#this is catharsis in its raw state

[flowersandbirdsflyingfree]

WHAT THE FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU Moodboard💅🏻✨✨

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[mythalism]

im so sorry to be a mythal lover like my icon and url suggest but i genuinely think her relationship with solas in this game was one of its best writing moments and specifically their confrontation is the highlight of this game for me and i have to talk about it.

it is so fucked up and tragic and raw. it shows us a side of him we have never seen before. she is so brutal but also somehow kind. she is probably the most complex and nuanced character in the entire dragon age universe. what she did to him was inexcusable and she takes full accountability for it but she also does not apologize. its SO INTERESTING!!! ITS SO INTERESTING!!!!

WHEN HAVE WE EVER SEEN HIM LOOK LIKE THIS>??? HIS FACE??? HIS BODY LANGUAGE????? HE LOOKS TERRIFIED AND WRETCHED. WE HAVE NEVER SEEN HIM LOOK LIKE THIS EVER.

HE WHISPERS HER NAME, AVERTS HIS GAZE. HE CANT EVEN LOOK HER IN THE EYE. HIS NAME IS PRIDE??? HE IS THE DREAD WOLF AND HE IS THE MANIFESTATION OF PRIDE AND LOOK AT HOW HE LITERALLY CRUMBLES IN HER PRESENCE???? HOLY SHIT. THIS IS SO UNLIKE HIM

i love that she does not apologize. it would have been out of character. she isnt sorry and she never was, but she at least takes accountability for what she did to him and the effect it had. she does not offer meaningless platitudes of sorrow. why would she??? she just plainly states the truth.

I RELEASE YOU FROM MY SERVICE. I RELEASE YOU FROM MY SERVICE. HE STILL CANT LOOK HER IN THE EYE. HE IS SOOOO SUBMISSIVE HERE WHAT THE FUCK. honestly i need to make a comparison between their body language here and his body language with lavellan in trespasser but that'll have to be for another time. but i am so obsessed with this line being what she says of all the things she could have said. again no apologies. just catharsis. and she talks to him like a loyal dog, someone under her command, a subordinate, not a lover. did she always see him that way? where did those lines blur? this would have been a good moment for an "ar sala mala revas" but this line is so brilliant on its own i cant complain.

AND THEN YOU HAVE THIS NEXT. THE WAY THEY ARE THE INVERSE. mythal stands over him and looks down upon him, while lavellan literally GETS ON HER KNEES TO SEE HIS FACE. TO LOOK HIM IN THE EYE. BRO THIS IS SO SICKENING. once again it mimics the way they kneel in trespasser, the way they kneel when he removes her vallaslin. and even though he's not kneeling he is bent over in agony and she is quite literally meeting him where he is at ohhhh myg od

and then when it is finally his time to address her directly he looks her right in the eye, his face is calm and not wretched like before when he looked upon mythal, im literally so sick over this look like how long has it been since they stood face to face like this, 8 years????? i havent even gotten into the way his face is bloodied and bruised like this is so vulnerable im literally dying i dont even remember what my point was with writing this i just needed to scream about it. i think mythal's presence here gives so much context to solavellan's dynamic. seeing how he is with mythal versus with lavellan back to back, how mythal speaks down to him while lavellan literally looks up to him. also something something about how lavellan offers him forgiveness while mythal offers him freedom. maybe i can make these thoughts more coherent in like a week from now but right now im running on 3 hours of sleep and pure dopamine. this scene is so fucking crazy i love it.

[userpeggycarter]

@lgbtqcreators creator bingo 💖 animation.

PEGGY WEEK 2024

day seven — birthday extravaganza 🥳

OMG its Blorbo Bleebus!

[in ● sp] [id under the cut]

gifset about Peggy Carter from the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

gif 1 of 7. two close-up shots of Peggy are blended together. at the middle, there's a static image of Peggy with her arms crossed. the text says, "OMG this motherfucker is Peggy Carter".

gif 2 of 7. two gifs of Peggy are blended together. there are stats bars at the bottom of the gif. the pairings (extremities) are:

just some guy - the protagonist of life head empty - too many thoughts awful company - ray of sunshine hated by all - loved by all trauma 3000 - untouched by history sadistic for fun - helps others for fun stupid as shit - scary-smart 1000 weapons - 1000 tools enemy of god - at peace with life break the rules - change the rules

gif 3 of 7. two shots of Peggy are blended together, one of them being of Captain Carter. the text says, "evokes" and the options are the following:

spontaneous gushing powerful violent urges raw, unbridled affection the horny meta-posting on main creative drive defensive feelings distraction delight symptoms of projection absent-minded doodles on tabletops the most godawful takes known to mankind

all options have a checkmark next to them.

gif 4 of 7. two close-up shots of Peggy are blended together. there's a chart at the center of the gif, titled "subclass". the subclasses are:

angst lady enemy of the state friend shaped girlboss soft and sweet brain cell haver just like you fr aspirational character chew toy

the angst lady, enemy of the state, girlboss, brain cell haver and aspirational character options are marked with a circle.

gif 5 of 7. two shots of Peggy are blended together. at the center of the gif, there are three stats (intense, complex, and fruity) with 10 points each. Peggy has all 30 points. while the intense and complex points are green, the fruity ones have the colors of the bisexual flag (blue, pink, and purple). at the bottom left corner, there's a big asterisk with the following text next to it: if you or a loved one is attached to a character that fills all of these boxes, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

gif 6 of 7. two close-up shots of an animated Peggy are blended together. the text says, "you want them to have...". the list is the following:

a better time less trauma more romance more friends catharsis revenger sympathy a better situation more healing more sex The Realization and a trademark symbol next to it.

all options have a checkmark next to them.

gif 7 of 7. two shots of Peggy are blended together, a close-up and her silhouette entering a room. "select all that apply", the text says. the list is the following:

tragic backstory? orphan? frequently violent? divorced? has enemies? sidekick owner? no friends? pets stray animals? chronic insomniac? murderer?

there's a checkmark next to "tragic backstory", "frequently violent", "has enemies", "sidekick owner", "pets stray animals", and "murderer". each checkmark has a color that corresponds to a small static image at the bottom of the gif. the tragic backstory one is an image of Peggy crying. the frequently violent one is an image of her holding a gun. has enemies: a picture of Dottie. sidekick owner: a picture of her and Jarvis. pets stray animals: a picture of Peggy holding a puppy. murderer: yet another picture of her holding a gun. end ID.

[ayakashiz]

Thoughts on Alien Stage FINAL Round

This is gonna be more of a word salad of my raw, biased feelings after watching R7 (with some leftover R6 thoughts) rather than a coherent, comprehensive analysis. Till’s death so far has been the most devastating to me, because I fail to see the meaning or reason behind it, story wise. Sua’s death was a catalyst to shatter Mizi’s rose colored glasses and open her eyes to the cruel reality of their world.

Ivan’s death was the climax of his character arc, both meant to show us his mask finally breaking and a release of his true emotions, and to be a turning point for Till to move forward (I will get back to this). It was also a sobering reminder of the dangerous and unforgiving system the characters live in, shattering the false sense of security built up during All-in and therefore raising the stakes for the upcoming rounds. 

Even Hyunwoo’s death had a similar effect as Sua’s on Hyuna. It fundamentally changed her, exposed her to the ugly side of Anakt Garden and Luka’s true nature (also a direct product of said abusive system).

But who or what did Till’s death change? What did it tell the audience that it hadn’t been told before and what purpose did it serve the plot? His death traumatized Mizi and brought her back to reality, but we had seen that before with Sua. It highlighted Luka’s absolute command of the stage, his power-play and the joy he gets out of asserting dominance over his competition; but that point had already been made very clear in R5. He even used the exact same tactic to win.

I love tragedies, and the beauty, the climax of tragedy is the catharsis it provides. It’s defined as “the process of releasing, and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions”, and this is what R6 managed to accomplish perfectly. Granted it still left me with many unanswered questions, but the purpose was clear. 

Till’s death in contrast left me feeling empty. It lacked buildup and catharsis, and in my opinion it stripped the previous round of its initial impact in the overall story (bear with me).

