#because it showcases their individual styles through their music

[librarisxng]

I'm so excited for MK1 but we're also getting TN2 and DY2?!

[andy-wm]

I have thoughts on Jimin's SGMB

It's the gayest thing I've ever seen.

And by that I mean it's joyous, light-hearted, bright, and fun.

We can all agree, I think, that this is a happy and totally harmless song. Who could criticise Jimin for declaring his love in such a sweet and innocent way?

Of course not everyone will like it, and that's fine. You don't have to like everything he does - or everything BTS does - you are an individual with thoughts and feelings of your own - I hope. But putting that aside you'd have to be a troubled person indeed to take offence at anything here.

So, it is definitely a fan song, right? Jimin is singing to his fans... isn't he?

Maybe.

But if it is (I and I'm not convinced) it's not just a fan song.

It's sweet, so sweet, but....

Maybe it's a little too sweet?

We know Jimin is CUTIE SEXY LOVELY and LOVELY LOVELY LOVELY, but let's be honest, he's also a grown man. And Army are not children (mostly). In fact we have had many many conversations about how ARMY are not children.

But this whole production is pushing the sweet and innocent barrow so hard that I can't help wanting to look underneath and behind and inside to see what's really going on because it's so sweet it's hurting my teeth.

Compare the sophistication and self awareness of FACE to the bouncy, bright and child-like song-and-dance in the SGMB music video. They are WORLDS apart and we were told very specifically that the albums were linked.

"Following his first solo album, “FACE,” where he sought to explore his true identity, “MUSE” documents his journey in search of the source of his inspiration." said the Weverse notification.

So what's really going on here?

What are you doing Jiminie?

And more importantly, why are you doing it?

You could call it a pageant, or a carnival, or a circus - with Jimin as the ringmaster.

But my view is:

This a pantomime. And it's very clever.

According to the Oxford Dictionary, a pantomime is "A dramatic entertainment,  originating in Roman mime, in which  performers express meaning through  gestures  accompanied by music." Yes, that describes it.

Merriam-Webster tells us "[A pantomime] is an ancient Roman dramatic performance featuring a solo dancer and a narrative chorus" That also makes sense.

Oxford also specified that it's a modern BRITISH tradition. "a theatrical entertainment, mainly for children, which involves music, topical jokes, and slapstick comedy." It's a perfect fit.

The British link is already there - Jimin clearly told us he's influenced by The Beatles' Sergeant Peppers Album. There's also the styling of his suit. The stovepipe pants, narrow tie, and fitted jacket are very 1960s (and 1980s) British pop.

There's something old-school about a pantomime. It harks back to childhood, and to the nostalgia of holidays. And the styling of the MV is in keeping with that nostalgic feel too - from the Mountain scene with the vintage film title, to the intertitles - or title cards , to the circular frame of the opening scene.

But back to the Pantomime itself...

A quick google search told me the following are important elements of pantomime. And we have most, if not all of them in this production.

Gender role reversal - TICK

Slapstick comedy - TICK

Colourful costumes - TICK

Audience participation - TICK (the children ARE the audience)

Exaggerated facial expressions - TICK

Take another look at the music video - it's all there.

Wikipedia tells us that pantomimes traditional told fairy tales or folk tales - often love stories - and that the primary role in a Pantomime was:

The 'Principal boy', a hero or charismatic rogue, traditionally played by a young woman in men's clothing.

Smart, very smart. With all the other conversations we've been having a round gender this is totally on the money.

Wikipedia goes on to say "Another pantomime tradition is to engage celebrity guest stars... Contemporary pantomime productions are often adapted to allow the star to showcase their well-known act.... If the star enters into the spirit of the entertainment, he or she likely adds to its overall effect"

Welcome, Loco.

(yes, I know collabs are de rigueur, but that doesn't change the fact that it fits - celeb guests are an established practice in Panto.)

So if this IS a Pantomime (and I'm not saying it definitely is but it looks like one to me), then it's intended to be a sung-story, told as much through dance and gestures as through words.

If it's a pantomime, what is it about?

I'm glad you asked! This little charade is the story of a young person called Jimin who is looking for love. He finds romance easily enough...

but real love takes a little longer.

Fortunately for our hero, he's brave (he will confess to his lover) and he is patient (he encourages them to do so too).

In between, there are shenanigans and goofing...

But our Charismatic Rogue is charming (if devilish) and wins the hearts of the audience - and his lover.

Let's take a closer look at how the story unfolds...

At the start of the MV, as the initial credits appear, Jimin is on stage vibing with his band. Loco is chilling on a rock like a lizard in the sun.

We get the ye olde intertitles, welcoming the audience and introducing.... SMERALDO Garden Marching Band

It's not Smeraldo Garden - Marching Band. It's Smeraldo *pause* Garden Marching Band. Smeraldo (secrets) has the emphasis.

After the intertitles, the scene opens on a group of children - they are ostensibly the audience of the band. They're playing paper-scissors-rock to see who will call for Jimin's attention.

The children run over to him and the tale begins.

Jimin, the main character of this story, immediately launches into song.

He starts off singing about Bangtan - mentioning their harmony (song and personal I think), he shows the Bangtan hand gesture we all know so well, and he sings "we gift happiness every day".

But he mentions June 12th.

Why June 12th?

Why not 13th, their debut day?

BECAUSE THIS IS NOT A SONG for ARMY. He's making it clear that at this point he's referring to Bangtan specifically, not the whole juggernaut of the fandom and fame. June 12th precedes ARMY.

He's made it clear from the start - this is NOT ABOUT ARMY.

Then he leans in and whispers to the children - and the camera -"lets talk about us".

Look at the kids' faces - they're miming shock. Ooooohhh! This is a big secret he's about to tell them - and us.

Look at Jimin's expression - he's just a tad smug. This is not a shocking secret to him, this is a fun secret.

Yes, he is indeed the charismatic rogue of this story.

He sings:

"All the things we couldn't say before

And your hidden feelings too (just for you)

Don't you worry anymore

Since we're together now**

Let's be a little more honest."

So it seems our main character has a LOVER. Someone who couldn't be revealed and who hid their feelings.

<Wow, I have no idea who this could be...>

Hang on, what's happening in the MV??

On his journey, it seems our young hero has a few short-lived romances. And if you look carefully, they are all with men.

He accepts the rose from a man, and plants himself on the bench right up close to .... a man. He jumps up unperturbed, and gifts the rose to (you guessed it) another man.

Jimin manages to sidestep (or completely ignore) all the women except one, who he sends graciously into the arms of a random man before continuing on his journey.

Wait one moment... his romantic partners were ALL MEN??

ALL MEN??

ALL MEN?!!!!!

Yes darling, all men. Let's continue.

So, it seems none of Jimin's previous romances grew into anything more, but he takes his own advice with his mysterious lover and confesses first.

He smirks. He flicks his jacket with pizzazz. He's ready.

He sings:

"Ooooh I love you babe,

I'll come closer to you

I want to hold your hand,

I want you babe (yessir)

Please note the hand gesture in this choreo - it's another one we've seen many times.

The dance ends and Jimin scans the surroundings and spots his old friend...

[Enter stage left: Loco]

Oh look, the friend is a rapper a few years older than Jimin. They seem to have a lot of fun together, Jimin and his rapper friend. There are ZERO romantic overtones here. This guy happily goes along with all the goofing and silliness even though he looks a tiny bit mortified. Either they are both very good actors, or a lot of the time, Loco was holding in his laughter. And Jimin seems incredibly amused by that.

They hang out together until.... something in the atmosphere changes:

The colours become richer, light become warmer, and oh look....

It's *The Golden Hour*

I AM NOT MAKING THIS UP, PEOPLE. HE REALLY DID THIS.

Jimin leaves Loco, chasing the golden light as he sings about "the dazzling sky." Golden confetti (champagne, anyone?) falls all around him and then ...

fucking sunflowers bloom.

SUN FLOWERS.

BLOOM.

FOR HIM.

<I need to lie down and process this>

SUNflowers...

Remind me again what sunflowers are known for? Oh yes, they are symbolic of the sun. Guess what else? They turn to face the sun.

Yup, the sunflowers all turn their faces toward the camera. I'm not crazy, okay?! I'm not.

SMH... let's move on.

Jimin re-joins his band, and the sunflowers do their sunflower thing, and Jimin sings:

"So tell me how you feel,

let whatever you feel

wash over you"

Then he sings

"I love you babe, (yessir)

I'll come closer to you

I want to hold your hand,

I want you babe (yessir)

Please note the hand gesture again

👉 👈

The bridge is next, and Jimin takes us back to Bangtan. As all the stars appear (that ocean of purple light that surrounds them at concerts) and everyone takes their place on stage, they turn up the music. <Are my eyes watering? Perhaps>

"I think we're ready now

<NGL I may have shed a tear here>

Lets begin 1, 2

<Ok fuck, I bawled at this point. Goddammit Jimin!>

Put your hands up"

*cute wiggle-dance commences* and Jimin spots his good friend the rapper again, hiding on the sidelines. He pulls him into the chorus line and they do more silliness and everyone is having a great time.

Confetti- flower petals fall, there's laughter and happiness all around, and they bow and bid us good bye.

The show is over.

*THE END*

But wait, I am not done.

A few more things bear mentioning here:

I saw quite a few comments saying this song is for ARMY.

