This Week in Music: From Farewell Tours to New Riffs and Controversies

This week has been a whirlwind of activity across the music industry, with major announcements from iconic bands, significant legal developments for prominent artists, and the launch of compelling new musical projects. From the bittersweet farewells of legendary acts to the emergence of fresh talent and the ongoing conversations surrounding technology’s impact on music, the landscape continues to evolve rapidly.

Major Band Updates and Departures

Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron has reportedly stepped down from his role in the band, marking a significant shift for the grunge titans. While details surrounding his departure remain sparse, the news comes as a notable development for fans who have long associated Cameron with the band’s powerful rhythm section. Meanwhile, the iconic rock band Circa Waves has released their latest single, “Cherry Bomb,” offering a fresh track for their dedicated fanbase. In a move that has stirred nostalgia and anticipation, Josh Homme has hinted at the possibility of a Kyuss reunion, reigniting hopes for fans of the seminal desert rock band.

Remembering a Pioneer and Facing Legal Challenges

Tragically, the music world mourns the loss of Tim Cronin, the founding drummer for the influential band Monster Magnet. Cronin’s contributions were foundational to the band’s early sound and success. On a more contentious note, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has been convicted of prostitution charges, though he was acquitted of more serious sex crimes. The legal proceedings have cast a long shadow over the mogul’s career. In related news impacting the electronic music scene, Diplo has been fined €300,000 for organizing an illegal rave at a protected site on the island of Ibiza. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between large-scale events and environmental preservation.

Documentaries, Tributes, and Hip Hop History

Fans of the pioneering band DEVO have reason to celebrate as a new documentary focusing on their unique career is set to debut on Netflix on August 19th. This release promises an in-depth look at the band’s impact on music and culture. The ongoing legacy of Jason Molina is being honored with a tribute album featuring covers of his songs, showcasing the enduring influence of his work. The rich history of hip hop is also being celebrated; LL Cool J is providing an NYC rap history crash course in the trailer for “Hip Hop Was Born Here.” The trailer offers a glimpse into the foundational years of the genre, highlighting its cultural significance. N.O.R.E. also weighed in on Kanye West’s appearance on the popular Drink Champs podcast, adding to the ongoing discourse surrounding West’s public statements and career.

Emerging Artists and Industry Debates

Up-and-coming artist Dora Jar has publicly called out amateur musicians for allegedly stealing her distinctive riff, sparking a conversation about creative ownership and inspiration in the digital age. The debate around technology’s role in music intensified this week as Deerhoof announced they are leaving Spotify in protest of CEO Daniel Ek’s investments in artificial intelligence. This decision reflects growing concerns within the artistic community about the ethical implications of AI in music creation and distribution. Steve Aoki shared his insights on incorporating Electronic Dance Music (EDM) into various musical genres, emphasizing its versatility and potential for cross-genre collaboration. Zedd also offered a unique glimpse into his world, discussing his latte art skills alongside his performance career.

New Music Releases and Album Announcements

The new music pipeline remains robust with several highly anticipated releases. King Crimson is reportedly working on their first album in over two decades, a development that has sent ripples of excitement through the progressive rock community. Neko Case has announced her upcoming album, “Neon Grey Midnight Green,” generating considerable anticipation. Fever Ray unveiled plans for a live album, accompanied by a new video, further expanding their acclaimed discography.

New tracks making waves include Fred again..’s remix of “Victory Lap” featuring Denzel Curry, adding a fresh perspective to the original. Rainsford released her single “Butterfly,” while The Thing put out a double A-side single. Fletcher Tucker’s track “To Light A Fire,” Field Medic’s “Castle Peaks,” and Big Thief’s “All Night All Day” are also drawing attention. Travis Scott’s “2000 EXCURSION” from “JACKBOYS 2” adds another notable release to the week’s offerings.

Charity, Advice, and Industry Recognition

In a remarkable display of generosity, the farewell concert by Black Sabbath and Ozzy Osbourne successfully raised nearly $200 million for charity, underscoring the power of music to drive significant social impact. Melvins’ Buzz Osborne shared practical advice on tour routing, offering valuable insights for fellow musicians navigating the complexities of life on the road. The 2025 XXL Freshman class was also revealed, highlighting the rising stars in the hip hop community and providing a snapshot of the genre’s future direction. This diverse array of news, from significant career milestones and legal battles to artistic statements and charitable endeavors, encapsulates a dynamic week in the global music scene and the broader industry.