Entertainment

Dallas String Quartet Share Classical Crossover Album “Love Always”

Today, Dallas String Quartet (DSQ) has released its new album, “Love Always.” Through their signature electrifying instrumentation, lush string arrangements, and elegant compositional nods to their classical roots, DSQ deliver a luxurious collection of their string renditions of beloved pop classics such as “10,000 Hours” by Dan + Shay, Taylor Swift’s “Wildest Dreams,” and “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran. DSQ curates a floral soundtrack perfect for the most blissful moments by weaving classical elements from composers like Bach and Rochmonanof into their pop arrangements.

“We started by playing music for, and being a part of, people’s happiest moments, so we wanted to go back to the basics and to the simplicity of that theme and feeling. I envision this album playing in the background during the most peaceful Sunday morning, warm coffee in your cup, and a lot of love in your heart.” – Ion Zanca, Dallas String Quartet.

DSQ is referred to as “Bach meets Bon Jovi,” a fusion of contemporary classical and pop music, compared to artists like Lindsey Stirling, Vitamin String Quartet, and 2Cellos. Using both traditional and electric strings, they are known for their eclectic renditions of everything from Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child of Mine” to Shawn Mendes to Camila Cabello’s “Señorita” to their recent collaboration, “You Are The Reason,” with The Piano Guys. DSQ has performed for Presidents Obama and Bush, the College Football Playoffs, NBA, and NFL organizations and was featured on the most recent season of American Idol.

Brands like Cartier, Delta Air Lines, LinkedIn, and more seek out this one-of-a-kind quartet. Not to mention Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton, who requested DSQ as the entertainment for their July 2021 wedding, gaining the attention of USA Today, People Magazine, E! News, TMZ, Entertainment Tonight, and more.

Keep up with Dallas String Quartet on Instagram, Facebook, Tik Tok, and Twitter.

Listen to “Love Always” on all platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud, and YouTube.

Artist Spotlight

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 makes a stand for afrobeat against corruption on latest release Na Dem feat. Tom Morello.

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 deliver a powerful afrobeat statement with “Na Dem,” Featuring Tom Morello and produced by Femi Koleoso. The track has been a fan favourite even before its official release, and comes with the unmistakable spirit of protest, truth-telling, and social accountability that have long characterized Afrobeat’s most impactful moments.

The song’s heart is a direct challenge to corruption and the abuse of power. Instead of singling out one profession or institution for its critique, “Na Dem” identifies a larger culture of dishonesty, targeting bad lawyers, bad doctors, bad politicians, and anyone who would sell their integrity for personal gain. The message is sharp and uncompromising and delivered with the urgency that has become a hallmark of Seun Kuti’s artistry.

The inclusion of Tom Morello adds another level of intensity to the record. His presence adds to the song’s rebellious energy, creating a powerful intersection between the rhythmic activism of Afrobeat and the confrontational edge of rock. The result of the collaboration is a track that is both timeless and of the moment.

The song’s dedication to principle is what rings true. The moral center of the record is Seun’s statement that he would never prostitute his conscience for money. It turns “Na Dem” from a critique into a declaration of personal values, responsibility, and resistance.

Connect with Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 on Spotify || Instagram || Facebook || Youtube

Artist Spotlight

Marsha Bartenetti reinvents in her own style “New York Minute”

Marsha Bartenetti’s latest release, “New York Minute,” written by Don Henley, Danny Kortchmar, and Jai Winding, offers emotional depth, turning a timeless look at life’s fragility into a reflective, cinematic journey. Stephan Oberhoff’s arrangement perfectly frames Bartenetti’s voice, and Kevin Bate’s expressive cello adds a warm resonance that makes the track feel like a movie.

The way each instrument sounds makes it feel planned, which lets the listener stay in the fleeting moments the song so beautifully describes. Bartenetti’s singing is the best part of the song. She shows an openness that feels real, as if she has lost something and still fully embraces love and presence with complete honesty. Her choice of words and small changes in tone make the lyrics feel even closer.

“New York Minute,” is a new version that pays tribute to the original while showcasing Bartenetti’s own style. The movie-like instruments and heartfelt vocals make the song feel both personal and universal. It makes us think about how hard it is to let go and hold on.

Connect with Marsha Bartenetti on Spotify || Facebook