#and the whole concept of every video the difference of the sounds and the styles

[avatar-anna]

Rumors

so...i've had this concept rattling around in my brain, but i had no idea how to write it, so i used pictures instead. i definitely want to do more, but tumnlr only allows 10 pictures a post, so here's to hoping i remember to come back to this in the future!

yourinstagram

liked by taylorswift and 67,530 others

yourinstagram: had a very cool dude over today to make even cooler music

yoursistersinstagram: you let someone in the bat cave?!

y/nfan5: possible collab on the new album?

yourinstagram: more like i was helping someone with theirs ;))

harrystyles: Thank you for having me. X.

harryfan3: HARRY???

harryfan7: omgomgomgomgomg

y/nfan1: pls god let us have a harry and y/n collab on his next album i NEED it

harrystyles

liked by gemmastyles, yourinstagram and 2,233,781 others

harrystyles: HS3. Coming soon.

harryfan8: NEW ALBUM ALERT

harryfan11: HARRY YOU CANT JUST DROP SOMETHING LIKE THAT WITHOUT A RELEASE DATE

harryfan4: this has to be what he was working on with y/n right?

y/nfan3: i need them both on a song together

yourinstagram: had fun late night talking with you xx

y/nfan9: i'm sorry wHAT

harryfan5: is this flirting this sounds like flirting

harryfan13: honestly...here for it

y/nupdates

liked by harryfan7 and 4,320 others

y/nupdates: Y/n in a video for Vogue recently!

"A lot of people ask me how Harry Styles ended up recording at my house when we'd virtually never crossed paths before. It was actually Taylor (Swift) who kind of set the whole thing up. They spoke at the Grammys last year and she apparently gave him my number so we could work together...He called and asked if I was available to help with his album at all. At the time I was on the road, then working on stuff for the band, and it just kind of went back and forth for a few months while we tried to line up our schedules. Then I was done touring, but I was kind of in a weird state in life where I didn't want to leave the house or hang out with anyone. And I remember making up excuses because I wasn't really up to making myself presentable to a whole team of people I'd never met before and having our first meeting be this huge thing. I'd basically built it all up in my head about how our ideas would clash and we wouldn't get along and I just kept telling him maybe some other time. Long story short, Harry showed up at my place a week later by himself with just a guitar, a notebook, and my favorite takeout order. We spent the whole day together working on a bunch of different stuff from themes to genres of music to sampling and mixing. And writing. Lots and lots of writing. And now he's a dear friend. He's so sweet and so talented. I wish him all the best with the new album."

y/nfan8: ok i'm glad it worked out and everything but imagine a virtual stranger showing up to your HOUSE?? like she said no and he basically forced her to write his album for her

y/nfan4: that's so real of her tbh to not want to leave her house

y/nfan2: y/n is notoriously introverted it makes sense

harryfan13: girl...

y/nfan7: i don't think it was that serious. and if she really didn't want him there she could've said no

harryfan13: and y/n literally called him a friend?? stop trying to start shit that doesn't exist

y/nfan7: of COURSE mother brought them together

harryfan17: i can't believe that's what harry and taylor were talking about in the video!

harryfan2: chill harry doesn't need to be in a relationship with every woman he's associated with

harryfan4: wait but wasn't y/n at that grammys too?

harryfan9: it was still covid it's possible their paths didn't cross

y/nfan19: wait what if he was too shy to go up to her??😭

harryfan4: i love that they're writing besties now but i think they'd be so cute together 🥹

hsupdates

liked by harryfan4 and 10,343 others

hsupdates: Harry about Y/n L/n for Rolling Stone:

"I've always admired (Y/n's) work. She and her band are incredibly talented, and are just so passionate about creating music. I wanted that same energy for my third album, the freedom to make whatever I want without any reservations, and I knew Y/n was the perfect addition to the team. It took some convincing, but once we kind of got started, we couldn't stop. As we've gotten to know each other these past few months, I not only respect her as a musician, but for the person she is as well. Her soul is one of a kind, and I feel like my album would be so different without her on it. So now not only do I have an album that I'm proud of and love, but I got an extraordinary friend out of it too."

harryfan9: so this is what people mean when they say platonic soulmates

y/nfan12: all we've gotten is crumbs and i'm already in love with their friendship. and the album of course

y/nfan2: i'm so interested to hear this album now. if y/n is on it it has to be good

harryfan3: "her soul is one of a kind?" if that's harry as a friend i don't think i can handle boyfriendrry😭

y/nfan7: i'm holding out hope for them honestly🤞🏼🤞🏼

liked by harrystyles and 23,724 others

yourinstagram

yourinstagram: you've fallen from the sky down to me, i see it in your face, i'm relief, i'm your summer girl

y/nfan17: shut up are those song lyrics??

yourbandinstagram: the tears behind your dark sunglasses, the fears inside your heart as deep as gashes🎶🎶

y/nfan17: HOLY SHIT those ARE lyrics!

y/nfan6: haven't even heard the song and i know the girls have done it again

harryfan4: could it...could it be about harry?

y/nfan8: you're grasping at straws

harryfan12: are they? they've been spotted together all over LA

harrystyles: ☀️☀️

y/nfan8: as friends. friends can hang out can't they?

harryfan3: new music from harry AND y/n? we're about to be fed y'all

harryfan10: THEY REALLY ARE BESTIES

y/nfan2: i bet they collaborated on this song together

Interviewer (I): What's one memory or experience you can share from making this album? Any trips to Japan or Jamaica?

Harry (H): We stayed in Los Angeles mostly for this one. But erm...in terms of a specific memory...I would say that while I was working with Y/n, one of the tracks was actually inspired by her cat.

I: Really?

H: Yeah. Whenever it did something to annoy Y/n, which was quite often, she'd call her a little freak. The song's obviously not about the cat, but the phrase was in my head and yeah. Things just kind of...snowballed from there.

I: The sound that Y/n's band has is more rock centric, a similar sound to your first album. Is that what we can expect for your third studio album?

I: You've become quite close to Y/n L/n it seems like.

H: Not necessarily. Y/n and I collaborated, but she also let me take the reins in terms of sound. She had opinions of course and we would bounce ideas off of each other...but she really just followed my lead and supported the vision I had. She is playing a majority of the instruments on the album, though.

H: It's hard not to.

I: How so?

I: It sounds like you could go on for quite some time about her.

H: She's just cool, you know? I was kind of intimidated when we met for the first time. She's quiet, but you never forget that she's in the room, you just want to go over and talk to her. Of course once you meet her she's incredibly kind and not at all intimidating, but still like chill and stuff. The first time we met we sat for an hour just talking about music we enjoyed and live shows we wanted to attend and things we learned while in lockdown. She's just effortlessly cool. An old soul, I guess. And somehow she translates that into her music. Her sisters, too. They're all just first-rate musicians.

H: Sorry. I kind of gushed for a minute there.

H: And the band. They're just so talented, you know?

harrystyles

liked by jeffazoff and 4,211,323 others

harrystyles: From start to finish, making this album has been such an incredible journey. It was so fun to try new things sonically while also making something that I'm one hundred percent proud of. I've never felt more myself while making music than I did while creating this album for all of you, and I have so many people to thank for that. Hopefully you know who you are. I love, love, love you.

harryfan16: 😭😭😭😭😭

harris_reed: little angel👼

harryfan3: WE'RE SO PROUD OF YOU

yourinstagram: congratulations h. you deserve it.💐💐💐

harrystyles: I couldn't have done it without you💐

yourinstagram

liked by yourbandinstagram and 53,089 others

yourinstagram: for one night and one night only...but in all seriousness shout out to my friend and his incredible album. happy to have been a part of the magic :)))

harryfan13: HAPPY HARRY DAY!!!

harryfan4: is she in ny??

y/nfan7: yes! she was spotted with harry before the show today

harryfan9: they're literally so cute i love their friendship

harrystyles: You made the magic happen. Thank you for everything. X.

harryfan3: they're so...

y/nfan2: i genuinely think they like fucking with us bc i legitimately can't tell if they're dating or not

y/nfan7: at this point i don't even care i love whatever they're doing they both just seem so happy to be besties/lovers/collaborators and i love that for them

harryfan5: ^^

y/nupdates

liked by harryfan10 and 3,742 others

y/nupdates: Y/n performing Keep Driving onstage with Harry in NYC tonight at ONO!

y/nupdates: When he introduced her, he said: "Tonight is special in a lot of ways. I'm sharing my album with you for the first time, my family's here, my friends are here, and...a very good friend of mine is here to play a song with me tonight. This album wouldn't have been possible without her, so please give her as much love as you've given me. Y/n L/n, everybody!"

harryfan4: stop they're so close it hurts😭

y/nfan7: i was there they were staring at each other and smiling the whole time!

harryfan12: that's the one where he says choke her with a sea view!?

y/nfan7: YES AND I SWEAR HIS SMILE GOT BIGGER WHEN HE SANG THAT PART AND LOOKED AT HER LIKE HE FULLY HAD TO TURN AROUND TO LOOK AT HER BC SHE WAS PLAYING THE DRUMS

harryfan3: i'm choosing to believe they're in love idc what anyone else says

hs/ynupdates

hs/ynupdates: Harry, Y/n, and her sisters in New York after ONO tonight! Apparently Harry and Y/n were standing and walking very close to each other. Like arms wrapped around each other close.

harryfan2: that could literally mean anything tho. they're good friends why wouldn't they walk next to each other?

y/nfan14: i feel like they don't know if they're dating or not at this point😅

y/nfan8: her sisters are so unserious i love it

y/nfan5: i love that they all showed up for harry🥹

yourbandinstagram

liked by taylorswift, harrystyles and 710,225 others

yourbandinstagram: Thanks for having us, London!

y/nfan1: i can't believe i got to see harry and y/n perform in ONE NIGHT

harryfan3: sending my love and my tears to everyone who got to experience this historic night

harrystyles: Thank you for taking the time to share the stage with me. X.

yourbandfan2: how do y'all always look so good 😭

I: So you opened for Harry Styles a few weeks ago and performed a song with him in New York.

