#vinyl is their greatest song don't @ ME

[v3sterp0nk]

CHARAMETAL POST OF THE DAY

[romanoffsbish]

Dance the Night Away

Natasha Romanoff x R

Natasha loves you… | NSFW undertones, but no Smut | WC: 1,724 | Flashbacks between the funny lil lines

It was a quiet night in the Romanoff household, Natasha had only just gotten home from her last mission ever. Then she left again, taking your eldest daughter, Ella, and the bundle of toddlers, Milo and Andrey out for frozen yogurt. Your heart ached to be apart, but it also swelled as she never failed to give them her time. You knew she was tired, her mission was meant to be two days and yet it turned into weeks.

——

Your admiration for your wife only ever grew in these moments, and it was made more wholesome as your ears picked up on something special. Memories of a once blooming love story came back to you as you sipped on a glass of rose, now halfheartedly reading your book as the needle swirled around your favorite vinyl record. It was Adele's greatest cover- To Make You Feel My Love. It was the song that played at your wedding as you danced together as one, a perfect encapsulation of your story, from start to finish. Except fortunately for you both, there was no end in sight.

"When the rain is blowing in your face, and the whole world is on your case. I could offer you a warm embrace; to make you feel my love..."

A flow of happy tears streamed down your cheeks, you then closed your eyes and got lost in the nostalgia.

~•———•~•—————•~•—————•~•———��~

"Excuse me," you didn't have much time to react before your body jolted, a callous hand on your exposed hip the cause for your bodies reaction.

The club was jam packed, bodies shoved up against one another, but this bodily shock felt different. It almost felt like a message with the upmost urgency. Normally you'd shrug the person off, give them a few choice words for having the audacity to touch you, but all you did was shift your body around to face her.

You couldn't tell if it was a mistake, your fronts now flushed as she purposefully pushed you back more. Trapping you against the bar as she'd felt it too, the urge to be close to you was overwhelming and in the same breath it was also the most calm she'd ever felt.

"H-hi," you stuttered, eventually, after what felt like ages of just staring up at her chiseled jawline. Your knees nearly gave out as she chuckled, it was hoarse and the dazzling smirk to follow had you hooked.

"Sorry," she said, forgoing the greeting as her hand went to leave your side, but you reflexively stopped her and offered a nervous smile. "It's okay, I don't mind."

Natasha grinned. "So, you just let people touch you?" You knew she was teasing you, but you couldn't care less. "Not unless they're as good looking as you are."

Natasha hummed as she grabbed the shots she ordered from the bartender behind you. It wasn't her intention to leave the club with anyone tonight, but she did not want to miss out on such a gorgeous opportunity.

So, she let your words hang in the air and, suave as ever, threw her head back to down one while lifting the other up to your lips. You'd parted them without even questioning it, and she poured the alcohol down your throat with a knowing smirk as you instantly coughed.

"What- was- that?" You inquired in a fit of uncertainty, and the redhead chuckled, "Vodka; the Russian kind."

Once you stopped coughing she pulled away from you, watching in amusement as your body lurched to chase down her warmth. "May I have this dance then?"

The booze led you to say yes, rather enthusiastically, and it ended with you two outside of the club. Rain fell from the sky, though it hadn't been forecasted, and you melted into her warmth as she kissed you fervently.

The cab was coming, and soon enough you'd be too.

~•———•~•—————•~•—————•~•———•~

A proposed one night stand that turned into a forever. Natasha knew then that she'd likely fall for you, and the odd thing was she wasn't even scared to do so.

The two of you danced yourself into a lifetime.

There was no end to the amount of times you could reflect upon, Natasha never let the spark die out, even with how busy she was saving the world. Whenever she was away, and the kids were tucked in bed, you'd take moments like these to get lost in the memory cycle.

Sometimes you'd be so out of it, mind too elated to hear the world around you. Like now, you were too lost in the reminiscing to hear the lowly rumbling engine.

~•———•~•—————•~•—————•~•———•~

"Natasha..." The redhead looked at you instantly, her heart racing as she saw you in your wedding dress, you looked perfect. Yet it was somehow bad luck, which is what she shrieked as her hands flew up to her eyes.

"My love," you whispered, hands gripping her wrists so you could pull her hands down to your waist. "You don't even believe in that superstition, and neither do I. Stop letting Wanda get to you, please look at me."

A heavy sigh rushed over your done up face, and her eyes of emerald green opened to look into yours. It set off alarm bells when she saw your eyes were glossy.

Were you getting cold feet? What had happened? She had to find out because if you were running, then she would be right there behind you, on your heels.

"Detka, what's..." You shook your head and cupped her cheeks, she'd yet to do her makeup so it was okay, the dry, bare skin brought you the comfort you craved. "I just needed to see you, that's all. I hated being away from you last night—all these rules make no sense."

"I know," she sighed, "Letting Wanda wedding plan is surely biting us in the ass, hm?" You giggled and the brick that had settled on her chest quickly dissipated.

"I just want you," you whispered, lips ghosting over Natasha's but never touching to keep your gloss intact. She took in a sharp breath as she controlled her urge to kiss you, silly or not, she liked the idea of saving today's first kiss for the altar, but it was hard to refrain. "It's all too much, especially without you by my side."

Natasha knew just what you needed, so she pulled back and extended her hand out to grab yours...

~•———•~•—————•~•—————•~•———•~

"May I have this dance?" You smiled instantaneously, back to your wife as she extended a hand over your shoulder. Seconds, that was all it took for your book to fall from your lap and her hand to envelop yours just before her body did. Natasha pulled you close, soft lips pressed against the warm skin of your cheek, it was unclear if it was the alcohol or her touch that got you to this moment of weakness, but truth be told it was both.

The redhead quickly readjusted the needle, allowing the special song to replay as she pulled you closer. It was never enough for her to have you in her arms, if she could absorb you wholly she probably would, but she'll settle for slipping her hands under your shirt. Her fingertips grazed over the indented lines that covered your hips and her lips found yours forehead.

Natasha inwardly admired your strength, and the work it took for you two to build this life. Her hands never wanted to leave your body, but as the songs blended the mood wordlessly shifted. "Where are the kids?"

Natasha spun you out, then pulled you back in, your face nuzzled against her chest, so you felt as she softly sighed, "They're at Lena's for the weekend, I wanted to surprise you with a few days just to ourselves."

Once the vinyl came to an end you felt a shift in the air, no music needed to play as the energy carried your collective movements. Natasha spun you around, and you responded by pressing your backside into her. Tension left your soul to have her this close again, but it flooded your every sense as she sensually swayed your bodies in sync with the rhythm of her heartbeat.

Natasha moaned against the skin of your neck as your hand reached back to slide into her hair. Your nails scratched at her scalp, melting away the remaining tension from her body that she brought home with her.

Your mind went hazy the longer she moved you, her hands were firm and the thrust of her hips into your backside became a bit more incessant. The redhead turned you around abruptly, your hot breaths mingled as you now shared your air more directly. There was a warmth radiating between your cores that could be felt the longer your fronts swayed together, it was hard to ignore too once you started to whimper at a graze.

Natasha wanted to kiss you, it took everything in her not to, because it'd been nearly a month since she had. At least in the way she was about to, pecking your lips in greeting would never compare to what's to come.

Which is why she refused to do it in such a rush, she planned to take her time with you instead. "Go upstairs," she gently commanded, her tone soft but you knew she wasn't simply asking—she was telling. "I'll be right behind you detka, don't you worry now."

Natasha gave your ass a love tap as you walked away, and chuckled as you squeaked. You sent her a playful glare just before obediently following her request.

Once you were gone she worked quickly to tidy up the room, throwing the boys toys into the right bins, and settling your book with a placeholder on the table.

When she entered the room with her hands full you knew you made the right call by undressing. A bag of organic trail mix stuck out of her jacket pocket, her go to sex snack, then you peered up to see the half empty bottle of wine, and two glasses sat in her hand.

"You always did know how to read my mind..."

•~~ “I could make you happy, make your dreams come true. Nothing that I wouldn't do, go to the ends of the Earth for you—To make you feel my love.” ~~•

[tinzeliink]

Just wanted to show my CDs collection , I find it pretty cool but still have some to buy tho .

(Don't pay attention to my class sheets behind)

So we've got :

All slipknot albums

All soad's albums

The doors's self titled

Korn : the Greatest hits ; issues (I plan on buying follow the leader)

Orelsan - civilisation (I'm planning on buying la fête est finie )

Stone Sour: self titled; audio secrecy

The strokes : room on fire ( I'm planning on buying the rest of their albums )

Muse : showbiz; origin of symmetry and the resistance (literally my childhood's album) (I'm planning on buying absolution, black holes and revelation and drones )

Nothing but thieves: dead club city , broken machine and self titled (I want moral panic so baaaad )(but I have it in vinyl )

Royal blood : I have all of them except the last one that I wanna buy too

Nirvana : unplugged in New York, in utero , nevermind and incesticide (I'm planning on buying the self titled and the first one)

Mass hysteria: matière noir and tenace pt1 and pt2

And then : song for the deaf - queen of the stone age

The fear of fear - spiritbox

Reign in blood - slayer

Amo - bring me the horizon

[juneability]

12 Days of Christmas: Studyblr Edition !

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Why? I had my last final this week and now I'm back into my antsy holiday mode, when I am more motivated than I ever manage to be during the semester. I also like making commitments I can't keep. ♡

Who? I'm curating this challenge for myself, but if it sparks inspiration for anyone else in the #studyblr, feel free to use some or all of my ideas here to make your own posts!

When? December 13 until December 24! We ain't studying on Christmas. [Feel free to use this challenge outside of the Christmas season, though!]

How? Participate by making posts and tagging me (@juneability) or using the tag #12dopmas.

What? See below:

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

On the first day of the challenge, set up your daily goals (3-10 goals, as a general parameter). Be specific, and make sure they're accessible within your life circumstances.

(ex.) This year, every day, I will:

Wake up before 8am, go to bed before 11pm.

Read for at least 30min.

Read & take notes on one (entire) academic paper.

Practice an instrument for at least 30min.

Clean/organize a space (different each day).

In a post, report on your goal progress and share on some areas you'd like to improve. Then [optional], share something you're grateful for, and/or answer one of these 15 prompts:

Learning:

What is something you'd love to learn if you had the time?

What is something you'd love to learn if you had the resources?

What is something you'd love to learn if you had the motivation?

What is your favourite thing about a subject you're well-versed in?

Ideals:

What does your ideal lifestyle look like? What can you do today to match it a little more?

What is the ideal study space for you? What can you do today to match it a little more?

What are the pros of your note-taking method? What are the cons?

Recommendations:

What's a song, album, or playlist that's been keeping you going lately?

