#r&er northern rock

[trainqueen379]

I think this is also worth posting

Made this as a little present after two weeks of work at the R&ER :>

Going back next summer to complete my guard training btw >:D

[synthetic-rust]

Saw some trains recently whilst in the Lake District :D

‘Princess’ from the LHR & ‘Northern Rock’ from the R&ER

[rockislandadultreads]

Book Recommendations: New Fiction eAudiobooks on Libby

Looking for free access to eBooks or eAudiobooks? Check out Libby, a service from the Rock Island Public Library (RIPL) that can be accessed with your RIPL card number! You can log in to Libby through our website or download it as an app from the Apple Store or Google Play Store. 

The City of Light by Flint Maxwell 

Where there is light, there is hope. No longer stuck in Woodhaven, the survivors must race against the clock in order to get Mia to the City of Light before her delivery. Along the way, they meet a former resident of the City, and with this new acquaintance's help and guidance things begin looking up for Grady and company. 

But the wraiths, the darkness, and the constant snowstorms have other plans.

This is the fourth volume of the “Whiteout” series. 

Cradle of the Deep by Dietrich Kalteis

Wanting to free herself from her boyfriend, aging gangster "Maddog" Palmieri, Bobbi Ricci concocts a misguided plan with Denny, Maddog's ex-driver, a guy who's bent on getting even with the gangster for the humiliating way in which he was sacked. Helping themselves to the gangster's secret money stash, along with his Cadillac, Bobbi and Denny slip out of town, expecting to lay low for a while before enjoying the spoils.

Realizing he's been betrayed, an enraged Maddog calls in stone-cold killer Lee Trane. As Trane picks up their trail, plans quickly change for Bobbi and Denny, who now find themselves on a wild chase of misadventure through northern British Columbia and into Alaska.

Time is running out for them once they find out that Trane's been sent to do away with them, or worse, bring them back — either way, Maddog will make them pay.

Thirst for Justice by David R. Boyd

Michael MacDougall is a talented trauma surgeon whose life in Seattle is slowly unraveling. Frustrated as an ER doctor and with his marriage in trouble, he volunteers with a medical aid charity in the Congo. Disconsolate at the lives he cannot save in the desperate conditions of the region, he is shattered by a roadside confrontation with the mercenary Mai Mai that results in unthinkable losses.

Back home in Seattle, he is haunted by his experiences in Africa and what he sees as society's failure to provide humanitarian aid to those who most desperately need it. Locked in a downward spiral, he becomes obsessed with making his government listen to him and dreams up an act of terrorism to shock his nation awake.

Activist and lawyer David Boyd's debut novel is a taut political thriller that begs the question: how far is too far when you're seeking justice?

The Unlocking Season by Gail Bowen 

On a Saturday bright with harbingers of spring, Joanne Kilbourn-Shreve, her husband, Zack, and their family prepare to celebrate the season. Joanne's life is full, and at 60, she has been given the chance to understand a part of her history that for years was shrouded in secrecy.

Living Skies is producing Sisters and Strangers, a six-part TV series about the tangled relationships between the families of Douglas Ellard, the father who raised Joanne, and Desmond Love, her biological father. Joanne is working on the script with Roy Brodnitz, a brilliant writer and friend. The project's future seems assured, but before the script is completed, Brodnitz disappears while scouting locations in northern Saskatchewan. Hours later, he's found — sweat-drenched, clawing at the ground, and muttering gibberish. He dies in a state of mortal terror.

Heartsick and perplexed, Joanne resolves to learn what happened in the last hours of Roy's life. What Joanne discovers threatens Brodnitz's legacy, and the decision about whether or not to reveal the truth is hers to make. The Unlocking Season is another deeply satisfying and thought-provoking novel from one of Canada's finest crime writers.

This is the 19th volume of the “A Joanne Kilbourn Mystery” series. 

[feelingsmixed]

Is cultural appropriation in again?

I recently returned from Denmark’s (arguably Northern Europe’s) biggest cultural event, Roskilde Festival. In addition to a serious cold, I’ve also come back with questions about fashion. I never got this myself when I went to the festival as a young(er) person, but Roskilde is where you bring your hottest outfits and possibly experiment with your style (aged 15-20, I always just brought two pairs of shorts and a handful of ugly band t-shirts, as if I was a middle-aged rock dad). While under way for a couple of years, Roskilde showed that Y2K-fashion has really come back in style, not only amongst the techno crowd but with everyone. Everywhere I turned, I saw low rise jeans and bellybutton piercings. I can’t say that I am free from its influences myself - I have too much Adidas in my wardrobe for that. Anyways, while I won’t pretend to know anything about fashion, one thing struck me about this Y2K-resurgence: it is being accompanied by what would have been described as cultural appropriation ten years ago. When the Y2K-trend was on its way out in the 2010s, it was especially in the online feminist community criticized for cultural appropriation, as there was a tendency for white people to heavily incorporate elements from non-white cultures in their style. Many are the blog posts I have read about Gwen Stefani’s different phases of cultural appropriation in the 2000s. Now, some of these criticized trends are back. White people are wearing rhinestones in their faces approximating Hindu bhindis, flower crowns like those popular at Coachella 10 odd years ago which were then criticized by some as appropriating Mexican culture. One of the larger criticisms if I remember correctly was how much of the style originated from Black US-American culture, especially the style of R&B artists like Destiny’s Child.

I’m not going to try to determine what constitutes cultural appropriation and what doesn’t. For one, as a white woman, I don’t have much authority on the matter. I also think the discussion is way more complex than what it was made to be in feminist circles back in the day. However, what I find strange, and interesting, is how the discussion seems to have been almost completely forgotten. I haven’t come across much discussion about it in pieces on Y2K that I’ve read by chance, nor IRL. I just did a quick Google search and there are some articles and Reddit discussions on the trend and cultural appropriation, which mostly criticize today’s Y2K-followers for not acknowledging its roots in Black culture.

However, here and in other instances when the question is raised, it is quickly brushed aside. I read this article in the Danish newspaper Politiken about the resurgence of tribal tattoos which the article dubbed ‘neotribals’. The journalist mentions the critique of these tattoos when they were popular the first time around: that they originate with Indigenous groups in for example Samoa, where they experienced European colonizers forcing them to abandon the tattoo tradition while the same colonizers started getting them themselves. Confronted with this, an interviewed tattoo artist says that the resurgence of the style is something different than the original tribal tattoos, she keeps the motives abstract and that she wouldn’t tattoo something she didn’t understand. The question is left at that. I suspect that 10 years ago this would not have been accepted as an answer. Then, the artists and the tattoo owners would have to answer exactly how the tattoos are different and in what ways you can really just take a style from a culture and make it into something else which is then not appropriating.

I’m wondering whether this signals a kind of depoliticization of youth culture. After all, the original Y2K-style did come around at the end of history, pre-financial crisis. Have we moved past the politicization prompted by the 2007 financial crash? In a way, this seems counter-intuitive. There’s even more to feel politically about today: the invasion of Ukraine, the subsequent inflation and cost-of-living crisis, the mental health crisis, the climate crisis and so on. But perhaps the inumerous crises are too overwhelming to respond to politically? Perhaps it is also a sign of some backlash from the way the feminist community proliferated online in the 2010s which in spite of all the good things it carried with also tended to have endless, tedious discussions seemingly far removed from political organizing (again, the innumerable articles and blog posts on Gwen Stefani’s outfits). Maybe this can in some way be tied to the reactionary turn amongst the youth. Or maybe the trend needs to become even more in style before it will be criticized.

[guiltypleasurefandomface]

Because sometimes plot bunnies just happen

The updated WIP list, 2022 edition.

1) Joe stopped where he stood and considered the situation very carefully. “Yeah that about sums it up.”

2) “Do you know what an infected wisdom tooth can lead to? Blood poisoning, encephalitis, endocarditis, calcification of the molar leading to cancer years down the line. Not to mention the lack of eating and drinking to avoid the pain isn’t good!”

3)  Brian: Remember, this is about Deaky, not you, not us, not really. R: Fuck’s sake. I hate it when you’re sensible. Oh and now there’s a fucking van!

4) Roger rolls his eyes and pulls him in into the once-office-now-nurses-station

5) “And you call me a romantic.” Brian says, completely taken aback by his friend’s rant. “That’s the sappiest thing i’ve ever heard you say. Mr ‘Won’t sing happy at home cos i’m a fucking Rock Star’”.

6) “Hm, but unlike you darling, I age like a fine wine. You on the other hand are like bread, gone all mouldy around the edges and falling apart.”

7) “Well, it’s nice to see you too, Rog…” Brian said, smiling quite amicably considering the situation.

8) “Fine. But just remember this, if he gets a girlfriend and he wants to have sex all the time with her, I’ll be making him agree to a set time and day as well!”

“See, that’s what I like about you, Rog, dear, your sense of fairness.”