It is categorically NOT for ARMY. Besides the fact that we already have Closer Than This - a fan song - on this album, Jimin specifically chose a date before debut - before ARMY existed - to place in this song. No mention of ARMY at all. Accept it graciously, this is not for you.

I wanna hold your hand

This lyric is a reference not only to the Beatles song "I Want to Hold Your Hand", It's also a common theme with Jimin and Jungkook. We see them finding any feeble excuse to hold hands, shake hands, touch hands. Yes, we see you two...

I am you, You are me

The gesture used in the choreo when Jimin is singing his confession - I failed miserably to catch it in my screengrab but there's no doubt it's their "I am you, You are me" gesture. Take a look for yourself.

All Jimin's romantic moments happened with men.

I'm not saying in his life, I am saying in this MV. All of them. The only interaction he has with a woman is one brief moment where he grabs her wrist as she passes by and he swings her into the path of a guy behind him. He even scoots around the women and sidesteps them. That can't be accidental. He's making a point.

The addition of 'yessir' in the lyrics makes it clear that he's confessing to a man.

I cannot see any reasonable way to refute this. The BH subtitles include it even though you have to listen carefully to catch it. THAT IS A CHOICE, NOT AN ACCIDENT.

"Even though we're together now"

These lyrics could mean theyre an established, committed couple. But if we think a little broader than that, and a little more literally, who is he together with right now?

It's strategically brilliant.

This is his 'tell all expose' but he has built in a rock solid escape clause by using the panto format. Staging the whole love story - including the prior boyfriends and the man he's now in love with - as an over the top comedy show makes it easily dismissible as pure fiction. By including the fantasy/magical elements he just makes it more so. Deniers will be able to come up with a dozen reasons to reject this... 'It's a fantasy story', 'not all songs are autobiographical', 'he's making a point', 'he's raising LGBTQIA+ awareness'... all true maybe, but that doesn't change the fact that this is HIS song, about HIS muse. If you've been paying attention (and even if you haven't) you will know this is certainly not pure fiction.

AND FINALLY....

The most important one, I left till last. I actually want to scream this, in all caps, in the biggest font possible. But I will restrain myself.

The song is bookended by references to BTS.

That is hugely important. For those who may not be aware, this is a literary device. Bookending a story provides a start and end reference point. Here, the Bangtan bookends provide context for the rest of the lyrics - they frame the lyrics within them. That means the events happening in the song, happen within the context of Bangtan. Reading between the lines, the person he is singing to/about is within Bangtan.

This is not reaching. This is like mixing blue paint and yellow paint together. You will get green paint.

💛+💙=💚

So yes, this song is the gayest thing I've ever seen.

And I DO mean it's joyous, light-hearted, bright, and fun.

But yes, it's also absolutely and totally really really GAY

🏳️‍🌈🐥🦄🌈🏳️‍⚧️🌻🐰☀️🏳️‍🌈

Thank you Jiminie

[thealexchen]

hi again - i'm glad you answered my ask and i'd love to discuss more with you after this one, however i'd probably like to move to dms just for the sake of privacy! if you recognized me though that's honestly kind of awesome since i feel like you'd only be able to recognize me through my writing style on twitter as i only really talk on there :'D i'll talk ab one thing for now that i think i completely disagreed with as a whole, which was sean and daniel not discussing anything mexican - i think that for an assimilated immigrant family in the USA, the diaz family was actually a great and fairly accurate representation of one, especially in regards to the cultural aspect. they are a mexican-american family, specifically highlighting american. being raised in america, i don’t expect sean and daniel to know a lot about mexico. their dad is very proudly an immigrant, and he too is fully into american culture when sean and daniel talk ab how much he loves 4th of july and halloween (very ironic). i don't take it as a knock on mexican culture at all, its just that i think DN was more focused on details of the characters as a family and individuals, which is how they chose to decorate the home and it's inhabitants.

even then, it's shown in the game that their dad actually does try to share his culture with his children, at the very least with sean. in the one hour where we get to dig through sean's life, there are a ton of references to it. their dad takes them to lucha libre matches, makes tacos for them, talks about mexican-american music artists that he likes (which apparently sean dislikes), and loves baseball which is a very celebrated sport in mexico. i’d also argue that there isn't really a one size fits all with how much sean and daniel are allowed to talk about mexican culture. it’s all these little things that make the game feel more authentic in its representation. even if some children of immigrants haven’t experienced this themselves, i (and many others) certainly have. these tiny details, down to the chosen sport of choice for the dad, felt very intentional and researched.

regarding dia de muertos, i don’t really see why they would have needed to include it. it’s a very private family holiday that was turned into a public celebration for tourists because of western depictions of it, which is only really popular in big cities within mexico. i doubt sean and daniel would have gotten excited for it since they didn’t have anyone in their family that they knew and would have needed to honor who was dead (yet). halloween, on the other hand, is also heavily celebrated in mexico as well, and is completely different from dia de los muertos despite having similar themes. esteban loving halloween and being really excited for it seems in line with mexican customs.

i see a lot of my family in sean and daniel, especially in the way they were raised - sean being basically fluent in spanish while daniel only understands it when spoken to is a small detail that is very common in bilingual households. through contextual clues, daniel most likely understands a good amt of it because sean and his dad may have spoken it to him in passing conversations. there are small references like him laughing at the idea of some (most likely white) guy teaching the both of them spanish, to which sean promptly says to daniel in spanish that that guy is an idiot. daniel says he can’t speak spanish, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t understand any of it.

all this to say that i don’t think that DN did a bad job when balancing the racial abuse that the boys faced with racial representation. i think that in a story that critiques both systemic and individualized racism that bipoc face, it’s difficult to write sean and daniel expressing that culture when they aren’t at home, where they’d express much of that culture. however, when they did have the opportunity to showcase it, DN expressed it in a very natural way that felt realistic and understandable, at least to me :)

sorry that this was so long and only touched upon one small part of your argument, it was just something that i felt very strongly about and wanted to say 😅 ik im speaking ab this on anonymous, i just don’t really want my acc to be attached to this specifically but if you wanna talk about the critique as a whole, i’d love to - either way i just wanted to leave it off with this for now!

Oh yes, now I remember details like the Lucha Libre matches and bands- it’s been 5 years since I touched my copy of the game. I didn’t know baseball was a popular sport in Mexico and the cultural context around Dia de los Muertos (I know the same has happened to Cinco de Mayo), so thank you for educating me about that. And Sean making fun of the Spanish flyer in episode 1 with Daniel was definitely a really accurate siblings of color camaraderie moment, like a little inside joke they shared.

I think Daniel not speaking Spanish also had to do with the limitations of working with a white American actor. Alex and Gabe never spoke Mandarin or Vietnamese in True Colors, which I could forgive because Erika Mori and Han Soto aren’t fluent, but it’s something I would’ve liked because besides their last names, it’s easy to miss what ethnicity they’re supposed to be. In a landscape where Asians are constantly mistaken for different ethnicities or conflated as all the same, I was disappointed to see some gamers didn’t know/figure out Alex was Chinese (and Vietnamese, but you’d only know that from one interview with Felice Kuan and Giang “Wendy” Chen’s name only being in the credits).

And yes, if you’d like to keep chatting please feel free to send me a DM! I’ll try to answer when I can but I’ve been really busy recently. Thank you again for your continued respectful conversation and open-mindedness 🙏🏼 I appreciate your patience as I continue to re-examine my own biases.

[gaymer-hag-stan]

Happy 16th anniversary to After School!

After School is recognized for their unique "graduation" system where members could join and leave the group over time. This dynamic lineup allowed for constant evolution and freshness in their music and performances. The group debuted with five members: Kahi, Jungah, Jooyeon, Bekah, and Soyoung, and over the years, new members like Uee, Nana, Lizzy, E-Young, and Raina were added, each bringing distinct talents and charisma to the group.

Musically, After School is known for their versatility, covering a wide range of genres from pop and R&B to electronic and dance. Their discography includes emotional ballads like "Because of You," which became a major hit, and high-energy tracks like "Bang!" which featured the members performing with marching band drums, showcasing their dedication to unique performance concepts. Other significant songs include "Diva," "Flashback," and "First Love," the latter incorporating pole dancing into their stage act, a bold and unprecedented move in K-pop.

The group also explored different musical directions through sub-units. Orange Caramel, featuring Nana, Raina, and Lizzy, became especially popular for their quirky, catchy songs such as "Magic Girl" and "Catallena," known for their whimsical and playful style. Members also pursued individual careers in acting, modeling, and solo music. Nana, in particular, gained prominence as a model and actress, while Raina focused on her solo singing career.

After School's innovative performances and bold concepts have left a significant mark on the K-pop industry. They were pioneers in integrating complex performance elements like drumming, pole dancing, and tap dancing, pushing the boundaries of traditional K-pop girl group performances. Though the group entered an indefinite hiatus around 2015, their influence endures, inspiring newer K-pop acts with their risk-taking and creativity.

Even in hiatus, After School’s legacy persists. Their constant reinvention and willingness to experiment set a new standard for performance and creativity in K-pop, making them a memorable and influential part of the industry’s history.