What show, book, or movie would you recommend to your younger self? (Something you wish you'd seen sooner!)

What is your favourite snack? What is your favourite meal?

Miscellaneous

What are three adjectives that are meaningful to you?

Do you collect anything (e.g., stickers, rocks, pretty pens, vinyls, movies, etc.)? Share what + why!

What is one of your greatest virtues as a person or student? Don't be shy; know thyself!

Who is somebody you look up to (e.g., a family member, friend, teacher, celebrity, artist, etc.)?

· · ─ ·𖥸· ─ · ·

Happy studying! (+ Merry Christmas)

[escapingpurgatory]

my music collection a-z (by artist)

most of these were purchased second hand, or given to me by various family members. I've been building my collection for around 3 years, it takes time!

numbers/symbols

dare to be stupid by "weird al" yankovic (cd)

even worse by "weird al" yankovic (cd)

all eyez on me by 2pac (two cd)

A

arrival by abba (vinyl)

back in black by ac/dc (cd)

dirty deeds done dirt cheap by ac/dc (cd)

highway to hell by ac/dc (cd)

the razors edge by ac/dc (cd)

devil's got a new disguise: the very best of aerosmith (cd)

get a grip by aerosmith (cd)

permanent vacation by aerosmith (cd)

toys in the attic by aerosmith (cd)

classicks by alice cooper (cd)

dirt by alice in chains (cd)

facelift by alice in chains (cd)

greatest hits by alice in chains (cd)

among the living by anthrax (cd)

attack of the killer b's by anthrax (cd)

i'm the man by anthrax (cd)

persistence of time by anthrax (cd)

spreading the disease by anthrax (cd)

state of euphoria by anthrax

B

don't smile at me by billie eilish (opaque red vinyl)

happier than ever by billie eilish (double vinyl)

idolize yourself (the very best of billy idol) (cd)

52nd street by billy joel (vinyl)

glass houses by billy joel (cd)

greatest hits volume I & volume II by billy joel (cd)

storm front by billy joel (cd)

the essential billy joel (two cd)

don't say no by billy squier (cd)

the ultimate collection by black sabbath (two cd)

we sold our soul for rock n roll by black sabbath (cd)

back to back hits by blondie and pat benatar (cd)

cross road by bon jovi (cd)

crush by bon jovi (cd)

keep the faith by bon jovi (cd)

new jersey by bon jovi (cd)

slippery when wet by bon jovi (cd)

this ain't a love song by bon jovi (cd)

greatest hits by boston (cd)

born in the u.s.a. by bruce springsteen (cd)

nebraska by bruce springsteen (cd)

reckless by bryan adams (cd)

C

greatest hits by the cars (cd)

hiss spun by chelsea wolfe (cd)

greatest hits 1982-1989 by chicago (cd)

blood bunny by chloe moriondo (cd)

rabbit hearted by chloe moriondo (cd)

long cold winter by cinderella (cd)

night songs by cinderella (cd)

london calling by the clash (cd)

no need to argue by the cranberries (cd)

mixed up by the cure (cd)

D

danzig by danzig (cd)

the rise and fall of ziggy stardust and the spiders from mars by david bowie (vinyl)

adrenalize by def leppard (cd)

hysteria by def leppard (cd)

rocket by def leppard (cassette)

around the fur by deftones (cd)

violator by depeche mode (cd)

the last in line by dio (cd)

the sickness by disturbed (cd)

live in europe 1968 by the doors (vhs)

the best of the doors (two cd)

the best of the doors (vhs)

the doors by the doors (vinyl)

E

their greatest hits 1971-1975 by eagles (cd)

either/or by elliot smith (vinyl)

elton john's greatest hits (cassette)

elton john's greatest hits volume III, 1979-1987 (cd)

goodbye yellow brick road by elton john (cd and dvd box set)

honky château by elton john (cd)

rare masters by elton john (two cd)

fallen by evanescence (cd)

the open door by evanescence (cd)

F

wake me up when it's over by faster pussycat (cd)

firehouse by firehouse (cd)

rumours by fleetwood mac (cd)

G

the baddest of george thorogood and the destroyers (cd)

good times, bad times... ten years of godsmack (cd)

dookie by green day (cd)

insomniac by green day (cd)

nimrod by green day (cd)

appetite for destruction by guns n' roses

g n' r lies by guns n' roses (cd)

use your illusion I by guns n' roses (cd)

use your illusion II by guns n' roses (cd)

H

time flies... the best of huey lewis and the news (cd)

I

the number of the beast by iron maiden (cd)

J

golden waltzes from the blue room by jan garber and his orchestra (vinyl)

super hits by janis joplin (cd)

grace by jeff buckley (cd)

the ultimate experience by jimi hendrix (cd)

greatest hits by joan jett and the blackhearts (cd)

american fool by john "cougar" mellencamp (cd)

greatest hits by journey (cd)

K

revenge by kiss (cd)

smashes, thrashes, and hits by kiss (cd)

follow the leader by korn (red double vinyl)

greatest hits vol. 1 by korn (cd)

issues by korn (cd)

life is peachy by korn (cd)

mtv unplugged by korn (cd)

see you on the other side by korn (cd)

take a look in the mirror by korn (cd)

L

the fame by lady gaga (cd)

did you know that there's a tunnel under ocean blvd by lana del rey (hot pink double vinyl)

latter days: the best of led zeppelin volume 2 (cd)

led zeppelin by led zeppelin (cd)

remasters by led zeppelin (three cd)

untitled by led zeppelin (cd)

hybrid theory by linkin park (red vinyl)

meteora by linkin park (cd)

lita by lita ford (cassette)

split by lush (cd)

M

a tout le monde by megadeth (cd)

countdown to extinction by megadeth (cd)

countdown to extinction by megadeth (cd)

cryptic writings by megadeth (cd)

killing is my business... and business is good! by megadeth (cd)

peace sells... but who's buying? by megadeth (remaster/remix) (cd)

peace sells... but who's buying? by megadeth (cd)

rust in peace by megadeth (cd)

so far, so good... so what! by megadeth (remaster/remix) (cd)

so far, so good... so what! by megadeth (cd)

...and justice for all by metallica (cd)

garage inc. by metallica (two cd)

kill 'em all by metallica (red vinyl)

live shit: binge and purge box set by metallica (three cd and three vhs tape)

load by metallica (cd)

master of puppets by metallica (cd)

master of puppets by metallics (brick red vinyl)

metallica by metallica (cd)

reload by metallica (cd)

ride the lightning by metallica (cd)

the $9.98 c.d. - garage days re-revisited by metallica (cd)

until it sleeps by metallica (cd)

s&m by metallica (two cd)

gross misconduct by m.o.d. (cd)

die die my darling by misfits (12" vinyl)

decade of decadence '81-'91 by mötley crüe (cd)

dr. feelgood by mötley crüe (cd)

girls, girls, girls by mötley crüe (cd)

shout at the devil by mötley crüe (cd)

theatre of pain by mötley crüe (cd)

the black parade by my chemical romance (cd)

the black parade by my chemical romance (grey double vinyl)

N

bleach by nirvana (vinyl)

from the muddy banks of wishkah by nirvana (cd)

icon by nirvana (cd)

in utero by nirvana (cd)

mtv unplugged in new york by nirvana (purple vinyl)

nevermind by nirvana (cd)

O

americana by the offspring (cd)

ixnay on the hombre by the offspring (cd)

smash by the offspring (cd)

no more tears by ozzy osbourne (cd)

the ozzman cometh by ozzy osbourne (cd)

P

cowboys from hell by pantera (cd)

vulgar display of power by pantera (cd)

ask the angels by patti smith (cd)

ten by pearl jam (cd)

vs. by pearl jam (cd)

solitude / solitaire by peter cetera (cd)

...hits by phil collins (cd)

a collection of great dance songs by pink floyd (cd)

the wall by pink floyd (two cd)

wish you were here by pink floyd (cd)

flesh & blood by poison (cd)

look what the cat dragged in by poison (cd)

open up and say... ahh! by poison (cd)

the hits 1 by prince (cd)

the hits 2 by prince (cd)

purple rain by prince and the revolution (cd)

Q

greatest hits I II & III (the platinum collection) by queen (three cd)

winners take all by quiet riot (cd)

R

pablo honey by radiohead (cd)

ratt & roll 8191 by ratt (cd)

the hits by reo speedwagon (cd)

the second decade of rock and roll 1981 to 1991 by reo speedwagon (cd)

good girl gone bad by rihanna (cd)

hillbilly deluxe by rob zombie (cd)

the sinister urge by rob zombie (cd)

addiction volume I by robert palmer (cd)

hot rocks 1964-1971 by the rolling stones (two cd)

look sharp! by roxette (cd)

S

best of rockers 'n' ballads by scorpions (cd)

skid row by skid row (cd)

slave to the grind by skid row (cd)

iowa by slipknot (cd)

slipknot by slipknot (yellow vinyl)

vol 3: (the subliminal verses) by slipknot (cd)

the queen is dead by the smiths (vinyl)

badmotorfinger by soundgarden (cd)

core by stone temple pilots (cd)

purple by stone temple pilots (cd)

live at budokan by s.o.d. (cd)

sublime by sublime (cd)

T

temple of the dog by temple of the dog (cd)

dream walkin' by toby keith (cd)

how do you like me now?! by toby keith (cd)

pull my chain by toby keith (cd)

white tra$h with money by toby keith (cd)

full moon fever by tom petty (cd)

wildflowers by tom petty (cd)

V (most are various)

best of volume I by van halen (cd)

beavis and butt-head do america - original motion picture soundtrack (cd)

chef aid: the south park album (cd)

mtv: the first 1000 years: new wave (cd)

the beavis and butt-head experience (cd)

the twilight saga eclipse (original motion picture soundtrack) (cd)

the wedding singer (music from the motion picture) (cd)

twilight (original motion picture soundtrack) (cd)

contraband by velvet revolver (cd)

W

cherry pie by warrant (cd)

dirty rotten filthy stinking rich by warrant (cd)

astro-creep: 2000 (songs of love, destruction and other synthetic delusions of the electric head) by white zombie (cd)

la sexorcisto: devil music vol. 1 by white zombie (cd)

the late string quartets by mozart (five vinyls)

[lilmissnatcat24]

Top 10 Albums

I have to only choose ten holy shittttt. Thanks for the tag gorgeous @milkywayes

Rules: List your top 10 favorite albums, and (if you want) include a brief description for why each one made it onto the list. Then, tag 10 (or however many you want, really) others to do the same.