Y/n: My sisters and I did, yeah.

I: How did that come about? Did your team call his team? Or was it more casual than that?

Y/n: Oh, definitely more casual. I think we were just hanging out together one morning and he kind of just suggested it. No bells and whistles or anything like that.

I: So can we expect (Your band) to join Harry on his upcoming tour, then?

Y/n: I don't think so. We're working on putting out a record of our own at the moment, but we do want to get back out on the road soon, but I will definitely be attending more of his shows in the future.

I: And what can we expect from this upcoming record? Did Harry help you the way you helped him out?

Y/n: I've sent him a couple things to listen to, and I value his opinion a lot, both as a friend and as an artist. He also showed me a couple records recently which kind of influenced how I approached some of the songs sonically. He's got a huge vinyl collection at his house. I'm honestly kind of jealous.

I: There's been some rumors running around that you and Harry are in a romantic relationship. Would you like to put any of those rumors to rest?

Y/n: I could see where people might think that. Harry's very affectionate by nature, and over the last couple of months we've become very close. He's not just someone I admire in the music industry, but as a person in general. I feel incredibly lucky to call him a friend. And a close one, at that.

I: So just a friend then?

Y/n: Yeah. Yeah, just a friend.

[sorseri]

NCT 2023’s ‘Golden Age’: A Mesmerizing and Full of Hope Piece of Art.

NCT 2023’s Golden Age is always my favorite song of them since I discovered this group around late 2023. I’m personally not a huge fan of Kpop, however, this track is very captivating in my opinion. So I started to listen to Kpop more often, especially NCT’s tracks. Using the sample of Beethoven’s Pathetique, this amazing whole package of art was produced by a producer team based in South Korea, Artiffect. This combination of classic composition with modern electronic and rap tunes is really captivating since they blend nicely and are not sound overlapped. ‘Golden Age’, in the song explains about how the members have been working hard and achieved their golden era by getting so many attentions and awards in music shows. It’s pretty much about their fight against fear and hard times during their struggling moments.

Expected as a ballad song by some listeners who already watched the teaser, it turned out way different than what they think. Opened with soft piano playing, followed by Doyoung’s adlibs, people thought it would be some kind of sad and calm type of song. But, then, Mark’s rap appeared with heavy beat which shocked those listeners at the first time they were listening to the full song at the same time. However, the beat turns into soft and tender with piano and string sounds. Xiaojun led the pre-chorus with gentle voice and a little falsetto technique singing. The beat jumped into more energetic rhythm as Haechan started to fill the chorus line. When the main tunes come, people finally understand the progression of the song.

Involving 20 members at that time, this track is full of taste and color since the members have their own style in completing this piece of art. The MV also has good concept, which represent the achievement of the struggle era of the members by showing a chair being burned by fire, members picking up their keys as a symbol of key of the path they have chosen. However, this MV has been rated as PG-13, since it contains burning fire in the middle of the video. This video is pretty much soft, delicate, yet strong at the same time. SM Entertainment management really calculated every detail of the song and the MV. NCT’s visual card also help so much on the aesthetic visualization of the video. SM is really good at scouting and auditioning best members to be part of NCT.

Working together as a team of NCT from all units, the members were cooperative and understand the portion of their work when making this project. Even though every member has little part of line, they shown the best work they have done. Combining so many type of voice became a challenge for the composer and music producers. But the good thing is that the composer and producers are highly experienced in their work realm, especially that they are SM’s composer and producers. Even when the song is sampled by one of the best classic composition, it still has NCT’s music color, which is experimental and explorative. This one is a great job of the members, composer, producers, and the lyricist. I expect to listen to their new full team releases which will be as good as ‘Golden Age’. I must take my hat off for Artiffect for making such a beautiful and energetic song for one of my favorite Kpop group, NCT.

[xohyeona]

RXMANCE is KRUSH’s fifth full studio album. the album includes nine tracks, including the title track, MIDAS TOUCH. RXMANCE sold 701,219 copies on the first day of its release, and 1,262,272 in the first week. RXMANCE peaked at number two on the gaon album chart along with MIDAS TOUCH on the k-pop hot 100. the song also won 7 music show awards. it did amazing both domestically and internationally internationally, debuting at number one on the billboard k-pop hot 100 and the world digital songs chart. promotions for RXMANCE lasted about a month, performing MIDAS TOUCH and a few other b-sides such as I GO CRAZY BECAUSE OF YOU, YOU THINK?, LOOK AT ME, and OH BOY on music shows and festivals, along with multiple variety show appearances.

❤︎ TRACKLIST

INTRO

I GO CRAZY BECAUSE OF YOU

MIDAS TOUCH

YOU THINK?

LIPS

DRESSING ROOM

LOOK AT ME

OH BOY

GONE

❤︎ STYLING

❤︎ ERA

↳ LETS BRING IT BACK TO 2009!

↳ these girls gave straight britney spears in the album, a newer concept for the group. with the “y2k” sound sticking around in kpop, they stood out for taking the early 2010s route instead, with all of their songs being reminiscent of that time period

↳ to say fans of krush were shocking is an understatement, their jaws were DROPPED watching the music video and stages

↳ they were the topic of the week on stan twitter. from comments calling them the queens of the 2010s renaissance, to the multiple viral pictures of their styling and concept photos

↳ the official bratz tiktok account posted a video using midas touch and kaeleina freaked out on live for 10 minutes. she also commented on the bratz post “slayyyy 💜” and people demanded a collab… we’ll see if that happens in the future

↳ kaleina and moonsun stole the show with their rap verses while l.i and aeri hit the mark with their vocals. all girls received heavy praise for their stage presence, with many believing this concept suit them perfectly

↳ the members all have writing credits for most of the songs. they explained that they wrote multiple of the songs together and all decided which ones would be on the album

↳ a funny moment of this era was moonsun going on live and playing you think? on repeat for thirty minutes, claiming it was her favorite song on the album. she jokingly told fans that “every time you tell me to play a different song i’m going to keep playing this one” the whole live was so unserious fr

↳ overall, this era really showed a new side to krush. they really hit it hard with the mature vibe that their fans and the girls enjoyed

a/n: AHHH hi cece!! @urmykrushhh this was so fun to make, i tried to give them something with a similar vibe but a slightly different concept. i have a another writing for the girls i’m working on too, but i just got this one done first, i hope you like it! 🫶

[notafraidofredyellowandblue]

OOR 2001 - Nr 8 - Rammstein interview

Rammstein <Germans have a very good sense of humor>

Rammstein: those are boring, surly men, who take themselves too seriously and even are perhaps a little 'wrong'. You would think. But with the release of the third album Mutter, singer Till Lindemann and drummer Christoph Schneider prove that Germans do have a sense of humor. "Only... we don't laugh."

by Robert Heeg

Actually, Rammstein's entire career is a joke. Or at least a bizarre twist of fate. Born and raised in the GDR, Lindemann, Schneider, keyboardist Flake Lorenz, bassist Oliver Riedel and guitarists Paul Landers and Richard Kruspe despite state censorship managed to develop into stubborn punks with their own vision on hard music. Only in '93, long after the fall of the wall, did they convert their ideas into the total concept Rammstein. In addition to hard industrial metal with a gothic touch, this concept also includes a well-oiled show in which sweaty male bodies and stunts with fire play a leading role. Despite international aspirations, the mother tongue was retained. That did not stop the albums Herzeleid ('95) and Sehnsucht ('97) from being very successful. Even in the US, entire tribes sing along at the top of their lungs during the performances. It must be a great victory for the six 'Ossies'. Can you therefore blame Rammstein for using images from the propaganda film Triumph of the Will, by Hitler's court filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl, in a video clip.

How does Mutter differ most from its two predecessors?

Till: "We used more acoustic instruments and recorded a string orchestra 'live' for the first time. We also worked on the mix for a very long time. We even broke off a mix because the album started to sound too much like Sehnsucht. We were looking for a more modern sound"

The official biography says that no one sounds like Rammstein, but I definitely recognize that rigid sound of Die Krupps...

Christoph: "Yes, of course. And there are more bands with which we have something in common. In that bio they are probably referring to the combination of show and German-language singing."

Till: "Especially that German thing, yes. Most acts sing in English, which sounds much rounder than German. So we do offer something new internationally."

The lyrics on Mutter seem less harsh, slightly more personal. Is there a thematic shift?

Till: "You should interpret them the way you want. Use your imagination. I do believe that they are less abstract than before, they have become clearer stories. However, we try to stick to our well-known style."

If you used to express yourself in macho rhetoric such as: 'Wollt ihr das Bett in Flammen sehen', you now cry for Mutter. Back to the womb?

Christoph: "Mutter is simply the word that fits the mood of the record, you don't have to look for any special meaning behind it. Inspiration can really come from anywhere: personal experiences, magazines, a book, a good film... It makes It doesn't matter. It can also happen if you happen to get your finger stuck in the electrical socket. Anything."

Is this a democratic band or are there members who have more influence?

Christoph: "It is quite a democratic whole. And that does not always make it easy when you are in a hurry. Fortunately, there is also a producer [Jacob Hellner] who makes decisions every now and then. It is also a lot more productive that we now sometimes work in smaller teams. If there are six of us, there is always someone who disagrees with something."

Till: "It is good to learn that you occasionally have to defer to the majority opinion. After three or four weeks it often turns out that the consensus was the basis for the right decision. It is essential that you share everything as a band: equal rights, equal duties. It has been my experience that when someone feels underexposed in a band, they usually leave."