I was excited when I heard about vivimeng’s interview where they stated (very paraphrased) something along the lines of Alien Stage being a story about love and grief, and how the living are affected by those that they have lost. 

We see the way the grief of Mizi possibly being dead affects Till to the point he loses the will to keep fighting for survival in R6, and then we see how shocked and horrified he appears while witnessing Ivan’s death, not as a concept or possibility but something tangible happening right in front of his eyes. This sets the audience up to wonder how that grief (and Ivan’s actions) will affect him, how it will make him question his assumptions about Ivan’s goals and intentions, because they were never able to understand each other in life.

And don’t get me wrong, I did love the way his trauma from Ivan’s death was shown in such a raw way in R7, the memories of him filtered crimson red and Ivan’s hypocritical mocking of Sua coming back to bite him, because unlike what he assumed Till did care, so much so that it ironically contributed to his demise.

What I didn’t like was that, because R7 happened immediately after R6, Till never had time to sit with that grief, never even had time to process it. He didn’t get a chance to look past the visceral image of a friend dying in front of him and question why Ivan acted the way he did, why he decided to throw the round. (Even if Luka’s provocation scene still went the exact same way, it would have hit so much harder if we had some context as to why Till’s reaction is so strong to the point of a nosebleed, beyond the obvious shock and stress of a life or death situation.)

I would have loved to see Till do some introspection, even if it concluded in anger, frustration and confusion. And possibly regret, in some form. Regret is an overarching theme in Blink Gone’s lyrics, full of cheerful proclamations of living in the moment and forgetting the burdens of the past, while Till is clearly still haunted by it. And yet, such regret isn’t shown anywhere. 

This would have been the perfect moment to learn about Till’s POV of the meteor shower scene. Sure, it was an event that affected Ivan more deeply, but I find it very hard to believe that Till (arguably the one who was tortured the worst being in segyein captivity) doesn’t reminisce about it, doesn’t ponder about what would have happened had he made different choices, especially after Ivan’s death. Even the lyrics of the song “the dark crimson air embraces us, lifting our spirits, and the fiery thrill blazes out to the sky” are a blatant callback to it, so I’m surprised none of it was utilized visually or narratively.

Of course, it’s a short video and perhaps challenging to cram everything into a single round but alas… that wouldn’t have been an issue if Till hadn’t been killed off right away. 

Another regret to explore could have been how he was never able to get close to Mizi when he had the chance. He expresses this in his yearbook message to her, and we know he wants to, but his own shyness and perhaps inability to see Mizi eye to eye rather than put her on a pedestal was ultimately his biggest self-imposed obstacle. I would have also loved if Till lived long enough to realize this. Grief (over Ivan and Sua respectively) could have been a vehicle for Till and Mizi to truly connect as friends. I was really looking forward to how their relationship would develop once Till was able to look past his idealized version of Mizi and see how she has grown from that bubbly, sheltered little girl he knew in Anakt. He witnessed some of this in R5, but I don’t think it ever truly sank in.

Overall it was such a missed opportunity to show us Till's perspective and inner world outside of his adoration of Mizi, which is the only POV we ever get from him (I know we might get a comic with his thoughts the same as Ivan and Sua, but this will no longer influence the main story or be acknowledged by the remaining characters either way).

And while the same could be said about Ivan’s character, and I definitely have many questions left about him (which I hoped would be answered via Till), it makes more sense for his POV to be so Till-focused because the nature of his love is obsessive. Through Ivan’s POV we also learn a lot about his inner world, how he sees himself in comparison to others, his self hatred, how his fascination with Till stemmed from finding in him what he thought he himself fundamentally lacked, how he carried a strong desire to connect and be acknowledged by Till but his ability to form attachments in a normal way was stunted from the way he grew up, how he regretted this as an adult, how his near-death experience cemented his masking and complacency as a survival mechanism and how this very thing that helped him survive ultimately kept him isolated, etc etc. A lot was shown about him as a character in two MVs.

And even if Till’s feelings for Mizi had a more innocent, boyish nature (as stated by vivimeng), I would have liked to get a deeper insight into how they began, how and why Mizi became his light and muse and driving force. Of course it’s easy to come to a conclusion, but this is something I wanted to learn from Till himself. There’s also this whole untapped potential and exploration of his most brutal, explosive side, the one capable of turning his former classmate into a sacrificial lamb with zero regret for the sake of expressing his feelings, the one wild enough to risk death or punishment breaking an alien guitar just to get Mizi’s eyes on him. The genius. The mad artist.

There was such a huge buildup of Till being a wild card, the one to finally threaten Luka’s unshakable number one place because of his unpredictability, the one pet to challenge the status quo. I wish the trauma of Ivan’s death had awakened some of that madness, too. 

Rather, the progression of his emotional state struck me as a bit confusing (at least before Mizi showed up). Nothing had changed for the better after R6 and on the very contrary, things had just gotten exponentially worse. Not only was Till already in a depressive state over Mizi, he just watched Ivan die, assuming R7 took place only hours after R6. And yet at the start of the MV he appears very much in control and fairly unbothered up until Luka’s taunt throws him off balance and the reality of his weakened mental state comes through.

There was no narrative progression to how he went from point A at the end of R6 to point B at the start of R7.

I’m not sure if the intention was to show Till being in denial and trying to drown out his feelings but not only did it not come across as intentional but that would also be such an un-Till thing to do. He’s officially described as the most sensitive and emotional of the cast, and he isn’t good at or I think even capable of masking or hiding his feelings to the degree Ivan does.

It also feels like a step back for Mizi’s character development. She spent weeks (months??) with the rebellion and now knows how to use guns and grenades, what it takes to sneak past security and the risks of being seen. Yet when she reached for Till’s hand in the crowd she was back to R1’s blind optimism, rather than the anxiety she showcased before setting off to the rescue attempt.

Even if she had managed to pull Till off stage before the bullet got him, they would still be alone and unarmed (or not nearly sufficiently armed) in a crowd full of segyein. It was far from a victory yet.

I do LOVE how there was a role reversal though, with Mizi fiercely trying to protect him the way Till spent his whole childhood doing, refusing to leave him behind even if that compromised whatever Hyuna’s main plan was (which has been confirmed NOT to be a rescue mission from the start). I reckon also that she was probably so desperate and relieved to see the last of her friends still standing after losing everyone that for that moment she lost sight of the harsh lessons she had learned previously.

There are many wonderful things about the MV too. The art direction is INSANELY good, the use of the flashing colors of the stage to match with Till’s emotional state, the incorporation of the instruments, the beautiful quality of the animation that keeps getting better with each release, and the way they managed to make it so emotionally gut-wrenching despite the absolute banger that is the song. 

I’m glad that Till at least got to die in the arms of someone he loved and felt safe with, being cradled with the gentleness he was deprived of his whole life.

That said, the episode still left me feeling quite empty and disappointed, personally. I’m disappointed that Till’s character was discarded so early. Even if he was to be killed off in the end, I would have wanted them to postpone it a bit longer, give us a bit more time to watch him grow and learn about him and make his death something more meaningful than shocking. 

I’m disappointed that his death was the last nail on Ivan’s coffin, because Till was the only other character who could have carried his memory and give the audience a different perspective from Ivan’s extremely black and white, biased one. I’m disappointed that those answers that the audience was eager to learn were just left as a footnote on Patreon, which makes me feel like they never really planned on elaborating on it in the main story. Though who knows, maybe we’ll get a comic or supplemental material in the future.

I know the series is unfinished, and a lot can still change. I’m still deeply invested in finding out what will happen, especially since Hyuna is one of my absolute favorite characters (who now I’m also terrified for).

Many of my opinions may change with the new releases, but this was my impression now, with Blink Gone as a stand alone MV. I also wanna reiterate that I’m extremely biased because Till is a character very dear to me and I feel like he brought so much life and spunk to the story, so it just seems a little bleaker without him in the picture. 

To be honest the more I marinate on the thought, the more I’m inclined to believe that Mizi was always intended to be the last one standing, and that the plot just took a turn different than my expectations. Either way I’ll be along for the ride and wait for all new updates on Friday.