I tag: @shepsfishtank @that-wildwolf @dynamitegun @mostmagical

My 10 Favorite Albums:

Golden Hour- Kacey Musgraves I'm not even a huge country person but this is filled with nothing but no skip bangers

2. You Don't Mess Around With Jim- Jim Croce My favorite artist of all time, Time in a Bottle fills me with more emotion that any other song I've ever heard in my entire life

3. x Infinity by Watsky This was the first album I ever consciously listened to front-to-back, and still to this day it's a religious experience

4. Rumours- Fleetwood Mac Might be a basic choice, but I am basic.

5. Deju Vu- Crosby, Stills, Nash, & Young I grew up on a lot of older folk music, and this album is the absolute peak top of that genre

6. Black Pumas- Black Pumas This was the first vinyl I bought with my own money on a whim after seeing them on the Grammys, still my favorite album when I want to impress people with my music taste.

7. Evermore- Taylor Swift Another basic choice for a basic girl

8. Greenlights- Lorde Listen I was a teenager for peak Lorde, I think this was the greatest album for my teenage years

9. I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it- The 1975 Again, 2010s teen here, absolutely formative. Still the best concert I ever saw (or didn't, seeing as I was blackout drunk for the entire thing)

10. Everyone Else Is Doing It, So Why Can't We- The Cranberries The CRANK THAT SHIT album I listen to when I need to clean my entire apartment

HONORABLE MENTION: The Shrek 2 soundtrack I bought from Half Priced Books for $1.50 in 2007 that went platinum in my mom's minivan

[black-arcana]

HIM Announces Career-Spanning Anthology 'When Love And Death Embrace - The Best Of HIM 1997-2003'

BMG has announced the upcoming release of "When Love and Death Embrace - The Best of HIM 1997-2003", a comprehensive anthology celebrating the early years of the legendary Finnish rock band HIM. Set to hit stores on October 25, 2024, this collection brings together the most beloved tracks from the band's first four studio albums, offering fans a nostalgic journey through HIM's groundbreaking career.

HIM, recognized worldwide for its distinctive blend of sentimental lyrics and hard-hitting rock and its iconic Heartagram symbol, has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. With over 10 million albums sold worldwide, HIM stands as one of Finland's most commercially successful musical exports and remains the first Finnish group to receive a gold record in the United States.

"When Love And Death Embrace" features 16 tracks that defined HIM's sound and propelled them to international stardom. From their debut album "Greatest Lovesongs Vol. 666" (1997) to the acclaimed "Love Metal" (2003),this compilation includes fan favorites such as "Right Here In My Arms", "Join Me In Death" and "The Funeral Of Hearts". The album also showcases HIM's memorable covers of Chris Isaak's "Wicked Game" and BLUE ÖYSTER CULT's "(Don't Fear) The Reaper".

"When Love And Death Embrace - The Best Of HIM 1997-2003" track listing: 01. Right Here In My Arms 02. The Funeral Of Hearts 03. Your Sweet Six Six Six 04. Heartache Every Moment 05. Buried Alive By Love. 06. Wicked Game. 07. Join Me In Death 08. In Joy And Sorrow 09. Soul On Fire 10. Pretending 11. Gone With The Sin 12. (Don't Fear) The Reaper 13. Poison Girl. 14. Close To The Flame. 15. The Sakrament 16. When Love And Death Embrace

The anthology will be available in three formats: a standard CD album featuring a wallet with spot gloss and embossing, a limited-edition 2LP set pressed on 140g white vinyl with a spot gloss jacket and embossing, and digital. Both physical formats are sure to be coveted by collectors and fans alike.

Despite disbanding in 2017, HIM's music continues to resonate with fans worldwide. Ville Valo's ongoing solo career, in which he performs as VV, often features HIM classics in live performances, keeping the spirit of the band alive for devoted followers.

"When Love And Death Embrace - The Best Of HIM 1997-2003" is not just a collection of songs but a testament to HIM's enduring legacy in the world of rock music. This anthology is a must-have for long-time fans and newcomers alike.

[harrisonbrainrot]

Scarlet Begonias - M!Han x Reader

Chapter 2

MDNI - 18+

A/N: Back at it again because yall liked the first part. POV is different. Also, the reader is unnamed, I don't really know how I'll navigate that in the future but oh well. All I have so far has avoided it but idk. Anyways, have more of my ridiculous shit.

I blinked at Han, matching his previously confused expression. 'Excuse me, what did you say?' I unintentionally challenged him. Which really just encouraged him, as he stepped closer.

'I said that you have an attitude. Am I wrong?' I narrowed my eyes at him, shaking my head. How was that supposed to be a compliment? How was that supposed to make me feel good? He stepped closer still, all the while I idly pet Chewie. He stopped right in front of me, and I couldn't help but wonder if this guy was a serial killer or something and I was dumb enough to go to his house. Maybe he was gunna chop me up and feed me to Chewie-

'Look, I don't normally like girls like this. It's a simple fuck and they're gone. It's easier that way. For some reason, I want you to look at my vinyl collection. So, if you're inclined to follow me..' I just gaped at him, he was unbelievable. Why did I like that? It was like he matched me, toe to toe, and it was a matter of who would submit to the other's sass first. Bastard man... Either way, I followed him to the other room. God, this house was way bigger than it looked on the outside.

'Alright, fine. If you check your tone, I'll consider looking at your vinyl collection.' Han stopped dead in his tracks as I said that, whipping around to point at himself.

'Me? I need to check my tone? Look, little lady, I don't take too kindly to demands and orders in my own home... but I guess if I gotta, I'll tone it down.' I smiled softly at him, his face lit by dim lamps he left on before he went out. Either he was forgetful, or he left lights on for Chewie. If it was the latter, I'd be inclined to say that was endearing and sweet.

'Thank you.' I said it sweetly, looking up at him with best sweet face I could make, which really just caused him to roll his eyes. Han couldn't help but move out of my way, apparently. Because I let myself into the den, and he followed behind. I was so acutely aware of his presence behind me, it was unfair that he existed with such an energy that it made the hairs stand up on my neck.

'What do you like?' His voice was soft. Like he didn't let many people here and he was unsure of how to proceed. I shrugged, turning to look at him. He was much closer than I anticipated. He was close enough to appreciate how much bigger than me he was. I found myself forgetting what he even said, like the only thoughts I had was how his hair looked brushed back in a carefree way and how his beard looked scratchy enough to drive me crazy. With a deep inhale, I shook my head.

'Anything. I'm not being facetious, I genuinely like at least one song from any genre. Show me your favorite.' Whatever it was about that statement made him chuckle and tilt his head. I wished I could read his mind, desperately. He was such an enigma. Who was he? I found myself wanting to know everything from the time he wakes up to his favorite Ben and Jerry's flavor.. who would he vote for in the upcoming election? What was his go to drink on a hot summer's day? I swallowed back any questions as I watched him bend at the hips to scan his collection, I could see his back clearly through his shirt. The muscles along his spine, the curve of his body.. I mean, I still would thank Levi's for those jeans, they were made for him and his ass and thighs. I shook myself out of it as he stood, turning to face me. I read the sleeve he held up.

'The Mamas and the Papas? Really?' I laughed softly, shaking my head in disbelief. No one ever listened to them. I was so "different" for liking any of their music.

'Absolutely, California Dreamin' is one of the greatest songs ever.' He stepped to the record player, dropping the twelve inch vinyl on the turntable. I smiled, if hearts appeared in my eyes, I wouldn't be surprised. He fiddled with the tonearm until he got it to California Dreamin'. I was surprised to see him move subtly but gracefully to the music. I couldn't help but sway with him. It got to the verse I knew he loved the song for, who didn't love this verse. He came closer, dropping to his knees. I had the feeling he'd never be on his knees for anyone but himself.. but damn it, if he didn't look pretty on them.

Stopped into a church

I passed along the way

Well I got down on my knees-

'And I began to pray.'  He finished the line with this rasp that I couldn't begin to describe but if I wasn't slightly turned on before, I was now. God, what a showboat.

You know the preacher likes the cold

He knows I'm gunna stay

Han stood, giving me this entirely tempting smile. 'Yeah, you like them, but do you like them like that?' I could hear the instruments in the background as he stepped closer. He leaned down, holy shit he was going to kiss me?, but he pulled away. 'Wanna smoke?' God damn it. I nodded, trying to keep my cool.

'Yeah.. yeah I'll smoke.' He nodded, beelining for the couch. He dropped down, his long legs bent at the knees, they stood off the couch. He was too lanky for this couch. I hesitantly sat next to him, completely interested in how he rolled a joint. It seemed practiced, methodical. Rolling tray, grinder, grind some flower, grab a paper.. two mountains and a valley, twist, twist, twist, smooth.. but when it came to sealing the paper, he knew what he was doing. Oh, lord. His tongue left his lips, delicately but deliberately licking the adhesive before rolling one last time to seal it. He behaved like he had no idea, like he was so clueless to what he just did. There was a slight glint in his eye, as he passed me the joint, that was absolutely gorgeous and devious. He knew, in some compacity, what he was doing and the effect. How unfair, he was so simply enticing. No effort. He rolled a fucking joint, that shouldn't be as erotic as it was.

'You get the first toke.' God, he even spoke like a man out of time.. I grabbed it, taking the lighter he offered. The joint nearly slipped from my lips as his fingers brushed mine ever so subtly. I quickly lit the joint, inhaling deeply. Was this going to benefit him or me? Either way, I was eager to find out. My hand held out the joint to him, it was rolled perfectly, if I was honest. It was like a surgeon at work; no scars, no long lasting damage, just perfectly executed. He took it, French inhaling as he did. He told me 'gets you higher, promise.' I already knew that, but I'd humor him. He passed it back to me, and I french inhaled, feeling the smoke leave my mouth and burn my nostrils. I tried not to cough or let my eyes water, but he saw. I felt his hand on my back and I swear, it burned. I could feel how warm he was, it sent tingles down my spine. I shook my head slowly.

'Don't push yourself on my behalf, sweetheart.' He said it so soft, like he actually cared. I was too busy coughing then trying not to cough to really pay attention. I pressed myself against the back of the couch, I closed my eyes, seeing stars. I leaned my head against the back of it, because, fuck.. the world was spinning.

'You okay?' I tried to nod but I was so fucking high I couldn't feel anything. There was a disconnect from my brain to my body, all I knew was that I was coughing and my lungs burned. I felt him grab my wrists pulling them above my head.

'Keep your arms up, baby. Helps your lungs expand. Remember, you're breathing. You can breathe.. in and out. Breathe with me.' I struggled to follow his instructions, but even the bare minimum made me feel better. I managed a soft nod, breathing in with him then exhaled as he did. Rinse and repeat. Fuck, I was high. Too high. 'I'm sorry. I should've warned you. You probably think I did this on purpose. I didn't. Tell me when you want to leave and I'll get you home. Safe and sound.' I shook my head, breathing deeply and normally. He let my wrists go and I fought against myself to seek out that same warmth. I looked at him with half lidded eyes, shaking my head again.