Would Rammstein be over then?

Christoph: "It's like cutting off an arm. We would continue, but it would be very different."

In interviews the band members sometimes come across as a bit rigid. You rarely allow yourself to be lured out of your tent.

Christoph: "That depends on how someone responds to us and our texts. Every journalist does that in his own way, and we respond to that. But I know that we are considered difficult. Whether it is photographers, cover designers or people at the record company, they experience us as difficult. That is because we have a very strong opinion about how things should sound and look. We don't compromise well."

This also applies to the language...

Till: "Yes, why should we? Words are free."

And you were also right, in America people sang along with complete lyrics.

Christoph: "Well, at least they tried, haha. In any case, we had a good time with their attempts. They looked like teenagers going to their first pop concert, not having fully understood the lyrics, but still trying to sing along. Very amusing."

You guys have something special with America. Did that start when David Lynch used two of your songs for his film Lost Highway?

Christoph: "That was our first contact with America. It made us a bit known and gave us the opportunity to perform there. However, it was very difficult to make the right contacts and bring Sehnsucht there. We only managed that in '98."

American record companies are traditionally skeptical of European acts. Especially when they stubbornly continue to sing in their native language.

Till: "If you hang around somewhere in the middle, that is certainly true, yes. But once you are successful, you can do just about anything there. The most idiosyncratic acts are often the most successful."

Idiosyncrasy is also often poorly understood. For example, you are often associated with the extreme right. You went one step further by using fragments of Leni Riefenstahl films in the video for the Depeche Mode cover Stripped.

Christoph: "We have never really understood that prejudice. In our opinion, it is not demonstrable. In interviews we have often said that we have nothing to do with it. We are busy discovering our own German music and creating our own German band , and we have mentioned many things that have to do with our culture. We are getting quite tired of the allegations. People simply have an opinion about us, no matter how often we contradict those prejudices through the media. The only thing we can do now all that's left is to just continue making music. If you follow us a bit, you know that we have nothing to do with the right. For the people who still need an explanation, we have included the song Links 234 on the album. Listen to that."

Is your sense of humor and sarcasm underestimated?

Till: "Oh, you either understand us or you don't. There is no in between. You either love us or you hate us. The fans understand our intentions."

Christoph: "The problem is that people are always presented with something that is ready-made. But as soon as they have to interpret something for themselves, think for themselves, they have a problem. You do have your own opinion, right? Then don't ask me what you have to think about it. I can't explain it either."

Don't you secretly cherish those different reactions a little?

Till: "If people think we are really bad, that is of course often annoying and questionable. But it is indeed better than not arousing any reactions at all."

Christoph: "It did surprise us, but it has become part of us."

You also evoke reactions with the show. For the stunt with the dildo, you were even held in an American cell for a couple of hours in '98.

Christoph: "Americans are easily shocked by things that we consider very normal here. But for those involved it was certainly not a pleasant incident, I can assure you. Perhaps Till would like to say something about that."

Till: "We don't do something like this with premeditation. We mainly do a show like that for fun and to illustrate the music. That makes it a bit more pleasant for us on stage, because at least something happens and time goes by faster, haha. And the audience is grateful that there is also something to experience visually. It is not our style to deliberately evoke such extreme reactions. It is not as if we plan it, it just happens naturally."

And yet... Does that rebelliousness have nothing to do with your GDR youth? Is the animal out of the cage now?

Christoph: "That is probably innate, yes. In the GDR, of course, nothing was allowed and the music scene was of little significance. We spent our youth and teenage years in the GDR, so it could not have been otherwise or that it left an indelible impression."

Till: "Yet we weren't really rebellious. We just did what we did, also on stage. We just lived it up, and actually we still do. Only later did we realize that it was quite bold to do that in the GDR."

Were you influenced by show bands like Kiss?

Christoph: "Of course. I wasn't that impressed with the music, but I did have the posters hanging. Musically we were more impressed by Udo Lindenberg, AC/DC, Neubauten, the Neue Deutsche Welle. Very few of them actually came to the GDR. But we didn't know any better. If a band came, it would be talked about for another five years. Those performances were incredibly inflated. haha."

Did you feel like second class citizens?

Till: "That was a big problem, yes, because we were constantly looking to the west. I think the worst thing was that we were not allowed to travel. That was really sad. Other than that, life wasn't that bad, just the traveling... ."

Once an Ossie, always an Ossie?

Till: "Certainly. We still live in East Berlin. Due to our extensive travelling, I don't know whether the term Ossie still has the same meaning for us. But it remains our homeland. You carry it with you in your heart. "

Am I wrong or are you parodying the cliché image that foreigners have of Germans?

Christoph: "You might think. Well, we know how people sometimes think about Germany. Never mind, there is little we can do about that."

Till: "We like to exaggerate and that's part of parody. Only... we don't laugh."

Do you think Dutch people understand German humor?

Christoph: "Germans have a very good sense of humor. But let's talk about you, with your Big Brother-Shit! 1)"

--

1) The Big Brother reality tv show format was originated in the Netherlands, first aired in 1999, and had spin-ofs in many other countries around the world

--

List of other Rammstein OOR interviews

[disastergenius]

Celebrating 15 years of Team Starkid with my (current) ranking of all of their shows and brief thoughts on them.

VHS Christmas Carol

I don't know how this became my favorite. The music is top tier, I've liked every version of it.

I was initially nervous to watch it because I wasn't sold on the original format, but it grew on me.

Also it's the second best adaptation of A Christmas Carol (the best is still the Muppet Christmas Carol)

2. A Very Potter Musical

My first ever Starkid show.

I watched it with my sister on our very old computer. I was in maybe 6th grade and had become quite obsessed with musicals and Harry Potter, so it perfectly combined my interests.

I truly was not totally sold on it just because 6th grade me was not prepared for all the cursing and the dirty jokes (6th grade me was a very different person) but Granger Danger fully hooked me

I still hold that Granger Danger is the best Starkid song, i do not care that it gets (over)played all the time. I also love that they keep having to come up with new ways to perform it (my favorite/the best being the LeakyCon one with Meredith directing the rest of the cast who only half-remember it)

Definitely ranks high just because it was the first and nostalgically I love it so much

3. Trail to Oregon

It's so fun as a concept and one of the few shows I like that really uses audience participation and makes it work.

Joey credited as "Everyone Else" and every shot with Clark in the background

I like the smaller cast, it's such a feat to run a show like that with 6 cast members

4. A Very Potter Sequel

it's ranked 4th but it probably actually ties with Trail to Oregon

I watched it after AVPM (so my second starkid show) and it did not disappoint

I do think it is stronger than AVMP for most of it

I quote Draco a lot

5. Twisted: The Untold Story of a Royal Vizier

Definitely my favorite parody they've done. There's a great video that breaks down why it works so well: they've nailed the style.

Around the same time I first watched Twisted was also around my Wicked phase so that helped a lot.

Dylan Saunders knocks out it out of the park as Ja'far, he puts so much depth into the role. It works as an actor and for the part and helps a lot of the humor since Ja'far is the straight man of the show.

The entire soundtrack slaps including the bonus demos

6. Nerdy Prudes Must Die

The songs are great

The production value on their shows has gone up exponentially, and they make good use of it. The effects are so so good

I've never been more uncomfortable as when the words "dirty girl soup" were first said

7. Black Friday

probably tied with NPMD but

I think plot-wise it is better than NPMD, and overall so are the songs. I think maybe the live version that's on youtube is what makes it slightly below NPMD because everyone was sick so it sounds very different between the live and recorded.

the garland and lights becoming wiggly is peak set design

I think it has some of the most memorable songs

the return of Dylan Saunders and his lovely ballads

Take Me Back is a top tier love song for Starkid

8. Starship

Probably the 3rd Starkid show I saw

Joey Richter absolutely sells the performance (he's not carrying it because the whole cast is great) and is fantastic as the lead

puppets! so many puppets!

9. Holy Musical B@tman

my previous exposure to Batman at this point had been the 60s Adam West TV show so really this is like the spiritual successor of that, so honestly i was totally unfazed by the number of puns, I just assumed that was how Batman media was

Jeff Blim as Sweet Tooth is great, but I also love Joey Richter's in the Apocalyptour

"you got my hopes up so high, then mugged and shot them in an alleyway!" i quote an unreasonable amount

10. The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals

tbh I did not super like the show when I first watched it but it grew on me overtime. I think i really started to enjoy it when I went back to watch it after they announced Black Friday was going to be a sequel

11. A Very Potter Senior Year

it's so long guys

I think Joey Richter is the best part of it, Sidekick was fantastic

i do love that they got basically everyone they could to come back and do it

most of the callbacks work really well and make it fun

12. Ani: A Parody

fully gonna admit I haven't seen the full show itself, but I do really like the music

it is truly in the Star Wars spirit

13. Firebringer

I really wish I liked this show more, I think it's a fun concept and overall was fun

the opening number is really good musically

i think the humor and the unnecessary cursing didn't really work for me

14. Me and My Dick

I just think overall this show isn't to my taste but it's quite fun

[istvrks]

I've loved red velvet since the release of their masterpiece peekaboo, I remember hearing it for the first time, watching the music video, falling in love with the high notes, the stylistics and the concept .