[panfritoo]

Yearning for 2014

It’s 2014. All my family is gathered at the restaurant to debut my becoming a woman. ‘My new monthly doom’, I think bending over by first-period cramps. I know for a fact that none of my sisters have been through this pseudo-tradition but, as the youngest family member, the older relatives rejoice in the mockery of this dinner and speak to me teasingly, knowing that whatever

I'm going through, they've already been through it all. Caught in the awkwardness, angst, and general anhedonia of puberty we reach dessert and I’m praying my bleeding uterus hasn't stained the chair's lining. That was the same year Lana Del Rey released her third album Ultraviolence, a time when her music served as a rite of passage. Her dreamy melancholic voice and lyrics on older men and drug use had to be consumed with a cautious warning, as they had cathartic effects on my already moody state.

I didn’t think there was any cultural significance at the time, but trends from 2014 have resurfaced on Instagram and TikTok, prompting discussions that contribute to the internet's fixation on that year. In the fashion industry, the emergence of an indie-sleaze revival marks a departure from the polished "clean girl aesthetic" that had dominated online platforms for years. This shift towards combat boots, distressed leather, and a deliberately messy look resonates with the unfiltered style of the early 2010s. Similarly, the film industry's wave of reboots and revivals including iconic shows like "Gossip Girl," "Sex and the City," and "Friends," taps into the comfort of familiar characters which says something about the generalized state of nostalgia. Moreover, the popularity of ‘POV: it's 2014’ videos on social media showcasing various ephemera and pop culture references that defined that year such as ‘Ice Bucket Challenge’ and ‘Eos lip balm’ confirms there is cultural yearning for 2014.

But why are people obsessing over 2014?

Every generation makes the point that old times were better. Generation Z, me included, we're now at an age where we can start feeling nostalgic for the first time, as we've reached the threshold of adulthood. Our seemingly world-ending problems from when we were younger—like high school crushes and acne—now seem trivial in comparison to the complexities of adult life.

During my early teens, I was eager to grow up, idealizing all kinds of freedoms. But as I've grown older, I realize that many of the key milestones of life are out of my generation's reach. The dream of finding a fulfilling job, owning a home, and living life on my terms feels like a scam.

Adulthood is a fraud.

Social media also amplifies our crushed expectations, because while in our reality we are constantly facing struggles to make a living, in social media everyone seems to fucking have it together. The internet has become increasingly commodified and exploited for its business possibilities. Platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are no longer ‘social’ but a form of consumption. I can't even remember the days before doom-scrolling addiction wasn't a thing.

I yearn for when the internet was once a refuge for connection and exploration. In 2014 Instagram was still in its infancy, Facebook was still popular, but the ultimate platform was Tumblr. It's difficult to explain the significance of Tumblr. Is it a social media platform? Yes. Where you can share images and longer fragments of text? Yes. But it was also more, you had to be there to understand it. Tumblr was a world of its own, Tumblr funded URL counterculture materialized through music and fashion.

Unlike social media now, Tumblr was not based on followers or likes, users were highly anonymous creating a safe haven for teenage girls to blog and post images freely. The aesthetics movement, which became a substitute for subcultures, also originated on Tumblr. Within this ecosystem, individuals self-prescribe to an aesthetic such as grunge, pastel grunge, or hipster. "That's so Tumblr" was also an aesthetic of its own. Posting “aesthetically” pleasing featuring grainy black and white edits of Lana del Rey, knee-high socks, Doctor Martens, chokers, galaxy prints, vinyl records from The 1975 and Arctic Monkeys was a way to combat the ugliness in real life. Having this beautifully curated blog was a form of reinvention. However, not everything about Tumblr was pretty, images of anorexia, depression and self-harm circulated on the platform romanticizing mental health issues.

Life was simpler in 2014 because we were younger but also life just seems to have gotten complicated after 2015. Ebola, Brexit, Trump winning elections, the War in Ukraine and Gaza, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Lots of us feel that COVID robbed us of our youth and by the time we got out of isolation we were on the cusp of adulthood.

The longing for 2014 reflects more than just a desire for a bygone era; it symbolizes a yearning for a time when life seemed less daunting, and the future felt more hopeful. We cling to the memories of our youth as a form of escapism from the present. But this is not a way of living, as Andy Bernard character from the office said, "I wish there was a way to know you're in the good old days...".

[herrenxenoberg]

Fandorm Showcase #19 - Home On The Range

A Disney movie that I recall so deeply from childhood, because of the iconic villain song from Alameda Slim.

Introducing the next dorm, inspired by the old western atmosphere of Home On The Range...

Cattlewest!

Combines the words, cattle and west (two obvious glossary words relating to the theme).

This dorm focuses on honesty and individuality, prioritizing truth and respect over prejudice. Given that most of the members in this dorm are from the west side of Twisted Wonderland, they have an affinity and flair in musical prowess, able to sing, play the banjo and even yodel as a form of art. (And you will call it yodeling and nothing else)

"A dorm founded on the flashy Cattle Rustler's spirit of honesty. Students in this dorm all speak the honest truth but also have a knack for western-style musical talent."

Requirements and Traits:

Musically talented in singing, playing instruments or yodeling

Honest and truthful

Have the western charm

Literally one of my favorite troupes in media is western themes, so this one definitely is one of my favorites to make.

Now comes the dorm uniform design:

I took some inspirations from Alameda Slim's design for the housewarden fit, and it turned out amazing than I expected.

Character Roster:

(Yes, I specifically made templates of the vignette-esque selection UI for six or seven members, the templates will be shared later if anyone wants one too.)

Say howdy to the most flashy cowboy of NRC...

Anton O'ddel (Twisted off Alameda Slim)

Anton always likes a great time, as a pure-blooded western folk and third-year housewarden of Cattlewest who tends to yodel when he's in a happy mood, a yodel so enchanting even nearby cattle gets entranced by his yodeling. He occasionally plays banjo to accompany his yodels as his greatest musical talent. He has always been an honest boy to everyone he trusts dearly, never telling a single lie in his life...or so you think. Having to run a cattle ranch with his family, their source of income isn't enough to support both themselves and the herd of cattle they raised, so they had to resort to selling off their cattle to local folks to make due with the income problem. But a greedy city corporate wanted to buy off his family ranch in order to put it up for auction for potential buyers. (and that they insulted his folk for being "noisy with their weird singing"), which angered Anton to the very core...

Notable Members:

Wade Cattler (Vice Housewarden, Sophomore) - Cattlewest's vice housewarden and a stickler for time management, he doesn't like his time wasted so he does his tasks as efficient and swift as possible. (Twisted off Mr.Wesley)

Dennis Prance (Junior) - A quiet and distant horse beastman who doesn't do much, but when Anton gives the word, he will take on the task no matter what. (Twisted off Rico and Buck)

Garrott Byson (Junior) - A brutish buffalo beastman who would use his burly strength to bully those who are weak, but secretly he's soft-hearted and wanted people to like him as a friend. (Twisted off Junior the Buffalo)

Dynamo Pyr (Freshman) - One of the Pyr Triplets, known to have a knack for crafting old-school explosives using gunpowder and coal and is a bit of a thrill-seeker. (Twisted off Phil Willie)

Nitro Pyr (Freshman) - The middle brother of the Pyr Triplets, known to craft more advanced explosives with the use of potions and magic, but can be a bit clueless about everything. (Twisted off Gill Willie)

Trinitro Pyr (Freshman) - The third brother of the Pyr Triplets, known to craft highly-advanced and more dangerous explosives using chemicals, but he is not allowed to use that knowledge currently, he's a bit dim-witted more than his other two brothers. (Twisted off Bill Willie)

Synopsis:

There is never a peaceful moment in NRC, as they were suddenly invaded by...raging cattle herds? The cattle destroys anything they stampeded through without ever stopping, leaving the school in utter disrepair. Crowley woes in despair over the high costs of repairs until a man going by the name "Mr. Yesman" offering him a service to help repair the damages caused by the wild cattle herd, and it would cost him a lot for such repairs. However, something about Mr. Yesman seemed suspicious, to be showing up at the exact time the cattles would appear and destroy everything, it seems too much of a coincidence...

(P.S. Mr. Yesman is the Yancy O'Dell of this story)

Next Up: The Rescuers

[icanseethefuture333]

Hii, thanks so much for sharing your kpop tarot readings, they’re so fun to read! I love how detailed and in depth they are. If it’s okay could I request a reading on Seventeen’s reputation in the industry? Thank you!

A tarot reading on: SEVENTEEN

SEVENTEEN's reputation as idols

When it comes to Seventeen's reputation as idols they are seen as sophisticated, confident, and friendly. People look at them and consider them to be "seasoned", so over their years their talent has progressed even further. They are good at what they do and just have such a refined quality to their music, style, and charm. People could like their energy or like the fact they are a large group? People see them as a group of friends vs a band who just only make music. The members of Seventeen are good at making each person shine their best qualities.

What does the music industry think of Seventeen?

I believe the industry had to grow to like Seventeen because they were so different and now they have accepted them. It's like the music industry saw them as only something superficial like for their looks for example (it seems there was comparisons to other large groups? EXO or Super Junior, perhaps?). Overtime as the members of Seventeen got to showcase their talents, the music industry became impressed with what they were all capable of. They now see them as very creative and free spirited individuals. They could of originally wanted them to fit into this box but Seventeen attracts the most abundance when they are just being themselves.

What do other idols think of Seventeen?