'I'm okay, I'm good.' He smiled in response. He flicked the ashes onto the rolling tray, hitting it again. His drags off of things were heavenly. Like he was made to smoke. He was made to inhale and exhale delightful whisps of carbon dioxide. He was probably no good for me... but he had done nothing but be considerate and kind, regardless of his sarcasm and wit. Inevitably, I knew I had to check the time. I had class in the morning and I didn't want to start slacking now that it was my last semester of my senior year. He saw me check and looked away for a brief moment.

'You wanna go?' No. I don't. Not really.

'I have class in the morning..' I said the words softer than I expected, I really didn't want to leave. Han was cool, he smoked me out no questions asked.

'Ah, shit. I forgot. You a senior?' I nodded quickly, meeting his gaze. Was he always this close or am I just high? 'So, you're twenty..two?' I heard him ask, of course he should ask. It's the right thing to do.

'Twenty-two. Turning twenty-three. You?' He smiled softly, looking away.

'Too old for you, sweetheart.'

'That's not an answer.'

'Alright. I'm thirty-three.' I watched him with a sickenly interested gaze. He wasn't too old, eleven years was completely normal.. right? 'You shouldn't be thinking any of those thoughts, sweetheart. There's plenty of nice college boys out there for you.' I scoffed at the idea of it.

'I've had plenty of boyfriends and flings in my four years at college. They all suck. They're stupid and think they know everything.' That gets a real laugh out of him and all of a sudden, I want to make him laugh every day. It was such a nice laugh, not obnoxious.. just nice.

'What, I'm not stupid and think I know everything?' I wasn't sure if I was being tested by him or if he wanted a real answer.

'You don't seem stupid. You've only given the impression you know everything, not that you actually know everything. That's much better.'

'Is it? How's that?'

'Well, it's better to give the impression that you know things, rather than saying that you do. You don't say, you just do. I like that.' He nods with a thoughtful expression.

'What are you doing tomorrow?' That was sudden. I tried to think of something clever but all I could say was the obvious.

'Class.' I shrugged at my lame response. My eyes felt dry and itchy.

'Well.. what about after class?' I looked away, staring at my feet. Did he want to do something with me? I wasn't prepared for that.

'I.. nothing, really. Just... nothing.'

'You wanna get lunch?' Oh. He did want to do something. Shit. I could feel my heart race. I nodded, still looking at my feet. His carpet was so ugly, I could only describe it as brorange. Brown and orange. 'Okay, when is your class over?'

'I'm completely free around three.'

'Okay, I'll pick you up. Do you want me to take you home?'

'I don't wanna go, but I should.' He nodded, standing. Han held his hand out to help me off the couch. His hand dwarfed mine and he pulled me nearly into his chest. I had to place my hand on it and he smiled, I steadied myself with a blush. Fuck, he had a strong chest. I felt his hand grab my waist to help me keep my balance. This was.. dangerous territory, I should've moved away. I really should've, but I was glued to the spot.

'Thank you.' I blushed even more seeing him look down at me like that. There was just something about the way he looked at me. Like I was all that he wanted. He looked hungry.

'Oh, ain't nothin'. Don't worry.' He reluctantly let go, stepping back. He looked over at Chewie, who had been sleeping on the otherside of the room on a slightly too small bed. He whistled at him and Chewie stood, stretching for a long moment. 'Wanna come with, boy? Do you mind?' He asked me, I was slightly taken aback by the consideration. I shook my head, smiling at him.

'Go ahead, he's cute, he can tag along.'

'Am I cute?' He asked back, how do I say 'You're the hottest man I've ever met in my entire life and I would fuck you right now' without sounding crazy?

'You're alright.' I gave him a teasing smile, he grinned back.

'You're cute when you blush. I like that.' Huh? I'm fairly certain my brain shut down. No, I think I just heard the windows error noise over and over in my head.

'That's sweet of you, Han.' I looked anywhere but him as he hooked Chewie's leash to his collar. He gave me that look again.

'I like the way you say my name..' a shiver ran down my spine. I felt hot, like I was going to spontaneously combust on the spot. I didn't say anything as we went to the door. That didn't have to mean anything, people can say that, sometimes a voice sounds nice saying certain words. I kept telling myself that, because there's certainly no way he thinks I'm attractive in the same magnitude I think he's attractive.. Han opened the door for me, I caught his gaze for a brief moment, it was always intense. His brows pulled together slightly in a way that made him look confused, like he didn't know why I stopped and stared at him. Like he didn't know what he was doing to me, I refused to believe that for a fraction of a second. I just stepped out the doorway and across the porch as he shut the door behind himself. 'Y'allright?' That was the second time tonight he had asked and this time I had to lie.

'Yeah, sorry.. just stoned out of my gourd.' I was high, but how do you tell someone you just met that you're completely enamored with him? You don't or else you look insane. I just open his gate and we step out to the sidewalk. It's dark now, darker than before, if that was even possible. The walk was mostly silent, both of us high enough to enjoy the silence. His boots sounded louder on the pavement than when we walked together earlier, I watched his steps. He walked with this purposeful swagger. The way he carried himself was carefree, loose.. but he had such intention behind his movements. He didn't even stop walking when he took out a cigarette and lit it. He flicked the zippo shut with a clink before pocketing it again. I could see my apartment in the distance, I already worried about saying goodbye. Our shoulders bumped for half a second, I fought the urge to flinch, he was strong and broad.. that made it incredibly hard to ignore bumping into him. The simplest of actions brought out the most violent reactions. Teases, hints, whispers of what his body was capable of. What he was capable of. I tried to not think about his arms pulling me close, what it would be like to grip them for dear life.. I was a goner.

'Right here, yeah?' He pointed with his fingers again, I stared at the cigarette perched between them. I hadn't wanted a cigarette in a long time, but looking at his cigarette made me want to smoke with a new found fervor. My tongue swiped across my lips as I looked where he pointed.

'Y-yeah.. Can I get a drag before you go?' He gave me that crooked grin, his eyes flashed with amusement.

'Sure, little lady.' He passed me the cigarette and I put it to my lips. Immediately I tasted him on the filter, my eyes fluttered at the thought of tasting him for real. Made my knees weak and my heart flutter in that way when you're anxiously excited for something. It felt like right before the big drop on some absurd coaster at a theme park. It felt dangerous, but it couldn't really be all that bad. My fingers trembled as the warm smoke scorched my lungs in that familiar way. It reminded me of summer nights with my friends, before we all split for college. I don't even know what half of them are up to now. I handed it back to him, exhaling deeply. His hands were so so enticing as his fingers plucked the cigarette from mine. His fingertips were rough, I tried to imagine them on my thighs or mine stomach, all the soft, sensitive parts of me.

'I'll call you tomorrow.' The way he said it made me believe him. He'd call and we'd get lunch tomorrow afternoon. I smiled up at him and he took a step closer. He was magnetic, I matched the step closer.

'Sounds like a date- a plan. Sounds like a plan.' I blushed again, looking away. He moved his hand to my chin, tilting my face back to him. It felt electric, amazing, he had this way of controlling the situation. His fingers lit my skin desperately, my nerve endings had gone haywire. He shook his head, his smile fading softly as he leaned closer.

'It can be a date.' His voice was low, it was only us on this dark street. No reason to not whisper. I couldn't breathe, I died and went to some sick and twisted version of heaven. He leaned in slowly, inching painfully closer, painfully slow.

'What are you doing?' I rushed the words out, they were soft and shaky. 'I think you're making a mistake.'

He shook his head slightly, briefly flashing that smile as he chuckled. 'Trust me, I'm a nice man.' I blinked at him, completely pliable to his advances.

'Yeah, but-' He cut me off, his plush lips pressed to mine. It was slow, gentle, not what I expected him to kiss like. His scruff was just the right amount of scratchy against my face, I instinctively held his face. I couldn't think, there were no thoughts, no coherent ones. My brain went silent the second I felt his hands grip my waist. I exhaled into the kiss and he got hungier. His kisses grew in passion, like he was starving and I'd keep him fed and alive for another day. He tugged me closer, our hips pressed into each other which gave me enough for my imagination to run wild with. He pulled away, unfortunately. I wanted to die the second he did. He wasn't far away from my lips and I could close the gap, did he want me to? I would, oh, I would for him. I hesitantly brushed my lips against his, which he returned softly.

'I.. uh.. that was.. I- wow.' I ran a hand through my hair, trying to get the wrinkles in my brain to work, form words to make sentences but shit. Nothing happened.

'Did I kiss you stupid?' He teases softly, that made me roll my eyes so hard I swear I saw the brain that wasn't working right.

'Shut up. I'll see you tomorrow, maybe.' I pulled away, petting Chewie, who had just been sitting patiently. 'Bye, Chewie.'

'Maybe? Darlin', I'll be seein' ya.' I look back for a moment and I see him grinning wide, he's the cat that caught the mouse.

'You better not leave me hanging. Goodnight, Han.'

'Goodnight, sweetheart.'

-

The apartment wasn't dark when I opened the door. In fact, my whole friend group sat around the living room as I walked in. They were all looking at me, God, I was too high for this shit. They all looked worried. Great.

'Where have you been?' Sofia, who was the overbearing mom friend of the group asked. She even looked like a mom, legs crossed, arms crossed, sat in a chair wearing a robe. God damn. I shook my head, waving her off.

'Out. I left the party, went on a walk.' They were not buying it. In fact, they looked even more angry.

Aubrey followed me with her eyes, they were narrowed and suspicious. 'This didn't have anything to do with that older guy at the party? You both left at almost the same time, if I recall correctly.' Aubrey was always unnecessarily wary and cautious. She was under the impression I was up to no good. We definitely had a more strained friendship than everyone else. I clenched my jaw, shaking my head.

'Are we playing twenty fuckin' questions here?' I didn't want to snap, but these people dragged me to a party I didn't want to be at, then got mad I left and made my own fun. 'Look, I don't get on your asses about frat hopping, so don't get on my case if I don't want to do that.' That really set them off. Really the dynamic here barely worked, we had to be friends because we were roommates in this college campus apartment. We had no choice but to be friends or else it'll be mutually assured destruction. No roommates, no college, no degree, all because some girls couldn't get along? Pretty common occurrence, apparently, you'd be surprised.

'We're not playing twenty questions, we were worried!' Jaime was always the mediator, she always smoothed shit out one way or another. Quite the pacifist. She was the easiest one to get along with and arguably the only one I'd confidently call my friend.

'If you were so worried, how come no one called?' I held my phone up, checking to confirm that there were no calls.

'Please, you reek of weed. Where were you, with that drug dealer? God, he's fucking weird and so are you for even talking to him.' That hurt. Thanks, Aubrey. I couldn't help it, I pointed at her, nearly seething.