I care a lot about the style of a band, how their songs sound, how their universe works. it's against this background that I often choose my favourites. red velvet are one of them.

mysticism, gothicism, occult - them. historical references to women in different times - them. mix of herl crash concept with more nuclear krazy concept - that's about them. each member carries something in herself, and all together they are like a whole, in one style, with one energy. I love every b-side they have, and I only like each of their kambeks more. i love the style they carry, and the theories with the cult or the same theory of cannibalism is my absolute Roman empire 🎀

[oraclemoontarot]

ahh ur cool to chat with.

im sure kpop has set ways but lately im uncertain as to what they are aiming for... loved enhypens recent comeback it was so cool, did u see it yet? but again theyre an other group I can only really like and its so strange to me when theres teens who r obviously much younger than myself overly obsessing and being possesive over the idols bc i had exactly the same stance about western bgs during the 00s. now im kind of just enjoying them for the music and dont feel the need to deeply obsess over every detail but tarot blogs r so fun to ask qs and find out stuff we couldnt find out about one direction etc etc. it honestly seems so long ago the 00s and its weird bc when u find a new group and theyre so young i have to check difference in age gaps nowadays (lowkey wish there wasnt an age concept at all in society bc then it wouldnt matter). but ngl it is so awkward, like even seeing how ppl nowadays still flock to harry styles home town (yes also did that myself). yet kpop in general has so many cool themes and vast difference in terms of performance styles as well.

ik its only awkward if u make it awkward but ppl kinda take obsessing abt idols way too far. yet we have all been thru that phase so i get it but kpop stans seem next level crazy sometimes in a good way sometimes in a bad way, i also dont get how such delusional obsessions can lead to building closer relationship with said idol like u aint just going to make friends if ur crying over them in front of them yaknow? and other stuff like going to their hotels or following them whilst theyre out in their downtime. i dont think theres ever just been a non crazy time for idols at all. i cant imagine what their dorm rooms must be like cause I bet they all been doing other adult / human things lmfao. yet the way their fans overreact to mere dating rumors is ridiculous atp. or say for instance idols future spouses as well is the topic that seem to get ppl most riled up when it comes to thee sorts of readings. lowkey sometimes i ask why do i need to know but i ask anyway bc why the fuck not then i think its childish of me lol

aw tyy so are you!! I haven't watched their mv or listened to their album yet (if it wasn't a single), but I heard parts of it online and it does sound real good, I used to be an engene so maybe it's a sign to listen to this comeback.

no I get you so much here especially. Being a fan(girl) is so so much fun, you get to watch content, listen to music, learn about the members, go to concerts, collect merch, and meet other fans. There's a whole culture and community around it that, when you first get into kpop, it's so exciting. It's unsurprising people would get obsessed at first.

But yeah, I personally get really excited watching their content or over an idol (ahem haechan) when on my own, but whenever I meet them in person it's like all that excitement disappears and I'm like, 'oh, they're just a guy/person...', and it's really chill. I don't at all know how people think following them around, partaking in every single fancall, and getting overly excited and emotional would lead to them getting close with them.

You know, I think this obsessiveness dies down as we mature/get older. It's like we have other things to focus on, we become more grounded with less free time, and distance ourselves a little more.

Please, just imagining they're probably lying in bed scrolling through videos etc. while at home is kinda funny. They likely do what we do anyway as they're people at the end of the day, it kind of makes you see them more... normally?

We're alike haha. Yeah it's fun, especially with ideal type readings etc. but then you take a step back and think, am I doing too much? 😭

[thesinglesjukebox]

babyMINT - "Hellokittybalahcurri3 hellokitty美味しい"

We head into week two of Amnesty, and Crystal introduces us to Taiwanese reality TV...

[7.59]

Crystal Leww: Sixteen is now nearly nine years old and it finally feels like we've achieved peak competition show in Asian pop, with three of the big four labels in K-pop coming out with their own versions this last year and increasingly more depressing formats. It's unlikely that any group from NEXTGIRLZ will become the next TWICE (or even I.O.I... or even Kep1er...) but one of the joys of operating out of a smaller market in Taiwan is that it's possible to get wilder. It's possible that TPOP Entertainment and Wildfire Entertainment actually wanted a commercially viable group to debut but handing over control for babyMINT to producer AF resulted in something way funnier and something actually thrilling. "Hellokittybalahcurri3 hellokitty美味しい" is stuffed full of like twenty different ideas -- like after the endless debates of "what is hyperpop," AF said "fuck it, let's put them all into one song." This is like video game music, cheerleading music, meme music, regular pop music, idol music, rage music, and rave music all in one. Every moment in this is absolute nonsense (my favorite is the babytalk rapper in the 2nd (?) verse (?) imploring you to eat your green vegetables), a maximalist embrace that maybe nothing that is "good" matters, and yet, more than once this year, I have found myself singing along to "baby, please don't 放开手!" babyMINT makes me feel young again. [9]

Joshua Minsoo Kim: I broke down in tears when I first heard this song. The only way to explain my reaction is that it's similar to when you reflect on a relationship you have with someone you love, and how beautiful it is that you've come to understand who they are over many years and in many circumstances. They've remained inspiring, their presence indelible, and you know that there's still more you'll come to appreciate. This song is like that but with the past decade-plus of idol music. [10]

Jacob Sujin Kuppermann: One of those weird cases where getting too specific about any particular aspect of this would ruin the fun of experiencing "hellokittybalahcurri3 hellokitty美味しい" live for the first time -- it's the best time I've had listening to a pop song in... maybe ever? [9]

Will Adams: The first 90 seconds was some the most exhilarating music I've heard this year -- MAKE. IT. FASTER. -- and then it switched into some alternate universe Ariana Grande x Iggy Azalea song. They went back to the hyper-tempo, but by then the momentum was fully killed. [5]

Katherine St Asaph: I'm not sure what to make of this as a whole track, and I'm not sure I'm meant to. So, by parts: The part of this that sounds like the OST to Yoshi's Cookie

Michelle Myers: Judging idol pop as music, in isolation from its visual elements, will always feel a little wrong to me. The live stage of this track is a [10] for me. From the bored flossing that starts this performance to the headbanging chaos at the end, the choreo is even more delightful than the music supporting it. Listening to this on my headphones, I can't help but hear the seams between the disparate sections of this song. Linlin's rap, which feels deft on stage, sounds rushed and sloppy here. I'm nitpicking, but only because this song absolutely slaps. [9]

Rachel Saywitz: I could care less about the memeability of "hellokitty" -- it's too sincere to be a parody, and while I do find the earnestness preferable, the initial excitement I had for this ridiculously conceived track went away when I realized this wasn't a full-on girl group concept, but a costume of sorts as babyMINT attempts various musical styles to win a competition show, wherein supposedly, their official concept is still not self-determined. But I also think that performativity makes it possible to fully sink into the track's asinine lyrics and abrupt shift changes: these are girls playing a role, and doing so with a sprightly wink. There's no joke to be in on, just a part to play. [6]

Taylor Alatorre: Hmm... come to think of it, being in the beginning stages of a relationship is sort of like being initiated into a new and unfamiliar subculture, whether that be otaku maid cafés, retro arcade games, idol groups themselves, or... boba tea, I guess. Why has no one ever thought to put it like that before? Bonus point for the "ohmygah!" shout actually being transcribed as "omega," which adds a theological tinge to what must be the sweetest-sounding memento mori ever committed to record. [9]

Brad Shoup: A few years ago I wrote a career overview of Dave Matthews Band, because I do not back down from a challenge. In putting it together, I gained an appreciation for just how haunted their music is by death. Not loss, necessarily -- though that's a symptom -- but the sense that a lifespan is short, so eat, drink, etc. For them, it's a bittersweet realization, not something to rage against like some of their arena-filling elders. babyMINT spend more time on the eating and drinking, and I do appreciate them vocallzing a thought ("I will die, you will die") I've had about 10 to 20 times a day for the past three years. But it's cheap heat. [5]

Alfred Soto: This deejay set/Stars on 45 approach to tempos and modes is fun for all ages, as I demonstrated last night by keeping it in the background while my nieces opened gifts. [7]

Ian Mathers: Hmm. I might need to up the amount of shitposting I consume. [7]

Kayla Beardslee: You know some shit's about to go down when the girl groups hit you with "Are you ready for this?" and then introduce a silly-sounding phrase over deceptively chirpy synths. Brace yourself for brain melting; you didn't need those thoughts anyway. [8]

Micha Cavaseno: A manic sugar-rush of getting pranked, viciously blending periods of pop in a way that puts the "hyper" back in "hyperpop." I lost count of genre-jumps at a certain point, spotting at least five different songs where my review and consideration would be skewed only to get confronted with another one, so my sense of trying to provide an average based on any of these things is utterly overwhelmed. I'll never figure out which of them locked me on target and killed me at this rate. [8]

Nortey Dowuona: The first refrain is sped up. For what purpose I can't really ascertain. For one, unless you have good breath control, you can't keep and you might even fall off the rhythm, especially once it speeds up during the chorus. The pre chorus is as direct as one could be, with "I will die, you will die, baby/What a life, what a life/Why don't we just right now/Step out to the balcony and put everything aside? Never mind," ending with a reminder to not worry but to instead eat curry and drink boba instead. But the song completely splits apart, mixing up what it's supposed to be done with curry and boba until it shatters completely and comes to a stop. Guess I'll drink this curry? [7]

Dorian Sinclair: This fall, many reviews of Super Mario Bros. Wonder made the same basic point: there are multiple mechanical ideas in that game that could sustain an entire platformer on their own, but in the context of Wonder are picked up and cast aside within a single level. That kind of creative "wastefulness" is in some ways the ultimate flex -- you don't need to explore the full potential of every good idea you have, because there's always another one right around the corner. "hellokittybalahcurri3 hellokitty美味しい" has something similar going on: there are at least three killer melodic hooks, and that's without considering other standout elements (that guitar skitter! the rhythmic use of the title phrase!), any one of which could be developed into a whole other song. There's something thrilling about the speed and profligacy with which babyMINT chew through motifs here; I just hope they're holding some back for future releases. [8]