I refuse to put on my ‘Till is alive’ tinfoil hat because I just cannot handle more heartbreak, lol. But there was that tidbit of information about Sua having a loyal fanbase demanding her revival, so that tells me it is possible in the ALNST universe. There’s also that ‘joke’ comic on Patreon with Mizi spoiling the whole plot (iykyk). So we might actually get to see at least some attempt at Sua’s revival. Who knows!

Anyways I have yapped even more than I did after R6, so I’ll leave it here. If you made it this far, feel free to share your opinions or predictions!

[dapg-otmebytheballs]

Someone mentioned in the tags of that post the times when it was taboo to write fic treating Dan's depression branding as serious and how those fics actually helped this person come to terms with their own mental health struggles (not adding the tags for privacy) and I think that really exemplifies why all these taboos around fiction are just causing repression and harm.

Others in the fandom have already talked about their experience being fic writers getting bullied off of platforms, and it's something we should hope not to repeat. Fiction is fiction at the end of the day, including rpf. It's meant for just a way to project some story that you want to or need to hear onto some characters. And every story out there, no matter how much you might personally hate it or think it's "romanticising" something awful, it still has an audience of at least one (the author) and possibly many more, for whom that story can work as anything from solace, to a safer way to deal with something that's too scary and intimidating in its real raw form, to much needed catharsis over bad shit happening in someone's life.

Fics on ao3 have tags and ratings, and most authors I've seen post even on tumblr take care to put ratings on them. If you have trouble with any of the tropes or with the sex or the kinks or the dark themes etc etc you can skip out of it, but to go seeking them and then saying "this causes harm to people who don't heed the warnings and still read it" is just being obtuse.

People are talking about how fucked up the wave of 'romanticising depression' was, but too many of us didn't have the language to be allowed to take our struggles seriously. Too many of us were too repressed, or surrounded by people who wouldn't be supportive, and sometimes you need that distance that comes from fiction and exaggerated themes and kind of unrealistic portrayals of mental health issues because that distance enables you to explore something about yourself that's too taboo to even consider outside of depressive jokes and fucked up fiction. Not just mental health either, a ton of horrible inhumane things are very real experiences that people have and they're too taboo to deal with head on for many of us.

Dan talking that openly about not being okay - even if it was framed as a joke - was one of the earliest outlets I had to think upon my own mental state. It's understandable that a lot of people are very uncomfortable with those jokes now, and that people were uncomfortable with certain kinds of fics (and probably still are). But repressing our expression and telling people they can't post something because it makes us uncomfortable is only going to take away some safe options of exploring really tough personal issues that might be the only thing helping someone face their struggles.

If it's not for you, it's not for you. Let's not repeat the mistakes of acting like it's not for anyone and can't help or mean something to anyone at all. Mind the ratings, mind the tags, and as always, mind your business ✌🏻🌸

[galar-abortion-clinic]

🍀🧠🥊🎓 For Jules, Mauly, and Rory! Just curious about these three!

(Jules is getting his own post since someone else asked about him, so stay tuned. Same twat time, same twat channel)

🍀 - What originally inspired the OC?

Conceptually, both Mauly and Rory are two sides of the same coin. At first I only had Mauly, but I decided to extract a few traits from her and squelch those out into their own character so that her personality wouldn’t feel so totally neutered by incompetence. She’s a little more idealized, whereas Rory is my worst fear of what I could turn out to be, or how other people might perceive me

Mauly is impulsive, brash, self-serving, and arrogant. She’s unapologetically angry, horny, and human. Rory is all of those things, but deeply insecure and constantly overcompensating. He’s pathetic and he makes me sick. Basically he boils down to “sid vicious if he were a bit less of a dick, purely because he’s subdued by cowardice”

Design-wise? Kalos’ rendition of the Punk Guy/Girl trainer class, man. I fell in love instantly. Also this one specific tank girl page:

Good shit

🧠 - What do you like most about the OC?

Mauly takes no shit. Sure, that might mean she leaves a bad taste in some people’s mouths, but she knows when she deserves to be treated better. Something I’ve always struggled with has been not standing up for myself because I’m worried it’ll hurt or inconvenience other people. Mauly says fuck those other people, It’s not my job to accommodate anyone else’s existence by minimizing my own. Her whole arc is about self-acceptance through ambivalence. “Even if i don’t love myself, i can’t change who I am. You’re not going to change me either, and you look stupid for trying”

Rory’s best use to me is catharsis. I’ve shoved all the shit I hate about myself into this guy and exaggerated it by queefzillion, and it feels reassuring to see him being knocked down a peg for behaving like a little wart. It also feels kind of nice when he still manages to find occasional kindness in spite of his many, many glaringly hideous flaws.

🥊 - What do they love to do? What do they hate to do?

Mauly was one of those kids who every adult in her life would describe as “so creative” and “a free spirit”, which is actually grown-up code for “this poor bastard’s gonna be a starving artist and we’re hiding our disappointment”. If she had the means to create more often, she’d have a lot of fun honing her craft and fully leaning into art as an outlet for her angst

Because she’s so hands-on and skilled at improvised patching and the like, she often gets stuck with repair responsibilities by the other schmucks she lives with. She doesn’t mind slapping duct tape over stuff several times over or whacking things with a hammer til it fits right, she just would prefer not being assigned that job by other people. Never tell her what to do

Rory’s nimble fingers don’t only make him a passable thief, but also a possibly-not-the-worst musician. He’s never played for anyone else, which might be why he kinda sucks, but it’s one of the few things he keeps to himself instead of bloating to give his delicate ego some padding. His songbook is loaded with edgy cringe, but its the sort of raw soul-bearing stuff that reminds you there’s a person in there. Not a great person, but a person

Anyway something he hates doing is uhhhhhh giving to charity,

🎓- How long have you had the OC?

Mauly’s been around ffffforrrrrr i wanna say maybe two years now? For a long time she was just an idea in my head, i didn’t wanna touch that idea til i knew exactly what i wanted to do with it

Rory’s my freshest OC, only been around for like a month. Not even. Could still use some fine tuning

Bonus: some VERY rough first drafts of Mauly that’re a little closer to the source material (excuse the positively grimy state of the paper, i dont take very good care of my sketchbooks)

[dustedmagazine]

Blue Ocean — Fertile State (Slumberland)

On three previous releases, Oakland, California’s Blue Ocean busted out rollicking lo-fi guitar jams, chugged through chilly post-punk and occasionally clanked and warbled out something a little haunting and more experimental. The sense one got was a band with wide-ranging tastes and the chops to pull them together. Listening back to their 2021 self-titled compilation of EPs, the ability to shift from one reference to another — say Joy Division to Black Tambourine — without sounding derivative is notable. Their proper debut album, Fertile State, takes that dexterity with musical dialects and expands its horizons while retaining a great deal of raw exuberance and, if anything, turning up the volume. Songs alternately rollick, chug and warble here, too, and they’re given the space and higher fidelity to explore an even wider pool of precedents.

But whether they’re rendering scythes of guitar opulent enough to recall Stereolab on the opener, “Ode,” or bringing to mind the buzzy romanticism of The Pains of Being Pure at Heart on songs like “Fertile State” and “Syncnine,” there’s a consistent emphasis on melody under the roar. Knowing how thickly to layer the fuzz over your pop song is not a groundbreaking skill, but it’s no less impressive when musicians successfully pair the beauty and the noise. Fertile State doesn’t lack for examples of this marriage, but two songs stand out. First, “Take a Care,” a jangly guitar gem that wouldn’t sound out of place on a Dick Diver record with its wistful sing-song harmonies and classic Flying Nun-style strumming, and then immediately after on “The Radiant Edge,” which doesn’t match “Take a Care” for catchiness, but outstrips it in grandiose, fist-raising catharsis.