9) Roger should have known he was being lulled into a false sense of security. “I’m not moping,” he said, full in the knowledge his tone of voice betrayed him.

10) Roger: Who really spilt beer on my stripey jacket? Freddie: Me. OH fuck. Shit. Oh you arsehole

11) “That’s odd,” Brian said, and frowned at the sound, “That’s not one of my ringtones.”

12) “I think… that was a long time coming, don’t you?”

13)  “Look I’m sure you’re, er, great at what you do-” “I’ve had no complaints” Roger said rather smugly. He winked at him. The bastard.

14) Freddie held him at arm’s length and looked him right in the eyes. “You are one of my very dear friends, Deaky, and I will fuss over you if I think you need fussing over.”

15) Brian laughs awkwardly, “Er. No.  Not really. I mean not right now. Not exactly. no. No. I don’t fancy anyone male right now.” “I’m hearing a yes in all of that rambling.”

16)  “Roger, I’m probably going to regret this.” Brian said, already regretting it, “But can we get back to your original point, please? What are you on about?”

17) “Shame, I wanted to know what Chucky egg was.” Ruth’s face brightened up. “It’s mashed up boiled egg! It’s a scottish and northern term” she said smiling, “I used to make it all the time for this one here, when he wasn’t well.” She turned to Brian, “You’re probably fed up with it.”

18) For a while the only sound in the room was the sound of the pages of their respective books being turned.

19) Then Freddie did what he did best, he took up all the available space and made it feel like home. “Share the blanket, darling,” he whispered, “There’s a love.”

20)  Roger kept one arm around Brian as he guided him through the double doors of the building. “She was very frosty with me when I spoke to her before. She must have a soft spot for you.”

21) John looked at him carefully. “ … As in musical writing partner? The McCartney to your Lennon?”

22) B: Oh really, Roger, come on, this rivalry between you two is ridiculous. R: Well. He started it.

23) The older of the two looked at him in alarm “You come from the planet Vegetos?! Bertoli have mercy!”

“Er, no.” Brian said, trying to get passed the fact one of the names of their gods was a leading brand of margerine. “I only eat… that.” He pointed at the leafy greens on Roger’s plate. “Salad? Nothing with a heartbeat?”

24) F: and why do you sound sad about that? R: … I was after her for myself, wasn’t I?

25) “Oh fuckking hell, just stop drinking it Freddie.” Brian dragged a hand up and down his face and looked at Freddie, exhausted and upset. “What have I done to it?”

26) “On second thoughts,” John said, trying to cut oncoming argument. “Do we have monopoly?” “NO!” Brian exclaimed, sounding horrified at the question more than in answer to it. “Oh god no, not monopoly.”

27) “So many shades!” Brian exclaimed! He looked between the colour wheel and his own clothes “How do people learn them all, I wonder…” Brian murmurred.

28) Roger: … Brian, I’m going to go. There’s a FREDDIE IT’S ON FIRE. Shit Bye Bri. Brian: … Bye Roger.

29) “Oh! Where’s Jules and George?” Roger said, gesturing to the empty corner of the bed.

“Ah. Up there.” Brian replied, pointing to the bookshelf.

30)  Roger: What happened to the tribbles? Dr Aug: that’s my queue to let you sleep.

31) “ Ah ah! No! This is a proper date. Don’t talk about the cost!”

32) “Right. Relax my knees… Are your knees relaxed?” ”I don’t know what my knees are doing.”

33) “I was horrified for a moment. I thought she really had adopted a tiger.”

34) Roger looked up at him with brows furrowed. “That’s an oddly specific suggestion…”

35) J: Did you just…? B: Yep J: er. Why? B: No idea.

36) “Did you want me for something or is my name just funny today?”

37) “No. No. I mean. Its not that. It’s just… Yes, I'm… you know…” Brian waves his hand around in a vague gesture, from around the room to the bar they’re sat at, but fails come up with what exactly it is that he is.

“An auditor for the tetley company?” Ewan asks, laughing, though not unkindly.

38) "Did you tell the inferior one to fuck off again?"

39) R: Hendrix up there B: Oh. I’m a bit of a fan

40) R: Er, no thank you to the cup of tea and unfortunately you're right, I don't want my old job back.

Irene: I thought you wouldn't. So what brings you here?

[lumassen]

What if aph England was a Scouser?

This came from a conversation on a discord server about what accent people headcanon England to have as we have so many, and as a northerner I like to think he would rock a northern accent. Based off several headcanons that England and Norway are good friends, and that nations move around a lot to avoid being clocked by their citezens for the fact that they don't age, I bring you this random drabble:

-----

It was getting dark by the time Norway finally arrived in the port of Liverpool and stepped off the ship. It had been 5 years at least since he'd seen Arthur, and perhaps 15 or more since he'd last visited England, and since finding out that Arthur was now living in Liverpool he took the opportunity to visit him when he was there on a trip.

Stepping down from the gangway, Norway tightned his scarf a little tighter around himself, the biting cold winter air slipping through any opening in his coat that it could find. Pulling back his glove to check his wristwatch, he noticed they'd got in a little late even though they hadn't really been delayed when they set off from Bergen.

Turning back to the ship for a moment, Norway watched with a small smile as his crew who'd kindly let him come along with them began to unload the large Norwegian Spruce. Since 1942 he'd given a Christmas tree as a gift to the people of England as a token of gratitude for the support they had given him during the second world war, something he would never forget. It started off as a single, 60 or so year old Spruce that was cut down specially and gifted to be put up in Trafalgar Square every year, but in recent years Norway had started gifting a couple more to other cities around the UK, and this year he had one for Durham, Oxford and Liverpool cathedral.

When he was satisfied that his crew didn't need any help, Norway waved a quick goodbye to them before setting off across the docks. He walked slowly at first, admiring the Christmas lights that decorated lamp posts and trees until he spotted England sat on a bench at the end of the docks. Quickening his pace so to not keep him waiting much longer, Norway's smile broadened just a little more. He and England were old friends despite their past differences and conflicts, and Norway had been looking forward to this visit since he found out that England living here.

"Long time no see." He said as he stopped in front of England, who looked up away from his smartphone and put it in his pocket.

"Likewise," he said with a smile, standing up and grasping Norway's hand in a firm, friendly handshake before pulling him in for a hug.

"So, Liverpool eh? I thought you'd be more of a country house in the cotswolds kinda old man by now, so I'm a bit surprised to find you here." Norway teased as they started strolling away from the docks and toward the city centre.

It was the end of November, so despite it being nearly dark it was still only 4pm in the afternoon and the streets were still full of people. For the past few years Norway had been living in the depths of the countryside up in Narvik with more sheep around him than people, so it felt strange yet nice to be surounded by so many people again.

England laughed a little, "Yeah, I fancied living somewhere a little livelier. I was getting a bit fed up in a big drauhty house down south, I found that I always had a proper cob on so I knew I needed to move to somewhere with a bit of atmosphere. I know we shouldn't have favourite citzens, but I've always had a soft spot for the people of Liverpool." he said, and Norway was shocked at how much his accent had changed since the last time he'd seen him.

It happened to most nations who lived among citezens to end up speaking with their accent or dialect, so he wasn't necessarily shocked, just a little taken aback.

Whether it was the fact that his own English skills were a little rusty from living in a rural place where not many of his citezens around him spoke anything but Norwegian or the fact that England's accent had thickened he wasn't sure, but Norway was struggling to keep up with him.

"What abar you? Where you living?"

"Er, Narvik. Been there about 7 years. It's nice." Norway said, with not much else to add. Narvik was Narvik. He went fishing occasionally, but other than that he was either buried in paperwork or eating or sleeping these days.

"Fancy a bevvy while we have a natter? There's a bar close by that's proper sound, you'll love it, and no I won't get bladdered before you say anything." England said as they turned the corner, and Norway quite honestly didn't understand a word that he just said.

"A bevvy?" he repeated, and Arthur turned to look at him and raised a large eyebrow,

"Yeah, a drink. Do you not fancy it?"

Norway blinked a couple of times, trying to get his head around England's changed accent. Sure, he knew that dialects and accents were a common thing, and back in his country he had many unique ones himself, but the way that England was rolling his 'r's and talking from the back of his throat on some words was tough enough to understand without the added slang.

"Sorry, yes I'm happy to have a drink with you." Norway said, a smirk crossing his lips at the fact that England was so oblivious to his change in accent.

They talked about this and that while they walked to the bar, England asked after Denmark and Iceland and they discussed the upcoming football championship until they arrived to a wobbly looking old stone pub nestled among the more modern buildings of the city. One of the things that Norway loved about visiting England was hidden gems such as this, and in summer he loved touring old castles and historical sights with Arthur.

Norway stepped inside as England held the door open for him, relieved to be inside and out of the wind. The smell of beer hit him immediately and he could feel the carpet sticking to the bottom of his shoes.