Michael Hong: babyMINT were fascinating on arrival: it wasn't just the stylized fashion of their name, or that they were under HIM International Music -- the company that formed Mandopop's only great girl group, S.H.E -- their debut stage saw five members, including former Cherry Bullet member LinLin (cannot think about this fucking group without thinking about Bora being villain edited on Queendom Puzzle -- compliment] -- singing in a mixture of Mandarin, English, and Spanish in a manner that was both prim and tipsy over a Brazilian funk beat. Tuning in weekly yielded more rewarding thrills: "R!ng R!ng R!ng" is cursed doll drum 'n' bass and their Jersey club remix of "Nobody Loves U :(" dials up the jejune silliness of Karencici's original. By this point, I was already all-in on babyMINT, a group helmed by a producer A.F who was weird as hell -- he donned the alias of DJ Banana Hammock for their "R!ng R!ng R!ng" performance and committed to the bit each week -- but had admittedly forgotten to check out "hellokittybalahcurri3 hellokitty美味しい" until two in the morning. I conked out with no recollection of the track -- it's pure sensory overload, impossible to retain any feeling on your first listen other than "Cool Japan!" and that this AF guy should seek help -- the only evidence that I heard it was a series of texts that said, "oh my god... the new babyMINT song is so... i'm crying they are so good. i'm obsessed." I've written about how all of it is primed for memeability -- how the "now, speed up" sets my heart aflame, how the final screams of "drink curry, eat boba" are one of the few things in music that could ever elicit a laugh from me, how LinLin is perfectly charming on her silly little nonsensical rap -- but the best part is that all of this is directed towards this lust for life. "I will die, you will die baby, what a life, what a life, why don't we seize the moment?" ponders Lyu Hsi-yan, what should be nihilistic transforming into something celebratory. "I want to stay cute everyday!" she cheers earlier in the track. The two lines work hand-in-hand, as if each searching for some form of optimism. It's an idol version of AF's song for some competition show and hearing them side-by-side is just proof that this guy knows exactly how to make music for idols. This week, I've been giggling to myself over the line "每天多吃一點蔬菜... 這才是我的菜," the latter part of which is just such an absolutely, unbelievably dumb pun. I play it in the car, to elicit groans, to cheer myself up. I catch myself muttering things from this damn song every day. babyMINT continued to offer surprises after this one. There's this disgusting way one member from the group CRIMZON sings her line "be my bae honey, I can be your bunny" (compliment) on "DAAAAAMMMN" (and the way it builds to some club breakdown just to go nowhere is so funny), "GrAb Me If U CaN" is the last shred of hyperpop I'll ever need to hear, "Ocean Bomb" is a delightfully cute post-NewJeans two-step number until LinLin raps about "Spongebob on her back," and grand finale "2023: BBMeme Odyssey" is so delightfully weird and stupid and fun that it sent me into hysterics on first watch (please just click on the video and watch it, I don't know how to describe what happens here; also Crystal asked me if they cut the one girl's hair just so she could be the prince and it makes me laugh every time I watch this fucking performance). They're the Mandopop artist who define the year, a group who were exactly as game as they needed to be to their producer's weirdest antics, who knew exactly how weird to be to be memeable without playing themselves down. [10]

Iain Mew: When I think of the most successful several-songs-in-one hits ("Biology", "I Got a Boy"), I think of density of hooks and dizzying switches in style. I also think of how they have one melodic hook sweet enough to be first among equals, a unifying glow cast by those highs with "The way that we walk/The way that we talk..." and "I got a boy meotjin/I got a boy chakan". Babymint take things further in the stylistic clashes, with some aggressive bosh and forceful rapping, not to mention ending in pretty much the same full-on fashion as The Knife's "Full of Fire." They do have a hook of more than equivalent sweetness, the "I will never let you go" section like "Super Shy" minus the shyness. That can't take on the same role for the song though, because there just isn't room to, not with the title section drilled in so hard before it even gets that far. So they play a very different game, seeding that phrase throughout but making it fit in with every different section anew. It's audacious enough to make for a spectacular first listen, which makes sense in the context that it's made for performance, and that they are not stars at the top of their game but a new group trying to grab attention. It works better than I expected for further listens because there's a thematic trick to match the musical one. They say up front that they're going to teach us a secret, and so it follows us through however far we go, presented like a universal cheat code. Everything dies, but babyMINT have taken these words and scattered them in time and space and maybe they will lead us through. [7]

[Read and comment on The Singles Jukebox ]

[gulmohor-banquet01]

7 Hidden Secrets You Should Know: Banquet Hall Near Me

When it comes to the organization of a unique event, banquet halls play an important role in creating the atmosphere and making the necessary arrangements for the land’s guests. There are several banquet halls available in the market but Gulmohor Banquet Hall near me is one of the best for several reasons owing to the excellent facilities, prime location, and several other features not easily visible at first glance. To help you search for the perfect event space, here are seven things you probably didn’t know about Gulmohor Banquet Hall.

1. Ideal Location to Enable Ease of Access

Another important aspect that can be marked as a strength is that the Gulmohor Banquet Hall is located in the best strategic place. As strategically located in conveniently accessible areas, these halls are intended to satisfactorily meet the demands of individuals and families. If you are organizing a wedding reception, a corporate event, or any other party it will be to the advantage of both you and your guests if the banquet hall is in a convenient locality. Gulmohor Banquet Hall is close to freeways, and famous tourist attractions regardless of origin.

2. Elegant Interior Design That Transforms Your Event

Like most banquet halls, it lacks a unique identity and concept, but it should be noted that Gulmohor Banquet Hall possesses aesthetically appealing interior designs. The halls are fitted with elegant chandeliers, great wall adornments, and elegant floorings which give a regal feeling that complements the events’ importance. The towering structure, sophisticated lighting, and compliance with the modern architecture make you come up with the lighting fixture of your style that suits your event theme since the overall setting of the Hall is noble and magnificent.

3. Flexible Event Spaces for Any Occasion

Another notable attribute that the clients will not easily notice is the ability of Gulmohor Banquet Hall to adapt the use of space. All the area of the hall can be used for the same event whether it is small parties or in the case of large parties. While there are large halls with a capacity of hundreds of people, there are also small, intimate spaces, perfect for intimate occasions, which makes Gulmohor unique. This makes it possible for you to make changes to the layout of the venue to suit your needs depending on the movable walls and the furniture.

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As we know today’s business event planning environment requires much more than access to great, effective, and affordable audio-visual equipment. Gulmohor Banquet Hall near me has excellent sound and visual equipment, which plays presentations and music or videos in the event to a Tune, which can be heard and seen by all the guests. The hall has state-of-the-art sound and light equipment including overhead sound and spotlights, high-definition projectors as well as large LED screens for presentations, video displays, and wireless microphones and speakers for corporate seminars, wedding speeches, singing, and music. The technical team of professional audio-visual support guarantees that all the technical aspects of the event are well managed.

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Visit us at: www.gulmohorbanquethall.com/banquet-hall-near-me/

[miss-bruja]

Favorite k-pop group tag game!

Thanks to @epiphanytear the tag!

Who is your favorite k-pop group?

Bangtan Sonyeondan clearly

Which member sparked your interest first?

This is all Jin's fault. I randomly clicked a video of them on the Graham Norton Show and when Jin was being Jin I was like who is this man I'm in love?

Who was your first bias?

Yoongi/Suga/Agust D/Love of my life?

What makes them your current bias?

I am OT7. Genuinely can't even say I have a bias anymore which is very typical of me. I can never choose a favorite of anything so why would I be able to with these seven amazing men? One member might hold more of my attention for a period of time but I ultimately could never choose just one. I love them all for different reasons and if I tried to get into the why of each this would be an entire essay. I am very much unhinged and in love with every single one.

Who is your bias wrecker?

Again, since I don't have a bias, I don't have a wrecker. But also my bias wrecker is El Capitxn lol

Which members are you currently obsessing over that aren't your bias/bias wrecker?

Hobi. With his recent birthday, plus the upcoming album and docuseries I am missing and loving him something fierce. I will say this about Mr. Jung Hoseok, in terms of pure artistry? He is probably one of my favorites in that respect. The creative choices he makes just happen to be everything I love - the old school/grungy sound of his music, the themes of identity and using dark and light as a concept, the homage he pays to hip hop greats, his dance style? plus the zine style packaging he's going for with this new album? hello?? Hobipalooza is my Woodstock - it is the concert I will forever wish I could have been at. Also Blue Side might just be one of the most beautiful songs ever. Let me stress though that I could wax poetic like this about every single member.

When did you first discover the group?

Early 2022. I had a few good months with them before that years now infamous festa dinner lol

Have you ever been to one of their concerts?

I got to see Yoongi's D-Day Tour and it was one of the most special experiences of my life. I stood frozen for the first couple of songs because I literally could not believe I was actually there. It was my birthday and he saw someone else's birthday sign in the audience so he had the whole arena sing happy birthday to them and it was kind of amazing experiencing that.

What are some of your favorite songs by the group?

I will stick with OT7 songs because if I were to get into solo and sub-unit songs we would be here all day. Just One Day, Tomorrow, Let Me Know, Rain, Hip Hop Phile, Run, Butterfly, Ma City, Autumn Leaves, Spring Day, 134340, Black Swan, Dis-ease, Run BTS

Also I'm on like a real Converse High kick right now so I'll include that.

I don't really have anyone I could tag who hasn't already done this so if you see this and would like to participate, have at it!