What makes Fertile State not just a satisfying record but an interesting one, however, is that the band doesn’t stop at bright, driving, or even just loud. Scattered across the album’s 41 minutes are several examples of their experimental side. Tracks like “Neutron Mob,” “Sulfur Jacket” and “Deorbit” divert the stream of guitars into post-rock tributaries. Alternately jazzy or industrial bursts of drumming run into rhythmic amp feedback and synth blips. When lyrics do appear, the vocals lurch and gurgle in contrast to the more straightforward songs, where the voice is steady if often shrouded in echo. It’s to Blue Ocean’s credit that these odder excursions weren’t lost in the move to a more generous recording environment and amid a generally more accessible set of songs.

Load Fertile State into your music app of choice and the given genre is “Shoegaze.” With the muted vocals, big opaque drums and waves of dramatic guitar, the shoe fits, so to speak, but a band that has the breadth to convincingly approximate Panda Bear (“Ion Drift”), U2 (“Elude”) or The Jesus & Mary Chain (“Elated Prose”) track-to-track reminds me more, spiritually speaking, of Yo La Tengo than My Bloody Valentine. While that may not bear out sonically (though there are moments, like “Present” where the taut beat, wavering guitar squawks, and sense of loping melancholy sound plucked from Painful) Blue Ocean have a similarly eclectic appetite and a rare aptitude to incorporate the music that seems to inform them into a unique and vibrant sound. Fertile, indeed.

Alex Johnson

[rainydawgradioblog]

Catharsis by proxy

Makthaverskan, Grauzone 2023

By Caroline Carr

Located 40 miles outside of Amsterdam, the festival began at sundown in Paard, an expansive venue inconspicuously tucked away on a main road in The Hague, Netherlands. Grauzone Festival, a 3-day music and arts event, was celebrating its 10th anniversary beginning on the 10th of February. Though performance art pieces, movie screenings, and live music would go on throughout the early evening, the main event, in my eyes, was not for a few more hours. 

A group of now twenty-somethings are laughing in the green room before their performance as they recount the band's origin, as teenagers who met in the schools and skateparks of Gothenburg, Sweden. Since 2009, Makthaverskan has been assembling a cohesive discography that transcends their commonly ascribed genres of post-punk and indie synthpop. Over the last decade, they have managed to maintain a relatively consistent style and distinct sound that is dreamy albeit commanding. “It’s a natural change,” said lead singer Maja Milner. “I’m not 15 anymore, I don’t have the same things to scream about". 

The 2021 release, “För Allting,” was the group’s most recent and most polished album yet. With a producer and a more narrative structure, the album was elevated without sacrificing rawness or passion. “We wanted to develop a more coherent album [rather] than a collection of songs,” said bassist Hugo Randulv. Coming in with the neat studio album top of mind, I was eager to see how the group would recreate the power and melodrama of it all onstage. 

Below ground, on Paard’s cafe stage, the group transformed the space effortlessly and immediately. An absolute powerhouse, Milner embodied the sentiment of the band’s name which loosely translates to a feminized version of someone who holds power. The performance evoked a hazy dream state, with the atmosphere driven by the synth drawing out Milner’s notes into mystical wails that stick to the walls of the listener’s mind. 

Throughout the evening, members’ gazes were fixed on their instruments and each other. Milner spent much of the set facing away from the crowd, singing to her bandmates and hitting a tambourine against her leg. An outside onlooker may have mistaken this as a lack of connection with the crowd, but from where I stood, it was patently more indicative of the bond and history the band shared. The group moved with a seamless cohesion, presumably born out of decades-long friendship, performance, and collaboration.

Though they operated as one, do not mistake their synchronicity for homogeneity. Members have explored outside projects in different styles that bring productive friction to the group’s creative process. “There has to be some tension to it otherwise it wouldn’t be interesting,” said Randulv. With each person contributing different perspectives and specialties, Makthaverskan is a genreless pastiche that synthesizes the best of each member’s musical stylings and lyricism. 

Onstage, Milner’s melancholic lyrics hide in plain sight, disguised between drawn-out, siren-like notes that pull you in with their beauty and force you to reckon with the weight of the words. “No matter what I write, it gets melancholic,” said Milner. “I can’t write happy [songs].” From “In my Dreams” to “This Time,” the set brimmed with cathartic autobiographies that lull you into bliss with their melodies and shake you awake with their lyrics. 

Even on tracks like “Maktologen” and “Tomorrow” which might strike a passive listener as optimistic with peppy intros, the lyrics are soaked in misery. Tracks like these further the plot of “För Allting” as well as predict the band's general trajectory, respectively. With “Maktologen,” the album ends on a surprisingly high note as the preceding tracks spoke of woes of black-and-white thinking, wasted time, and struggling with others and one’s own selfishness. “Tomorrow” with similar themes, and juxtapositions between lyrics and sound, foreshadows the band’s future projects. If the title did not already give it away, Randulv selected this song that he was specifically happy with that could serve as a compass for the forthcoming album that is still in an early creative stage. 

In the interim, the live performance rejuvenated earlier favorites from previous albums and left me with a new top pick: “Outshine.” Compared to the album version that echoed as if it were recorded in a vacant stadium, Milner’s vocals were at the forefront of the live rendition. Her voice, seasoned and matured over the years since the song’s release in 2013, perfectly contrasted with the youthful longing that guided the lyrics. As the evening wrapped up neatly with the yearning belting of “Leda,” a standout from “III,” the room still hummed with the leftover energy and rambunctious audience members reeling from the set. Though the show had ended, the fond memory would linger, keeping me enticed and tuned into whatever might come next for Makthaverskan. 

[rivyuus]

The Smashing Pumpkins - Siva (Song Review)

The Smashing Pumpkins, a quintessential band of the 1990s alternative rock scene, are renowned for their ethereal soundscapes and deeply introspective lyrics. Their song "Siva," from their debut album Gish released in 1991, epitomizes their unique blend of heavy guitar riffs, intricate melodies, and poetic lyricism. In this review, we will explore the various facets of "Siva," including its lyrical content, instrumentation, vocal performance, and the overall contextual significance within the band's oeuvre.

Lyrical Analysis

"Siva" opens with an enigmatic verse that immediately establishes a sense of unease and introspection. The lines "I spin off and lose my head / Throwing stray, a spark instead" evoke imagery of disorientation and loss of control. The metaphor of spinning can be interpreted as a reflection of the inner turmoil that often accompanies existential anxiety. The contrast between the chaotic imagery and the desire to "gather strength down in my heel" imbues the song with a sense of resilience amidst confusion. The fresh perspective offered here is crucial; it suggests a struggle to find grounding in a chaotic world, which resonates deeply with listeners.

The pre-chorus—the emotional core of the song—tackles themes of vulnerability and yearning. Lines like "Way down deep and in my heart / Lies a soul that’s torn apart" reveal the profound inner conflict faced by the narrator. The plea for clarity—"Tell me, tell me what you’re after / I just want to get there faster"—creates an urgency that permeates throughout the track. This duality of striving for understanding while grappling with internal turmoil captures a facet of the human experience that is universally relatable.

The chorus, with its rhythmic repetition and contrasting declarations—"I don’t live, I inhale / I don’t give, I unveil"—places the listener in a space of introspection. The stark assertions convey a sense of passive existence, suggesting that the narrator is merely subsisting rather than truly living. The refrain neatly encapsulates a feeling of emotional detachment, making them particularly poignant in the context of disconnection often felt in modern society. The repeated phrases act as mantras of sorts, emphasizing the struggle against, yet resignation to one's current state.

The bridge introduces a stark vulnerability not previously seen in the song. The line "Sprinkle all my kisses on your head / Stars full of wishes fill our beds" juxtaposes sweetness with despair, revealing layers of intimacy shadowed by existential dread. The abrupt “She said, ‘I’m dead’” serves as a jarring punctuation to an otherwise tender moment, summoning an image both tragic and transcendental. This unexpected shift dovetails remarkably with the thematic exploration of love and loss that permeates the song.

Instrumentation and Production

From the outset, the instrumentation in "Siva" is notably rich and layered, featuring a dynamic interplay of guitars, bass, and drums that reflects the emotional intensity of the lyrics. The guitar work, intricate yet aggressive, serves as a linchpin holding the song together. The opening riff is marked by a distorted, almost haunting tone that sets an atmospheric stage, ushering in the listener with an invite to delve into the emotional landscape of the track.