Other idols see Seventeen as humble, funny, and disciplined. A lot of green, blue, and purple here so that connects with the crown, third eye, and heart chakra. Seventeen's passion for their art is able to project through an entire room, it's pretty amazing. People can't help but be in awe. Seventeen are able to depict their authenticity well through their music and it comes off as very charming. Idols think they are great entertainers and the younger generation all have positive things to say about them. They're so much fun to be around. Seventeen are also very popular on variety shows.

Channeled messages:

There was this lingering energy that I could not shake off and I had to dive deep into this depressing aura here because there was something about this group that wanted to come to the light. So a few members had come forward and I had to decipher who it was or what they were trying to tell me. One member in particular was in a relationship a long time ago that nobody knows about and he has been feeling guilty ever since. The other members I channeled were the people the closest to him at the time and would cover for him by drawing more attention to themselves. This member who was in a relationship was dating a senior idol. They are no longer together but he is feeling heartbroken about what happened and feels he is part of the reason that the person he used to date has lost their success or aren't in the spotlight anymore is because of him (it's more so he's part of it, like he emotionally impacted this person, but it is not all his fault, there were other factors involved). This member fears that if this were to ever go public, people would no longer want to work with him, and would create rumors implying he's not a good person to be around. That he would date all of his coworkers or something, when that's just not true. There's purple, blue, orange, yellow, and red which connects to the crown, third eye, throat, sacral, solar, and root chakra. This member is going through a lot of inner turmoil, he needs to let his go of this guilt he feels and forgive himself for what happened in the past. To understand that he did his best to loved that person dearly, there was no malicious intentions to sabotage the other idol's career. He also needs to stop letting other people's opinions think low of himself? Like these cards kept sneaking in when I asked about what other idols think of him so I'm getting that he deals with intrusive thoughts or anxiety but he's hiding it. This member needs to be honest with himself and others. He is more appreciated and cared for than he realizes. His aura is very muddy right now but he will able to heal from this in the future (I will personally send him some healing energy myself if I have to 🥺🤧). Also unrelated, but some of the members have stated that they have dated before. Their Fandom (Carats) need to be more realistic when it comes their love life because they could be hindering their relationships.

[poopyloopy14]

WINX CLUB: MY FIRST OBSESSION 🧚‍♀️✨

Reasons why I still love it and I think it holds up as a good show to this day!

Characters & Design: One thing I love about about the design of the animation is how Iginio Straffi decided to use proper Italian designers to style the character's clothes!! The girls looked like fashion design sketches come to life on the screen ( also explaining how unrealistic their body proportions are). To this day the fashion inspires me, so many bright patterns and colour paired with celebrity fashion of the early 2000s. I also love how much care and detail was put into each character in season 1-4, I refuse to talk about any other seasons. They all had their own signature colours and symbols, such as Flora's floral patterns representing her sweet and gentle nature or Musa's clef symbolising her love for music. This really emphasised to me how fashion can be an outwards representation of your soul and who you are. I also love how there wasn't an emphasis on making them look 'modest' because in this fantastical, perfect world there weren't any creeps to sexualise them. I think what sets this show apart from other kids shows at the time was how femininity wasn't demonised, the characters were able to care about fashion, makeup and boys while still having strong personalities and being powerful. There's a connotation that a girl had to 'act like a man' in order to be closer to strength and power but this cast proved the opposite; although more masculine characters were represented such as Tecna, the girls were still represented as equal.

Another positive on the casting I think, was the diversity in the first few seasons. Cartoons are known for being the worst for lack of diversity and at this time there were very few different races and ethnic backgrounds being represented other than white and American. In Winx, Musa's planet 'Melody' is a representation of China and she explores this through the grief of her dead mother, Matlin. Representation in media is important as it decreases stigmatisation in the real world, creating less ignorance towards people who are different to us. Especially when kids are exposed to harmful stereotypes, representation is simply a form of cultural education. I think Winx did this successfully ! I also think it is important to note that even the 'villains' aka the witches weren't left out with the fashion detail, and as characters they were shown to be more naughty than they were evil, unlike characters such as Valtor. ( Valtor is so hot though ok) Making the witches seem just as cool and trendy as the fairies, instead of demonising alternative fashion and individuals.

Setting & Plot: The setting of Alfea was so perfect to me, it was the epitome of girlhood as was most of the show. The mix of fantasy with sci-fi was very unique and was representative of the harmony between the girls' both brains (being the futuristic technology such as the hover cars) and beauty ( being the colourful decorated buildings). I absolutely love 2D animation in general over 3D, it's a literal drawing on paper come to life which makes it appear more alike art than trying to be alike real life. The world building I thought had so much love put into it, how the girls each came from a different planet with its own customs and traditions aka culture and it all came together so naturally as one big universe. The focus on representing many features of our own Earth in the show only made the showcase of unity and community more applicable to our own lives and therefore inspiring.

As for the plot, the same idea applies. The show was originally directed at an audience of tween girls, many times their intelligence was undermined and producers would convey a very surface-level plot with many adversity plots being centred around stereotyped ideas of what young girls worry about. For example things Stella worries about in many scenes, although the contrast lies within these things being insignificant to the overall plot. In this way, these common worries aren't minimised but young girls are shown to have more complexity to them which they realistically do. Such as when Stella found out Brandon wasn't really a Prince and she didn't care. Each fairy having their own personality itself showed that the girls weren't being dehumanised or, defairytised as harmful stereotypes of the docile, or shallow, tween. Another important feature many shows savour for adult shows is character building! It is just as effective and arguably more important in childrens shows to convey realism in the way humans are able to grow and change. Many of the girls such as Bloom are shown to have difficulties within their family or with self-image, real concerns for young girls. This affords the characters a complexity and relatability factor appealing to real girls who can see themselves within a fairy and their struggle.

I don't think 'adult topics' should be limited towards children shows, I've realised the entirety of my favourite children shows do explore these topics. This is because these topics such as grief or trauma realistically don't just impact adults but children too, only in a different manner. This is how it should be represented within children's media too, in an age appropriate manner while also respecting the intelligence of children. We too often depreciate the depths of what children feel and know and at their age they don't have the complex words to describe it, rather they immitate the words and actions of role models. Role models are also able to be within media, representation within characters of their own age showcasing a healthy way to deal or communicate with what they experience or feel is a positive way to aid children on a mass scale. Overall I very much appreciated this about the plots of Winx, it is a shame from season 5 they changed their demographic to a younger audience and dropped the complex plots as that is what attracted me so much to the show.

My favourite character: Since I was a little girl it was always Flora, I think it was mostly because I saw myself in her not just through appearance but through her shyness, sensitivity and genuine care for others. Although I have grown these are still core parts of who I am, feeling responsibility for others and having to mature fast due to expectations placed on me as an older sibling. As well as the desire to connect to nature, that has only grown in me as I grow up and realise how the modern way of life is so disconnected from it. When I am under the trees or laying in a bed of grass or atop a body of water it's a feeling of rejuvenation I can't seem to recreate anywhere else. Now my ideal life would be to live within the countryside on a little farm planting fruit, veg and flowers. I think my connection with Flora was indicative of what means the most to me in my core as it has only flourished with time. Her relationship with Helia being so gentle, with him gifting her a poem speaks to what I've realised I deserve too although... my wants are a little messy. It might seem juvenile to think so deeply about Flora's relevance to myself but I think it's important in understanding yourself to figure out what about something or someone made you so attached to it/ them, before life got confusing. So I think there's something in going back to things that magnetised you before you even developed a sense of self, it helps me at least in understanding myself. I also loved her outfits duh!

[trapangeles]

LateAfter8: A Journey of Authenticity and Growth with LifeFullOfSin/RideOrDie

In a world where music is often a reflection of the artist's soul, LateAfter8 emerges as a storyteller with an unfiltered lens on life's trials and triumphs. Hailing from the same area as his long-time collaborator @Fatboyslapz, LateAfter8’s latest release, LifeFullOfSin/RideOrDie, is more than just a song and video—it's a raw, emotional narrative of his journey. With gripping visuals and poignant lyrics, LateAfter8 invites his audience into a world shaped by struggle, resilience, and authenticity.

The Inspiration: Trials, Tribulations, and Realizations

The dual concept of LifeFullOfSin/RideOrDie is deeply personal. LateAfter8 explains, “The inspiration for LifeFullOfSin is me going through trials and tribulations in my life trying to find the right path. At the same time, there are individuals who don’t want to see you win. I like that—it makes me go hard.”

On the other side of the story, RideOrDie reflects his desire for unwavering support in his personal life. “The RideOrDie song is from me being so serious with my life decisions and career choices. I need a woman by my side who gets me.” Together, these tracks create a powerful narrative about perseverance and the importance of loyalty.

Bringing the Vision to Life

For years, LateAfter8 has collaborated with videographer @Fatboyslapz, and this partnership has allowed him to bring his creative visions to life seamlessly. “He kinda just knows how I want my videos,” LateAfter8 shares. This understanding made the process smoother, even when challenges arose. The most difficult part? “How I wanted to compose myself in front of the camera.”

The video itself is packed with emotion, with every scene reflecting pieces of LateAfter8’s personal experiences. “All of the scenes are really emotions I have in my life,” he reveals. This authenticity ties the video to his artistic journey, showcasing his growth. “It shows my progression from all my other work��more truthful lines and rhymes.”