[edmturnmeon]

TAEYEON To. X 5th Mini Album Review

To. X album showcases TAEYEON's unique storytelling ability through songs IvanYolo Fans of TAEYEON have eagerly awaited new music from the K-pop superstar since the release of her previous album, "INVU," almost two years ago. Their patience has finally been rewarded with the release of her highly-anticipated 5th mini-album, "To. X." The album showcases TAEYEON's unique storytelling ability through songs, with each of the six tracks delivering a distinctive sound and message that differs from all her previous songs and albums. Fans around the world are thrilled to finally have new music from TAEYEON, and the release of "To. X" is undoubtedly a highlight of the year for any fan of her music.Taeyeon's latest album, consisting of six mesmerizing tracks, is an immersive experience into her unique musical sensibility. The title track, 'To. X,' which stands out as an R&B piece layered with sensual guitar riffs and rhythmic melodies, is a true masterpiece. The composition perfectly blends Taeyeon's delicate vocals, adding a cool and detached mood to the piece.The lyrics are poignant and delve into the realization of being under someone else's control, it marks the conclusion of a relationship. In shaping the theme, lyrics concept, and writing process, Taeyeon's deep involvement is evident, creating an emotional and unforgettable experience for fans.The album as a whole is a medium-tempo work of art that showcases Taeyeon's artistic creativity to the fullest. Fans will undoubtedly be captivated by the distinctiveness and beauty of Taeyeon's latest offering.

Favourite To. X Tracks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_n6t9G2TUQTAEYEON's new album is an absolute must-listen for anyone who appreciates beautiful music. This album features a range of different genres, but one thing that remains constant throughout is TAEYEON's stunning vocals. Her voice is unique and captivating, effortlessly straddling the line between vulnerability and coldness. Whether you are a longtime fan of TAEYEON or you are just discovering her music for the first time, you are sure to be blown away by the raw emotion and power in her voice.On this album, TAEYEON has truly outdone herself, participating in the chorus of every song and infusing each track with her unrivaled vocals and delicate emotions. This album is a true masterpiece and is sure to resonate deeply with music fans of every genre. I'm really drawn to four tracks in particular: "Melt Away", "Burn It Down," "Nightmare," and "All For Nothing." I've been indulging in these songs on repeat, finding immense enjoyment in each play. The title track, "To. X," does take a few times of listening to get into it. Also, it's worth noting that the song has a compelling storytelling aspect in its music video. I recommend checking out the "To. X" music video; it has a unique and cool visual style, making it one of Taeyeon's most visually captivating videos to date. Burn It Down is one my favorite track from the album. Starting with the mesmerizing guitar strings in the introduction of the song, followed by the sweet and soulful tone of Taeyeon's vocals, just give me chills every single time I listen to it. But, what elevates the song to the next level for me, are the mesmerizing background vocals that come in before & during the song's break. The harmonies between Taeyeon's vocals and the background vocals are just so mesmerizing and beautiful. The combination of all of these elements together in the song makes for an unforgettable experience that showcases the musical brilliance of the artist. Fabulous is an exceptional English track that you can find in the album, which has a captivating R&B tune and gives way to the mesmerizing vocals of TAEYEON. The tempo of the beat fits perfectly with the rhythm of the lyrics, adding a special feel to the entire song. TAEYEON's vocals are truly enchanting, and they blend harmoniously with the melody of the track. While I wouldn't say I dislike the title track, "To. X," I haven't fully connected with its vibe. It does take a few times of listening to get into it.

To. X, TAEYEON 5th Mini Album

In conclusion, TAEYEON's fifth mini-album, 'To. X' serves as a poignant narrative exploring the intricate and imperfect aspects of human nature within irrational relationships and inner vulnerability. What makes this album truly captivating is TAEYEON's direct involvement in its production, shaping both its overarching theme and lyrical concept. Throughout the diverse range of songs, TAEYEON's beautiful vocals take center stage, effortlessly traversing genres while balancing vulnerability and a touch of coldness.With her unrivaled vocals and delicate emotions showcased in every chorus, 'To. X' is poised to deeply resonate with music enthusiasts, offering a compelling glimpse into the essence of TAEYEON's musical artistry.There are not one, not two, but four unique versions of her To. X album, each with its own distinct flavor and design. With the To version, the X version, the Myself version, and the Digipack version to choose from, fans will have their pick of the litter when it comes to which style they prefer. And that's not all - each of these versions comes with a host of special extras, such as random photocards, folded posters, and postcards, making each album a true collector's item.I opted for the Myself version, an A4-sized album photobook featuring concept photos unveiled on social media in the weeks leading up to the album launch. It's a fantastic collector's item for TAEYEON fans. Share This: You Might Also Like Related Posts Read the full article

[mirageofadesert]

Album Review: FACE by Jimin

As a “Lie”-Enthusiast, this album is everything I ever wanted – but even darker than I could have imagined. Song by song, the album tells a story, that- without the full English translation- I’m only beginning to grasp. The songs seem to reference each other, both musically and lyrically, making this a very cohesive albums all around.

What makes this one of my favorite BTS releases, is that this cohesiveness is going beyond just the songs itself, but is reflected in the concept as well. Every teaser, every video and photo we got ties in with an elaborate and complex concept, that relies on multilayered symbolism. It gives FACE so much depth. As a theory ARMY at heart, this is everything! This is what got me in BTS in the first place and I could not be happier with this album.

Face-off: The first notes threw me for a loop, but the switch up set the mood for the following album: Sinister, emotional and full of despair. However, there is also a hint of anger and fight. The song is absolutely heart-wrenching beautiful and I think it might turn into my favorite. I love the progression of different vocal styles, from high breathy and flowy parts to angry shouts and even rap, that deliver the emotions of the song masterfully.

Interlude: Dive is not a song in the typical sense, rather than different sound pieces layered over an instrumental. I hope we will get an video for this, to really understand what is going on. I recognized Jimin’s trembling breathing, his introduction ment as well as him pouring liquid and drinking in the end. 

Like Crazy: Jimin’s smooth vocals over the soft synth track are magic! It really plays tribute to the 80s synth music. The song makes me want’s to dance and cry at the same time. There is an edge in Jimin’s voice, which makes this one of my favorite BTS-related tracks of all time. And while Jimin sings, that this is going to break him, I feel it as well. The song is beautiful from start to finish and leaves you with an empty, hallow feeling, that can only be counteredby listening to the song over and over again.

Alone is a beautiful (pop-)ballad. Jimin’s deeper register really shines in this songs. The song is completely in Korean, so I can’t say much about the lyrics yet.

Set Me Free: After listening to the whole album, this is the most important song! Not only does it reference the lyrics of the songs before it (e.g. Hennessey at night being a reference to Face-off), it also interrupts the dark album, bringing a glimmer of hope and freedom. Without this song, this album would have broken me.

The hidden track (CD only) – It seems to be message/song to the members. It’s soft, breathy and beautiful! The little “oh-oh” are everything! I’m can’t wait to find out, what he is singing and if that relates to why Jungkook is doing backup vocals. Their voices go so well together. If your favorite Jimin songs are Promise or Serendipity, this might be the song for you!

Album packaging: Like I had hoped, the surface of the album is reflecting, working asa mirror, in which you face yourself. The concept of this whole release is so detailed and well thought out! The pictures are beautiful and we finally got a good view of all his tattoos! The quality of the photobook and the photo cards are great as well.

[cryptid-killjoy]

orleans-jester​: 

Blarney Castle itself. He’d seen it in pictures and videos, same as Flotsam had, but he found out just a little more remarkable perhaps than his husband did. He pushed the stroller along, one hand on it during the easier parts to maneuver, two when it got a little more hilly, and was looking up at it.

“I kind of like the simplicity of it,” He said, tilting his head. It was all just stone. Not the most ornate. Everything there had it’s own particular purpose. So it was no Spanish castle, and it certainly wasn’t the Loire castle which was the most extraordinary castle that he could possibly imagine actually existing. But he liked it nonetheless. Was it weird to relate towards a castle? To feel akin to something that was only made of stone? For Thomas felt that he too was was more of a simple castle.

Built for defense. That’s what he was. He would defend his family against any sort of attack. Broad strength rather than tricks. Even his attire was usually more on the plain side, flannels and GAP jeans and gray sweatpants.

But he was completely fine with Flotsam preferring the Spanish castles. That was more his style. More Valerie’s style. They were both tough as nails, tougher than nails, now that he thought about it, and had more of a flourish to them in what they did. “That’s the point a lot harder to climb up. And ladders could be easily pushed down from the top,” He figured, trying to imagine what it would have been like in it’s heyday.

“A murder room at the very least,” He said. Every castle had to have something among those lines or it wasn’t a castle. He’d been trying not to learn too much about it and be more of a tourist, rather than becoming the chatty tour guide that he did when he was in a place like Hobbiton. It was tough not to read everything on the plane but he had managed - thank you busy triplets.

“That’s what we’re missing,” He chuckled. “A murder hole. Probably have to try to fit one in the plans for Chip’s place.”

The simplicity of it.” Flo repeated and smiled. “Sounds like you.”

They’d just come all this way. He wanted something to look at. He supposed it was the concept of castle in him. He already had mediaeval luxury (if one could call anything from the ancient past luxury at all) in his head, that royal feeling. All this brought to mind was war. Fortress was the clear message when they approached, not a home of any kind. It felt like a place of war directly upon approach. As much of a hermit as Flotsam could be that was the difference in the feeling that he wanted when nearing castle.

He wanted to feel life not death despite being excited about murder holes. He had a fantasy the murder holes were for the special few that dared cross some sort of line in some gallant special place tucked away all secret, but the feeling upon approach of a fortress like this was, hey maybe this place has a murder hole since the whole thing looks like war and death anyway. It wasn’t really what he hoped when coming to tour. It was why he was strangely disappointed upon sight at the plainness of it was simple. It was that the plainness of it was unwelcoming and unfun. He was still hoping there was a home inside and not just a fortress. He actually had not researched this one well enough to know. He was far more a tourist here than any.  