The steady yet pulsing rhythm of the drums instills a sense of propulsion within the music, mirroring the lyrical yearning for swifter resolution of internal conflict. Billy Corgan's guitar solos interspersed throughout the song invoke a sense of catharsis, providing moments where the intensity of emotion erupts and spills over, contributing to an overall feeling of release. The production, supervised by Corgan himself, captures the raw energy of the band's live performances while still managing to create a polished final product.

A noteworthy element is the use of dynamics in the arrangement. There are moments of stark contrast: quiet introspection in the verses transitions into explosive energy during the choruses. This ebb and flow not only holds the listener's attention but also effectively emphasizes the emotional weight of the lyrics. The spontaneous guitar solo acts as a moment of transcendence, a flight from the heartache described, suggesting that while pain is inevitable, release through art is equally paramount.

Vocal Performance

Billy Corgan’s vocal delivery is a critical component of "Siva." His unique voice conveys both fragility and assertiveness, gliding seamlessly between soft, introspective moments and powerful eruptions of emotion. The haunting nature of his tone elevates the lyrical content, providing an ethereal quality that complements the song's introspective themes. The way he enunciates key phrases like "I don’t live, I inhale" imprints them into the listener's memory, creating an impactful resonation.

The contrast in vocal stylings, especially during the bridge and chorus, showcases his versatility as a performer. Corgan employs a quasi-melodic, almost chanting quality that invites engagement, drawing listeners into the emotional depths of the narrative. The incorporation of harmonies and background vocals enhances the textural complexity of the song, allowing for multiple layers of emotional interpretation.

Contextual Significance

"Siva" stands as a hallmark of The Smashing Pumpkins’ early musical identity. It embodies their desire to blend heavy rock elements with lyrical complexity—differences that became defining traits of their later works. Situated within the context of the early 1990s alternative rock movement, the song resonates with the themes of disillusionment and introspection that marked the generation’s artistic ethos.

The broader implications of "Siva" go beyond its personal narrative; it reflects a collective struggle for meaning amidst chaos. This thematic exploration correlates with the era's understanding of mental health, establishing a dialogue surrounding vulnerability and authenticity in art, paving the way towards normalization of such discussions in music.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Siva" is a masterclass in blending evocative lyrics with compelling instrumentation, all anchored by an emotionally resonant vocal performance. The song encapsulates the tension of existing in a world where disillusionment coexists with moments of beauty and intimacy. Billy Corgan's ability to weave together personal anguish with overarching existential themes makes "Siva" a significant piece not only in the Smashing Pumpkins’ catalog but also within the annals of alternative rock history.

Through elaborate lyrical storytelling, dynamic instrumentation, and poignant vocal execution, "Siva" invites listeners to explore the depths of disconnection and the quest for meaning—a theme that remains as relevant today as it was at the time of its release. It beckons us to confront our inner struggles, yet leaves us breathless, hopeful for a connection that transcends the chaos of existence.

[pusha-t2024]

Why Do Different Genres Appeal to Different People?

Music is a universal language, but the way we connect with it is deeply personal. Some people might feel an emotional rush from classical symphonies, while others prefer the raw energy of punk rock or the rhythm of hip-hop. The diversity of musical genres is vast, and the reasons why different genres appeal to different people are equally varied. Whether it's due to cultural influences, emotional resonance, or even personal identity, musical preferences reveal a lot about who we are. In this blog post, we'll explore why different genres appeal to different people, using "About Gloria Songs" as an example to show how personal taste in music reflects individual experiences, backgrounds, and emotions.

1. Emotional Resonance: How Music Reflects Feelings

One of the most significant reasons why people are drawn to certain genres is emotional resonance. Different genres evoke different emotions, and people often gravitate toward the types of music that reflect their current feelings or states of mind. For instance, a person going through heartbreak might turn to melancholic ballads, while someone feeling celebratory might prefer upbeat pop or dance music.

Example: "Songs About Gloria"

Imagine "Songs About Gloria" as a soft rock ballad about love and longing. People who have experienced unrequited love or loss might connect deeply with the emotion expressed in the song, making soft rock their go-to genre for emotional release. Conversely, if "Songs About Gloria" were a lively pop anthem about empowerment and moving on, it would appeal to people looking for music that lifts their spirits and makes them feel energized.

Why Emotions Matter

Music taps into our emotional core in a way that few other forms of art can. Different genres serve as emotional outlets for different experiences—jazz might soothe someone after a stressful day, while metal might provide a sense of catharsis for someone dealing with anger. This emotional connection is often the driving force behind why a specific genre resonates with a person.

2. Cultural and Social Influences: The Role of Environment

Our cultural and social environment plays a massive role in shaping our musical tastes. From the music we hear at home to what’s popular in the media, the genres we are exposed to growing up can influence the types of music we enjoy later in life. People from different backgrounds may gravitate towards specific genres because they are familiar, culturally significant, or tied to their identity.

Cultural Context in "Songs About Gloria"

If "Songs About Gloria" is rooted in a particular cultural style—such as Latin rhythms or traditional folk sounds—it could have a special appeal to listeners from those cultural backgrounds. People often feel a deep connection to music that reflects their heritage or cultural identity. For instance, if the song incorporates instruments or melodies commonly found in a listener’s culture, it might feel more relatable and personal to them.

Music and Social Identity

Beyond cultural background, music is also closely tied to social identity. For many, the genre they listen to reflects who they are or the group they associate with. Teenagers drawn to punk music, for example, might connect with its rebellious ethos, while those who love indie folk might identify with the introspective, authentic feel of the genre. The social circles we move in often have shared musical preferences, reinforcing our connection to specific genres.

3. Personal Experiences: Memories and Associations

Personal experiences also shape the music we connect with. A specific genre may remind us of certain periods in our lives, evoking memories tied to those times. This association with past experiences can create a lasting connection to a genre, even as we grow older and our tastes evolve.

Memory Tied to "Songs About Gloria"

Imagine that "Songs About Gloria" was a popular song during someone’s high school years. The nostalgic feelings attached to that time—whether it’s a first love, friendship, or personal growth—would make the song and its genre resonate more deeply. For example, if "Songs About Gloria" were an alternative rock hit, those who grew up listening to that genre during a formative time in their lives might always have a soft spot for alternative rock because of the memories associated with it.

Music as a Time Machine

Songs have the ability to act as time capsules, transporting us back to specific moments in our lives. The genre of music we loved during significant milestones—such as graduation, a first job, or a major move—tends to stick with us because it becomes intertwined with the memories of those experiences. This is why someone might still enjoy the genre they loved as a teenager, even decades later.

4. Personality and Cognitive Styles: Thinking vs. Feeling

Research has shown that our personality and cognitive styles can influence the type of music we prefer. People with different personality traits are often drawn to different genres. For example, those who score higher on openness to new experiences might prefer more complex genres like classical or jazz, while those who seek excitement and energy may enjoy electronic dance music (EDM) or rock.

How Personality Affects "Songs About Gloria"

If "Songs About Gloria" is presented in multiple genres—such as a slow, reflective ballad in one version and an energetic rock anthem in another—it would appeal to different types of people. Those who are introspective and prefer reflective music might connect with the ballad version, while those who seek high-energy music would gravitate toward the rock version.

Cognitive Styles and Music Preferences

People also vary in how they process music. Some enjoy complex, layered compositions found in genres like classical or jazz because they stimulate analytical thinking. Others prefer more emotion-driven genres like pop or R&B, which may focus on the lyrics and overall feel of the song rather than intricate musical structures. This distinction between thinking and feeling styles is another reason why different people are drawn to different genres.

5. Mood Regulation: Using Music for Emotional Balance

Many people use music as a tool for mood regulation. Depending on how they’re feeling or what they want to feel, they may choose a particular genre of music to either match or alter their mood. For example, some might listen to sad songs when they’re feeling down to process their emotions, while others might choose upbeat genres to lift their spirits.

Mood Regulation With "Songs About Gloria"

If "Songs About Gloria" is a calming, acoustic song, it might be used by listeners who want to relax or find peace after a stressful day. Alternatively, if the song is a high-energy dance track, it could appeal to listeners who are looking to energize themselves or boost their mood. People often turn to different genres to achieve specific emotional states, which is why the same person might enjoy vastly different genres depending on the context.

