Independent record label and music platform Soundplate has launched a new tool, Cover.Soundplate. The new tool aims to help artists create artwork for their music or playlists without needing any prior graphic design experience. By uploading a background image or selecting one from Soundplate’s royalty-free stock archive, users can then customize their artwork such as applying filters, overlays, uploading a logo and adding text. The tool officially launched today (3/18) and is available for free here.
The company is no stranger in creating tech products for artists and labels, having previously launched Soundplate Clicks last February. Clicks allows users to easily create smart links for their music while being able to promote and analyze in-depth statistics about their fanbase. Founder Matt Benn says the company is, “100% committed to helping artists and labels succeed in the difficult landscape of independent music. Our tools and resources are already used by thousands of artists every day and we are constantly working on bringing more value.”
To learn more, click here.
Following the release of their successful debut album, Mis-an-thrope, Ded has returned with new music. Hailing from Phoenix, AZ, the rockers have dropped two new songs, “A Mannequin Idol (Lullaby)” and “Eyes Sewn Shut,” from their micro EP, Mannequin Eyes. The band is also expected to drop their sophomore album later this year, with Kevin Churko producing.
The set will be the first in Suretone’s re-upped distribution deal with ADA. Suretone’s Chairman/CEO Jordan Schur says, “This initiative to champion the important culture of rock is an enduring part of our Suretone legacy and we believe Ded is the next band ready to change the world.”
When talking about what fans can expect, guitarist David Ludlow says, "It’s full of some of the most progressive songs we’ve done, some of the heaviest parts we’ve ever had, the most mature, the catchiest and most of all it just sounds gigantic. We are excited to put this out and to show the world where we have grown and what we have become over the past three years since our first album.”
Eliah Seton, Warner Music Group’s President of Independent Music and Creator Services, adds, “[Suretone’s] repertoire of independent talent speaks to the heart of our business and the community we serve. Ded is a great example of this, and we’re looking forward to helping bring their forthcoming album to fans all over the world.”
Ded is slated to kick off a 40-date tour supporting fellow rockers In This Moment alongside Black Veil Brides and Raven Black later this month. For a full list of dates, click here. In the meantime, stream Mannequin Eyes below.
L.A.-based mmmonika have dropped their latest single “Don’t Do It.” Comprised of John DeBold, Gabe Durastanti, Grant Milliken, Nick Velez and lead vocalist Ryan Yoo, the quintet prides themselves on making happy music for sad people and their latest single embodies that notion, serving as an anthem for people riddled with anxiety. The singe comes ahead of their second EP, which is due sometime this spring.
Following their contradictory songwriting style, “Don’t Do it” also pulls inspiration from the early days of the D.A.R.E commercials and emits an honest narrative about doing whatever they want. With 42k+ monthly Spotify listeners and over 1m collective streams, the up and coming indie band is someone you want to keep your eyes on.
Since the release of their debut EP, Very American!, bassist DeBold was awarded his first Grammy for his production work on Vampire Weekend’s Father of The Bride. The five-piece also announced that they will be joining the Wallows on their North American Tour, which kicks off on 5/14, in addition to their own headlining dates. Tickets go on sale this Friday (3/9). For more info, click here.
Check out “Don’t Do It” below.