He spotted an empty table and took a seat, England following him and sitting down opposite, taking his gloves off and stuffing them into the pocket of his leather jacket.

"God it's baltic out there, but I'm proper made up that you've come to visit though. Actually this probably isn't that bad for you is it, now you're living in Narvik." England laughed, rubbing his cold hands together before he stood up again, "Let me get you a bev, back in a tick." he said before pushing his way to the bar.

Norway watched England as he leant on the bar, laughing with the bartender and chatting away and sighed, still not fully understanding what the hell he'd just said. He was pleased though that England was happy and settled in Liverpool. He'd had it rough the past couple of years with the whole Brexit thing which had obviously made him move as a distraction if anything else and Norway was glad to be catching up with an old friend, but had he realised that he would struggle to understand England as much as he was then he might not have suggested staying for a whole week...

------

lol. For those people not from the UK and aren't familiar with a Scouse accent I tried to find a video. The best one I could find is still a bit crappy, but the girl at 0:12 is a prime example of how fast Scousers speak that not even I or the subtitles could keep up with her at first.

Click for the video

this fic is the closest I've ever got to writing a crack fic and this is purely self indulgent im sorry lol

[airmanisr]

Cumbrian Pairie by Andrew Harrison Via Flickr: 10 'Northern Rock' R&ER 2-6-2 Waiting between duties at Ravenglass Station, Northern Rock waits for her next turn of duty in the Cumbrian sunshine of August 2019. Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway.

[tiredbiostudent]

Hi! Could you maybe recommend some music, I keep listening to the same three songs and would love to find something new, doesn't have to be a specific genre. Also, you're blog is wonderful!

omg this is so sweet my heart is 🥺 rn but also, idk how much I can help because I also genuinely will listen to one song for an entire week straight and haven’t had a ton of time to find new music lately! but here’s some genre breakdowns of artists I love and some songs by them, or just individual tunes:

[edit: sorry this got insanely long!! I can maybe link spotify playlists if I ever get around to making some ‘:) but tl;dr my fave artists are frank ocean, sigrid, hozier, ben howard, cezinando, khalid, childish gambino, nas, lorde, the lumineers, rhcp, girl in red and travis scott]

1. guitar/rock indie-arcade fire: neighbourhood #3, the well and the lighthouse, we exist, afterlife, the suburbs, ready to start, SUBURBAN WAR!! (listen to the entire suburbs album if you want to feel rlly nostalgic about ur childhood)-ben howard (my favourite artist ever, I saw him live and it was phenomenal): rivers in your mouth, time is dancing, I forget where we were, only love, black flies, oats in the water, she treats me well, towing the line, follaton wood-rhcp (long time fave): under the bridge, by the way, californiacation, scar tissue, otherside, goodbye angels, dani California, snow (hey oh), tell me baby-city and colour (another old fave who I’ve also seen live and is amazing!! if you like hozier and the lumineers you’d like him, a bit of a less intense sound though): sleeping sickness, what makes a man, waiting…, constant knot, the golden state, killing time, wasted love, runaway, map of the world, blood, the grand optimist :’), northern wind, hello I’m in delaware-the scientist by coldplay.. if u haven’t been emo about this song since 2003 wyd-haven’t listened to her in forever but cosmic love by florence + the machine >>-girl in red (her music is great but her LYRICS r literally my soul): i wanna be your girlfriend, summer depression, i need to be alone, 4am, girls, say anything, bad idea, i’ll die anyway, we fell in love in october-harry styles: adore you, fine line, golden, sunflower vol. 6, sweet creature, lights up, to be so lonely, sign of the times, HIS COVER OF ULTRALIGHT BEAM-hozier (ANOTHER fave, fucking insane live too. sir ily): work song, in the woods somewhere, sedated, cherry wine, almost (sweet music) [song equivalent to a warm summer evening], movement !! holy f-, as it was, be, wasteland baby!-broken by lovelytheband-the lumineers (my guys!!!!): cleopatra, sleep on the floor, angela, long way from home, sick in the head, my eyes, white lie, donna, salt and the sea, slow it down, stubborn love-where’s my love by syml-mitski: washing machine heart, old friend, nobody, lonesome love-sam roberts band: bridge to nowhere, brother down, if you want it-saturn by sleeping at last-sufjan stevens: mystery of love, visions of Gideon (I don’t stan cmbyn but literally these two songs are the only thing I listened to from dec 2017 to feb 2018), the hidden river of my life, futile devices, Vesuvius-love will tear us apart cover by susanna and the magical orchestra-vance joy: mess is mine, Georgia, my kind of man, Saturday sun, we’re going home, lay it on me, take your time, I’m with you !!, like gold, crashing into you-remember when by wallows !!!

2. chill indie/pop-billie eilish: idontwannabeyouanymore, ilomilo, my strange addiction, bury a friend-cezinando (also my fave artist, and noen ganger is probs my fave album of all time): ingenting blir det samme men samme for meg, selv du, haper du har plass (if u can make it thru this song w/o crying on public transportation you are much stronger than I), tommolen pa vekta, er dette alt, usynlig-sigrid (the LOML and my other fave artist- seeing her live was the best day of my life no cap): dynamite, plot twist, fake friends, strangers,  don’t feel like crying, raw, focus, I don’t want to know, her cover of sex by the 1975 changed my life fr, mine right now, BASIC !!!!!, in vain, never mine [this is highkey bc I’m a bonafide sigrid stan but I cannot recommend her ENOUGH she has one of the most incredible voices ever, is an insanely talented songwriter, and her music is so hype and beautiful and yeah :’)]-khalid (I love his voice sm, also the ceo of vibes): bad luck, cold blooded, 8teen, my bad, better, hundred, Saturday nights, suncity-run by elsa and emilie-lorde (my bby): bravado, buzzcut season, the love club, the louvre, supercut, 400 lux, ribs, white teeth teens, a world alone-fy faen by hkeem & temur (have been listening to this song for 3 yrs straight no cap)-btstu by jai paul-8896 by lapsley-joji: slow dancing in the dark, will he-moon by kid francesoli-aloha by mome (another all time fave)-karpe diem: hvite menn som pusher 50, lett a vaere rebell i kjellerleiligheten din, gunerius, spis din syvende sans-astrid s: 2AM matoma remix (one of my fave songs ever tbh), hurts so good !!!, such a boy-myth by beachhouse -mgmt: kids, electric feel-nostalgi 3millioner by tomine harket & unge Ferrari -lykke li: sex money feelings die (did I listen to this song for 5 months straight last year? hm), I follow rivers-one direction (ofc): story of my life, 18, night changes, drag me down, literally all of Take Me Home which is unequivocally their best album I will take no criticism on that-berlin by ry x-dancing with a stranger by sam smith and normani-taylor swift (not rlly a fan but wowww some of her songs): call it what you want !!!!, false god, begin again, all you had to do was stay, clean-kamikaze by Susanne sundfor-tame impala: let it happen (the og and the soulwax remix), the less I know the better, gossip-head over heels by tears for fears-somebody else by the 1975 (apparently I was the only one who only discovered this song in 2019 but it’s like all I listened to from October-December)

3. rap & rnb-brockhampton: rental !!!, face, bleach, sweet-childish gambino: ii. zealots of stockholm, heartbeat, les, the “hardbone with a hard r” remix of bonfire and redbone drooooool-drake (yikes dude but ngl. chill bops): feel no ways, u with me?, hold on we’re going home, passionfruit, you and the 6-vince staples: bagbak, lift me up, norf norf-frank ocean (LOML frank I’d die for you. also my fave artist *proceeds to list his entire discography*): SEIGFRIED!!!!, songs 4 women, nights, chanel, ivy, thinkin bout you, sweet life, pyramids, lost, bad religion, pink matter, forrest gump, in my room, swim good, dust, american wedding, provider-jorja smith: blue lights, february 3rd, on your own-ransom by lil tecca-nas (fave to end all faves): take it in blood, represent, the message, halftime, affirmative action, street dreams, one love, hate me now, cherry wine, new world-mobb deep: hell on earth, survival of the fittest, party over, shook ones pt ii-travis scott: (astroworld is the only thing I listened to summer-fall 2018 no cap) astrothunder, coffee bean, Yosemite, butterfly effect, houstonfornication, skeletons, stop trying to be god, stargazing, highest in the room-kanye (don’t roast me for this): can’t tell me nothing, ultralight beam, fade, hold my liquor-drip too hard by lil baby-(all a product of tiktok) bop, toes, suge, panini remix by da baby-migos (lmao): notice me, slippery, pure water-walk man by tmg sfdjhfkdjfsdfs-go loko by YG-the weeknd: reminder, as you are, hurt you, privilege, tell your friends, starboy, sidewalks, high for this

(I also love old school rock music but haven’t listened to it much since highschool- my fave bands are led zeppelin, CCR, boston, fleetwood mac, pink floyd, blue oyster cult, styx, the who)

