U2 will release their new album, Carnaval de Luz, on November 13 — their first collection of new songs in nine years. Bassist Adam Clayton calls it “the culmination of the work that everyone has been doing for 50 years.” The 12-track album was produced by Garret “Jacknife” Lee and closes with “Torn,” featuring the final vocal performance from the late Dolly Parton. Brian Eno co-wrote and played synths on three tracks. Drummer Larry Mullen Jr. returned after a serious neck injury, bringing renewed energy to the sessions. “I couldn’t play. I didn’t think I’d play again,” Mullen says. The band also released two surprise EPs this year, totaling 24 new songs across all three projects. Story URL
A rare master videotape of Bruce Springsteen’s rejected “Dancing in the Dark” video is going up for auction. Wax Poetics is selling the original 3/4-inch U-matic tape from the personal collection of former Columbia Records president Al Teller. The 18-minute tape contains four performances. Teller rejected the Jeff Stein-directed clip, calling it “inappropriate for the song.” That decision led to Brian De Palma filming the now-iconic version featuring a then-unknown Courteney Cox. The auction runs through October 22, with proceeds supporting public school music programs. The tape is offered alongside a Springsteen-signed plaque marking 20 million sales of Born in the U.S.A. Story URL
System of a Down is celebrating the 25th anniversary of their landmark album Toxicity with a free exhibition in Los Angeles. The show runs October 13th through 18th at Beyond the Streets gallery, 434 N La Brea Ave. Fans can expect rare artifacts, immersive installations, and exclusive merchandise. Released in September 2001, Toxicity produced radio hits including “Chop Suey!,” “Aerials,” and the title track. The album has since been certified seven-times platinum, representing seven million U.S. units sold. The exhibition is part of a broader anniversary celebration. The band also recently announced a Toxicity reissue and a dedicated merch capsule. No entry fee is required to attend. Story URL
The Beach Boys abruptly cancelled three upcoming tour dates with little notice and no explanation. Venues cited “circumstances beyond the control” of organizers. The cancellations follow nearly 30 summer shows axed to allow 85-year-old Mike Love, the band’s only original touring member, time to “recharge.” The next scheduled show is October 9. Story URL