Synth-Pop Duo THE ECHO BUREAU Issues a Timely Anthem for the World Stage with New Single "FREE"

 

[Shropshire, UK / Dallas] – In a world where personal and global liberties feel increasingly fragile, transatlantic  synth-pop powerhouse The Echo Bureau has returned with their most poignant release to date: "Free." 

Moving beyond the dance floor escapism of their previous hits, "Free" is a driving, cinematic track that pulses with  urgency. With freedom under siege in headlines across the globe, The Echo Bureau delivers a sonic rallying cry— reminding listeners that the spirit of independence is worth fighting for. The song combines the duo’s signature  analog warmth with a harder, industrial edge, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and critically modern. 

A Soundtrack for the Current Moment 

"We didn't just want to write another love song," says  

the band in a joint statement. “It is about people, and  

relationship, but there’s also a broader perspective at  

play. Looking at the world stage, from the erosion of  

rights to the global conflicts we see on the news every  

day, 'freedom' isn't just a word anymore—it's a  

necessary action. 'Free' is our response to the tension  

everyone is feeling right now." 

About The Echo Bureau The Echo Bureau is the "official" collaboration between two veteran musicians who  bridge the Atlantic to create authentic, synthesizer-driven pop. 

• T. Mancuso (USA): A Texas-based multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, Mancuso is a known figure in the  "SaxWave" sub-genre and a member of the synthwave outfit VIC-20. His background in jazz, rock, and  new wave brings a melodic, soulful complexity to the band's electronic foundation. 

• Iwan Bedford (UK): Bringing the British pop sensibility to the mix, Bedford is a seasoned songwriter and  producer whose work spans multiple bands and solo projects in the UK scene. His mastery of vintage  synthesis and production gives The Echo Bureau its polished, radio-ready sheen. 

Staying true to their ethos, The Echo Bureau confirms that "Free" is 100% human-created. Writing, recording,  and production are handled entirely by Mancuso and Bedford, ensuring that the human soul remains at the center of  the machine. 

Stream "Free" and Connect The new single is available now on all major streaming platforms. 

• Website: http://www.theechobureau.com 

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEchoBureau 

• Instagram: @theechobureau

Dr. Nizar Chaari: EPIK 100 is Not a Destination, But a Launchpad for Africa’s New Leadership Era

 

RABAT, Morocco — January 17, 2026 — On the sidelines of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), the pan-African association EPIK Leaders, in partnership with the RDC Stratégie Think Tank, hosted the prestigious EPIK 100 ceremony at the Palais Jawhara in Rabat. The event honored 100 emerging young leaders from across the continent, signaling a shift toward a leadership model based on human intelligence and social impact.

Selected from over 500 applicants across 34 African nations, the "EPIK 100" awardees—with an average age of just 23—represent the vanguard of Africa’s future in sectors including education, health, green tech, and social entrepreneurship.

In a powerful keynote address titled "The Summit of Eagles," Dr. Nizar Chaari, founder of EPIK Leaders, redefined the continent’s wealth. "EPIK 100 is not a finality; it is a point of entry," Dr. Chaari stated. "Our goal is to identify promising trajectories at the right moment and provide the tools to transform individual commitment into collective, continental impact."

A New Paradigm for the Continent The ceremony took place within the Léopard Business Village, a strategic platform for South-Sudan cooperation. The event highlighted a move away from the traditional view of Africa as a land of raw materials, repositioning it as a hub of "human gold."

Dr. Chaari urged the young laureates to embrace the "Eagle" mindset—rising above immediate challenges to maintain a long-term vision for the continent. He emphasized that the EPIK 100 distinction is not merely an award, but a responsibility to lead Africa toward self-reliance and innovation.

Key Highlights of the EPIK 100 Cohort:

• Diverse Representation: Winners from 34 countries, with 30% female representation.

• Selective Excellence: A rigorous jury process based on societal engagement, academic coherence, and leadership potential.

• Strategic Hub: The event strengthened economic and cultural ties between Morocco and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), showcasing the power of African partnerships.

About EPIK Leaders Founded in January 2025 by Dr. Nizar Chaari and Mahmoud Cherkaoui, EPIK Leaders is a pan-African movement dedicated to empowering the next generation of change-makers. With over 50,000 members and 550 active clubs in 15+ countries, the organization provides training, mentorship, and a platform for social innovation.

Media Contact: EPIK Leaders Communications Office Email: Hello@epikleaders.org Website:  Epikleaders.org  

Precision Window Tint Named “Best of 2025” as Local Expansion Scales Across Las Vegas and Arizona

 

Award winning automotive tint & protection specialist sweeps local honors, including BusinessRate BEST of 2025 and FOX5 Viewer’s Choice.

LAS VEGAS, NV — Precision Window Tint, a Southern Nevada staple for over 20 years, has been officially named a BusinessRate BEST of 2025 Award Winner for Best Window Tinting Service. This prestigious ranking, determined solely by verified customer feedback and Google reviews, solidifies Precision’s reputation as the valley’s top rated provider of professional window tinting and auto protection services including ceramic tint, paint protection film (PPF), and ceramic coatings.