[deaddpoets-archive]

tagged by @witxhcas to spell out my url using songs, tysm pandora

h ere comes the sun - the beatles

e verybody's trying to be my baby - the beatles

r eal estate - adam melchor

e enore - the turtles

c rocodile rock - elton john

o nly a northern song - the beatles

m onster - dodie

e nglish tea - paul mccartney

s end me a peach - the blasting company

t he way i feel inside - the zombies

h appy together - the turtles

c rush - tessa violet

s eason of the witch - donovan

u nspoken words - mxmtoon

n ew york mining disaster 1941 - bee gees

tagging: @flitswick , @flitwickfilius , @alinagenya , @lucieherodale , @wespers, @rxyaaa-a , @moralespiderman

[trainqueen379]

THE RAVENGLASS AND ESKDALE GANG

River Irt

River Esk

River Mite

Northern Rock

Whillan Beck

[wildwechselmagazin]

4 Tage feiern in Eschwege: Der Kultur-Biergarten startet auch 2021!

Eine traumhafte Atmosphäre und reichlich Musik, das ist der Eschweger Kultur Biergarten. | (c) Mac Schneider (Eschwege) Gemütliches Zusammensitzen, ein paar kühle Getränke, gute Musik und dabei auch noch Kultur? Beim Eschweger Kultur Biergarten 2021 soll all das wieder möglich sein. Täglich ein Live Act plus DJs aus allen Genres bringt Veranstalter Mac Schneider dieses Jahr in den Schlosspark in Eschwege. Vom 15.-18. Juli 2021 findet die zweite Auflage des Kultur-Biergartens im nordhessischen Eschwege statt. Laut dem Event-Planer Schneider sollen weitere Kulturtage bis Oktober 2021 abgehalten werden. Somit soll für viel gute Stimmung im Sommer und frühen Herbst gesorgt sein. Eine Kulturstätte für die ganze Familie: So erhältst Du deine Reservierung! Der Eschweger Kultur-Biergarten lädt die unterschiedlichsten Gäste zu sich ein, sodass für Groß & Klein Unterhaltung geboten werden kann. Dennoch setzt Martin Schneider auf eine Zusammenarbeit von Personal und Kundschaft. Vom 15.-18. Juli 2021 findet die zweite Auflage des Kultur-Biergarten im nordhessischen Eschwege statt. Ab dem 28. Juni 2021 können Interessierte ihre Reservierungskarten für 10 Euro in der Eschweger Zille oder per E-Mail erwerben. Über die aktuellen Hygienebedingungen werdet ihr rechtzeitig auf der Facebookseite des Eschweger Kultur Biergartens informiert. Es stehen dieses Jahr 350 Sitzplätze pro Tag zur Verfügung. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anHByEeL9MA In Eschwege im Werratal findet vom 15.-18.Juli 2021 der zweite Eschweger Kultur Biergarten statt. | (c) Youtube DJ Bernd Kuchinke eröffnet den Eschweger Kultur Biergarten! Den Auftakt der Kulturtage macht am 15. Juli 2021 um 16 Uhr der DJ Bernd Kuchinke. Der Musiker veröffentlicht regelmäßig neue Remixes bekannter Songs und hat ebenfalls mit anderen Künstler:innen zusammengearbeitet. Im Eschweger Kultur Biergarten will Kuchinke einen Mix aus House, New Wave, 80er, Indie-Pop, Ambient, Ska und Northern Soul spielen.

DJ-Bernd-Kuchinke-c-Bianca-Luna-Photographie

Donnerstag 15. Juli 2021 DJ Bernd Kuchinke • Kultur-Biergarten 16:00 Uhr Eschwege, Schlosspark Eschwege Typ: Open-Air » Pop Nach 3 Stunden elektronischen Klängen übernimmt ab 19 Uhr N-GIN. Sänger Gino war schon im letzten Jahr mit Absolut Unplugged zu Gast und kommt dieses Jahr mit kompletter Band und vielen aktuellen Coversongs und alten Soul-Klassikern.

Donnerstag 15. Juli 2021 N-GIN • Kultur-Biergarten 15:00 Uhr Eschwege, Schlosspark Eschwege Typ: Open-Air » Pop, Soul Am 16. Juli 2021 geht die Party gleich weiter. Der Eschweger DJ Ben E. begeistert seine Fans seit 2003 mit Mixtapes aus Hip Hop, R ‘n’ B und weiteren Beats. Tanzwillige sollten den Schlosspark deshalb um 16 Uhr aufsuchen.

Freitag 16. Juli 2021 DJ Ben E. • Kultur-Biergarten 16:00 Uhr Eschwege, Schlosspark Eschwege Typ: Open-Air » Pop,  Soul,  HipHop,  Rock Um 19 Uhr läutet die nordhessische Band Christian Bergmann & Die Nordhessen Drei das Ende der ersten zwei Kulturtage ein. Mit Covern von Johnny Cash wollen die Musiker das Publikum überzeugen.

Ein Stückchen internationaler Songs mitten in Nordhessen: Christian Bergmann & Die Nordhessen Drei legen Wert auf echte instrumentale Sounds. | (c) Osthessen News

Freitag 16. Juli 2021 Christian Bergmann & Die Nordhessen Drei • Kultur-Biergarten 19:00 Uhr Eschwege, Schlosspark Eschwege Typ: Open-Air » Country,  Cover,  Johnny Cash Der dritte Tag bietet gleich drei Highlights Der 17. Juli 2021 hat gleich drei Acts zu bieten: Onkel + Mac sind seit vielen Jahren Garant für feinstes, unterhaltsames Entertainment und zum Eschweger Kultur Biergarten holen sie sich den wunderbaren Mr. Brown mit ins Boot. Es wird funky, groovy und tanzbar.

Samstag 17. Juli 2021 Onkel + Mac • Kultur-Biergarten 16:00 Uhr Eschwege, Schlosspark Eschwege Typ: Open-Air » Soul,  Funk,  Groove Nach 3 Stunden Onkel + Mac übernimmt die Band Schippe Dreck das Ruder. Die Musiker:innen stammen allesamt aus Eschwege und widmen ihr Herzblut voll und ganz der Rockmusik. Die langen Haare dürfen geschwungen werden.

Samstag 17. Juli 2021 Schippe Dreck • Kultur-Biergarten 18:00 Uhr Eschwege, Schlosspark Eschwege Typ: Open-Air » Rock,  Rock`n Roll

Erst Onkel+Mac, dann Mr. Brown – es wird funky, groovy und tanzbar. Um 20 Uhr übernimmt Kult-DJ Mr. Brown. Seit 1967 steht der Künstler hinter seinem Mischpult und spielt Klassiker, Hits, aber auch Raritäten aus Soul, Funk, R&B, Disco, House, Electro, Blues, Hip Hop und vielem mehr. In den 80er Jahren gelangte er zu bundesweiter Bekanntheit und ist seitdem nicht mehr aus der deutschen DJ-Landschaft wegzudenken. | » Hier geht's zur Ww-Biographie von Mr. Brown!

Seit den 80er Jahren unterwegs: Der Funk-DJ Mr. Brown legt immer noch regelmäßig auf und will auch in Eschwege abräumen. | (c) wildwechsel.de

Samstag 17. Juli 2021 Mr. Brown • Kultur-Biergarten 20:00 Uhr Eschwege, Schlosspark Eschwege Typ: Open-Air » Soul,  Funk,  R&B,  Disco,  House,  Electro,  Blues,  Hip Hop Am letzten Tag des Kultur-Biergartens runden zwei Unterhaltungspunkte den Juli in Eschwege ab. Das DJ-Duo AndEffect stimmt die Eschweger ab 14 Uhr ein. Ihre Musik teilen sie nicht nur durch Auftritte oder Musikportale, sondern seit kurzer Zeit auch auf dem Streaming-Anbieter Twitch. So soll das Konzert-Feeling auch zuhause entstehen können.

Sonntag 18. Juli 2021 AndEffect • Kultur-Biergarten 14:00 Uhr Eschwege, Schlosspark Eschwege Typ: Open-Air » Elektro Um 16 Uhr tritt dann Soundakrobat Der Ente auf. Er ist nicht nur Einheizer der großartigen J.B.O., sondern mit seinem Soloprogramm auch schon mehrfach bundesweit ausgezeichnet.

Sonntag 18. Juli 2021 Der Ente • Kultur-Biergarten 16:00 Uhr Eschwege, Schlosspark Eschwege Typ: Open-Air » Klangakrobatik,  Pop Wichtige Links aus dem Artikel - Website des Eschweger Kultur-Biergartens - Ww-Artikel über Mr. Brown - Ww-Beitrag über Christian Bergmann & Die Nordhessen Drei Lust auf noch mehr Infos aus Nordhessen? Lesen Sie den ganzen Artikel

[guiltypleasurefandomface]

WIP One Lines

Because sometimes plot bunnies just... happen.

