt tributes to Peart, who died January 7, 2020, from glioblastoma. Pre-filmed sketches included South Park bits and appearances by Paul Rudd and Jason Segel. The setlist spanned career highlights including “Tom Sawyer,” “Freewill,” “2112,” and “Xanadu.” Story URL
Beastie Boys member Mike D announced his debut solo album Thank You, releasing August 28th, alongside new single “True Colors.” The project began in sessions at his home studio with sons Skyler and Davis, and marks the first new music from a Beastie Boys member since 2011’s “Hot Sauce Committee Part Two.” Mike D said he hopes the music “is fun for others and not overly serious” given today’s “strange and dark” world that “devalues art and feelings.” “True Colors” features psychedelic rock elements like previous singles “Switch Up” and “What We Got,” but showcases singing rather than rapping. The touring band includes Mike D, his sons, Eddie Ruscha, Will Graefe, and Milo Ruscha, with upcoming European dates including Primavera Sound Porto and Beyond The Streets Paris. Story URL
RedOctane Games revealed Stage Tour, a new rhythm game launching fall 2026 on PC and consoles, featuring songs from Ghost, BABYMETAL, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Weezer, Static-X and more. The developer spotlight trailer showcased tracks including Ghost’s “Square Hammer,” BABYMETAL and Electric Callboy’s “RATATATA,” Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “Dani California,” Extreme’s “Get The Funk Out,” Weezer’s “Island In The Sun,” Static-X’s “Terminal Oscillator,” and Good Kid’s “Mimi’s Delivery Service.” RedOctane calls this a “first taste” of available tracks. The game includes guitar controllers developed with Gibson and Kramer Guitars, plus microphone and drum modes for full band experiences. Project lead Alex Jeffreys said their goal is “bringing rhythm gaming back better than before.” RedOctane previously published the Guitar Hero franchise. Story URL
Echo & the Bunnymen rescheduled their June 7 Philadelphia concert after frontman Ian McCulloch was injured in a car crash while traveling from Washington D.C. The 67-year-old singer required medical treatment but his injuries are not considered serious. McCulloch remains shaken and is undergoing precautionary medical assessments including scans and X-rays. The Fillmore show has been moved to June 9, with all original tickets remaining valid. The English post-punk band is currently touring North America highlighting their greatest hits from 1978 to 2026. Fans unable to attend the new date should contact their original ticket vendor for options. Story URL