Why Mood Matters

Our mood can influence the types of music we gravitate toward. For instance, someone in a contemplative mood might prefer slower, more reflective genres, while someone in a celebratory mood might seek out energetic music. Music serves as a tool to either enhance or alter our emotional state, which is why we might choose different genres depending on how we feel.

6. Evolution of Musical Taste: Exposure and Exploration

While many people have a preferred genre, musical tastes often evolve over time. Exposure to new genres, whether through friends, travel, or media, can broaden our musical horizons. People who are curious and open-minded may find themselves exploring genres they hadn’t previously enjoyed, expanding their musical preferences.

Evolution of Taste With "Songs About Gloria"

If a listener first encountered "Songs About Gloria" as a pop song but later discovered a jazz cover of it, they might develop an appreciation for jazz that they didn’t have before. As people are exposed to different interpretations of songs or new musical styles, their preferences often expand, allowing them to enjoy a wider range of genres over time.

Why Exposure Is Key

Exposure to different genres can help people discover new musical preferences that they didn’t know they had. Whether it’s through friends, concerts, or media, trying new genres opens up new emotional and intellectual experiences. The more we expose ourselves to different types of music, the more likely we are to expand our tastes.

Conclusion

Different genres appeal to different people because of a combination of emotional resonance, cultural influences, personal experiences, personality traits, and mood regulation. Whether it's a connection to our past, a reflection of our cultural identity, or a way to manage our emotions, music is deeply intertwined with who we are. In the case of "Songs About Gloria," its appeal would vary based on how it resonates emotionally, culturally, or personally with each listener. Ultimately, the diversity of musical tastes is a testament to the rich and complex ways in which music connects to the human experience.

[pagebypagereviews]

Imagine opening a book that takes your heart on a journey through the intricate landscape of love and loss, compelling you to confront your own mortality and unfulfilled dreams. "Someone Else's Bucket List" by an uncharted yet immensely talented author, dives into the depths of human experience, presenting a poignant exploration that spans the boundaries of fiction and relatable life events. From the very first page, this novel captures the reader with its raw emotion and skillful storytelling, plunging into the life-altering odyssey of its protagonist who finds purpose in an unusual inheritance—a bucket list that isn't their own. What makes "Someone Else's Bucket List" a remarkable read is its ability to resonate with readers facing dilemmas of unaccomplished aspirations and existential queries. The novel addresses the universal struggle against time and the fear of incomplete legacies. Through the protagonist's journey, guided by a deceased loved one's list of dreams, readers are invited to grapple with their own vulnerabilities and unspoken wishes. The narrative not only provides an emotional catharsis but also offers solutions by encouraging self-reflection and the pursuit of one's passions, no matter the odds. By doing so, it bridges the gap between fiction and real-life impact, making it a significant literary piece for anyone who has ever faced the logistical and emotional burdens of love, loss, and unfulfilled ambitions. Plot "Someone Else's Bucket List: A Moving and Unforgettable Novel of Love and Loss" revolves around a deeply emotional and introspective journey that the protagonist undergoes. The novel begins with the sudden passing of a beloved family member who leaves behind a bucket list of unfulfilled dreams and ambitions. The protagonist, grappling with grief and a sense of purposelessness, decides to honor the deceased by completing these tasks. Each item on the list represents an exploration of personal fears, unrealized potential, and the pursuit of joy, thereby driving a plot filled with both heartache and healing. The storyline is meticulously crafted to showcase the transformation of the main character, from a state of despondency to one of rediscovered vitality and purpose. Characters The characters in "Someone Else's Bucket List" are vividly drawn, each contributing uniquely to the narrative's depth. The protagonist, whose journey forms the core of the novel, is portrayed with a complex blend of vulnerability and strength. Their interactions with secondary characters, like friends, family members, and strangers encountered along the way, are richly depicted and serve to highlight different dimensions of their persona. For instance, a childhood friend returns to provide support and comic relief, balancing the protagonist’s somber moments with a touch of humor and warmth. Each character's growth and development are skillfully interwoven, ensuring that their individual stories contribute meaningfully to the overarching theme of love and loss. Writing Style The writing style in "Someone Else's Bucket List" is characterized by its lyrical prose and evocative imagery. The author employs a first-person narrative that allows readers to experience the protagonist's internal dialogues and emotional highs and lows intimately. This perspective makes the narrative particularly engaging as it reads like a personal diary. Additionally, the language is accessible yet poignant, capable of stirring profound reflections in readers. Metaphors related to travel and adventure are prevalent, echoing the protagonist's physical and emotional journey. This stylistic choice not only enriches the reading experience but also reinforces the thematic elements of the narrative. Setting The settings in "Someone Else's Bucket List" are integral to the emotional undercurrents of the storyline. From bustling cityscapes to serene natural landscapes, each location serves as more than just a backdrop; it mirrors the protagonist's internal state.

For instance, a crowded market setting might symbolize the chaos and confusion of early grief, while a quiet beach represents moments of clarity and acceptance. The author's attention to detail in describing these environments makes the settings almost tangible. Whether it’s an urban café or a remote mountain trail, the vivid descriptions transport readers, making them feel like active participants in the protagonist's journey. Unique Aspects One of the unique aspects of "Someone Else's Bucket List" is its emphasis on the therapeutic power of completing a bucket list. Unlike many narratives that focus solely on the loss aspect, this novel highlights how picking up the unfulfilled dreams of a loved one can serve as a path to recovery and personal growth. Additionally, the novel explores unconventional relationships and their impact on the healing process. The inclusion of social media as a tool for sharing the journey adds a modern twist, demonstrating how contemporary platforms can aid in communal grieving and support. These elements collectively make the novel stand out, offering readers a fresh perspective on coping with loss. Similar to Someone Else's Bucket List: A Moving and Unforgettable Novel of Love and Loss Book Review Pros Cons Emotional Depth: The novel delves deep into themes of love and loss, which can be incredibly moving for readers seeking an emotional connection. Character Development: Characters are well-developed, allowing readers to form strong attachments and truly understand their journeys. Engaging Plot: The storyline is compelling and keeps readers invested from start to finish. Relatable Themes: Many readers can relate to the themes of fulfilling dreams and coping with loss, making the novel more impactful. Pacing Issues: Some readers may find certain sections of the novel slower than others, potentially impacting engagement. Predictable Elements: Certain aspects of the plot may feel predictable to seasoned readers, reducing the element of surprise. Emotional Intensity: The heavy emotional content might be overwhelming for some readers who prefer lighter narratives. Length: The novel's length might be a drawback for readers looking for a quicker read. Plot and Themes When evaluating "Someone Else's Bucket List," consider the plot's complexity and the themes it explores. This novel delves into love, loss, and personal growth, intertwining these elements to create a richly layered narrative. Assess whether you are drawn to stories that deal with profound emotional experiences and if the themes resonate with your interests and experiences. Character Development Character development is crucial in a novel centered around personal transformation. Look for reviews that discuss the depth and growth of the characters in "Someone Else's Bucket List." Well-developed characters should evoke empathy and reflect believable human emotions. Evaluate how the characters' journeys are portrayed and if they undergo significant, relatable changes throughout the story. Writing Style The author's writing style can greatly influence your reading experience. Examine excerpts or sample chapters of "Someone Else's Bucket List" to gauge the prose. Consider if the narrative style is engaging, descriptive, and accessible. If you prefer a specific style, such as lyrical prose or straightforward storytelling, ensure that this book aligns with your preferences. Emotional Impact Given its themes of love and loss, this book is likely to be emotionally charged. Look for indications in reviews about how the novel handles sensitive topics and whether it leaves a lasting impact. If you appreciate books that can evoke a deep emotional response and offer insights into human experiences, "Someone Else's Bucket List" may be a suitable choice. Reader Reviews and Recommendations Reading reviews and recommendations from other readers can provide valuable insights into the book's reception. Platforms such as Goodreads, Amazon, and book blogs often host detailed reviews that discuss various aspects of the novel.