1) Joe stopped where he stood and considered the situation very carefully. “Yeah that about sums it up.”

2) “Do you know what an infected wisdom tooth can lead to? Blood poisoning, encephalitis, endocarditis, calcification of the molar leading to cancer years down the line. Not to mention the lack of eating and drinking to avoid the pain isn’t good!”

3)  Brian: Remember, this is about Deaky, not you, not us, not really. R: Fuck’s sake. I hate it when you’re sensible. Oh and now there’s a fucking van!

4) Roger rolls his eyes and pulls him in into the once-office-now-nurses-station

5) “And you call me a romantic.” Brian says, completely taken aback by his friend’s rant. “That’s the sappiest thing i’ve ever heard you say. Mr ‘Won’t sing happy at home cos i’m a fucking Rock Star’”.

6) “Hm, but unlike you darling, I age like a fine wine. You on the other hand are like bread, gone all mouldy around the edges and falling apart.”

7) “Well, it’s nice to see you too, Rog…” Brian said, smiling quite amicably considering the situation.

8) Freddie patted Roger’s back and got him to lift his head off the pillow. 

9) “Fine. But just remember this, if he gets a girlfriend and he wants to have sex all the time with her, I’ll be making him agree to a set time and day as well!”

“See, that’s what I like about you, Rog, dear, your sense of fairness.”

10) Roger should have known he was being lulled into a false sense of security. "I'm not moping," he said, full in the knowledge his tone of voice betrayed him.

11) Roger: Who really spilt beer on my stripey jacket? Freddie: Me. OH fuck. Shit. Oh you arsehole

12) “That’s odd,” Brian said, and frowned at the sound, “That’s not one of my ringtones.”

13) “I think… that was a long time coming, don't you?”

14) Roger: Ow what was that for? Freddie: You never make me egg and chips

15)  “Look I’m sure you’re, er, great at what you do-” “I’ve had no complaints” Roger said rather smugly. He winked at him. The bastard.

16) Freddie held him at arm’s length and looked him right in the eyes. “You are one of my very dear friends, Deaky, and I will fuss over you if I think you need fussing over.” 

17) Brian laughs awkwardly, “Er. No.  Not really. I mean not right now. Not exactly. no. No. I don’t fancy anyone male right now.” “I’m hearing a yes in all of that rambling.”

18)  “Roger, I’m probably going to regret this.” Brian said, already regretting it, “But can we get back to your original point, please? What are you on about?”

19) “Shame, I wanted to know what Chucky egg was.” Ruth’s face brightened up. “It’s mashed up boiled egg! It’s a scottish and northern term” she said smiling, “I used to make it all the time for this one here, when he wasn’t well.” She turned to Brian, “You’re probably fed up with it.”

20) With his glasses off only the colour looked familiar, so he put his glasses back on and suddenly it was clear. The  discoloured envelope that held the letter.

21) For a while the only sound in the room was the sound of the pages of their respective books being turned. 

22) Then Freddie did what he did best, he took up all the available space and made it feel like home. “Share the blanket, darling,” he whispered, “There's a love.”

23)  Roger kept one arm around Brian as he guided him through the double doors of the building. “She was very frosty with me when I spoke to her before. She must have a soft spot for you.”

24) John looked at him carefully. “ … As in musical writing partner? The McCartney to your Lennon?”

25) B: Oh really, Roger, come on, this rivalry between you two is ridiculous. R: Well. He started it.

26) The older of the two looked at him in alarm “You come from the planet Vegetos?! Bertoli have mercy!”

“Er, no.” Brian said, trying to get passed the fact one of the names of their gods was a leading brand of margerine. “I only eat... that.” He pointed at the leafy greens on Roger’s plate. “Salad? Nothing with a heartbeat?”

27) F: and why do you sound sad about that? R: … I was after her for myself, wasn’t I?

28) “Oh fuckking hell, just stop drinking it Freddie.” Brian dragged a hand up and down his face and looked at Freddie, exhausted and upset. “What have I done to it?”

29) “On second thoughts,” John said, trying to cut oncoming argument. “Do we have monopoly?” “NO!” Brian exclaimed, sounding horrified at the question more than in answer to it. “Oh god no, not monopoly.”

30) “So many shades!” Brian exclaimed! He looked between the colour wheel and his own clothes “How do people learn them all, I wonder…” Brian murmurred. 

31) Roger: … Brian, I’m going to go. There’s a FREDDIE IT’S ON FIRE. Shit Bye Bri. Brian: … Bye Roger.

32) “Oh! Where’s Jules and George?” Roger said, gesturing to the empty corner of the bed.

“Ah. Up there.” Brian replied, pointing to the bookshelf.

33)  Roger: What happened to the tribbles? Dr Aug: that's my queue to let you sleep.

34) “ Ah ah! No! This is a proper date. Don’t talk about the cost!”

35) “Right. Relax my knees… Are your knees relaxed?” ”I don’t know what my knees are doing.”

36) “I was horrified for a moment. I thought she really had adopted a tiger.”

37) Roger looked up at him with brows furrowed. “That’s an oddly specific suggestion…”

38) “We shop in the same place!”

39) MG: Look do you want a pamphlet or not? F: No we fucking don’t. We’re here celebrate people, not shit all over them.

40) J: Did you just…? B: Yep J: er. Why? B: No idea.

41) He brings his hand up to his mouth, slowly, horrified, at what faces him.

42) “Did you want me for something or is my name just funny today?”

43) “No. No. I mean. Its not that. It’s just… Yes, I'm… you know…” Brian waves his hand around in a vague gesture, from around the room to the bar they’re sat at, but fails come up with what exactly it is that he is.

“An auditor for the tetley company?” Ewan asks, laughing, though not unkindly.

[dustedmagazine]

Listed: Bobby Lee

Photo by Laura Merrill

Bobby Lee, from Sheffield, England, invites the cosmos in with his blues-touched guitar meditations.  Jennifer Kelly reviewed his Origin Myths in a recent Dust, noting that, Bobby Lee would likely find a kindred spirit in Tarotplane’s PJ Dorsey or in William Tyler in a transcendental mood. Like them, his blues drift towards revelation but very, very slowly.” Tobias Carroll will be reviewing Lee’s upcoming Shakedown in Slabtown for Dusted soon, but until then, dig into the man’s musical selections.

Deep Yacht Dives

After a long, cold, lonely winter, we’re finally getting a few warm days here in Northern England, which always has me reaching for a Margarita and my Larsen/Feiten Band LPs. As a fully paid up resident of the bargain bins, I’ve amassed my fair share of lower league soft rock, West Coast soul and AOR records which would generally be termed “Yacht Rock.” I have little interest in replicating the genre’s technical perfectionism or high end studio clarity in my own music, but can’t get enough of it when hanging with friends (remember that?) or driving. Slot these in between “What A Fool Believes” and “Ride Like The Wind” at your next family party and really impress your recently divorced uncle.

Terence Boylan — “Don’t Hang Up Those Dancing Shoes” (Asylum, 1977)

An early Yacht gem with a strong Jackson Browne vocal feel; it’s on the watershed of mellow Laurel Canyon SSW transitioning into sophisticated adult contemporary, as the 1980s come into view. It’s like watching a fish crawl onto land, grow legs and pull on a Lacoste tennis shirt. Describing a YR song as “breezy” is pretty tired, but I think it’s totally apt here.

The album is a real who’s who of early Yacht with members of Steely Dan, Toto (around the time of their formation), Pages as well as some West Coast soft rock cognoscenti like The Eagles and members of The Section. Having cut a solo record with Becker and Fagan way back in 1968, Boona as he was known, set the template for New Yorkers heading west to find their smooth.

Larry Lee — “Don’t Talk” (CBS, 1982)

Yacht Rock offered a new lease of life to many a past-their-prime boomer favorite, and this solo release from The Ozark Mountain Daredevils’ Larry Lee is a late era, high water mark of the genre. Gone are the dusty, hippie cowboys leanings of his former band; this is crisp early 1980s pop-rock which gestures towards new wave and wouldn’t sound out of place on the Fast Times At Ridgemont High soundtrack. Some major session dudes are present here, with David Hungate, Bill Champlin, David Sanborn and Lenny Castro in the starting eleven.

Peeking out coquettishly from under his baker boy hat on the cover, looking the spit of John McVie, Larry Lee was unlikely to ever hit the big time in the MTV era but he’s always got a place on my bedroom wall.

Diana Ross — “Let’s Go Up” (RCA, 1983)

As the appeal of disco began to wane, the genre’s stars began to look elsewhere for chart success. Many landed on a slick, post-Thriller sound, keeping West Coast session players in used Lamborghinis for most of the mid 1980s. Diana Ross’ 1983 lunge for relevance, Ross, was commercially unsuccessful but did garner a few killer deep cuts, including “Let’s Go Up” and the not very Yachty but excellent Grace Jones-ish “Pieces of Ice.” The whole album has a hi-tech cocaine-sheen which foreshadows the following year’s Miami Vice glossy yuppie-rock sound and pulls no punches with its line-up of late-Yacht studio pros. Check out Jeff Porcaro’s signature shuffle beat on “Let’s Go Up.”