He really wished Thomas was a chatty tour guide right now considering it was his idea to come to Ireland. Flotsam had always heard Ireland was a boring place to visit, all pubs and landscape, farms for miles and nothing to actually do. People go to Ireland to relax and do nothing is what he heard, maybe hike or ride a bike which in Flo’s opinion is something that can be done anywhere. They brought three kids. They weren’t going on a pub tour as much as Flo was the sort to take his kids anywhere. He wasn’t even the sort to just sit around in pubs all the time anyway. He hated people. Pubs were about people. He wasn’t about people. He was about activities. So he was very much waiting for Thomas to take over on this vacation of Thomas’s choosing and lead. Flo can Google as much as anyone just because he happens to be here, but usually he picks a place to vacation because he knows of something cool and of interest to him to do first. He doesn’t pick a location and then find what’s fun. This was more of challenge for Flo. He’s dying inside for Thomas to point out what’s fascinating about Ireland to him because this is so not his thing. He’s only doing it because they’re there.

When they got inside there was a little more to get Flotsam’s mind involved, not at first. It was all stone ruins. Eventually they hit a few rooms. The colors continued to be boring, but he attributed that to the aged fabrics. He assumed them to be far more brilliant in their day. The room that actually interested him the most was a child’s room oddly. He stood in there the longest. He kept waiting out other tourists. He really didn’t like the crowds there. The lines of people were annoying. Now he remembered why he toured everything in New Orleans after dark illegally or forced people out. He really did hate still hate people breathing near him and getting in his way despite how it did not show one little bit. He lived for those moments he and Thomas got a moment alone with the kids and they could simply admire on their own even if it was just a few minutes.

“Got everything you need in here for ol’ Rumpelstiltskin to come steal your kid away. Spin that straw into gold. I can’t believe this is a kid’s room. If that’s suppose to be a baby walker or a piss pot holder, I don’t know, but we’ve come up in the world. Pfft. A bed warmer. Obviously none of these people had you in their bed.” He teased his husband.

What really caught his eye in the room was the woodwork on the posters around the bed that created the canopy.

“Look there. It’s not part of the bed like modern canopy beds. The canopy is a completely separate piece. You can pull the bed right out and stick another one under it if need be. Smart. So much smarter than how they’re made today. Valerie always wanted a poster bed with the drapes, or like, the mosquito netting, but they’re all metal and look like they came from Big Lots even when they’re not. You don’t see stuff like this anymore.”

Then he laughed.

“Not that she wants children carved into her posts. Is that supposed to be Cupid? I can’t tell? Are there wings?”

Moving along to mark of the bucket list of things he refused to leave Ireland until did it items and that was kiss the Blarney Stone. Now this he’d heard about somewhere before.

“I know you have to turn upside to do it. I can’t remember where I heard it, but I heard it. Probably some asshole in a bar somewhere.” First however, there was standing in the long line of others waiting to kiss the stone. Annoying, but no big deal. More annoying because they had three wee ones with them. The more they held still the more the little ones wanted to move. That’s how it usually worked. There also wasn’t a lot of room for the stroller in the interweavings of the castle, so many skinny places, so they’d abandoned it outside. Flo figured they’d get back to it when they went to stroll the gardens.

When they got close enough to see an old gent helping people turn around to reach down into this ridiculous position to kiss a flat wall Flo became once again slightly disappointed. He was going to do it and he refused not to do it. That was his whole goal here, but to see this famous Blarney Stone wasn’t some beautiful, special, thing, or even some boulder plotted somewhere like in cartoons, but really a flat fucking brick, which could have been any brick in this fortress, brick, brick, pick a fucking brick sort of stone, Flotsam actually snorted. Talk about hype of a tourist trap, make up a myth sort of shit. He’d rather go get his over priced picture taken with the ugly creeps in the mascot uniforms in the stupid oversized chairs in the leprechaun museum. At least there they could act silly and be weird. Here it was all safety and randos breathing down your down neck. Ugh. This was just annoying, not fun at all.

As they still had a moment before it was their turn, but close enough to see now, it was disappointing they couldn’t do this sort of thing on their own too. Flotsam didn’t want the attendant involved. He thought this was something he and Thomas were going to do together. Even if it was stupid silly he wanted to have some fun with it, but the whole way it was having to be done for liability sake just made it sort of... lame. Lame as all get out actually.

Flo was starting to get antsy the closer they got and it wasn’t excitement it was almost their turn doing it. It was annoyance as he tried to figure out how to stop the lame in it’s tracks. He had two babies on his hips so his hands were full, his foot was tapping. He was starting to breathe heavy.

He leaned into Thomas’s ear. “Are we done here? Are we done inside?  Keep them windblocked by the wall.” Then he pushed an extra baby into Thomas’s arms and peered over the high fortress wall. He looked at the line of people behind him. “Does Ireland have 911? Let’s go to the garden next. I’ve got plants to pick.”

Then as Flotsam took to his turn giving Thomas one last child to take care of for a moment he would look ever so innocent and polite as he took the man’s hand to help him lean back after climbing the 127 stairs for this lame tradition. The only thing was, as Flo went through the process, finally, he in his antsiness got his zombie dust ready, and released it right in the ol’ unassuming attendant's face. This would cause the man to collapse on Flotsam as he was leaning down backwards in this very unsafe position.

“THOMAS!”

He’d grip the rail tight with one hand and his leg would stomp and flail as if trying to get his attention.

“Get him off me. Something’s wrong. Help.”

The whole crowd behind Thomas was gasping and pointing. Some hero types were even trying to push up behind Thomas trying to see better but it was so narrow they couldn’t yet.

The answer was yes Flotsam just zombie dusted the old man to make it seem like he had a heart attack on top of him just to be able to get Thomas down in the kissing stone hole with him and had every intention of walking away and not giving one little shit about the attendant or the rest of the people after he got what he wanted.

After a lovely evening with his husband, lovely. Lovely. Flotsam's mind started to realize a part of them was always Valerie and just like parts of Flo remained in Val, Val's manner of speech/thinking was still in Flo. He did. He had a god damn lovely evening with his husband before packing for Ireland. Now he remembered why he missed having a dick though. How lucky was he to experience his handsome husband every way possible?

He woke in a good mood. Even going back to bottle mode didn't feel as intense as it did the first time now that he'd gotten to switch back and forth. There was a safe feeling in knowing all he had to do was take off the necklace if Valerie really needed to. All Flo's little secret fears and true wishes were out of the bag so to say and Thomas and his wolf helped put Flo at ease there too. Halloweening was on the list of to dos. So Flo wasn't freaking out. Everything was going to be okay no matter where in the world they were. He still wanted to get away after all he'd learned of himself in the middle of what else had been stressing him. So he was back to escapism mode with the vacation wanting to get away, but really, it wasn't so heavy anymore. Thomas was still being the fix it guy for him and all it took was a conversation he never wanted to have.

The first thing Flotsam did was start to write a list of things he wanted to do before leaving Ireland. Order mattered not. He found the basics, as far as basics go for him. He isn't the sort to want to tour every damn castle in Ireland or anywhere else in Europe. But, Blarney Castle he'd go for.

"Babe. So fair warning. I'm taking the kids to carry out their first felony. We will accomplish a family heist at the Blarney Castle and steal plants from the Poison Garden. Goals. I have them."

Go to Blarney Castle

Kiss the Blarney stone

Steal plants from the Poison Garden

The Northern Lights

See The Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Grand Opera House in Belfast ((because it has to be fate that's playing while they're there))

The National Leprechaun Museum

Titanic Museum

Goals indeed. "Northern lights. Pretty sure there's somewhere in Ireland you can see them. I so wished you were there when I got to go to Alaska. I wished it the whole time we were staring at the sky. Not that I told anyone this back then because I was still in young crush me who refuses to tell anyone I like you in that wayish. But, we can see them in Ireland too. Even better. Your green world. Meant to be. Has to happen."

He was googling things on their way there, in parking lots, in lines, sitting around waiting for flights, all those boring moments he took his moment to play tourist. He spoke as they were on their way to the rental.

"Rocky Horror is playing at the Grand Opera House. Feels like an authentic Irish experience to me." He laughed having a hard time picturing Rocky Horror being done with Irish accents and couldn't help not smiling. "Leprechaun museum for cheesy pictures with the kids and Titanic Museum for morbid pictures of us having fun taking end of ship movie photos at what's essentially a memorial of dead people's things drudged up from bottom of the ocean, Captain. Gotta love capitalism." He said with his own cheesy grin.

He grinned over at him when he called him Captain remembering their date on the boat. He really liked that. "We should buy a boat. Also this is the last trip without Pippin. I'm getting her a damn plane for real. The one I would have ended up getting Chip. I halted on that because of his zombie-thing worried that maybe he shouldn't be flying around after all wings or not. But, Pip's still clear headed. If anything they can fly together and she can take over if he zombies out."

They were building an air strip out in Nola. It's all Feral now. They were probably never going back any how. Time to consider where to keep a private plane elsewhere.

When they finally pulled into the rental and Flotsam got to see where his escape was going to be he smiled. It felt like something Thomas would pick.

"Look at you giving us the real deal experience, Cap. This is so great. Perfect for all of us." He kept picturing him with the sea behind him. Something kept making his mind go back to that date. He remembered how Thomas looked with the blue waves of adventure behind him. But, he really did like the privacy there. With the triplets he liked their own space. He'd accept the maid service for the time being. Flo's one of those people who would rather do something himself than have people near him sometimes. So, it would be no wonder if he ever called them off or put a do not disturb on the property as a whole because fuck people. No maid outfit required for Thomas. It would probably weird Flo out if he did.

"Oh, you know what else I want to do at some point? Go to the rebel poet's pub. James Clarence Mangan. I don't know the name of it. But, I know it's in Ireland. I'll find it if I look it up. But, I heard he haunts a pub in Ireland. I'm going to find out if it's true." Leave it to Flotsam to want to go get autographs of dead celebrities, not live ones. "Maybe Leap Castle, but only because I know it's like one of the hauntedier ones and I would love to see the murder hole, but really. I don't need to see every castle in Ireland, ya feel me?"