'I don't judge you for fucking frat row, don't judge me for the company I keep.' This was going so well, it was amazing. Honestly, it couldn't be better. I had already considered moving out, asking my parents for help, anything. This year had been really hard because of the messy roommate-frenemies situation, it was literally September. I graduate in winter, this was my last semester. 'I'm going to bed.' I left them all in the living room looking like fish, bulging eyes and open mouths. I refrained from slamming my door, but I muttered the whole time I got ready for bed.

Who did they think they were? They give attention to smarmy dudes who literally only want one thing. Shit, Helena got dumped by one guy because his friend group all dumped their girlfriends. Come to think of it, Helena didn't say anything during that whole tiff. Not surprising, she was the least involved in the drama that was five young women trapped in an apartment together. I'm fairly certain they all were the mean girl at their high school, which was the exact person who gave me hell in high school. What's mind boggling is that shit doesn't end in high school, apparently.

I laid in bed, staring at my phone. It was late. I could call my mom tomorrow and just cry to her but then I would be infantilized and that would make me feel worse. I was just about to close my phone and just go to bed when I got a notification. A text, no one texts me. Well, not a lot. It wasn't any of my roommates, trying to lick my wounds and suck up.

'You up?'

I assumed it was Han, but numbers get passed around in college like a digital STD. I waited, not responding.

'It's Han.' ThankGod.

'Yeah.'

'Thinking of me?;)'

'No.'

'Ouch.'

'My roommates gave me shit. Not in the mood.'

'Want me to beat them up?'

'🙄No, Han, they're stupid college girls. And I hate them. But no acts of violence.'

'Yeah, I don't beat up girls.'

'Good to know.'

'What if I cheered you up?'

'How?'

'Idk you tell me. You're the one bummed out.'

'A kiss would be nice.'

'💋'

'Duuuuuumb goodNIGHT Han.'

'Dream of me, will ya?'

I rolled my eyes but couldn't help it when I blushed. God, he was infuriating but so charming and dare I say cute? I closed my phone, turning the light out and preparing to fall into a dreamland my weed soaked brain conjured up.

-

I wasn't prepared when I woke up. Not for the day, not for school.. not for life, at this point. The apartment was empty because all the girls had morning classes that started at eight. Dummies, nine o'clocks were where it was at. I stretched, grabbing my phone, checking my notifications. Han texted me. Wow.

'Good morning, cutie. Still on for 3? I hope so. Also Chewie says hi.' He had attached a photo of Chewie spread out on his bed, looking ridiculously comfortable. I couldn't blame him, sleeping next to Han was probably delightful. I didn't respond immediately because I was a bit shocked that he had texted me so early and so soon. That wasn't like a guy would normally do. Well, not college guys... Han was grown. Mature.. okay well, not mature. Just.. older. He knew what he wanted, clearly he didn't want to play games. I just got ready for school, trying to push him from my brain until after class. My first class was three hours of dull. The professor lectured on and on, it was sleep inducing. It should be called melatonin 102 and not advanced calculus. I suffered through it, then I had class at one, it was much shorter and more interesting. By the end of class I forgot that I had to text Han back. I muttered a quick 'fuck' under my breath and texted him. Nice thing about college, they didn't really care if you had to send a text in class.

'Yeah, sorry, was busy with class.'

'Aren't you still in class?'

'Maybe.'

'Naughty.'

I hid my face for a few seconds, recovering before I faced my classmates, like they knew what Han just texted me. The class finished twenty minutes later and I scurried out of it. I wanted to go drop my stuff off and change. When I got back to the apartment, it was still empty. thank you, Jesus. I was still bitter about last night. I didn't feel like facing them again. I changed quickly, pulling on a hoodie but keeping my jeans and chucks on. Han texted me again.

'Where am I snagging you, sweet thing?'

'Are you always going to call me stuff like that?'

'Until you ask me to stop. Want me to stop?'

'... no.'

'Okay then where am I getting you?'

'Same place you dropped me off, I'll be outside.'

'You got it.'

I literally ran out there, Han was a two minute drive down the street. I waited on the sidewalk, contemplating what I was even doing? This man had me totally interested, but I couldn't read his vibe. Was he interested? Was this a sick game he played? I hadn't heard any rumors about him, which inevitably the girls would've tacked on last night. They knew everything about everyone every time. I wasn't sure they weren't psyops. All I knew about Han was that he was hot, made me feel alive, and that he was really, really cool. He pulled up in a Chevy Bel Air, which promptly dropped my jaw. I knew enough about cars from my dad and grandfather to know that this was a cool car. I immediately opened the door and dropped into the car.

'You drive a Bel Air?'

'You know cars?'

'I know enough, enough to know that this is a bitchin' car. Damn.' The look he gave me was best described as cartoon heart eyes. He had this dumb smile on his face, he shook himself out of it after a second.

'Lord, you're gunna kill me, girl.'

[arthurflecksgirl]

At this time of the year the streets of Gotham city didn't seem as harsh and grey as usual. The Christmas lights, the markets and distant music playing in the evening softened the edges.

Arthur was lost in thoughts, walking downtown, holding you hand, passing all the fancy stores he couldn't afford to go into. This year it was just the same as every year. You and Arthur barely earned enough money to make a living, so buying things for Christmas was more than difficult. But you had something more money couldn't buy. A love so unconditional and sweet - the greatest gift of all.

"Hey Arthur. Wanna go to the second hand store around the corner? Maybe he can find something there".

Arthur nodded quietly. He seemed a little down today and the dark circles under his eyes must have meant that he wasn't getting any sleep.

The old, golden doorbell rang as you entered the store. It smelled like parfumed candles and grandma's cologne. The store offered a mixture of everything imaginable. From second hand clothes, decoration, toys, books to vinyls. It was like a small flea market hidden in an alley.

Arthur walked through the store with unfocused eyes. It was all a bit too much, he didn't knew what to concentrate on, his hands touching everything he passed as if he wanted to feel what was the right thing to buy instead of looking for it.

"Darling, look! They even have some fairy lights here. I think they are large enough to hang them on the windows. What do you think?"

"Uh huh" Arthur replied without being sure what you just told him. A stack of vinyls caught his attention and he was going through it as if there was a treasure to find.

You stroke his back from behind,feeling his sharp shoulder blade sticking through the fabric of his Winter coat.

"You found something?"

"Not yet"

"Oh, look they have Sinatra here!"

Arthur smiled "Yeah. I was looking for..."

"Fly me to the moon?"

"Yeah"

Arthur looked at you with love in his eyes. You knew exactly what he was looking for. The song you listened two when you shared your first kiss.

Arthur put his hands in his pocket "I think they don't have it.."

"That's a pity"

Arthur took your hand and as you checked out the other shelves together. He laughed at a little monkey figure that was playing the drums.

"Gary would love this one. But we already have a present for him..."

"That's true, Arthur. I am sure he will love the balloon animals starter set just as much."

You stopped at a green cardigan "Oh, this one reminds me so much of the cardigan you were wearing when we first went to the cinema together".

Arthur touched the soft fabric "You're right. It really does. That's a beautiful memory. What movie was it again? Pennies from heaven?"

"Yes! That was a beautiful movie!"

Arthur nodded "I really liked the music."

He remembered that movie vividly now. The main protagonist'y name was also Arthur and he somehow related to the character.

After 20 minutes spent looking through the shelves you decited to buy the fairy lights and left.

"Now let's go home and hang them. They will make everything more cosy, don't you think?... Arthur?"

It was just now that you realized Arthur was behind you, still looking into the store window as if something really caught his attention.

You walked back to stop by his side "What is it, baby?"

Arthurs wiped a single tear from the corner of his eye "I used to see one of these at a local store as a kid" he sniffed, pointing at a worn out looking teddy bear.

"My mum would say that I couldn't have it because it was so expensive...

Arthurs eyes wouldn't let go of the stuffed animal as he kept talking. "And... One day I was sneaking into the store by myself and I stole it. Because I wanted something to hold onto at night...."

"Oh Arthur.... Did they caught you?"

"Nah. But my mums boyfriend found the bear. I was hiding it but he still found it and he knew I stole it because we had no money.... He.... He beat me and ripped the teddy apart".

"Arthur, I am so sorry."

Heating this story brought tears to your eyes and you wished for nothing more but to be able to travel back in time to protect little Artie from this man and buy him this teddy bear. To take him home with you and let him cuddle savely all night.

"Come here" you hugged Arthur so tightly he gasped for a moment, then you took his hand and lead him back into the store.

"What are you doing?"

"Giving you back your teddy bear" you whispered into his ear, placing a soft kiss upon his cheek.

Arthur seemed slightly confused as you leaned down to pick up the bear and placed him savely into Arthur's arms.

"Excuse me?" You lead him in front of the cash register. "We would like to buy this teddy here. How much is it?"

The old lady smiled "Three dollars will be okay. The bear is a little worn. He's seen better days..."

You reached down your pocket to pull out the 3 dollars "I think his best days are ahead of him now. Thank you very much".

"You're welcome!"

Arthurs eyes filled with love and happy tears as he walked out the store with the teddy in his arms. He wanted to tell you so much but was somehow lost for words. He would have never asked you to buy him a teddy bear. It seemed silly for a grown up man to crave something like this. But you wouldn't judge him. You even bought him the teddy yourself. The teddy he was never allowed to have.

"I.... D-don't know what to say" he stuttered as he hugged the teddy with both of his arms.

He didn't need to say a word. The smile on his face and the happy tear rolling down his cheek said more than anything.

"Thank you..." he breathed as he leaned in to kiss your forehead.

"No one can take him away from you anymore, Artie."

"I think I'm going to call him Frankie."

Arthur hummed Sinatra's "Fly me to the moon" as you both roamed the streets of Gotham city.

He looked at you with glimmering eyes and said "You know what, sweetheart? I love you beary much!"

Oh yes. The streets definitely looked less harsh and grey this evening.

[rabbitechoes]

better late than never!! this has been a hectic month, well i guess months now that we're into october, but i made it! hurricanes be damned, i'm getting this month in review post out!!! anyway, here is a compilation of all the reviews i've written this month - this time presented in chronological order of when i wrote them rather than ranked from best to worst. i also decided to remove the scores from these as i want people to focus more on my words than a silly number :3 to check out my thoughts on some of the songs that dropped this month click here!!! also feel free to follow me on rate your music and twitter <3

What's Wrong With New York? - The Dare

◇ released: Sept. 6, 2024 ◇ genres: new rave, electroclash, dance-punk

The Dare's debut is a well-produced, yet gimmicky dive into debauchery made by someone who would rather be at home listening to The Smiths on vinyl and reading some highly acclaimed postmodern literature.

my review of What's Wrong With New York?