The Parker Brothers — “Make Believe” (Crown Vetch Enterprises, 1981,1985)

Private Press blue eyed soul with one of the best wannabe Michael McDonald backing vocals in the chorus. The Parker Brothers were straight outta Pittsburgh, proving that the Doobie bounce could tolerate fresh water too. Recorded in 1981 but unreleased until 1985, this album sank without a trace until being reissued in 2016 by Favourite Recordings.

Thunder — “Santiago Midnight Moonlight” (Atco, 1980)

Released by Kenny Rogers a year earlier, Thunder’s original version dials up the spurned fool vocals and Christopher Cross-style chorus-drenched 12 string guitar. Whilst the verses err on the side of soft-southern rock, the electric piano, jazzy chords and tropical summer nights lyrical content keep it afloat.

Valerie Carter — “Crazy” (CBS, 1978)

As a back-up singer, Carter can be heard on countless Yacht classics, as well as albums by James Taylor, Jackson Browne and Little Feat amongst others. She was briefly persuaded to step into the limelight for a pair of solo albums released in 1977 and 1978 respectively. In a similar vein to Terence Boylan, Carter straddles the line between sensitive SSW and uptown R&B, with a hint of disco in the mix on Crazy.

Larry Carlton — “Wavin’ and Smilin’” (Blue Thumb Records, 1973)

Whilst the production is pure 1973, it’s easy to imagine “Wavin’ and Smilin’” on Ned Doheny’s Hard Candy or Prone LPs. With its mix of soft rock and jazzy R&B, it’s laying the groundwork for much of what was to become Yacht half a decade later. Predating Carlton’s much lauded work with Steely Dan by a number of years, this is essential proto-Yacht.

Chris Christian — “What Can There Be” (The Boardwalk Entertainment Co, 1981)

Perhaps the Yacht-iest thing I’ve ever heard. With a “What A Fool Believes”-style intro, a vocal somewhere between Christopher Cross, Bobby Kimball and Kenny Loggins, and a Toto-esque prog-pop breakdown, it could easily fall into pure pastiche. Instead it rides like the wind into Yacht perfection, with a stellar cast of A-list session cats to boot. If CC hadn’t been known primarily as a CCM-er, this could have been a smash.

Al Johnson — “I’ve Got My Second Wind” (Columbia, 1980)

With a not so subtle nod to Bobby Caldwell’s “What You Won't Do for Love,” Al Johnson’s multi-orgasmic “I’ve Got My Second Wind” is another musical missing link, joining the dots between Yacht Rock, 1970s soul and the emerging Quiet Storm sound. Johnson’s vocal is classic R&B but there’s a distinct Aja feel to the arrangement and Lee Ritenour’s guitar solo places this firmly in the Marina.

Bill House — “You’re No Better Than A Common Thief” (RCA, 1974)

No prizes for guessing that Bill House was a fan of the first two Steely Dan records. “Common Thief” feels more like that a direct ancestor of first wave Yacht Rock than anything off Can’t Buy A Thrill or Ecstasy though. Once again, the early 1970s production dates it, but it deserves to be filed next to Ace’s “How Long” as one of the core foundational texts of Yacht.

[recentanimenews]

Anime Conventions You Can Attend Online in 2020

Photo by Kevin Matyi

With SARS-CoV-2 continuing to shut down events and businesses, and the potential of a second wave coming later in the year, anime conventions have needed to adapt and consider the safety of bringing large groups of people close together.

As a result, many conventions have shut down for the year, promising to return next time, some have been postponed to see if the COVID-19 situation changes, and others have moved to virtual conventions to adapt to the current environment. For example, our own Crunchyroll Expo is now a virtual convention scheduled for September 4-6.

  With all of the confusion and rapid changes though, it’s difficult to know what conventions are still going to happen at all in 2020. To help out, here’s a list of every anime convention still happening this year, including when it’s occurring and a link to its website for more information. Check back for updates as situations change.

Photo by Kevin Matyi

Without further adieu, here are the remaining conventions still scheduled to happen in some form during 2020:

    Anime Expo Lite

“Anime Expo is the largest anime con around, with over 100,000 fans in attendance. Grab your friends, craft your cosplay, and get ready to experience anime like never before.” When/Where: July 3-4; Virtual Website

  Aniplex Fest Online

“The festival will feature a diverse array of online content including talk shows with the staff and cast from popular anime, special appearances and past live shows from music artists, and behind-the-scenes stories from the anime industry!” When/Where: July 4-5; Virtual Website

OokiiSoraCon

“OokiiSoraCon was formed in 2017 with the mission to develop an ever growing gaming, anime, entertainment and culture driven convention that is affordable and accessible to Montana and the Northwest.” When/Where: July 11; Virtual mini-convention Website

  Okashicon

“Okashicon At Home will be a community-driven, virtual two-day event on July 18-19, 2020. Leading up to July 18th, however, we’ll be hosting a number of contests and providing quality content to bring you together with the community you know and love.” When/Where: July 18-19; Virtual Website

KuroNeko Con 

“Get ready for the premier anime convention in Spokane, Washington! Three exciting days of Japanese culture and pop culture at the Spokane Convention Center!” When/Where: July 19; Virtual Website

  AnimeIowa

“AnimeIowa is the largest anime convention in Iowa and still growing, hosting well over 3000 attendees each year.” When/Where: July 31-Aug. 1; Virtual Website

  PopCult Anime Con

“We want to make PCAC feel like a summer vacation compared to more crowded and heavily scheduled cons. A place with all the same great programming, such as the Masquerade, AMV contest, game shows and exhibitors’ room; as well as less common and more relaxing activities like evening dances, blanket fort building workshops, intimate guest opportunities or taking a dip in one of the Sheraton Framingham’s two beautiful pools!” When/Where: Aug. 15-16; Virtual Website

  Otakuthon

“Otakuthon est le plus grand festival bilingue au Canada célébrant la culture pop japonaise! | Otakuthon is Canada's largest bilingual festival celebrating Japanese pop culture!” When/Where: August; Virtual Website

  Crunchyroll Expo

"We are excited to announce Virtual Crunchyroll Expo, a digital event that celebrates the best and brightest in anime. Join us September 4 - 6 as we come together with our passionate community for amazing guest panels, interactive events, special announcements and more." When/Where: Sept. 4-6; Virtual Website

  Photo by Kevin Matyi

  A few conventions are still going the conventional, in-person route (for now). Think carefully about the risks of attending and please wear a mask if you do.

  Ani-Me Con

“Ani-me Con is the largest anime convention in the central valley!” When/Where: July 11-12; Fresno, CA Website

Delta H Con

“Delta H Con is the budding flower of hobby Gaming enthusiasts and Anime aficionados in the southern United States.” When/Where: July 17-19; Houston, TX Website

  Feria Mundo Anime

“Feria Mundo Anime, the convention of anime, comics, video games and entertainment in the Dominican Republic and one of the largest in Latin America.” When/Where: July 25-26; Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Website

  Anime-zing!

“This Iowa anime convention includes dozens of anime screenings, a plethora of discussions, autograph signings, a dealers hall, and group meetups for fandoms including several anime, BJDs, Homestuck, Lolita fashion, MLP, science-fiction, and video games. We're not just about anime - we are everything Otaku.” When/Where: July 31-Aug. 1; Davenport, IA Website

Anime Sekai

“Anime Sekai is a 3-day convention that celebrates Japanese culture, geek culture, anime & manga, cosplay, tabletop & video gaming, comics, TV shows, movies, and much, much more!” When/Where: July 31-Aug. 2; Abilene, TX Website

Anime: Roseville

“Roseville’s anime convention.” When/Where: Aug.2; Roseville, CA Website

Anime Houston

“Join your fellow anime fans in talking about your favorite anime and cosplays. Come together and learn about anime, video games, and more.” When/Where: Aug. 7-9; Houston, TX Website

Kawaii Kon

“Kawaii Kon is a 3-day convention that celebrates Japanese anime (cartoons), manga (comics), and all facets of Japanese culture.” When/Where: Aug. 7-9; Honolulu, HI Website

SaikouCon

“SaikouCon, which means ‘best convention’, is the annual anime convention of Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains with several side events in the Lehigh Valley, boasting a dedicated staff of longtime Japanese anime and manga fans.” When/Where: Aug. 7-9; White Haven, PA Website

Kin-Yoobi Con

“It's Kin-Yoobi Con's thirteenth year hosting a cosplay gathering & contest, video gaming & tournaments, panel discussions & workshops, dealers hall & artists alley, live music performances, and free food!” When/Where: Aug. 9; Union City, CA Website

