We Speak Rock

The Matinee drop lyric video for classic rock jam ‘Cut To Pieces’!

Published

2 years ago

October 26, 2023

Don Reed

Vancouver’s Americana group of the year The Matinee have just released their 4th studio album “Change Of Scene” to much acclaim, including rave reviews from The Daily Express & The Daily Mirror and airplay from Radio X’s John Kennedy.To follow the success, the band have now just unveiled a brand-new lyric video for their stellar classic rock jam ‘Cut To Pieces’ from the album.

For the new album, The Matinee chose to work with Nashville’s Steve Dawson (Matt Andersen, Old Man Luedecke, Birds of Chicago), who insisted on capturing the essence of their performances and the energy of a band that has been connecting on a musical level for so long.

Breaking with tradition, they recorded the songs live off the floor, letting go of the pursuit of perfection. Over the course of nine days, divided into two sessions at two Vancouver recording studios, the band – which also includes keyboardist Georges Couling and bassists Marcus Abramzik and Joseph Lubinsky trading off on duties – set up in the round, and got to work, letting the songs they had nurtured on their road trip speak for themselves.

The result is nine new tracks that showcase The Matinee at their best—listening to their inner storyteller and relaying human moments gleaned from collective experiences that listeners can easily place within the context of their own lives. From the instant classic “Bad Addiction” with its heavy dose of southern soul, to their roll down your windows and sing along driving tune “Road To Hell,” and the groovy, car commercial inspired, catchy track “Shake It,” Change of Scene, beckons us to join the band on their transformative journey through honest, heartfelt storytelling and simplistic sonic revelry. It stands as a testament to The Matinee’s unwavering belief in the power of song and music as vessels for human connection.

At a time when popular music often leans toward the formulaic and the predictable, The Matinee stands strong and true to their craft and the influences of their youth. With ‘Change of Scene’, the band brings us along with them on this next leg of a 15 year adventure, reminding us of the importance of embracing change in our own lives. It is during these moments of vulnerability that discoveries are made, and the magic we often seek happens right before our eyes.

The band have tasted success in the Americas with growing listenership across streaming platforms, supporting other artists such as Arkells, Corb Lund and The Sheepdogs to name a few as well as picking up a handful of awards across the Country Music industry across America and Canada, though little known fact that three of the group have British mothers so venturing into Europe and the United Kingdom is something The Matinee feel ready for.

‘Change Of Scene’ is out now. Stream it here: https://open.spotify.com/album/7GuUKB8h8CORL2oDF5XITQ?si=NfZF3iHoTd2-iIRC31538A

We Speak Entertainment

Norwegian Rock Sensation Rocky Kramer: A Rising Star Blazing Across the Global Stage

Published

6 days ago

May 25, 2025

Jimmy Star

Rocky Kramer, the electrifying Norwegian-born rock star, is fast becoming one of the most talked-about names in the world of rock music. Known for his searing guitar solos, charismatic stage presence, and classical training, Kramer is proving that rock ‘n’ roll is alive and well in the 21st century.

From Trondheim to Hollywood

Born and raised in Trondheim, Norway, Rocky Kramer was immersed in music from an early age. With a pianist and very accomplished vocalist mother and a father that was a first violinist for the Trondheim Symphony Orchestra, Kramer had classical and rock influences in his blood. Initially trained in classical violin, he picked up the guitar as a teenager and quickly developed a reputation as a prodigious talent.

In his late teens, Kramer moved to the United States to pursue his rock dreams. It was a bold move that paid off. His distinctive blend of European musicality and American rock energy quickly caught the attention of industry insiders.

Guitar Virtuoso with a Theatrical Flair

What sets Rocky Kramer apart is his powerful fusion of technical proficiency and dramatic flair. Often compared to the likes of Yngwie Malmsteen and Eddie Van Halen, Kramer brings a neoclassical edge to his playing, while his glam-inspired image calls to mind the larger-than-life icons of 1980s arena rock.

Signed to Allied Artist Music Group, Kramer released his debut album Firestorm in 2019. A concept album with sci-fi themes, Firestorm showcased his musical versatility and cinematic storytelling. Songs like “Rock Star” and “Alcohol” became fan favorites and highlighted his ability to combine metal intensity with catchy hooks and thought-provoking lyrics. Firestorm scored a #1 hit on the Global DRT Charts with the hit single “Rock Star.”

Live Shows That Melt Faces

Whether headlining festivals, opening for legends, or lighting up the screen in virtual performances, Rocky Kramer’s live shows are a spectacle. Known for his explosive energy, intricate guitar work, and sometimes pyrotechnic surprises, his concerts are a must-see experience for fans of all ages.

In 2020, during the height of the pandemic, Kramer adapted quickly by launching Rock & Roll Tuesdays, a popular weekly livestream show that blended music performance, storytelling, and interaction with fans. The series built a global audience and showcased Kramer’s humor, intelligence, and passion for music.

Expanding Into Film and Media

Rocky Kramer’s talents aren’t limited to music. With his striking looks and natural charisma, he’s branching out into acting and producing. He’s been involved in multiple film and television projects, further expanding his brand and artistic reach.

Kramer is also known for championing causes such as music education, anti-bullying campaigns, and mental health awareness. He frequently speaks about the healing power of music and the importance of self-expression.

What’s Next?

With new music reportedly in the works and an ever-growing fan base, Rocky Kramer is poised to become a defining figure in modern rock. He’s that rare artist who bridges the gap between technical mastery and raw emotion—blending old-school rock theatrics with contemporary relevance.

As the world watches and listens, one thing is clear: Rocky Kramer is not just playing guitar—he’s leading a rock revolution.

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