Lyrics and Visuals: A Perfect Match

The beauty of LifeFullOfSin/RideOrDie lies in its simplicity. “The lyrics are straight to the point,” LateAfter8 explains. “The video just adds the perfect painting towards the viewer.” This fusion of music and visuals creates a layered experience for listeners and viewers alike, with themes of family, friends, enemies, and relationships.

LateAfter8 hopes his audience feels the weight of his emotions through the song. “I want my listeners to understand the deep feelings I have about certain situations,” he says.

The Audience Response: Real and Appreciated

Since the release of LifeFullOfSin/RideOrDie, the response has been overwhelmingly positive. “The response has been real and appreciated. Nothing but good support,” LateAfter8 shares. One comment, in particular, stood out: “Wait til ‘25.” This kind of feedback fuels his drive and confirms that his authenticity resonates with his audience.

Looking Ahead: Authenticity and Growth

The LifeFullOfSin/RideOrDie video isn’t just a standalone project—it’s a glimpse into what’s to come. “You can definitely expect more visuals like this for my upcoming project,” LateAfter8 says. With each release, he’s determined to showcase his true self. “This video sets the tone for me as an artist because I’m showing and giving my authentic self rather than imitating another artist’s style or flow.”

A Message of Resilience

LateAfter8’s story is one of resilience, authenticity, and self-expression. His music not only reflects his personal experiences but also serves as a source of inspiration for his listeners. LifeFullOfSin/RideOrDie is a testament to his growth and his commitment to staying true to himself.

With more visuals, deeper storytelling, and authentic connections, LateAfter8 is solidifying his place in the music scene as an artist unafraid to be vulnerable and real. As his fan said, “Wait til ‘25”—the future is looking bright for LateAfter8.

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[kernelbastard]

@dr-spectre

I just noticed the typo. WHY CAN'T WE EDIT REPLIES FFFFFFFFF

Anyway,

I'm new here, so this might be way off, but, y'know... Canon is a gentle suggestion.

I think that both Tide Goes Out and Bomb Rush Blush were, to some degree, the Squid Sisters being pushed into rivalry in order to make the music sell better. Therefore, they were given these songs as pre-written material that didn't actually fit their artistic vision and instead served to appeal to the widest possible audiences.

To be completely honest, I don't have a ton of thoughts on Bomb Rush Blush. I love Callie as a character, especially since I saw your analysis of her, but her style of upbeat pop isn't generally my thing, so I have no clue how to come up with lyrics for her. This'll be entirely Marie-focused as a result. That being said, I'd love to hear your take on it for Callie!

Let's get the lyrics out of the way first. The first version to drop, at least in Tide's case, would probably be the Caitlin Koi one. No shade to her, of course, but her style of lyrics for this one seems to prioritize making it sound nice. They absolutely CAN be deep - some of the more recent songs showcase that really well! Just look at Unconscience, the writing on that one's incredible - but in some cases, her lyrics seem to follow more of a Swedish pop approach, y'know? It can be very "I Want It That Way"-esque, which makes a lot of sense for the Squid Sisters' careers.

That being said, I usually listen to Tide Goes Out slowed down by a lot (I just think it's smoother that way), and that does change the tone a bit. So, down the line, I think it'd be nice if they each got to re-release the songs and change them as they see fit.

Marie's ends up being a lot more depressing. Essentially, it's a love song, centered around an unhealthy relationship that she wishes she could make work, but she doesn't believe she's actually strong enough to mend.

Who would've thought, that you and me,

We could never come true? (But maybe it's true)

Nothing soft for you and me ('cause we cannot be, cannot be)

But baby, let me know

If we're a tragedy, do you feel it?

Can you feel it, feelin' me?

So what can I say?

It's waiting to walk us away

When I learned it's true, what did I, did I do?

Not what I should

What I yearn for's you, I really truly do

I swear I would

Follow you, follow you

Honey, I don't want you crying tonight

But you and I, you and I,

You are not my fate

Meanwhile, for Tidal Rush, it goes like this... (Again, most of this is from Koi's videos)

When I learned it's true, what did I, did I do?

Not what I should

But I miss you, too, I really truly do

I swore I would

Fight for you, fight for you

Callie, I don't need you lying to me!

Just 'cause you and I, you and I,

You are not the same...

[...]

Mortified that you and me

Could unravel so soon

[...]

Let me, let me know!

I'm scared of losing you,

So if it's true,

I don't what to do...

There are some pretty clear parallels here, but what really got me attached to these lyrics are the key differences - not just in what kind of relationship it's about and what the context is, but, more subtly, the idea that Marie doesn't tend to fight for the things she wants, UNLESS it's to help Callie in some way. Because, holy SHIT, that hits a little too close to home!

The long and the short of it is, I think Marie has a lot of apathy holding her back, but her love for her family is strong enough to pull her through it. Unfortunately, she's gonna have a hard time being independent and living a life she's genuinely proud of if she can't do it for herself, too...

So I think this new version of the song should be about her and Callie both FINALLY being happy with who they are. They still support each other and have gotten better at communicating, but they can also function just fine as individuals. Also, beyond that, they're HAPPY!

Notably, Tidal Rush has a little bit more Tide than Rush, while Blushing Tide is more Blush than Tide. Not by a lot, but it's noticeable. And I think that's important, because it means Marie isn't as insecure about her leadership, and can now let Callie take the spotlight without worrying about it becoming a competition.

... Also, this doesn't mean much, but I think it'd be cute if Callie got a little more of a punk vibe moving forward. Like, that sort of Miley Cyrus or Demi Lovato thing, although probably not as intense since she already did some of that while working with Octavio. It'd contrast with Marie's more traditional tone really well, I think.

Alright, I think that's everything... Now I'm gonna pass out for the night, work really took it out of me -_-

Edit: WAIT ONE MORE THING!!! I think this version of Tide should imply a happy ending! Like, something to show that Marie is willing to fight for herself now, too. I'm too tired to think of lyrics right now, but if Callie's love song gets to be a little "edgier", Marie's should get some softness to balance it out, too, y'know?

[0nlythrowharrybeaux]

Can i send you a request? I’m a classical music student and the end of uni semester is hard 😪 what if Harry was y/n’s instrument teacher (individual classes) and they have a good relationship but he’s really a perfectionist and she’s putting a lot of pressure on herself and one day he tells her a criticism about her piece and she takes it the wrong way and starts crying and have a panic attack in her class ☹️

(Lets make it sweet and fluffy though 😂)

Of course! I actually majored in vocal performance my Freshman year and the pressure got to me and I switched majors lol. It was just so competitive and stressful and a lot of work outside of classes and lessons and sectionals and juries! ANYWAY! I know how hard end of term can be so I'm wishing you all the best! 🫶

After midterms everything just sort of becomes a blur in university, students are frantic to catch up or improve or maintain their grades, professors are suddenly starting to grade all assignments in bulk, and for Y/N particularly, this meant very inconvenient practice times for her end of the year jury practice. The practice rooms were constantly busy and it was hard to find a reasonable time between her other classes to put in some practice. She was really pushing herself to show fast improvement because during her last semester jury she was told that her nerves were coming through. She was only nervous because she was scared she would forget how to play or read music or count. Just normal thoughts from an anxious and panicked brain.

After that feedback though she brainstormed and decided that the only way none of those things would happen would be if she memorized her next jury piece. It had to be a piece that was at least 5 minutes in length, which wasn't a hard feat. She and her faculty advisor, who was also her assigned instrument teacher, Prof. Styles, well he liked to be called Harry, but they had chosen Chopin's Berceuse Op. 57. She had started to learn that piece the year before but for one reason or another they just stopped practicing it for her repertoire, but he suggested it was time to bring it back. It was an opportunity for her to be able to show off her technical skills while also showcasing how freely she could play. Chopin was all about movement and expression, it gave a lot of wiggle room for the pianist's own artistic expression and based on the previous semester's criticism, her own expression was severely lacking.

It was the week before juries now and due to the hectic schedules and end of term assignments Y/N was running on 4 hours of sleep, burnt coffee, and stale pop-tarts as she was rationing her meal points at this point. She was blazing through the campus to make it to her lesson on time and she just made it in, Harry hated tardiness more than anything.

"Just in time. How's it going." he asked as Y/N walked in panting.

"It's going." she huffed as she set her backpack down and dug out her sheet music, though by this point she really didn't need it.

"How's practice been going?" he asked as she settled herself onto the bench.

"Alright, been going 2 to 2 and half hours." she said as stretched her hands back and wiggled her fingers around. She was still breathing heavily, "I warmed up at my dorm before I came over, s'why I was rushing." she said, "I just need to your honest opinion on how this is sounding."

"S'why I'm here, my dear." he assured and she smiled, "Also, please take a minute to catch your breath." he chuckled and she swallowed down thickly and nodded. She closed her eyes and rolled her shoulders back before exhaling slowly, "There you go, nice and relaxed." he encouraged.

Harry was attractive, there was no denying that. He was practically a musical prodigy and his talent was extraordinary. He was the youngest faculty member, he actually started on her first year, so naturally, she got assigned to him for her lessons, a lot of the new kids did. He was stern and serious, but he also let his kindness seep through - he was just so balanced and it made her feel really comfortable around him. He was an excellent instructor and just within a year of them working together for individual lessons her abilities had improved to the point where she was made second chair to accompany the ensembles as her second year. Obviously, there was a senior as first chair, but her being that much younger and being offered second chair was a big deal. She was Harry's best student and that also came with it's own pressure. With him being who he was, it made people scrutinize his pupils even more as they were his living legacy! Y/N stared at the black and white keys before her for a moment before she put her hands in position and the piece took off.