Then right as he said ya feel me as he walking through the quaint style cottage of neutral colors he spotted the prize winner of the property. The ocean.

"Oh!"

It was ocean front property. Flotsam started to glow. He didn't need River's inner physical glow to see this beaming straight from the inside out. He stopped yick yacking and his whole face lit up.

"Oh my fucking a-hole. Look at that. Look what you did. We are sitting next to the ocean. Like... on purpose. We can just walk outside and it's... it's right there." He pointed out at it over top of the stroller he'd been pushing. "Right there." He jumped enough to where both feet came off the floor and knees rose waist high. His feet in those heavy kicks stamped back down. "Right there, Thomas. It's right there. Real ocean."

They didn't have to get into a car and drive there first, get the car and go home after, consider the light of day, or night, length of travel back for drying off, cleaning up, anything that beach brings on. It wasn't a lake shore. It wasn't a river's shore like on the old Mississippi. It wasn't a swamp. It was a real life ocean shore.

"Right. There." He kept pointing.

[buscandoelparaiso]

i just watched anitta’s visual album and honestly  👑  👑  👑  👑  

ariana grande WHO? 

[scifrey]

Videos to Watch if You Enjoyed "Cling Fast"

How Much Booze Did Medieval People Really Drink? - Dr. Eleanor Janega teaches us how to booze it up, White Horse-style.

Could You Make a Living in Medieval London? - Another great Eleanor Janega video about occupations, scandals, and the every day lives of every day folks in Medieval cities.

What Was Life Really Like For A Medieval Peasant? - the last of the Eleanor Janega videos about what kind of life Hob Gadling would have lived before he met his Stranger.

A Tudor Feast - domestic historians and archeologists Ruth Goodman, Alex Langlands, Peter "Fonz" Ginn and Hugh Beamish - under the supervision of Marc Meltonville of Hampton Court Palace's Tudor kitchens - prepare and serve a tudor banquet at Haddon Hall in Derbyshire. Part One, Part Two, Part Three, Part Four

Who Do You Think You Are: Danny Dyer Learns Tudor Etiquette - A segment from the Ancestry.com series following actor Danny Dyer as he explores his royal roots.

Who Would Be King of England Today According to Henry VIII's Will? - chartmaker Matt Baker takes us through the royal family tree from Henry the Eighth to the present day, if his edict that the next monarch in the event that his three children (Mary, Edward, and Elizabeth) produced no heirs, then the crown should next fall to the children of his youngest sister. And not, as actually happened, go to James of Scotland.

Royal Myths: Elizabeth I and the Spanish Armada - Dr. Lucy Worsley talks us through the propaganda and fibs that have sprung up around Good Queen Bess, and whether or not she really did declare that she had the stomach of a king.

Dancing Cheek to Cheek: The Devil's Work - Another great series by Dr. Lucy Worsley, chief curator of Royal Historic Palaces, but this time she's joined by Strictly Come Dancing's Len Goodman. They trace the history of dance in Britain, and this episode features some rowdy Medieval and Elizabethan numbers.

Turn Back Time: Tudor Monastery Farm - This series sees Ruth, Alex, and Peter return to the Elizabethan age, this time spending a year on a farm worked by peasants and serfs in service to the church.

The Tudors' Bizarre 12 Days Of Christmas Ritual - The Tudor Monastery Farm Christmas special.

Hardwick Hall: A window onto the Elizabethan world - Sheffield Hallam University gives a great look at Hardwick Hall (more glass than wall), the estate home of the wealthiest woman in Britain at the time, and the kind of place Hob would have aspired to build.

Tudor Food & Etiquette Explained in 14 Minutes - Quick and dirty explanation of where your napkin goes and who the 'chairman of the board' was.

Tudor Houses Explained in 10 Minutes - Not particularly engagingly presented, but a video chock full of visual examples of different kinds of Tudor houses and buildings.

Modern History: The Knight - Jason Kingsley introduces us to the concept behind Modern History and in particular their first series, “The Knight”. Jason has been fascinated by history his whole life, in particular the medieval period and the life of knights. (This is the first video of a playlist).

Royal Armouries - Elizabethan Swordsmanship - a demonstration by weaponsmasters at the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds. (I recommend turning on closed captioning for this one, as the sound was recorded live with no mics.)

Getting Dressed - Tudor Royal Household - a nice, even-paced and well produced video showing what it was like to get dressed in queen Katherine Parr's household.

Dressing Up a Tudor Man - my personal heroes at Prior Attire show us what the blokes were wearing at the time. Keep in mind that this is 40 years too early for Hob and Dream's disastrous Shakespeare-ruined feast. (I recommend turning on closed captioning for this one, as the sound was recorded live with no mics.)

And just for the fun of it:

Medieval Pickup Lines from the folks behind (I believe?) Whores of Yore, and Top Tudor Historian Rates Famous Movie Scenes, wherein Dr Nicola Tallis, British historian and author of three books on the Tudors, rates scenes from five blockbuster movies set in the Tudor period. (I love how scandalized she gets.)

If you want more, I really recommend anything at all featuring Doctors Lucy Worsley, Eleanor Janega, and Ruth Goodman (search their names on YouTube and you'll find a wealth of clips, full episodes, and even playlists.)

[memryse]

Last Life Propaganda: a guide for people with absolutely no idea what they're getting into

Have you ever wondered what on earth is wrong with your Last Life mutuals? Seen Last Life SMP trending #1 and become greatly concerned about why your dash is on fire every Tuesday? Considered checking it out, but don't know anyone involved or where to start or how or even what Last Life is?

Basically, this is a propaganda/FAQ post for people who've never seen a minute of Hermitcraft/Empires/adjacent content in their lives, and have no idea how to get into Last Life. Because God knows I wish I'd had a post like this answering all my questions when I was getting into this series completely blind.

Now is the best time to get into Last Life if you want to experience any of it live, because unfortunately it's looking like the series will be drawing to a close within the next couple of weeks. Luckily, it won't take you very long to catch up!

1. What even is Last Life?

Last Life is a hardcore Minecraft miniseries on YouTube, featuring a bunch of Hermitcraft and Empires SMP members and a few extra friends. Each member starts off with a random amount of lives between 2 and 6. On your final life (your red life), you're not only allowed but encouraged to kill other players. Each week also has "boogeymen" chosen at random from the non-red players, who have to sneakily get a kill Among Us-style. Even if it sounds complicated, I promise you it's not hard to follow in the videos, and there's a handy little tutorial in the first episode explaining it all anyway. The server also has proximity chat (no Discord calls allowed) and a small world border to make sure everyone is stuck near each other.

Last Life is the sequel to 3rd Life, which was a very similar concept but every player started off with exactly three lives and there were no boogeymen.

Basically, if you like death game media, you'll love it. You'll probably also love it if you're not usually a fan of death game media. It's just really good. I love Last Life.

2. Do I need to have seen 3rd Life to watch Last Life?

No, not technically! I would certainly recommend it though, because 3rd Life is an absolute masterpiece of a series. Also, because it's a miniseries, you can watch it in a relatively short amount of time - I would personally recommend Grian's, which will take you just under four hours altogether. Best enjoyed if you binge it all in one sitting, but it's fun and will leave you feeling somewhat empty inside regardless! :D

But, again, it's not required. You just won't understand the 3rd Life references in Last Life.

3. How/where do I watch Last Life?

All Last Life content is available on YouTube. There is no livestream content to catch up on - all videos are recorded in "sessions". Basically, every Friday, everyone logs on for a 3 hour period and records the full thing. That's the only time that they play on the server, and it makes sure that everyone is online the whole time. Lots of interactions to be had!

4. Which POV should I watch?

There are no "bad" POVs for Last Life - everyone is heavily involved in one server event or another every session. It's a really action-packed series. You can theoretically pick any member and go. That being said, here are some of my top recommendations:

Mumbo Jumbo is probably the best for newcomers: he's new to Last Life, having not been in 3rd Life, his episodes are a reasonable length and great fun to watch, and he's been pretty heavily involved in the main conflicts on the server.

GoodTimesWithScar has absolutely fantastic storytelling skills and is easily one of the most entertaining POVs to watch (if not the most). However, he wasn't in the most recent session due to some health problems, so you'd have to pick a different POV for this session.

If you're only looking for a short POV for a trial run, I'd say to check out LDShadowLady or Smallishbeans. Both of them like to keep their episodes short but full of action. Personally, long episodes are the way to go, because the beauty of Last Life is in all its dialogue, but these two are great if you're not quite sure about committing to the series just yet (or if you just prefer shorter videos! that's also cool!)

5. I don't know any of the members, what do I do?

Genuinely, it does not matter! Whether you've been following Hermitcraft for the last decade or this is the first you're even hearing that name, Last Life is equally enjoyable. I can vouch for this; I got into 3rd Life having only seen a couple of Scott's streams and nothing else. I've also gotten multiple (10+) of my friends who aren't familiar with any of the CCs to watch it, and every single one has been blown away by how much they enjoyed it. So, trust me, it's worth checking out :)

6. Does Last Life have lore?

Last Life has a pretty interesting approach to its storytelling: with it being in a 3 hour session format, it is completely improvised. People will have vague ideas of what they want to do each session at best; no events are planned in advance, nothing is scripted. If you need a DSMP comparison, it's pretty much like very early S1 - Disc War or very early L'Manburg era, where they're roleplaying to some extent but not playing fully fleshed out characters (other than a couple of members who are just really dramatic and roleplay constantly anyway). It does require reading into things a little to make them as dramatic as we do, but it's all great fun!

TL;DR: Watch Last Life, it's really good, it'll fill the void in your heart and then tear an even deeper one moments later :D