Star Con Leon

“Donde la estrella eres tu!” When/Where: Aug. 14-16; Gto, MX Website

Ani-Medford

“SOUTHERN OREGON's ONLY anime convention.” When/Where: Aug. 15; Medford, OR Website

  Superstar Anime

“SUPERSTAR ANIME is a new annual 2-day convention held in Virginia Beach, VA or fans of Japanese Animation, Entertainment, and Culture.” When/Where: Aug. 15-16; Virginia Beach, VA Website

Anime Matsuri

“Anime Matsuri is the spectacular annual anime and Japanese pop culture convention hosted in Houston’s George R. Brown Convention Center. Join attendees from over 30 different countries in a celebration of anime, music, art and cosplay, with hundreds of hours of programing and exciting Guests, Celebrities and Industry Experts.” When/Where: Aug. 20-23; Houston, TX Website

Liberty City Anime Con

“The best three-day anime convention in New York City.” When/Where: Aug. 21-23; New York City, NY Website

Tiger Con

“Welcome to Tiger Con III. The third year of Valdosta’s anime, gaming, cosplay and comic convention.” When/Where: Aug. 22-23; Valdosta, GA Website

Anime Magic

“We're a convention by fans, for fans with a focus on FUN. This isn't your typical cookie-cutter convention! We have all the normal fanfare you've come to expect from other conventions, while pushing the boundaries even further.” When/Wherel: Aug. 28-30; Schaumburg, IL Website

MizuCon

“MizuCon is an annual convention that celebrates Anime and Japanese culture.” When/Where: August (and ongoing livestream events); Miami, FL Website

Colossalcon

“Colossalcon is a Japanese animation convention held in Northern Ohio during the beginning of June each year, and prides itself with being the region’s kick-off to the start of summer vacation.” When/Where: Sept. 2-6; Sandusky, OH Website

Meta Con Minneapolis

“MetaCon is a massive entertainment expo filled with exhibitors, guest stars, interactive events, costuming, exhibitors, artists, entertainers, and beyond. We bring together thousands of geeks for a three-day celebration of geek culture and nerd life.” When/Where: Sept. 4-6; Minneapolis, MN Website

Nan Desu Kan

“For us, the love of anime and Japanese culture isn’t just a marketing tool or a nifty side feature on our schedule; It’s our purpose for existing and a mandate of our Nonprofit Charter. We bring people together to further the knowledge of Japanese Art, animation and culture, and welcome people from all over the region under our roof.” When/Where: Sept. 4-6; Aurora, CO Website

SacAnime

“SacAnime is the show where ‘Fans Come to Play’. Our philosophy has always been to provide fun, safe, family friendly environment, with top shelf entertainment at a reasonable price.” When/Where: Sept. 4-6; Sacramento, CA Website

San Japan

“San Japan is the Largest Anime & Gaming Convention in the South Texas Region.” When/Where: Sept. 4-6; San Antonio, TX Website

Saboten Con

“Saboten Con is the largest anime convention in Arizona with attendance reaching 13,298 (unique) / 37,983 (turnstile) for the 2018 event.” When/Where: Sept. 4-7; Phoenix, AZ Website

Animex

“ES EL EVENTO DE CÓMICS, ANIME Y ENTRETENIMIENTO MÁS ANTIGUO DEL NORTE DEL PAÍS. BIENVENIDO A #ANIMEX” When/Where: Sept. 5-6; Monterrey, MX Website

RTX Austin

“RTX is the world’s greatest celebration of gaming, animation, comedy, and internet culture.” When/Where: Sept. 5-7; Austin, TX Website

CampAnime 

“A summer-camp and anime convention hybrid that is perfect for all ages, families, geeks, & otakus of every kind. With activities like boating, archery, and rock-climbing, & panels for every fandom and interest, there's something for everyone at CampAnime.” When/Where: Sept. 11-13; Woodstock Valley, CT Website

Star Con Lagos de Moreno

“Donde la estrella eres tu.” When/Where: Sept. 12-13; Jal, MX Website

Anime USA

“At its heart, Anime USA seeks to discuss and promote anime; other associated arts such as storytelling, costuming, and voice acting; and Japanese culture at large.” When/Where: Sept. 18-20; Washington, D.C. Website

Colossalcon East

“We offer the most fun you will ever have at an anime, gaming, and Japanese culture convention.” When/Where: Sept. 18-20; Pocono Mountains, PA Website

Crystal Millenium Convention

“The Crystal Millennium Convention, also known as Crystal Con, is an anime themed event held in Vancouver, Canada dedicated to the magical girl genre, specifically the groundbreaking 1992 Japanese animated series Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon.” When/Where: Sept. 18-20; British Columbia, CA Website

Ramencon

“Ramencon was built by anime fans for anime fans. We get a lot of our ideas from the fans. We want you to feel that this is your convention.” When/Where: Sept. 25-27; South Bend, IN Website

Senshi Con

“Senshi Con is an annual convention that caters to enthusiasts of Asian culture, animation, graphic novels, and gaming held in Anchorage, AK.” When/Where: Sept. 25-27; Anchorage, AK Website

KimiKon

“We aim to service and celebrate our local talents as well as showcasing international ones, by creating an outlet of expression for them through the next big convention in Toronto, KimiKon!” When/Where: Sept. 26-27; Ontario, CA Website

Queen City AniFest

“Queen City AniFest is a single-day convention held to celebrate anime, games, all things nerdy in Regina and the surrounding area.” When/Where: Oct. 3; Saskatchewan, CA Website

Super Dimension Convention

“Originally known as ‘MacrossWorld Convention’, Super Dimension Convention (SDCon) is the largest gathering of Macross fans in North America!” When/Where: Oct. 3; Torrance, CA Website

Pop Culture Convention

“Pop Culture Con is a convention that brings together the talents and passion of local fans and businesses; created to be a safe place where people can come and geek out either as an attendee, guest, or volunteer. A convention that local fans can call their own.” When/Where: Oct. 9-10; Provo, UT Website

Tsubasacon

“Tsubasacon is West Virginia’s first Anime, Gaming and Cosplay convention.” When/Where: Oct. 8-10; Charleston, WV Website

Bakuretsu Con

“Bakuretsu Con is Vermont's premiere anime convention! Our family-friendly event draws approximately 600 attendees, and is sponsored by The Anime Society of Vermont, a public, non-profit organization whose primary mission is to promote cultural awareness and diversity through the celebration of anime and manga.” When/Where: Oct. 16-17; Colchester, VT  Website

Animatic Con

“Animatic Con started in March of 2015 with the idea of delivering to the fandoms across the U.S. a convention that was fun, and had a higher purpose. After much consideration and discussion, we decided that we wanted to help raise funds for Autism, and with that we wanted to create a convention that welcomed people with limitations, and accommodate to their needs.” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Cincinnati, OH Website

Anime Banzai

“Presented by UAP, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, this three-day weekend is filled with anime, manga, gaming, Asian culture, guests, panels, games, contests, kids’ events, viewing rooms, an Artist’s Alley, an Exhibitor’s Hall, silent auctions for various charities, two dances, and so much more.” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Layton, UT Website

Anime Fusion

“Anime Fusion is truly a convention for all ages, with many family-friendly activities along with 18+ restricted programming for the older crowd. With our family discount options, it’s the perfect place for parents and children to share their love of anime and games. Our nightlife features dances and room parties, and the daytime hours are filled with panels and activities.” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Plymouth, MN Website

AnimeCon Arkansas 

“Join us for a magical celebration of fandoms, geeky stuff, animation, art, music, and everything else beautiful!” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Little Rock, AK Website

Another Anime Convention

“Another Anime Convention is a run by people who love Japanese culture especially Japanese animation. It is a place for fans to gather in New Hampshire for a three day convention to enjoy events, special guest's and other media that celebrate aspects of Japanese culture.” When/Where: Oct. 16-18; Westford, MN Website

YumeconUSA

“YumeCon staff aspires to create a more intimate con experience than what you might find at a large scale convention. Enjoy cosplay, gaming, panels, and a maid cafe in a friendly environment.” When/Where: Oct. 17; Palo Alto, CA Website

Kantaicon

“Kantaicon is an anime event that will be held on Oct 24th, 2020 at the AAF Tank Museum. Vendors and Artists will be selling their wares and cosplay is encouraged!” When/Where: Oct. 24; Danville, VA Website

Anime Weekend Atlanta

“AWA has been recognized as one of the most popular Japanese Animation conventions in the United States, and one of the top ten attended anime conventions in North America. In 2016, over 28,000 people attended the event.” When/Where: Oct. 29 - Nov. 1; Atlanta, GA Website

Youmacon

“Youmacon is a celebration of Japanese animation, videogames, popular culture and costuming, and its influence on our own culture over the past few decades.” When/Where: Oct. 29 - Nov. 1; Detroit, MI Website

