WORLD VIDEO PREMIERE: Ras Fraser Jr. “I Am Conscious”

Rastafarian roots reggae artist Ras Fraser Jr. resurfaces with even more messages of revolution through self-actualization in this world video premiere for “I Am Conscious”! The single, previously released via Rebel Sound Records, paves the way towards the artist’s upcoming full-length album of the same name to be released some time next year. “Without confidence, […]

The rain & The War on Drugs in San Diego

Let me preface that The War on Drugs happens to be one of my top-three, all-time, bucket-list bands I’ve yet to see… well, at least that was the case up until October 11th, 2022 at San Diego’s Open Air Theater. Let me also elaborate that The War on Drugs — particularly, A Deeper Understanding — […]

Rap meets reggae with Atmosphere & Iration in Irvine

On August 26th, the Sunshine & Summer Nights co-headlining tour with Iration and Atmosphere made its Irvine stop at FivePoint Amphitheatre. They were supported by two other American reggae and rap icons The Grouch and Passafire.   The night started out with Passafire getting things warmed up. They have always have a high-energy set that really makes […]

WORLD TRACK PREMIERE: Karaboudjan “Upside Down”

Karaboudjan, the moniker of a side project for Tycho‘s own Billy Kim, resurfaces with another single off his upcoming EP! Following the release of “Scatter” and the second to come after his debut EP in 2021, IMAGO, Karaboudjan shares “Upside Down” today only on Top Shelf Music before it hits all digital outlets tomorrow! Quilted […]

WORLD VIDEO PREMIERE: Chris Bowen Vibes “Brand New”

Blues rock-infused reggae artist Chris Bowen Vibes feels “Brand New” in the new music video by Raised Fist Propaganda! Top Shelf Music has the privilege to premiere the official visualizer before it hits public channels, giving you a sneak peek of what Bowen brings to the table. Bluesy meets beachy in this anthem of the […]

WORLD VIDEO PREMIERE: FènixDion “Morals Might Bite”

Rockers out of the Twin Cities, FènixDion, shine with this world premiere of not only their devilish new single “Morals Might Bite”, but a video to boot! Blending elements of alt rock and funk together, the result is a wily, wailing anthem with attitude… reminiscent of Lenny Kravitz or Prince circa his Musicology days. The […]

WORLD TRACK PREMIERE: Jei-Rynn “sleeping (all day)”

Wouldn’t it be delightful to just sleep all day, to just fade away? In a world of never-ending updates and divisive opinions, taking solace in one’s bed is the best we can do to shelter from the hungry storm of humanity. And, that storm has only gotten less satiated with the rise of social media. […]

WORLD VIDEO PREMIERE: Ha’angana “Wondering”

Rising island reggae artist Ha’angana combines illustrious illustrations with lyrics full of sorrow in the this world video premiere for “Wondering”! The single, out as of July 28th, builds towards what can only be a well-welcomed full-length album, due out September 30th via Rebel Sound Records. Sweet melodies and sorrowful themes combine in this island […]

WORLD VIDEO PREMIERE: Ghost.Wav “Coast to Coast”

Welcome to the world of Ghost.Wav — the new endeavor from Project 432 players Nick Wimer and Mark LeBlanc. Based out of Colorado, you know that Ghost.Wav holds true to the trancy, dubby reggae beats that state is starting to be known for. You know, the kind of synthy, trippy goodness, backed by a lot […]

Same Same But Different 2022 drops loaded Phase 2 lineup

Those in the southern California area are starting to be well aware of the inexplicable majesty that is Same Same But Different Festival… or perhaps you’ve taken a whirly-twirl with its sister fest, the Mustache Bash in the heart of San Diego. At both events, you’re welcomed with weird, overwhelmed by spectacle and overloaded with […]

Bayfest San Diego expands with first-ever Mission Bayfest

If you’ve happened to attend one (or all) of the past three Bayfests in San Diego, you would know how this fest celebrates all that is Southern California culture. And, it’s also the ultimate kickoff for summer! Now that 2022’s summer installment of Bayfest has come and gone (with headliners Iration, Atmosphere and beyond), the […]

Rise Against with The Used & Senses Fail in San Diego

Walking up to Petco Park was like going back 20 years in time… everyone was garbed out in their best emo and punk rock attire, a style ubiquitous throughout the 00s. It made me want to grab a Mickey’s and bounce around town aimlessly like in my high school days. Now, there are fans of […]

WORLD TRACK PREMIERE: Ava Della Pietra “long way home”

Teen singer-songwriter sensation Ava Della Pietra premieres her new track “long way home” (complete with lyric video!!) today on Top Shelf Music before it hits all digital outlets. A catchy song that came about as a result of COVID, “long way home” expresses the yearning for freedom, camaraderie and connection that was missing from our […]

The sights & sounds of the Del Mar Fair

For those in southern California, we know that our fair hits different. The Del Mar Fair is special. It’s so much more than a traditional carnival; it’s a whole experience. From the minute you walk in, you are overwhelmed with sensations — smells, lights, food, shopping. And then, of course, there’s the music. Being the […]

An acoustic night with Ani DiFranco in San Diego

Famed folksinger Ani DiFranco graced a sold-out crowd at San Diego’s Belly Up Tavern on June 21st, 2022. It still being the COVID(ish) era, it was a wild surprise to witness DiFranco solo up on stage, sans full band! Apparently, all her band members were “dropping like flies”, with only a trusty drummer left by […]