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Manning Fireworks - MJ Lenderman

🥇 BEST ALBUM OF THE MONTH

◇ released: Sept. 6, 2024 ◇ genres: alt-country, slacker rock

MJ Lenderman's songwriting is drenched in personality and, above all else, very effective. he can make u laugh one moment and then deliver a line that hits u like a truck the next. his new record is fantastic.

my review of Manning Fireworks

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Endlessness - Nala Sinephro

◇ released: Sept. 6, 2024 ◇ genres: jazz fusion, space ambient, progressive electronic

with her brilliant sophomore album, Nala Sinephro has made a strong case for being perhaps the most exciting composer in both jazz and electronic music in the current decade.

my review of Endlessness

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Cascade - Floating Points

◇ released: Sept. 13, 2024 ◇ genres: tech house, IDM, progressive house

a few years after his magnificent collaboration with the late Pharoah Sanders, the new album from Floating Points is a retreat into the world of house music that has him further refining his skills.

my review of Cascade

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My Method Actor - Nilüfer Yanya

◇ released: Sept. 13, 2024 ◇ genres: indie rock, indietronica, bedroom pop

Nilüfer Yanya's amazing new record is defined by a bustling intimacy and warm, minimalist instrumentation that make these songs feel visceral in unconventional, but incredibly satisfying ways.

my review of My Method Actor

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143 - Katy Perry

◇ released: Sept. 20, 2024 ◇ genres: dance-pop, house, pop rap

Katy Perry hoped everyone would fall for this self-serving and desperate attempt at a comeback record so she wouldn’t be relegated to obscurity and the occasional greatest hits tour for the rest of her career.

my review of 143

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In Waves - Jamie xx

◇ released: Sept. 20, 2024 ◇ genres: house, future garage, progressive house

Jamie xx has returned with an album full of life-affirming house bangers that can inspire optimism even in those who are poisoned by cynicism.

my review of In Waves

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The Thief Next to Jesus - Ka

◇ released: Sept. 19, 2024 ◇ genres: drumless, east coast hip hop, abstract hip hop

this new record from Brooklyn rapper Ka is one of the most thoughtful and powerful rap releases of the year. everything from the lyrics, to the themes, to the storied production leaves a profound effect on u.

my review of The Thief Next to Jesus

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SOPHIE - SOPHIE

◇ released: Sept. 27, 2024 ◇ genres: EDM, bubblegum bass, ambient, dance pop, tech-house

the polarizing posthumous self-titled record from the late great SOPHIE is unfortunately a mixed bag. it's packed with ambitious ideas that unfortunately don't stick the landing.

my review of SOPHIE

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13" Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto With Bison Horn Grips - Xiu Xiu

◇ released: Sept. 27, 2024 ◇ genres: experimental rock, neo-psychedelia, post-industrial

Xiu Xiu's fourteenth album ranks among their best. it's concise, brilliant, and insane containing some of the strongest material of their storied and ambitious catalog.

my review of 13" Frank Beltrame Italian Stiletto With Bison Horn Grips

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this section will be used to briefly discuss projects i didn't write full reviews for, but i still want to shed some light on. beginning with ...

RAVEPOP - r u s s e l b u c k

If you're in the mood for some playful, eccentric furry dance music look no further than RAVEPOP. There are some heaters on this thing. Namely the bouncy party-brained "TOO MANY PEOPLE" and the in-your-face stylings of "EVIL MUSIC for BAD DOGS." There's a lot to enjoy on this relatively short record. Not every song hit for me, but I think it's worth checking out!

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Russell Boring - JOBA

I was really looking forward to this record from BROCKHAMPTOM alum JOBA. The singles he released leading up to it were some of the strongest post-BH material from any of the former members. Unfortunately, those songs ended up being the clear highlights on the record. While not a bad record by any means, there's just so much potential left on the table. The focus on intimate ballads with a 70s-tinge wasn't the way to go, in my opinion. These songs pale in comparison to the bombastic, glamor of songs like "American Fever" and "People Need People." The latter being the best mixture of both the sweet and the glamorous. Overall, Russel Boring was a little underwhelming, but perhaps I set my expectations too high.

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Like All Before You - The Voidz

This record baffled me. This new record from The Voidz is a mess. Julian Casablancas and crew sound asleep at the wheel with these lazy, formless songs that just drone on and on and on. Hardly any song left any kind of lasting impression. It was just a painful listen, each cool moment is undercut by a litany of absolutely sleep-inducing ones. Like the A.I. album cover, Like All Before You feels lifeless and unimaginative.

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log off and go outside!! - NOISE ARTIFACT

This new EP from NOISE ARTIFACT is pretty awesome. A short collection of vulnerable electronica cuts that are full of surprises. These songs balance soul-bearing vulnerability with deeply enjoyable pop songwriting very well. A one-two punch of big feelings and catchy tunes. Definitely give this one a shot!

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Quiet Warp Xpress - RiTchie & FearDorian

A few months removed from RiTchie's debut solo record, which I thought was great, he teams up with 17-year old producer FearDorian for this EP. Quiet Warp Xpress features really cool production and beats, many of them feel pretty ahead of the curve, but what drags this EP down is RiTchie's performances. He doesn't give these beats the energy they deserve. They need a less lethargic presence to breathe more life into them. I love RiTchie's rapping, but this EP feels a bit like a clash of styles.

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ thanks for reading :3

[ottspot]

The Highs & Lows of Switching To Physical Music - My Journey

Allow me to invite you in on my (in-progress) journey of switching from Spotify Premium to listening to all of my music ripped from CDs and digital purchases through foobar2000. I'm listening to the music I like and doing only that, while also owning what I listen to. No subscription expiration is gonna bar me from that. Read more below!

Streaming music through services like Spotify, YouTube Music, and Apple Music offers many benefits to the user. Listening to an album as soon as it releases at midnight, easily sharing playlists with friends, as well as their little "collected user data from the past year presented with a pretty little bow on top". Oh, sorry. I mean "Spotify Wrapped", "Apple Music Replay", and "YouTube Music Recap".

Though, there's also some downsides to using the services. One of them is the pricing. Spotify Premium is currently $12 a month at the time of this writing, with YouTube Music and Apple Music being priced just a dollar lower. There's also different features spread between all the different services. Spotify has its Daily Mixes, podcasts, and audio books, Apple Music and Tidal have their high quality Dolby Atmos streaming, and YouTube Music has… switching between the music video and audio. It's too much sometimes and things can be pretty bloated, especially when all you want to do is listen to music. Nothing else.

The biggest thing to me, however, is the fact that you don't own the music you stream. Once that subscription runs out, it's off to YouTube for you. And you can't even listen to music with the screen off or in picture-in-picture without a Premium subscription. Now, you can always "arrrgh matey" this shit and truly be a rebel against the system, in which case I won't stop you. Do whatever you want. The rest of this doesn't really concern you. But to those who prefer doing things more legally, then I'm about to tell you about how I started this whole journey, and how I'm going to keep going on it for as long as I want to.

How I Got Here

This first started when I got my Blu-ray drive in the mail. I just have this for DVDs and Blu-rays (and I even have a modified firmware to play 4K Blu-rays), but realized soon after getting it that there was another optical media I could take advantage of: CDs. I have a CD player already, and I could just listen to the songs on my large speakers, but this was my chance to back up and preserve what I own. Disc rot is very much a thing with CDs, and while it hasn't taken my discs yet, I don't want to risk anything. Plus, my Spotify Student plan was going to run out after I graduate. So, I did some research and tinkering to find out how to rip the songs from my CDs and listen to the music backed up on my hard drive. What I found is that a program I already used for listening to music I ripped from video games, foobar2000, was great at handling all of this. So, for the past few months I've been working to back up my collection and ultimately ditch Spotify to use it as my main music listening app. It even has an iPhone app as well! Though, in replacing Spotify, this means I've also been working to get the songs I love on CD, by whatever means possible. Discogs has been a big help with this journey, as it led me to discover different variants of albums that I had no idea existed. Did you know that while P!nk's version of "Whataya Want From Me" is readily available on streaming and digital stores, it's only on the German and Australian versions of that "Greatest Hits...So Far!!!" album? I didn't. It's one of my favorite songs from her, and now that's a release I'm looking to get my hands on soon.

This is unfortunately going to be more and more of a common practice for me as time goes on. Importing. A lot of deluxe editions of albums release only for a limited time on CD, only on vinyl, or just don't have a physical release at all... in the US, anyway. Japan has a lot of CDs of deluxe editions readily available to import from sites like CDJapan or sellers on eBay. I happen to have three examples of those (though, I only needed to import two). Midnights by Taylor Swift is a complicated mess when it comes to owning the complete experience physically, and it shouldn't have to be. The "Lavender" CD at Target is the only physical release with "Hits Different" and two remixes, while the "Late Night Edition" is the only release with any of the "3am Edition" songs, "You're Losing Me", and two different remixes, this time of "Snow on the Beach" and "Karma". The first problem with the "Late Night Edition" is that it doesn't even have all of the songs from the "3am Edition". It has 5 of the 7 bonus songs from it, omitting "Paris" and "Glitch". Now, I'm unsure if this was a storage issue with all of the songs, but they very easily could have just made it a second disc instead of trying to cram everything onto just one, and cutting songs in the process. But even then, you'll need the "Lavender" CD to have the other songs for the (almost) complete experience.

The second problem with this edition is that it was only ever sold in the US during the 2023 shows of The Eras Tour, starting in late May with East Rutherford. It wasn't even brought back for the 2024 US leg. It had small drops on Taylor's website during the 2023 holiday season and was available as a digital download for one day only, but outside of that, there is no other way to buy it in the US. It never even got a release in Europe, Australia, Mexico, Brazil... literally any other country stop on her tour. This has led to the CD rising in price ever since then, and even bootlegs being made to trick people. These are usually pretty cheap and ship from China, sporting darker colors for the front cover and inserts, as well as having an incorrect sticker on the front. People might have to (understandably) settle for these just to own the songs physically. Thankfully, there is another option, but time might be running out until their prices go up as well. Japan thankfully has a wide-release of the "Late Night Edition" that is more readily available. It comes in a 7-inch vinyl-like sleeve with a larger poster, a lyric booklet, and some even include a guitar pick. The disc contents are also completely identical to the US release. You can buy it from UMG Japan's store as well as YesAsia. eBay also has copies but for a bit more money.

The second and third examples are the deluxe editions of Olivia Rodrigo's GUTS and Sabrina Carpenter's emails i can't send. GUTS (spilled) has a vinyl release worldwide, but emails i can't send fwd: does not have a physical release at all. Of course, both have CD releases in Japan. They, like the "Late Night Edition" of Midnights, were released to commemorate their respective artist's tour stops in Japan. Unlike that release however, they boast that they're "Japan-only" special editions. This means that there's probably no chance of the CD ever coming out anywhere else.