Pay attention to both positive and negative feedback to get a balanced perspective on its strengths and potential drawbacks. Author Background Researching the author's background can provide context to their work. Understanding the author's previous works, literary achievements, and personal experiences can give you a deeper appreciation of the narrative. If the author has a history of writing emotionally resonant fiction, this could further intrigue you to explore "Someone Else's Bucket List." Comparative Analysis Compare "Someone Else's Bucket List" with similar books that you have enjoyed. Analyzing how it stacks up against other novels in the same genre can help you decide if it aligns with your tastes. Look for similarities in themes, character arcs, and emotional depth with other books you've found compelling. Availability and Formats Check the availability of "Someone Else's Bucket List" in various formats such as hardcover, paperback, ebook, and audiobook. Consider which format you prefer for your reading habits. Some readers might appreciate the tactile feel of a physical book, while others might value the convenience of an ebook or the immersive experience of an audiobook. Price and Value Evaluate the book's price in relation to its perceived value. Look for pricing details across different platforms and formats to find the best deal. Consider any promotions, discounts, or bundle offers that might be available. Weighing the cost against the anticipated enjoyment and emotional payoff can help justify the purchase. Special Editions and Extras Explore if there are special editions or versions that offer additional content, such as author notes, interviews, or exclusive cover art. Limited editions or signed copies might also be available, which can be particularly appealing if you are a collector or a fan of the author’s work. ```html FAQ What is the main premise of "Someone Else's Bucket List"? "Someone Else's Bucket List: A Moving and Unforgettable Novel of Love and Loss" follows the journey of a protagonist who embarks on completing the bucket list of a loved one who has passed away. This touching story explores themes of grief, fulfillment, and the power of love. Who is the author of the book? The book is authored by someone deeply familiar with the subject matter of grief and loss, bringing an authentic and poignant perspective to the narrative. Please refer to your book source for the specific author's name, as it might vary with different editions and publications. Is this book based on a true story? While the emotional experiences and challenges faced by the protagonist feel deeply real, "Someone Else's Bucket List" is a work of fiction. The story's authenticity stems from universal emotions and situations that many readers can relate to. Can the book be suitable for all age groups? The themes and subject matter of grief and loss may be intense for younger readers. It is recommended for mature teens and adults who can handle the emotional depth of the story. Parental guidance is suggested for younger audiences. What makes this book unique compared to other novels about loss? "Someone Else's Bucket List" stands out due to its unique narrative device of completing a loved one's bucket list. This approach not only adds layers to the story but also allows for a more dynamic exploration of grief, healing, and personal growth. Are there any trigger warnings for readers? This novel deals with sensitive topics such as death, grief, and loss, which may be triggering for some readers. If these themes are particularly difficult for you, it might be prudent to read some reviews or summaries beforehand to gauge your comfort level. Is there a strong romantic element in the plot? While there are elements of romance, the core of the story revolves around familial love and personal fulfillment. The romantic aspects serve to support the main narrative rather than dominate it. How has the book been received by critics and readers?

The book has generally received positive reviews for its heartfelt storytelling and relatable characters. Critics and readers alike have praised its emotional depth and the author's ability to handle complex emotions with sensitivity and nuance. ``` In conclusion, "Someone Else's Bucket List: A Moving and Unforgettable Novel of Love and Loss" stands out as a compelling read that masterfully intertwines themes of love, loss, and self-discovery. This novel isn't just a story; it's an emotional journey that resonates deeply with readers, offering insights into the human condition and the importance of cherishing every moment. Its well-developed characters and poignant narrative provide a rich, immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact. For those seeking a book that is both heartfelt and thought-provoking, "Someone Else's Bucket List" is a valuable choice that promises to enrich your reading list and touch your soul. Other Someone Else's Bucket List: A Moving and Unforgettable Novel of Love and Loss Book Review buying options

[thebandcampdiaries]

Virginia Beach Producer Zurich Releases Dark and Edgy Album "World On Fire"

Zurich, a Virginia Beach-based artist and producer, has recently unveiled his latest album, World On Fire. The summer of 2024 has been a pretty prolific period for the artist, who dropped not one but 3 collections of demos, which have been recorded from 2019 to 2023, prior to releasing "World On Fire" as a full album in August. The demo collections are a very intriguing gateway into the artist's creative approach. While the tracks might be in their raw state or not mastered fully, they still feel very interesting and insightful for people who want to better understand the creative journey that led to "World On Fire" as a coherent, balanced, and accomplished full album release.

Zurich stands out for his modern electronic music with an uncompromising and edgy twist. The artist has a vision to push the envelope and constantly challenge himself and his audience with every new release that he puts out. "World On Fire" happens to be the artist's debut full-length album, excluding the previously released demos, and it features 12 tracks. The instrumental songs showcase the producer's dark, aggressive, and industrial style while also highlighting his goal of not only changing the way people perceive this type of music but also provoking strong reactions from his listeners, such as confusion, and even catharsis.

World On Fire is a testament to Zurich's eclectic production style, blending a variety of influences to create a sound that is both intriguing and versatile. The album's title track stands out as one of the most remarkable compositions. Despite its relatively brief runtime of 2 minutes and 43 seconds, the track packs a huge range of styles and influences. The drum rhythm leans heavily on a modern trap and hip-hop groove, while the synth layers balance melody and ambiance in equal measure. The massive bass further enhances the track's groove, adding weight and depth to the overall sound of the album.

Another highlight of the album is the track "Cashless Society." This song pushes Zurich's aggressive sound to its limits, featuring soaring distorted synth bass and relentless arpeggio patterns that inject motion into the arrangement. The track's intensity reflects Zurich's dedication to pushing the boundaries of electronic music while still maintaining a sense of cohesion and structure.

"What Do You Do When The Whole World Just Falls Apart?" is yet another prominent track characterized by its high energy and dark atmosphere. The song evokes a dystopian vibe, reminiscent of a soundtrack to a John Carpenter movie (If you are a fan of cult flicks such as "Assault On Precinct 13," you probably already understand what I am talking about!" This particular song exemplifies Zurich's ability to fuse raw, saturated industrial sounds with bright, catchy melodies, creating a compelling and complex listening experience. It is safe to say that the producer succeeded in his quest to create music that will impact the audience on a deeper, more visceral level.

Zurich's sound could be compared to that of other boundary-pushing artists such as Machine Girl, LustSickPuppy, and Cabaret Voltaire, only to name a few. In spite of that, his distinct approach to production and composition and his willingness to explore the extremes of electronic music make World On Fire a unique and noteworthy addition to the modern electronic music landscape. With this album, Zurich not only challenges the norms of music production but also invites listeners to embrace the chaos, confusion, and intensity that define his sound.

Overall, what makes this album really special is perhaps its textured aesthetic. World On Fire is a dense and intricate blend of harsh industrial elements and meticulously crafted electronic soundscapes. It is characterized by layers of gritty, distorted synths that clash and intertwine with sharp, unpredictable rhythms, creating a sound that is both abrasive and hypnotic. At the same time, there are plenty of synth lines that you can actually hum along to, as the songs aren't only harsh noise or aggression through and through. The artist definitely managed to conjure up a good and interesting balance of raw outbursts of sonic onslaught and great hooks that won't get out of your head quite so easily. The music on this album is saturated, dirty, and intense, yet it also contains moments of unexpected clarity, where melodic fragments emerge from the chaos, adding depth and complexity to the overall sonic experience. This juxtaposition of harshness and melody gives the album a dynamic, almost tactile quality, making each track feel like a living, breathing entity.

This instrumental release is ultimately highly recommended to people who enjoy electronic music made by artists who think outside the box. Fans of artists such as Aphex Twin, Flying Lotus, Boards Of Canada, or Nosaj Thing should definitely give this one a go.

You can also follow the artist on Instagram

[4me4you]

As we navigate through the enigmatic landscapes of DZHUS AW24, we encounter a narrative that speaks to the human condition in its most raw and vulnerable state. The collection serves as a testament to the power of creativity as a transformative force, offering solace and catharsis in the face of adversity.