Harry didn't interrupt her once, he let her play it how she had been rehearsing. But he noticed that her gaze was set down at the keys and her eyes were a bit narrowed. Her shoulders tense and it was causing her posture to worsen as time progressed. Yes, she was hitting all of the right notes but what she was displaying visually and emoting was not matching the easy and fluid feeling of the piece she was playing. As soon as she started to wrap up she relaxed a bit more and finished nicely, holding the last note for a few beats before slowly stepping off of the reverb petal.

Y/N exhaled d and turned to him with a big smile. This was the first time she had made it through the whole piece without a little mistake that she noticed or a feeling that her performance was lacking in some capacity. She couldn't really decipher the look on his face, but she just knew it had to be good feedback. She waited eagerly as he stood there, waiting for a few moments, taking it in. Usually speechless meant good - like there were no words.

"Well, I mean you certainly learned the piece." he said and she chuckled.

"I just wanted to make sure that I didn't miss anything. That I just knew when and where things are supposed to happen so that I'm not freaking out like last time." she explained and he hummed.

"How do you think you did?" he asked and she shrugged with some humility.

"I'd say maybe 8.9 or 9 out of 10." she said and his eyebrows raised.

"Oh, OK." he said with some surprise in his voice and immediately her stomach sank. It couldn't be good that he looked shocked at her self-evaluation.

"Was it not that good?" she asked and he licked over his lips.

"It was and it wasn't, technically you're perfect-"

"So then what?" she asked as she started to feel her hands prick with nerves. She swallowed down that awful burning in her chest, that kind when your breath is short.

"You're literally playing it exactly as it's written there in the sheet music. Where's the feeling?"

"Well I'm playing the dynamics like it says there to give it some movement!" she said and he shook his head and sighed.

"Y/N, you're so focused on making it perfect that you've completely thrown out the entire purpose of music. Yes, you would definitely impress any audience with your skill but if you just keep focusing on perfection you'll never be able to move an audience with your music." he said and she doesn't know why that hurt so much coming from him but it did, "Yes, the dynamics there are a guide for the overall tone of the piece, but you're not being vulnerable and showing us what this feels like for you." he critiqued, "The arpeggios should give me the visual of...let's say a butterfly, fluttering it's wings, right now they feel like a wounded bird, you're dragging the tempo and pressing the keys too hard in trying to ensure that you don't miss a note. And you're glissando is also dragged. You know how to do this, Y/N-" he stopped talking when he heard her gasp, almost as if she was about to cry, "Y/N?" he asked and she glanced up to him with tears rolling down her face and her mouth slightly parted and he could see her chest was rising and falling quickly with how shallow her breathing was. "Oh my god." he said grabbing her hands, "Y/N, it's alright." he said as her shallow breathing started to worsen.

"I-Ican'tbreathe." she slurred and he looked into her panicked and tearful eyes trying to decide how he could help.

"Fuck." he whispered as he took in her demeanor, "Y/N, I-i'm gonna hold you, OK." he warned before he just pulled her into his chest and nestled her face into his neck. Her tears and puffs of air were heating and dampening his skin and surely the collar of his shirt but he just wanted her to be OK. Harry had a huge soft spot for Y/N. He's known her since she started here and he'd been able to help her cultivate her gift and she had a talent that he admired. Maybe in wanting to make her the best he pushed her too far? "I'm sorry if I've been pressuring you too much. I just believe in you and your gift so much. I don't want to push you to the point where I'm taking away your feelings for the music. I'm sorry if I have." he said softly as he rubbed at her back. She was starting to calm down, "There you go, darling. Breathe in and out, it's alright." he comforted her, "Breathe with me." he said and she slowly started to sync up her breathing with his own, "That's it." He encouraged her until she had calmed down.

“I’m sorry.” She stammered as she hiccuped on her tears.

“Hey, it’s alright, you don’t have to apologize.” He assured.

“I’ve just been trying so hard and I don’t want to disappoint you or myself or anyone and-“

“Y/N, I’m not disappointed in you. I just want you to remember that being great at something doesn’t mean you have to stop showing your love for it. Show that you’re passionate about your playing! That’s what we want to see, that’s all.” He said with a soft smile and she nodded into his chest before he released her and reared back to look into her eyes, they were already fixed on his own. “You alright?” He asked and she nodded, “Good.” He smiled as he scooted down the bench to give her sufficient space, “I’ll be right here beside you. Again from the top.”

[genav0s]

–— ⠀*⠀⠀:⠀⠀SENTIMENTAL⠀!⠀⠀[ . . . ]⠀⠀is the debut extended play (ep) by south korean boy group, avos. it was released on digital platforms by south korean entertainment company, apricus culture on january 9, 2014.

the album was supported by two singles, "blues of sentiments", the title track, and "sidereum luscus (만약에)". commercially, it peaked at number two on the gaon album chart in south korea, and at number three on billboard's world albums chart in the united states. the album has sold over 875,000 copies as of june 2023. a limited edition version of the album was released in japan through ukiyo sounds in 2014.

the group amassed praise for their extensive participation in the making of the album, especially romeo and hwaseong who made their songwriting and production debuts under the pen-names, romeo and pluto respectively. with the tracks blues of sentiments, last night, sidereum luscus, and sweet being entirely written and produced by the members, their individual expression shone throughout the album, cementing their status as a self-producing group.

✶ .    SECTION ONE    :    view tracklist.

﹙ 001. ﹚ — BLUES OF SENTIMENTS

﹙ 002. ﹚ — LAST NIGHT

﹙ 003. ﹚ — JUST US

﹙ 004. ﹚ — SIDEREUM LUSCUS

﹙ 005. ﹚ — SWEET

✶ .    SECTION TWO    :    view physical album.

there is only one version of sentimental including a physical copy of the album, one group poster, two random photocards, one random sticker, and an official photobook (features 51 photos).

✶ .    SECTION THREE    :    view styling.

they leaned into the "boy next door" image heavy during this era. it was kind of chosen as an attempt to separate them from the rocky/cutthroat personalities they developed on their survival show. it was a lot of matchy-matchy uniforms and denim and cotton combinations.

✶ .    SECTION FOUR    :    view era highlights.

1. very cute album to debut with. everyone thought they were going with a dark/boy crush concept and they went the complete opposite way! love that. korea was very on the fence about it. it debuted in a great position, made some noise for the first two weeks, and then disappeared from the charts.

2. they were shy this era. so shy that hwaseong actually cried halfway through their first performance. regardless, their stages were a lot of fun, with very minimal choreography, just them messing around on stage for 3 and a half minutes. it was the worst decision apricus ever made bc by the end of the promotional period romeo was stressed!

3. avos is nothing if not consistent so of course ian and hwaseong still couldn’t stand each other. so much so that they got into a mini-scandal so apricus sent them on a damage control outing to pretend they were friends. didn’t work but it was a nice attempt.

4. very solid album musically. it showcased avos’ strong suits: minimal production & rhythmic raps. one of their more R&B-heavy albums so naturally it’s a fan favorite. their voices sound very different now so it’s a good place to see their musical progression.

5. seeing how involved the boys were with the album, they didn’t feel much for the album. sanghyuk & carter weren’t convinced that the idol life was for them, hwaseong and ian weren’t that emotionally invested in the album, and romeo was working overtime writing and producing 3/4 of the album by himself. 

6. the whole thing was written, recorded, and released within two weeks. it shows because of how exhausted they were the entire era. "never again", except it happened three other times. they work best under pressure i promise.

[chilimili212]