The good news is that they're not at risk of selling out anywhere. You can even go to my regular site CDJapan to purchase them.

But yes, that's my long and convoluted way of telling you that if you're wanting your favorite songs physically, you're going to have to shell out a bit more money to import. Like me. There's another way to obtain the files of the songs you like, though. Sites like Qobuz let you buy the high-quality FLAC files legally, so you can download them and have them with the rest of your songs. I recommended this way if your song doesn't have a physical release at ALL (or is only on vinyl) or if you don't want to spend more money to import the CD.

Now that we're all caught up with how I got obsessed with all this, it's time to get to the juicy bits. If you want to do any of this yourself, I'm going to go in depth with what tools I use and how I do certain things so that you can have an ideal listening experience.

Ripping Discs + Playing Music

When it comes to actually ripping the discs, I'm gonna be honest. Any cheap CD USB drive is going to work (I assume), and what I have is very much overkill for this sort of task. For a disc drive, I have an ASUS BW-16D1HT internal Blu-ray burner drive, paired with a Vantec NexStar DX2 enclosure so I can use it externally. As mentioned before, the software that I use for playing and ripping my music is foobar2000. It's a completely free program that has a lot of customizability and versatility when it comes to its design and layout, as well as having plugin support for anyone who happens to make any. You can even install one that adds a Discord Rich Presence - and it looks just like Spotify!

When you load a CD into your computer for the first time, naturally you're given options as to what to do with it. You're going to want to set it so that foobar2000 opens when you put a CD in the drive. From here, your music will play and everything should work just fine. Sometimes the metadata for the album, like the artist and track names, or release year might show up immediately. Other times, it does not. If this doesn't bother you, then you can leave it alone. For me, though, I prefer having the details there so I know that I'm listening to.

So, here's how you fill that metadata out. Right-click on a track (or album) in the program and select "Properties".

You'll be able to change all kinds of data here. This is an example of a track that I filled out some of the data for. Once you've done this, you can click "Apply" or "OK". It'll do the same thing.

You can also see that you can change the artwork, but this can't be done with the tracks on the discs themselves. You're going to have to rip the tracks to your computer, and edit those files. Something I'm going to teach you how to do as well! When you right click on a track, you will also see a "Convert" option.

There are a couple of options here, but what you want to do is to go into the "..." menu.

This lets you choose what to convert the file to, where it goes, and any other processing.

In "Output format", there's a number of options. I personally use FLAC at compression level 5 for all of my music. The difference between level 0 and 5 is incredibly minimal, only a hundred or so kilobits that an extreme audiophile with crazy headphones might notice. True lossless would be converting the CD tracks to WAV files, but that almost doubles how much storage your music takes. Only go this route if you care about a 1:1 CD rip and have the storage. You can also just convert them to MP3s. There's multiple settings for MP3 encoding, so you can have high quality files while still saving on tons of space. Just right click on the option and "Edit".

Note that you will need to have the LAME MP3 encoder executable somewhere on your device in order to be able to do so. You can obtain an already-assembled version of it here. Just place it anywhere on your computer and define the path in foobar2000, and you should be good to go. Once you convert the files, it's up to you how you have them stored. I personally make folders for all my albums and set the icons of the folders as the album art. That's just a matter of converting the image to a .ico file and setting that as the icon in the customize tab in "Properties" in Windows Explorer.

This makes everything easy to visualize and nice to look at. I even have this Music folder pinned to my Quick Access so I can easily get to it. Of course, now you're going to need to have foobar2000 actually see where this all is. If you go to "File" -> "Preferences" (or just hit Ctrl+P) you'll bring up your settings. Click on "Media Library".

Here, you're going to want to define where your music is located. Click "Add" and navigate the Explorer window to where your music or folders of music are located. Select the folder, hit "Apply", then close out of the window. The albums and songs should now show up wherever your album list is located, which is usually on the left side. Now all you have to do is scroll through it, click on the drop-down menu of the album, and play a song!

Extra foobar2000 Tips and Features

I have foobar2000 set up with a few more features and settings that make everything easier to handle, just so I spend less time in Explorer. This way, you won't have to do what I used to and drag the whole album into the program every time you wanna listen to it. The first thing I want to go over is the layout. You can edit your layout in "View" -> "Layout" -> "Quick setup".

This is what "Album list + Properties + Visualisations" looks like, and is my recommended layout if you don't want to mess with anything. Of course, this isn't what mine looks like. Same colors, but a bit of a different look.

I've removed the properties and shrank the visualization portion, while adding the album art in the bottom left. This is through the layout editing mode, in the same dropdown menu as "Quick setup". I recommend you play around with it and see what you like. If this is a bit too complicated for you, I also recommend searching for foobar2000 skins. I don't have experience with installing them, so I recommend using this video here. Earlier, I also mentioned a Discord Rich Presence add-on you can install. That's found right here! Download the file from the "releases" section (I'd use foo_discord_rich-x64.fb2k-component if you're on a modern system), double click it, and it should install right away. If you want something that looks like this though, there's a few more steps to follow.

Under the "Preferences" menu, "Discord Rich Presence Integration" should be a new selection under "Tools".

These are my settings for the plugin. You can see in the first image that you can have the plugin try to find the album cover from the internet. But what if the cover isn't the right one? Or what if you want a custom one? This is where the "Art cache" window in the second image comes in. Select "Open containing folder..." and you'll find a lone .json file. It looks something like this.

The program takes the linked images and displays them in the plugin. If your album doesn't show up here, just copy the formatting and replace it with the artist name, and a link to the image of the album cover. You can get it by searching for the album cover, right clicking, and selecting "Copy image address". From here, go to "File" -> "Save", close the document, and go back to foobar2000. Select "Reload from disk" and play the song again. If you check Discord, it should show the album art you linked. If you want a custom album cover you made yourself, try something like Imgur. Make an account and upload the image as a hidden image (it defaults to this anyway). Copy the image address from that and put it in the .json file alongside the artist and album name, just like before. I also wanted to mention that if you're buying a file from Qobuz, the metadata of the files you ripped from the CD and the file you bought might not match up, if you plan on having them as the same album anyway. You can easily go back to the songs you ripped and select the metadata in the "Properties" menu, copy it, then go back to the "Properties" of the purchased file and paste it over. Make sure to apply the changes before closing the window. If everything worked, you should see that they're under the same album in your album list. Double-check the track numbers and edit them if needed. The album covers might not match, too. This is easy to fix, though. It's all in the "Artwork" tab of "Properties".

Just right click on the art, export it to a file, then go back to the file you wanna replace the artwork on, remove the artwork, then import it. It's best to remove it first so the file doesn't have multiple artworks assigned to it.

Closing Thoughts

I'm not gonna go much longer with this, so I just wanted to close with a few things.

Get the mobile app. You'll be able to transfer your music over through an FTP connection. For those who don't know, it's through the internet. I don't wanna explain all that right now, but I can recommend FileZilla as a program to use.

This is going to cost quite a lot of money initially. Buying a whole bunch of CDs and/or files at once to replace what you have on Spotify is going to be hefty. But in the end, you won't be paying a monthly subscription. Unless you buy an album a month, then I guess that's your monthly subscription.

Discogs is your friend. And mine. I mentioned the site before, but it's an amazing tool for finding what album variants have which songs, and it's even a marketplace like eBay. I've bought from the site before and I can recommend it for that purpose as well.

That's gonna be all from me for now. It's been ages since my last blog post on here, and I have two in the drafts. I'll revisit them soon and continue working on them, but for now, I'll see you guys later.

[sinceileftyoublog]

Cracker Interview: Telling the Band's Story

Photo by Jason Thrasher

BY JORDAN MAINZER

"Sometimes, nowadays, you don't have control over what you're promoting and marketing."

Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven front-man David Lowery, speaking to me over the phone from his hometown Athens, GA, was referring to songs going viral on TikTok when you least expect or even desire it, something that's happened to artists from Duster to Faye Webster. But control is exactly what Cracker have been seeking for the past two decades. In 2006, a day after their previous label Virgin Records issued a Cracker greatest hits record without the band's permission, Cracker released their own, Greatest Hits Redux, via British independent label Cooking Vinyl. More importantly, the songs on Redux were rerecorded, meaning Cracker owned the masters, and the band priced them on iTunes for less than the versions on Virgin's collection, resulting in greater sales for the Redux versions. Plus, if you were a Cracker diehard or completist, wouldn't you have wanted to nab the technically "different" versions of these classic songs?

In November, Lowery and company called back to their previous middle finger to the music industry, releasing Alternative History: A Cracker Retrospective, also via Cooking Vinyl. The compilation contains the Redux versions of the band's most popular tunes as well as their past collaborative rerecords with Boulder bluegrass jammers Leftover Salmon, live recordings from Madrid and the German TV show Rockpalast, deep cuts, and previously unreleased material. Lowery, also a Senior Lecturer in Music Business at the University of Georgia, is as privy to anyone to the general listening habits of Gen-Z, knowing that music listeners increasingly favor playlists over albums. Consider Alternative History Cracker's official band playlist.

In fact, some of the versions on Alternative History have become canon in the ears of fans. If you've caught Cracker performing "I See the Light" live, the spritely ending here (originally on Redux) should sound more familiar than the comparatively slower outro from their self-titled debut. The jaunty barroom pianos of the Leftover Salmon collaborative version of "Sweet Potato" breathes new life into the Kerosene Hat standout. Leftover Salmon also help Cracker get to the point on "Eurotrash Girl", the arrangement carried by Noam Pikelny's banjo rather than dripping psychedelic guitars.

Of course, Cracker hopes that Alternative History becomes anything but alternate--if not definitive, that it stands on its own. It provides Lowery the opportunity to tweak his vocal performance and banjo playing on "Almond Grove", and for the band to remix, ever so slightly, even recordings released a mere few years ago. The compilation ends with "Ain't Gonna Suck Itself", the band's infamous dismissal of Virgin Records that appeared on 2003's Countrysides. It was the only non-cover song on that album, and ironically, wasn't rerecorded when it appeared on Redux. Here, we see the now indie rock band dangling a carrot over the heads of major label executives, cheekily asserting the control they continuously fight to keep.

Cracker's currently on tour in support of Alternative History, and on Sunday, they stop at Old Town School of Folk Music for two shows: an afternoon unplugged set and an evening full band show. Below, read my conversation with Lowery, edited for length and clarity.

Since I Left You: Why did you decide to release this alternative history?