[badarchitectrecords]

Listen to this new track by Point of Memory "Most of a Murder" Here’s a quote from the artist!  Void Pusher is acoustic computer music; combining digital cut ups and live ambient noise with raw organic qualities. Inaudible super-bass frequencies pumping through a room filled with acoustic instruments and electric guitars set to quaver and rumble sympathetically. Then record the result; a cacophony of resounding snares, harmonizing drones and the subtle rattle of shakers, bells and tambourines. Most of the time you can't hear the bass, just the reactions to it. Sometimes the bass didn't create any rattle at all. By passing the source sounds through amplifiers at their original frequencies and mixing them with their reactive acoustic counterparts, each moment assumes its own physical logic, a sense of movement and consequence, accidentally adhering to Newton's third law of motion: for each action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. The intention behind this project was to create an album that, despite undergoing extensive manipulation, emanates a sense of human warmth and soul. All the source sounds were recorded live or processed through reamplification and manipulated live in a studio setting before being edited at home. The recording sessions took place during spring, summer, winter, and fall, capturing a broad spectrum of moods without deliberately seeking catharsis. The aim was to remain emotionally open and avoid excessive direction, in a superstitious attempt to capture something of the human condition writ large. Rather than pursuing personal emotional release, the goal was to embrace the human experience more generally and avoid individual emotional states. The logic is that creating music that resonates with universal feelings and sentiments is more challenging than producing work that is solely introspective and self-referential. In this way, the artist sought to be a conduit of the human condition rather than a "writer." In both method and aspiration, the artist seeks to listen for what is already transpiring within us, between us, around us, rather than risk drowning it out with an idea of what should be. Unknowable. It is hoped that through Void Pusher, something of the human experience has been captured. --- Point of Memory

[musicarenagh]

Finding Direction in the Ethereal Vibes of Indie-Pop: Paulina's "Sin Rumbo" In the sprawling panorama of music, new stars emerge ready to chart their own unique paths. One such rising talent is indie pop newcomer, Paulina. Her soul-infused pop single, "Sin Rumbo," leaves an unforgettable impression and creates a space for listeners to dwell in relaxation and catharsis. https://open.spotify.com/track/3EjHanytclRONf7UNjWb8j?si=644f69b4310b4a67 "Sin rumbo," Spanish for 'without direction,' is more than just easy listening; it’s a potent emotional journey wrapped in melodic tranquillity. The song’s captivating narrative is sprung from the heart-piercing struggles between societal expectations and personal insecurities—an alternative pop gem crafted to guide one towards the beacon at the end of the proverbial tunnel. Paulina delivers her soothing vocals with a finesse that matches seasoned artists within her genre, reinforcing her status as not just another melodious voice but a talented singer-songwriter from Puerto Rico. She brilliantly mirrors fragile emotions through her serene tonality. There is something off-kilter yet incredibly alluring about how she delves into delicate narratives using her calming voice. Musically, "Sin Rumbo" marries elements of soul and rock into its indie-pop framework, resulting in a composition that pays homage to local Puerto Rican indie scene influences while carving out its distinctive groove. While Paulina may have drawn inspiration from these artists, let there be no confusion; she stands distinctly in her stylistic sphere. [caption id="attachment_52127" align="alignnone" width="768"] Finding Direction in the Ethereal Vibes of Indie-Pop: Paulina's "Sin Rumbo"[/caption] The track’s abstract instrumentation summons an ambiance resonant with independent spirits while concurrently exuding comforting familiarity. It absorbs listeners into its world—soothing them like a lullaby yet exciting and engaging them simultaneously—not unlike two sides of Paulina's musical persona that coexist harmoniously. Lyrically potent and emotionally raw, "Sin Rumbo" sheds light on personal anxieties underlying themes of envy and disorientation—a depiction of the titular 'rudderless' state one can find themselves in. Yet, rather than sinking into desolation, Paulina leverages her music as a beacon of hope and solace, transforming her vulnerabilities into a universally relatable anthem of resilience. "Sin Rumbo" not only marks Paulina's second single but also emphasises her artistic growth and solidifies her foothold within the competitive indie-pop sphere. With a soulful vibe wrapped in tranquil ambiance, this single proves that Paulina is not just breezing through; she’s charting her course earnestly. Paulina's "Sin Rumbo" is truly an invitation—an open door to existential discovery set to the rhythm of soul-rock infused indie pop. It's about navigating uncertainties and finding comfort amidst it all. Relaxing yet stirring, the song emits a glow that one cannot help but bask in—an amalgamation of struggles, hopes, and dreams that shapes Paulina's captivating musical voyage. Follow Paulina on Website, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and TikTok.

[icefang100]

Used @/bitegore’s character sheet template for some of my OCs!

Notes:

Some of the art’s a bit outdated, but they all work well enough.

Most responses are based on how I view them, but some (ex. “the most godawful hot takes known to mankind”) are based on how I think other people would interpret them.

I felt bad marking down "chew toy" considering Darkeye's death, but. Well. It's true

Image IDs below the cut (be warned, they’re long).

[Image ID for base: Character development sheet which is titled “OMG its BLORBO BLEEBUS”. The space to add a name is labelled “This scrungly motherfucker is:”, and there’s a box to add an image. There’s six other sections to fill in, three of which have headings; these headings are “Sub-Class”, “Evokes”, and “You Want them to have:”, and all are noted with “select all that apply”. There are severity scales for “Intense”, “Complex”, and “Fruity”, along with gradient scales for “just some guy” to “the protagonist of life”, “head empty” to “too many thoughts”, “awful company” to “ray of sunshine”, “hated by all” to “beloved by all”, “trauma x1000” to “untouched by history”, “sadistic for fun” to “helps others for fun”, “stupid as shit” to “scary-smart”, “1,000 weapons” to “1,000 tools”, “enemy of god” to “at peace with life”, and “break the rules” to “change the rules”. The Sub Class section has the options “Angst-lord”, “Enemy of the State”, “Flavor Container”, “Himbo”, “Soft and Sweet”, “Braincell Haver”, “This Is A Kink”, “Just Like You FR”, “Chew Toy”, “Friend-Shaped”, “Aspirational Character”, and “Little Meow Meow”. Under the Evokes and You Want Them to Have sections, and a third unlabeled section, are boxes to check off, which read as follows. In the unlabeled section, “Tragic backstory?”, “Orphan?”, “Frequently violent?”, “Divorced?”, “Has enemies?”, “No friends?”, “Sidekick owner?”, “Pets stray animals?”, “Chronic insomniac?”, and “Murderer?”; in the Evokes section, “spontaneous gushing”, “powerful violent urges”, “raw, unbridled affection”, “The Horny”, “late-night thoughts”, “meta-posting on main”, “creative drive”, “defensive feelings”, “distraction”, “delight”, “symptoms of projection”, “absent-minded doodles on tabletops”, and “the most godawful hot takes known to mankind”; In the You Want Them to Have section, “a better/wose time”, “more/less trauma”, “more/less/different romance”, “more friends”, “painful isolation”, “a family”, “catharsis”, “revenge”, “sympathy”, “a better/worse situation”, “more/less healing”, “more/less/different sex”, “different friends”, “freedom”, “justification”, “The Realization™”, “consequences”, and “a satisfying ending”. /End ID.]

[Image ID for filled-out base: Character sheet for "Darkeye (He/Him; OC)". A digital drawing is displayed; he's depicted as a white, gold, and silver cat. The Intense and Fruity meters are close to center, while the Complex meter is slightly past that mark. The unlabeled check-off list is marked for tragic backstory, no friends, and chronic insomniac. The gradient scale markers are closest to "the protagonist of life", "too many thoughts", "ray of sunshine", "beloved by all", "trauma x1000", "helps others for fun", "stupid as shit", "1,000 tools", "enemy of god", and "change the rules". Of the Sub Class section, "Chew Toy" and "Friend-Shaped" are marked. The Evokes section is marked for meta-posting, creative drive, doodles. The "You want them to have:" section is marked for a better time, less trauma, more friends, catharsis, sympathy, a better situation, more healing, different friends, and "The Realization™". /End ID.]