The award comes during a landmark year for the company, which recently opened its fourth Las Vegas area location at its Buffalo site to better serve the growing Henderson and Southwest Valley communities.

“With the intense Vegas heat, window tint isn't a luxury, it’s a necessity for comfort and vehicle longevity,” said Brian Morrison, owner of Precision Window Tint.“ From the Summerlin foothills to the Henderson suburbs, Las Vegas drivers deal with some of the harshest UV conditions in the country. Being recognized by LLumar, BusinessRate and our local FOX5 viewers proves that our commitment to protecting our neighbors’ vehicles is hitting the mark.”

A Triple Crown Year for Local Excellence

The BusinessRate distinction is the latest in a string of 2025 accolades for the company, which include:

• 2025 FOX5 Viewer’s Choice Award: Voted “Best Window Tinting Service” by the Las Vegas community.

• 2024 LLumar SelectPro National Dealer of the Year: A national honor recognizing Precision Window Tint as one of the elite installers in the United States.

Beyond the Average Tint: Why Precision is the Top Choice for Vegas 

Precision Window Tint has tailored its service menu specifically for the Las Vegas/Henderson climate:

• Ceramic Window Tint: Utilizing FormulaOne technology to reject maximum infrared heat and protect interiors from the 115°+ summer peaks.

• Paint Protection Film (PPF): Often called "clear bra," this service is vital for local commuters on the I-15 and 215 Beltway, shielding hoods from the rock chips and road debris common in valley construction zones.

• Ceramic Coatings: Creating a hydrophobic, UV-resistant barrier that prevents paint oxidation caused by intense desert sun exposure.

Community Growth and Accessibility

Founded in 2004, Precision Window Tint has grown from a single shop to a regional powerhouse. With locations strategically placed near Summerlin, Henderson, Central Las Vegas, and South Las Vegas, the company ensures high end automotive films and protection is never more than a 15 minute drive for valley residents. This year also marked the brand's first interstate expansion with a new franchise location in Phoenix, Arizona.

About Precision Window Tint Precision Window Tint is a family owned automotive, residential & commercial tinting company founded in 2004. Specializing in heat rejecting window films and surface protection, the company serves Nevada and Arizona using premium, USA-made products from LLumar, FormulaOne, and System X. With a 21 year history in the Las Vegas Valley, Precision is known for its certified installations over a thousand five-star reviews.

For more information or to schedule a consultation at any of the four Las Vegas Valley locations, visit precisionwindowtint.com or call (702) 466-6435.

The Model-Cast Podcast Announces New Episode Featuring DJ Nikki Hayes

 

Rory O’Connor’s The Model-Cast Podcast releases a new episode where the host interviews DJ Nikki Hayes about her life journey, addiction, and recovery.

 

The Model-Cast Podcast, an industry-leading show, releases the most anticipated new episode featuring DJ Nikki Hayes. The new episode focuses on Hayes’ personal journey through life, her struggles with addiction, and how she found strength to come out the other side. The conversation with DJ Nikki Hayes is honest, emotional, and inspiring, offering listeners a real and human story that goes beyond fame and success. The episode is now streaming across more than 10 major platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

In this latest episode, DJ Nikki Hayes opens up about the challenges she faced both personally and professionally. She speaks openly about addiction, the impact it had on her life and career, and the difficult steps she took toward recovery. Rather than focusing only on her success as a DJ, the episode highlights her growth as a person. Listeners hear about resilience, self-reflection, and the importance of support during difficult times. The conversation is guided with care and respect, making it accessible to a wide audience.

 
DJ Nikki Hayes is known for her work in the music and entertainment scene, where she has built a reputation for energy, creativity, and authenticity. Beyond her career, Hayes has become a voice for honesty and self-awareness by sharing her personal experiences. In this episode of The Model-Cast Podcast, she speaks openly about the realities of addiction and recovery, offering hope to others who may be facing similar struggles. Her willingness to be vulnerable adds depth to the conversation and reinforces the message that healing and growth are possible.

 
Host Rory O’Connor said the episode with Nikki Hayes reflects what The Model-Cast Podcast is all about. “This podcast is about real conversations,” O’Connor said. “Nikki was very open about her life, her struggles, and her recovery. These are stories that people can connect with, even if they are not in the entertainment industry. I believe episodes like this help reduce stigma and remind people that change is possible.” O’Connor added that creating a safe and honest space for guests is one of his main goals as a host.

About the podcast
The Model-Cast Podcast is an industry-leading show hosted by Rory O’Connor’ that features interviews with guests from the entertainment and fashion industries. Known for its relaxed but thoughtful interview style, the podcast has become a breath of fresh air for listeners looking for honest conversations rather than scripted promotion. With most of its listenership based in the USA and Ireland, The Model-Cast Podcast continues to grow its global audience. Listen to the podcast on more than 10 streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. For more information about The Model-Cast Podcast, follow their podcast channels or listeners can also follow their updates and behind-the-scenes content on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/themodelcast_podcast?igsh=emtwdm1jdXBlZTA1.