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. Any products or services put forward appear in no particular order. if you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Introduction Kendrick Lamar isn’t just a lyrical genius; he’s a style icon for a generation who values authenticity, artistry, and individuality. From the moment he stepped onto the global stage, Kendrick has embodied a street style that feels both approachable and aspirational. His fashion choices reflect his roots—simple, understated, yet strikingly purposeful. Whether he’s dressed down in oversized tees and sneakers or turning heads at high-profile events with tailored, monochrome ensembles, Kendrick Lamar fashion style exudes quiet confidence. As one of the few artists seamlessly bridging mainstream success and underground credibility, Lamar’s wardrobe mirrors his musical ethos: uncompromising, deliberate, and deeply rooted in storytelling. His ability to blend urban essentials with polished sophistication has turned Kendrick Lamar outfits into a template for modern street style. If you’re looking to embody that effortless edge, then this guide breaks down everything you need to know about Kendrick Lamar fashion style and how to channel it into your own wardrobe. Why Kendrick Lamar Style Matters Fuzheado, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Kendrick Lamar’s rise to fame has been accompanied by songs that are both commercially successful and culturally impactful. Tracks like “HUMBLE,” “Swimming Pools (Drank),” and “Alright” are among his most celebrated works. These songs not only propelled him into the mainstream but also showcased his lyrical mastery, establishing him as one of the most influential artists of his generation. His impact on music is undeniable, but his influence extends far beyond the recording studio. His style reflects who he is: a visionary artist and cultural commentator who balances street-ready fashion with a refined minimalism. Authenticity Meets Accessibility: Kendrick’s style thrives on simplicity. He proves that you don’t need flashy logos or extravagant pieces to make a statement. A Masterclass in Balance: From oversized hoodies paired with tailored trousers to clean sneakers anchoring bold outerwear, Kendrick strikes the perfect balance between casual and sharp. A Cultural Compass: As a style icon, Kendrick’s fashion mirrors his social and cultural influence. His choices are deliberate, always aligning with his persona as both a humble poet and a global icon. His style resonates because it feels real. It reflects his personal story while offering timeless lessons in how to elevate everyday essentials with intention. TL;DR: Key Takeaways from Kendrick Lamar Style Ndinur, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Kendrick Lamar style is all about confidence, simplicity, and intention. He blends streetwear staples with tailored touches, proving that fashion can be both accessible and aspirational. Simplicity with Personality: Kendrick’s style focuses on oversized tees, clean sneakers, and muted colors. These elements are all elevated through sharp, thoughtful styling. Balance is Key: Mixing loose, relaxed fits with tailored trousers or sharp accessories is central to his approach. It keeps his looks grounded yet refined. Details Matter: Signature accessories like beanies, bandanas, and unique sneakers give every outfit a personalized edge. The small touches make all the difference. Wardrobe Essentials Kendrick Lamar 14” by EWatson92 is licensed under CC BY 2.0 Lamar’s wardrobe is built on a foundation of street style staples, all chosen with care and intention. Here are the key pieces that define his style: Oversized Tees A cornerstone of Kendrick Lamar street style. Often opting for solid colors or understated graphics, he keeps it clean and minimal. Pair one with tailored pants or distressed denim for balance.Example: Kendrick’s 2017 performance look—a crisp white tee with black trousers and classic Vans. Tailored Trousers Although relaxed fits dominate his casual style, Kendrick isn’t afraid to dress up. His tailored trousers elevate even the most basic top.Example: At the 2018 Grammys, Kendrick paired slim black trousers with a statement leather jacket. Hoodies and Sweatshirts Kendrick leans into streetwear’s laid-back vibe with oversized hoodies and vintage sweatshirts. These pieces are essential for achieving his effortless cool.Style Tip: Opt for neutral colors like black, grey, or beige for versatility. Classic Sneakers Kendrick’s sneaker game is impeccable, often favoring Nike Cortez, Vans, and Converse for an old-school vibe. Sneakers ground his outfits and keep them youthful.Example: His love for the Nike Cortez—a sneaker he made iconic through notable collaborations. Denim Jackets A staple layering piece that Kendrick styles with everything from hoodies to graphic tees. The denim jacket is a versatile essential that can elevate casual looks. Signature Accessories Kendrick Lamar, Pitchfork 2012” by gozamos is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 Accessories are where Kendrick Lamar fashion style shines, giving his outfits a personal touch without overpowering them. They serve as the finishing details that bring his style together. Bandanas and Beanies Kendrick often wears a bandana tied around his head, adding a rugged edge to his look. Beanies are another go-to for their simplicity and utility. These accessories offer both style and practicality.Style Tip: Pair a dark beanie with a monochrome outfit for an effortlessly cool finish. Minimalist Jewelry Kendrick opts for subtle chains, bracelets, or rings that enhance his style without distracting from the overall look. This minimalist approach reinforces his understated confidence.Style Tip: Layer necklaces of slightly different lengths (16″, 18″, 20″) for a subtle but intentional jewelry statement. Statement Sneakers Footwear is Kendrick’s signature. Whether it’s the Nike Cortez or limited-edition Jordans, his sneakers often make the loudest statement. Investing in standout sneakers is a key to nailing his aesthetic.Style Tip: Match at least one color from your sneakers to another element in your outfit for a cohesive look. Notable Style Moments U.S. Government, White House photographer., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Kendrick Lamar’s fashion has evolved, but a few standout moments solidified his status as a style icon: 2018 Grammy Awards: Kendrick turned heads with a tailored black leather jacket, slim trousers, and combat boots. It was a striking example of blending edgy and refined elements. 2017 DAMN Tour: He kept it simple yet impactful, favoring oversized tees, distressed jeans, and Nike Cortez sneakers. This casual uniform became synonymous with his brand. Met Gala 2018: Ditching street style for a polished, monochrome look, Kendrick wore a sharp black suit with minimal detailing—proving he can do formalwear without losing his edge. Grooming and Presentation hds, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Kendrick Lamar style isn’t limited to clothing—his grooming choices are equally intentional. He often lets his hair grow naturally, embracing twists, braids, or loose curls that complement his laid-back aesthetic. This approach highlights his authenticity and willingness to showcase his roots without over-styling. Facial hair also plays a role in Kendrick’s overall look. His neatly groomed beard adds structure to his face, reinforcing a clean and polished vibe. The beard, paired with his natural hair, creates a balanced contrast between effortlessness and precision. More than anything, Kendrick’s grooming choices reflect confidence. His calm, assured presence on stage and in photoshoots reminds us that style isn’t just about clothes—it’s about how you carry yourself. Styling Tips for Today Batiste Safont, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Here’s how to channel Kendrick Lamar fashion style while keeping it modern: Start with the basics: Build your wardrobe with high-quality oversized tees, hoodies, and tailored trousers in neutral tones. Focus on heavyweight cotton that drapes well for tees and slightly cropped fits for hoodies that hit just at the waist. Mix streetwear with polish: Pair vintage sweatshirts with wool trousers and leather dress shoes, or match tailored suit pants with a graphic tee and limited-edition sneakers. The goal is creating thoughtful contrast between casual and formal elements. Layer with intention: Experiment with different lengths and proportions – try a longer T-shirt under a cropped jacket or a boxy overshirt over a fitted base layer. Mix fabric weights and textures to add sophistication. Accessorize smartly: Add subtle details like a silk bandana, thin gold chains, or minimalist sterling silver rings. Choose sneakers that make a statement through design rather than flashy colors, like monochrome Nike Cortez or Converse Chuck 70s. Keep it confident: Wear clothes that make you feel comfortable and powerful. Take time to understand how different pieces work on your body and move with your natural gestures. The most important element is wearing everything with conviction and authenticity. Conclusion Kendrick Lamar style is a blueprint for modern streetwear done right: confident, understated, and deeply personal. His ability to merge street-ready essentials with refined touches is a lesson in balance and intentionality. But Kendrick’s greatest fashion statement is his authenticity. He reminds us that true style isn’t about chasing trends—it’s about wearing what resonates with you and doing it with confidence. Take a page from Kendrick’s book: simplify, elevate, and own your look. Whether you’re dressing for the streets, the stage, or something in between, let Kendrick Lamar style inspire you to find your own rhythm. Source link

[shopreverb]

Customised Phone Cases for Every Style and Personality

In today’s world, owning a personalised mobile phone case is more than just a way to protect your phone—it’s a reflection of your style and personality. Whether you’re a fan of pop culture, sports, or art, you can find a wide variety of phone cases to match your taste. If you’re in India and looking for a phone case that truly speaks to your individual style, then personalised mobile phone cases are the perfect option for you.

The Rise of Personalised Phone Cases Mobile phone cases have evolved from being simple protective covers to fashionable accessories that make a statement. Personalised mobile phone cases allow users to design their own cases, making them unique and special. You can add your name, favourite quotes, or even images that resonate with your personality. This customization adds a personal touch that no mass-produced case can provide.

For fans of pop stars like Taylor Swift, having a Taylor Swift phone case India is a great way to showcase your love for the artist. These cases allow you to celebrate your favourite celebrity while protecting your device. Whether you’re a long-time fan or someone who recently discovered her music, a personalised case featuring her image or lyrics can be a great way to express your admiration.

The Popularity of Taylor Swift Phone Cases When it comes to personalised phone cases, one of the most popular themes is celebrity fandom. Among the most in-demand celebrity-themed cases is the Taylor Swift phone case India. With Taylor Swift’s massive fanbase in India, it’s no surprise that people are eager to showcase their fandom through their phone cases. These cases often feature iconic images, album covers, or quotes from her songs, allowing you to carry a piece of your favorite artist with you everywhere you go.

Swift’s influence is global, and her impact on the Indian music scene is undeniable. Fans from different cities across India are now able to get a customised phone case that highlights their admiration for the star. Whether it’s a simple case with just her name or an elaborate design featuring her album art, these cases are perfect for any Swiftie.

Why Choose Personalised Phone Cases? There are several reasons why personalised mobile phone cases have become so popular. First and foremost, they provide a sense of individuality. No one else will have the exact same design, making it an exclusive item. Additionally, these cases make great gifts. You can design a case for a loved one, incorporating their favourite colors, themes, or even personal photographs.

Personalised phone cases also provide excellent protection for your phone. They are made from durable materials that shield your device from drops, scratches, and other damage. Many people opt for these cases because they combine style and functionality. With a Taylor Swift phone case India, you can protect your phone while proudly showing off your love for the artist.

How to Personalise Your Mobile Phone Case Personalising your phone case is a simple and fun process. Many online platforms allow you to upload your own designs or choose from a variety of templates. You can add images, text, or even logos to make the design truly yours. If you’re a fan of Taylor Swift, you can find templates specifically designed with her image, song lyrics, or symbols associated with her career.

Choosing the right material is also important. You can choose from silicone, plastic, or leather, depending on the level of protection you need and the overall look you want. Once you’ve selected the material and design, you can place the order, and your personalised case will be delivered to your doorstep.