Banzaicon

“While Banzaicon is a Japanese anime convention, we offer a wide variety of programming options by diverse members of the community throughout the course of the weekend which include our costume contest, dances, events and discussions featuring anime industry guests, game shows, and a wealth of educational seminars and workshops about not only anime, but manga, video games and aspects of Japanese culture as well.” When/Where: Oct. 30 - Nov. 1; Columbia, SC Website

DerpyCon

“DerpyCon is New Jersey’s Anime, Gaming, Sci-Fi, and Comic Convention, bringing every nerdy genre under one roof.” When/Where: Oct. 30 - Nov. 1; New Brunswick, NJ Website

Lumi-Con

“LUMI-CON is a Florida Halloween Convention based off Animation, Video Games, Cosplay and Interactive events!!” When/Where: Oct. 30 - Nov. 1; Tampa, FL Website

Oni-Con

“Oni-Con offers many things to do such as: anime viewing rooms, a manga lounge, table top and card gaming, an arcade, concerts, contests, dances, demonstrations, a masquerade and various panels.” When/Where: Oct. 30 - Nov. 1; Galveston, TX Website

Anime Festival Orlando

“Anime Festival Orlando has earned the title of “Florida’s Favorite Anime Convention” as well as being voted one of the “Top 10 Things To Do In Orlando” by DK Publishing’s Travel Guide.” When/Where: Nov. 6-8; Orlando, FL Website

Anime Nebraskon

“Anime NebrasKon is Nebraska's longest running Anime Convention! Our mission is to connect all people and community through Japanese animation and pop culture with education and activity.” When/Where: Nov. 6-8; Omaha, NE Website

NekoCon

“NekoCon is Virginia's oldest and longest running anime convention. Spanning nearly two decades, NekoCon is dedicated to bringing you the finest in entertainment from the world of anime, educating it's attendees on Japanese culture, and expanding horizons with new and innovative programming.” When/Where: Nov. 6-8; Hampton, VA Website

Anime Iwai

“With a decade on convention experience behind us, we have both learned a lot about how to run a convention and seen the changes that have taken place within the con community over the years. We are proud to have contributed this labor of love to a community and a culture that has provided us entertainment, insight, and so much more.” When/Where: Nov. 13-15; Fort Lauderdale, FL Website

SNAFU Con

“Sierra Nevada Anime Fans Unite Convention (SNAFU Con) is a collaborative effort of local anime, game, comic-book, and science-fiction fans. Our goal is to provide a convention that will benefit both the producers within the local area and community at large. The primary goal is to connect local fans to each other as well as producers and retailers, allowing them to interact with their customers in a fun and relaxed setting.” When/Where: Nov. 13-15; Reno, NV Website

J-1 Con

“Are you a fan of animation, cosplay, gaming (tabletop, card and console), artists, vendors, panels, and live music? You’ve come to the right convention! You can enjoy all of that here, for a GREAT PRICE!” When/Where: Nov. 14-15; Atlantic City, NJ Website

Con-Nichiwa

“Con-Nichiwa is the largest anime convention in Tucson Arizona with attendance reaching over 2,000 yearly.” When/Where: Nov. 20-22; Tucson, AZ Website

Sin City Anime

“Our mission is to create and orchestrate an anime convention focused on three values. Entertainment, Inclusion, and Guest Hospitality.” When/Where: Nov. 20-22; Las Vegas, NV  Website

Pacific Media Expo

“Pacific Media Expo is a new generation of convention for a new generation of fans! PMX brings the cutting edge of Asian entertainment to America, whether it is the newest anime from Japan, the hottest bands from the Pacific Rim, the latest street fashion from Harajuku, or the most disturbing horror films from Asia.” When/Where: Nov. 21-22; Pasadena, CA Website

Anime Pasadena

“Now in our 3rd year, we are creating an awesome 2 day event with a focus on Anime, Cosplay and Nerd Culture in Pasadena, California.” When/Where: Nov. 28-29; Pasadena, CA Website

Holiday Matsuri

“Holiday Matsuri is a multi-genre convention that brings the members of our community together during the holidays to have fun and give back!” When/Where: Dec. 18-20; Orlando, FL Website

  Know of a convention we missed? Tells us about it in the comments!

    Kevin Matyi is a freelance features writer for Crunchyroll. He's been watching anime for as long as he can remember, and his favorite shows tend to be shonen and other action series.

  Do you love writing? Do you love anime? If you have an idea for a features story, pitch it to Crunchyroll Features!

By: news+feed@crunchyroll.com

[thestrangelifestyle]

Kidi, Kuami Eugene, Stonebwoy, Sarkodie & M.anifest Win Big At AFRIMA 2018: Full List Of Winners

Well, for once Ghanaian musicians matched up to the Nigerians on a continental level.

When the 2018 All Africa Music Awards was held in Accra, our own Kuami Eugene, Kidi, Sarkodie, Stonebwoy, M.anifest and Guilty Beatz won for us, proving that Ghanaian music can meet other African music, beat for beat…lol

Kuami Eugene won the Most Promising Artist of the year, Kidi won Best Artist in African Contemporary, Sarkodie won Best Artist African Inspirational for ‘Glory’.

Also, M.anifest won Best Artist for African Hip Hop, Stonebwoy won the Best Reggae Dancehall Artist and Guilty Beatz on the best Song of the Year with ‘Akwaaba’.

See below for the full list of winners:

REGIONAL CATEGORIES

Best Female Artist in Central Africa

Daphne / Cameroon / Jusqu’à La GareBest Male Artist in Central Africa 

Fally Ipupa / DRC / Mannequin Ft Keback & NazBest Female Artist in Eastern Africa

Betty G / Ethiopia / MengedegnaBest Male Artist in Eastern Africa

Bebe Cool / Uganda / FreedomBest Female Artist in Northern Africa

Lyna Mahyem ft Medi Meyz /Algeria / Bye ByeBest Male Artist in Northern Africa

Hamza El Fadly / Morocco / Ya MrayaBest Female Artist in Southern Africa

Shekhinah / South Africa / Please MrBest Male Artist in Southern Africa

Nasty C / South Africa / JungleBest Female Artist in Western Africa

Tiwa Savage / Nigeria / Ma Lo Ft. Wizkid & SpellzBest Male Artist in Western Africa

Davido / Nigeria / Fia

CONTINENTAL CATEGORIES

Album of the Year

Betty G / Ethiopia / WegegtaArtist of the Year

Davido / Nigeria / FIABest African Video

Sesan / Gringo (Shatta Wale) / NigeriaBest African Act in Diaspora

Hazel Mak / Malawi / Jaiva Ft. Roberto & Tay GrinBest African Collaboration

GuiltyBeatz, Mr. Eazi, Patapaa & Pappy Kojo / Ghana-Nigeria / AkwaabaBest Artist, Duo or Group In African Contemporary

Kidi / Ghana / Odo Remix Ft. Mayorkun & DavidoBest Artist, Duo or Group in African dance or Choreography

Mr P. / Nigeria / EbeanoBest African DJ

Afrotronix / Chad / OyOBest Artist, Duo or Group in African Electro

Master KG / South Africa / Skeleton Move Ft. Zanda ZakuzaBest African Duo, Group or Band

Toofan / Togo / MoneyBest Artist, Duo or Group in African Hiphop

M.anifest ft King Promise / Ghana / Me Ne WoaBest Artist, Duo or Group in African jazz

Sibusiso Mashiloane / South Africa / NizaBest African Rapper or Lyricist

Falz / Nigeria / La FêteBest Artist, Duo or Group in African pop

2Baba / Nigeria / Amaka Ft. PeruzziBest Artist, Duo or Group in African Ragga, Reggae & Dancehall

Stonebwoy / Ghana / HeroBest Artist, Duo or Group in African R&B&Soul

Praiz / Nigeria / Champagne and FlowersBest Artist, Duo or Group in African Rock

Maryam Saleh, Maurice Louca, Tamer Abu Ghazaleh / Egypt / Ekaa MaksourBest Artist, Duo or Group in African Traditional

Irene Namatovu / Uganda / Nsambila Nyuma Nga JanziBest Female Artist in African Inspirational Music

Sandra Nankoma / Uganda / KaddugalaBest Artist in African Inspirational Music

Sarkodie / Ghana / Glory Ft. YungMost Promising of the Year

Kuami Eugene / Ghana / ConfusionProducer of the Year

Fresh VDM / Togo / FiaRevelation of the Year

Betty G / Ethiopia / Ere ManewSong of the Year

GuiltyBeatz, Mr. Eazi, Patapaa & Pappy Kojo / Akwaaba / GhanaSongwriter of the Year

Shekhinah Donell, Amon Taulo Chibiya II / South Africa / Different Ft. MariechanAfrican Fans’ Favourite

Nedy Music / Tanzania / One and Only Ft. Ruby

[trainqueen379]