Conclusion In conclusion, personalised mobile phone cases offer a fantastic way to add a unique touch to your smartphone. Whether you’re looking for something that represents your personality or something that showcases your love for a pop star like Taylor Swift, these cases are perfect for everyone. A Taylor Swift phone case India is just one example of how you can blend your fandom with your phone’s protection. Personalised cases are not only a fun way to express yourself but also a practical investment to keep your phone safe.

[musicverse11]

Shakthisree Gopalan: A Beacon for Indie Musicians

Shakthisree Gopalan, a name synonymous with versatility and innovation in the Indian music industry, has carved a unique niche for herself. Trained in the classical art form of Carnatic music, Shakthisree has successfully ventured into modern genres, merging the richness of tradition with contemporary sensibilities. Her remarkable journey, marked by collaborations with iconic composers like A.R. Rahman and independent projects that showcase her creativity, offers valuable insights for aspiring artists. This article delves into her evolution as an artist and the lessons her journey holds for the music industry.

From Carnatic Beginnings to Contemporary Mastery

Shakthisree’s musical journey began at an early age with a 13-year training in Carnatic music, an experience that laid the foundation for her technical expertise and understanding of music. The discipline and rigor of classical music played a pivotal role in shaping her vocal strength and precision. Despite her classical roots, Shakthisree harbored a curiosity for contemporary sounds and genres, which led her to explore Western music, jazz, and pop during her college years.

Her first significant breakthrough came when she won “SS Music Voice Hunt,” a competition that opened doors to the Indian music industry. However, it was her collaboration with A.R. Rahman on the song “Nenjukkulle” from the Tamil film Kadal that brought her widespread recognition. The song’s soulful rendition showcased her ability to seamlessly blend the subtleties of Indian classical music with modern pop influences, cementing her place in the music world.

Key Milestones in Her Career

The release of “Nenjukkulle” marked the beginning of a prolific career that includes chart-topping hits across multiple languages. Songs like “Yaanji” from Vikram Vedha, “Aga Naga” from Ponniyin Selvan, and “Naruvuna” from Raavanan highlight her adaptability and command over diverse styles.

One of her defining characteristics is her ability to convey deep emotions through her voice, regardless of the genre. For example, in “Yaanji”, she masterfully captures the essence of love and longing, while in “Aga Naga”, she brings alive the grandeur and cultural depth of the story. These tracks resonate not only because of their musical quality but also because of Shakthisree’s emotive delivery, which strikes a chord with listeners.

Challenges and Triumphs

Shakthisree’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. The transition from Carnatic music to contemporary styles required her to unlearn certain rigidities and embrace a more fluid approach to singing. Additionally, balancing her career as a playback singer and an independent artist demanded immense effort and strategic planning.

Despite these challenges, Shakthisree remained steadfast in her commitment to her craft. Her work ethic, coupled with a desire to constantly evolve, has enabled her to collaborate with diverse artists and experiment with various genres. She attributes her success to her openness to learning and her determination to stay authentic in her musical expressions.

Exploration of Independent Music

Apart from playback singing, Shakthisree has also ventured into independent music, releasing singles like “By Your Side” and “Begin”. These projects reflect her personal experiences and artistic vision, offering fans a glimpse into her individuality as an artist. The freedom to express herself without the constraints of commercial cinema has allowed Shakthisree to explore themes that resonate deeply with her.

Her independent work also underscores the importance of self-empowerment for artists in a competitive industry. By taking charge of her music production and distribution, she has shown that artists can thrive outside the conventional framework of the music industry.

Lessons for Aspiring Artists

Shakthisree’s journey provides several takeaways for aspiring musicians:

Foundation is Key: Her training in Carnatic music gave her the technical expertise and discipline needed to excel in her career.

Adaptability and Openness: Embracing various genres and being open to learning have been crucial in her evolution as an artist.

Persistence Amid Challenges: Overcoming the initial hurdles of transitioning between genres and balancing multiple projects is a testament to her perseverance.

Authenticity Matters: Shakthisree’s emphasis on staying true to herself has helped her create a unique identity in the industry.

Collaboration and Networking: Working with industry giants and independent artists alike has expanded her artistic horizons and opportunities.

The Influence of Formal Education

Shakthisree is also an architect by training, which speaks to her multidimensional personality. Her architectural education has influenced her music career, particularly in terms of structure and composition. She credits her time at Berklee College of Music for broadening her musical outlook and exposing her to diverse global music styles.

Conclusion

Shakthisree Gopalan evolution from a Carnatic singer to a contemporary music icon is a story of resilience, creativity, and adaptability. Her ability to navigate various genres while staying true to her roots makes her a role model for aspiring musicians. By embracing versatility and authenticity, Shakthisree has carved a path that resonates with audiences across the globe.

For aspiring artists, her journey emphasizes the importance of building a strong foundation, exploring diverse styles, and staying authentic to their vision. Whether through her playback hits or independent ventures, Shakthisree continues to inspire, setting new benchmarks in the music industry.

If Shakthisree’s journey inspires you, take a moment to explore her discography and immerse yourself in her musical world. Whether it’s the haunting melody of “Nenjukkulle” or the soulful strains of “By Your Side”, her music offers something for everyone. Share your favorite Shakthisree song in the comments or on social media, and let’s celebrate this incredible artist together!

[hmanhh]

Week 4: Can foreign reality TV shows create a significant impact on attracting online communities when imported to Vietnam? 

Reality TV shows have been gaining greater shares of viewership across different audience groups largely because of their potential that widen the avenue for the sharing of opinions and driving argumentative discourse (Deller 2019, p. 153). The shows are inclusive of many forms such as gamedocs, dating programs, talent shows, and reality sitcoms amongst others (Murray and Ouellette). The Vietnamese market has also seen a significant penetration of foreign television programs. The recent reality TV formats acquired for broadcast in Vietnam include: 'Running Man,' '2 Days 1 Night', 'Brother Overcame a Thousand Thorns,' 'Street Woman Fighter.' These shows were received with phenomenal success in their home countries, where they left a deep impression on their viewers. A question remains whether they would keep their phenomenal appeal when they are adapted to the Vietnamese culture. 

Street Woman Fighter Vietnam (Nữ hoàng vũ đạo đường phố) is a real dance competition adapted from the original Korean format. Its first episode was released on July 27th, and it features six competing crews including So Fire, F.E.D, OOPS!, HanoiXGirls, SSWarriorZ, and Salad. All dance crews contain well-recognised female dancers of the industry with different styles and genres.

Korea has been known as the birthplace of a variety of well-known reality TV shows. Understanding that Vietnam has the potential, with a large number of talented female dancers whose ability in both choreography and competitive dancing is equal to the international standard, the producers of the original show decided to choose Vietnam as the first foreign host for this program. This initiative aims to provide a platform for young dancers to showcase their talents and creativity (Phan Trai 2024).

In order to set a strong and long-lasting foundation the show has strived to maintain the original format to attract viewers who are used to the former Korean version. However, since the production is now based in Vietnam, it has to fit the local culture. An instance of this is the performance of the dance crew F.E.D during the Mega Crew mission, in which they used Vietnamese music and set up the formation in a star shape, representing the emblem on the national flag. Specifically, the emergence of well-known faces in the Vietnamese entertainment industry, such as popular judges and master hosts Hari Won, Diep Lam Anh, Gil Le,... has contributed to its appeal and viewership.

The show broadcast both through the HTV7 channel and YouTube, enjoyed an incredibly active online audience. This is somewhat understandable considering the quality of social media viewership, which essentially tends to be a communicative practice, best linked with the scheduling of a live show (Deller 2019, p. 157). Consequently, it places viewers in a position where they have topics of commonality they can discuss each week on various social media platforms. It is a sense of collective empowerment that provides greater ease and immediacy, especially when they can identify and unite behind a common interest such as fandom for a television series (L'Hoiry 2019, p. 11). Notably, the diverse responses to individual performances can elicit a whole gamut of opinions; where one may show eagerness, the same feelings might not be shared by another person. These differences in views mostly result in the creation of different online communities based on a wide array of outlooks.

In short, Vietnam opens a very huge opportunity to produce reality TV shows based on foreign formats, owing to the diverse audience demographics in the country. However, more is indeed required to be done to enhance quality and creativity by the producers themselves to catch more viewership in the long term. 

References:

Deller, R.A. (2019) Reality television: The television phenomenon that changed the world [Preprint]. doi:10.1108/9781839090219. 

Murray & Ouellette, ‘Week Four Reality TV Case Study 2023 Slides’, MDA20009 Digital Communities, Learning materials via Canvas, 2023, viewed 04 October 2024. 

L’Hoiry, X. (2019) ‘Love Island, social media, and Sousveillance: New Pathways of challenging realism in reality TV’, Frontiers in Sociology, 4. doi:10.3389/fsoc.2019.00059.

Phan Trai (2024) Show đình đám hàn quốc ‘Nữ hoàng vũ đạo đường phố’ đến Việt Nam, Tạp chí điện tử: Người Đưa Tin. Available at: https://www.nguoiduatin.vn/show-dinh-dam-han-quoc-nu-hoang-vu-dao-duong-pho-den-viet-nam-204649700.htm#:~:text=Nh%E1%BA%ADn%20th%E1%BA%A5y%20Vi%E1%BB%87t%20Nam%20c%C5%A9ng,v%C3%A0o%20cu%E1%BB%91i%20th%C3%A1ng%207%2F2024.(Accessed: 04 October 2024).