David Lowery: Students who would take classes from me would dig through my catalog and discover Cracker through these algorithmic playlists that the streaming services generate, which are sort of weird. Obviously, the hits are at the top of those playlists, but [sometimes,] something [gets traction from] someone else's playlist, like "Greatest Hits of the 90's" or "Songs From The Television Show Californication." Playlists are sequenced badly, because they're by popularity, and I was kind of tripping on the fact that if somebody wants to get into a band, there's a better way to do it. [Plus,] our Greatest Hits Redux was only our first 10 years of the band, so we needed a new one. We needed a new retrospective.

I started talking to Cooking Vinyl about it, because a lot of our catalog is licensed by them. What we were gonna do was license key tracks from the Universal Music Group and Concord catalogs, but That started to seem expensive. One of the good things for Cracker is that through the years, we've rerecorded a number of our hits and key tracks for licensing. One of the reasons you do that is if somebody wants to come for a commercial, film, video game, or streaming license, you can offer them this other track at a slightly reduced price and keep all the money. That was very helpful for us. There were a lot of rerecords of our hits, and they're very well done. Movie directors are super picky. They want a particular recording of a song, so the rerecords have to sound just like it. There were also various collaborations we did over the years, like with Leftover Salmon and Drive-By Truckers, and because of the constraints of licensing, we started looking at this like, "What if we did a retrospective, but did all re-records, outtakes, B-sides, and live recordings, and tell the Cracker story that way?" I just thought it was more interesting, and in a lot of ways, a more accurate telling of the band's story.

SILY: Some of the versions on here are the ones your fans prefer. Also, it seems like once you release a song and play it live over the years, it takes a new shape and often becomes the definitive version. Do you agree with your fans in that regard?

DL: Certain songs, the beauty of the recording you get in a studio can't be matched. But "One Fine Day", which over the years has evolved into a Crazy Horse-esque, 8-minute-long song, that's just a better version of the song. We had a really good recording of that from the German television show Rockpalast. "Gimme One More Chance" from that same show is a good one. There's a stripped down, slower, more quiet version of "Sunrise in the Land of Milk and Honey" from when we were on tour in Spain a few years ago. That's a different interpretation of the song, but it's cool. It works really well. In some cases, these other versions we did of the song, the live versions, maybe, were better than the original recordings, because [at the time of recording,] the songs were new and we hadn't played them that much. There's also just weird stuff, like the fact we found a demo of "Merry Christmas Emily", which I did as a rock rave-up, a roots rock version from forever ago. The original demo of the songs was completely different, and I had forgotten about it. [The version on Alternative History is] not the demo of the song, we just recorded it as we would have if we had changed the song to more of a rock song. It's almost like a different song with the same words. These things are important for people to hear, almost like an alternate reality.

SILY: There are a couple songs on Alternative History that aren't even rerecords, you've just reintroduced them because they were from a record you didn't think enough people paid attention to, like Greenland and the song "I Need Better Friends". I was also happy you included alternate versions of songs from Berkeley to Bakersfield, which is my favorite Cracker record. How does your relationship with your songs change over time? Do you still identify with the person you were when you wrote them?

DL: Most of the time. There's a certain level of professionalism you have to have. I've played "Low" 5,000 times, but I have to play it like it's our new song. I get myself in that mindset. It's a challenge with older songs we've played so many times. But we have such a large catalog, we can always mix it up. We'll play our 5 hits, but every other song in the set is different than the last time we played that city.

SILY: Do you ever think you'll do a live tour of alternate versions?

DL: We used to do a Cracker duo tour, and that evolved into a trio when we borrowed a pedal steel player. That's what we did for a while. There was talk of us releasing an album of it, but we never really got around to it.

SILY: You could get Leftover Salmon to join you. I love your collaborative version of "Eurotrash Girl" with them--it's concise and compacted.

DL: There was a 20th anniversary of that [album, Oh Cracker, Where Art Thou?, in 2023], and we talked about trying to do some shows together, but we couldn't fit it into our schedules. Those songs are important to our career and catalog. A lot of our fans know about them, but a lot of the general public doesn't. I love that version of "Eurotrash Girl". It was done in a single take. We were talking about how to do it, and [Leftover Salmon's] banjo player at the time suggested we do it as a waltz. We were noodling around and got it going, and that's the take, from conception to printed recording in 30 minutes.

SILY: Are the Madrid songs on here the same you shared on Bandcamp in 2023?

DL: Yeah. We did that as a limited edition CD, only 600 copies. A couple of them are slightly remixed, because in between the time we released the Madrid shows and the release of this record, the stuff we call "AI," which is really just very intelligent signal processing, has gotten so advanced, we were able to rebalance those recordings a little bit, where, [for instance,] the vocals were too quiet. The [songs are] slightly different. Someone with a fine ear will notice the instruments are balanced better, because you can literally take a two-track live recording and remix it down, and it has no artifacts. It's bizarre.

SILY: It's been over 10 years since Cracker's released a new record. Is there anything next for you?

DL: My 3 solo records [that came out since COVID] all come out as a box set with even more songs on it in May. It started before COVID, but that project was supercharged by COVID. It's super cool, because it's kind of somewhere between Camper and Cracker. Some of it is stripped down, and some of it has a string section. I've been doing solo shows--not a ton of them, because I've been waiting for all of this to come out as a box set--and it's started to become a pretty popular show for me. I sold out 2 shows in Atlanta. That's kind of where my focus has been. I imagine we'll make another Cracker record. I'd hoped Camper would make a record for our 40th anniversary, but I don't think we'll have time to make that happen, so instead I think me and Chris Molla, one of the founders in the band in the early years, are thinking of making a recording of our band that preceded Camper van Beethoven but shares a lot of the same songs. I got a lot of stuff going on; I'm not sure if it's a Camper record or a Cracker record just yet.

SILY: Right before COVID, I saw the Cracker-Camper Van Beethoven tour at Lincoln Hall in Chicago. For some reason, my wife and I had watched Bio-Dome earlier that day, and there's a Camper song in that movie that you played later that night (“Good Guys and Bad Guys”). I had totally forgotten about that. It was such a weird cosmic connection, experiencing a movie and song I hadn't in years on the same day.

DL: There's a certain kind of B movie that gets played over and over again that generates a lot of performance royalties for us, and that's one of them. Another one is Year One. We had two songs in Sharknado, another weird sleeper that just keeps getting viewed and viewed. It's interesting when songs go into those films; there's a certain B movie that has that weird long life.

SILY: Is there anything lately you've been listening to, watching, or reading that's caught your attention?

DL: The Penguin, which is not a superhero movie, but a mafia movie from the Batman universe, is super well done. If you're ever into science fiction, The Three-Body Problem is a mind-blowing trilogy, and so is The Expanse series. I've gotten back into sci-fi because one of my sons is really into sci-fi and space shanties. Lately, I've been listening to a lot of John K. Samson's solo records. He's put out a number of solo records that are outstanding writing. In some ways, there's something about him that I think people hear Camper in, in a way, but that's not really why I listen to him. I just think it's outstanding writing and storytelling.

[justconstantly]

MY TOP 9 ALBUMS OF ALL TIME

tagged by @belladonnafey

couldn't sleep, saw ur tag zoph (<3), and here we are. I'm a big album listener so this was a struggle for me, but I tried to avoid all my short term obsessions and only pick my absolute favs, ones I could listen to no skips at any time (order here isn't a ranking or anything, solely was aesthetic for the collage)

lungs (deluxe) - Florence+the machine

fav songs: I'm not calling you a liar, bird song, kiss with a fist

every spare moment for the entire summer of 2014 my brother and I played Minecraft on a LAN server together and I listened exclusively to a YouTube playlist of this album on repeat and that's definitely part of why I am the way I am

heretic pride - the mountain goats

fav songs: autoclave, lovecraft in brooklyn

funnily enough, not one of the three goats albums I have on vinyl, the others are better for living room activities that my record player is good for (lounging, plant watering, etc) but this one is still my all time fav

wasteland baby - hozier

fav songs: almost (sweet music), wasteland baby

RIP my college roommates in spring 2019 because I listened to only this album for approximately 2.5 months and I think they hated me for it (blasting it out loud, singing badly, etc)

Grace - Jeff buckley

fav songs: lover you should've come over, dream brother

this album is so so cool, I mean even discounting Jeff buckleys angelic voice, the haunting guitar? the early modern English hymn?? lilac wine AND hallelujah??? makes me feel incredible

sound and color - alabama shakes

fav songs: this feeling, shoegaze

this whole album makes me just dance/sway around my apartment feeling like I'm the most soulful and tender person alive

post-war - M. ward

fav songs: Chinese translation, right in the head, rollercoaster, magic trick

makes me so indescribably nostalgic for a life I've never lived. when I heard Chinese translation for the first time I was like hmm I'm different now

collapsed in sunbeams - Arlo parks

fav songs: too good, eugene

got the vinyl from my library on a whim to listen to while me and my roomie did a puzzle and spent the next 2 weeks of the hold just glued to the record player, haven't bought my own copy yet but it's on my wishlist FOR SURE just perfect lazy living room vibes for me

crawler - IDLES

fav songs: the beachland ballroom, meds, car crash

massive thank you @azertykeys for recommending me idles bc this album is a go to for me when I'm coding and/or also just in my feelings

bridge over troubled water - Simon & Garfunkel

fav songs: keep the customer satisfied, the boxer, the only living boy in New York, why don't you write me

my parents listened to quite a bit of Simon and Garfunkel when I was a kid and I didn't realize I knew them until I was like 20 and my friend was playing their greatest hits and I knew every word to every song. she was like why do you know so much Simon and Garfunkel and I was like oh is that who this is? anyway love this album, my vinyl is a treasured posession

only reason mitski isn't on this list is because I can't choose between any of her albums

other honorable mentions:

<COPINGMECHANISM> by willow

hospice by antlers

woman on the internet by Orla gartland

case/lang/veirs by case/lang/veirs

transgender dysphoria blues by against me

fetch the bolt cutters by Fiona apple

she won't make sense by the harmleighs

this was long so absolutely no pressure, but tagging @azertykeys @heart-to-hearts @bromaine-lettuce @junewild @unnonexistence @navigatorwrongway and anyone who sees this and wants to give it a go

[livvyofthelake]

shadowhunter chronicles characters and whether i think they would be swifties, a post: (obviously i am excluding all characters who are from the past and died before taylor swift even existed because frankly i don't care to debate whether mattew fairchild would be a swiftie. he's dead <3 peace and love)

clary- not at all. she listens to freak weirdo music. also she stopped keeping tabs on pop culture in 2008 so what would she even know about taylor swift unless one of her shadowhunter friends makes her listen to her. i think it's possible that in like 2014 she heard a 1989 song and loved it but didn't find out it was taylor swift until 6 months later when simon had to inform her

simon- again, weirdo freak music. he'd be the guy who only starts liking her because of folklore but unfortunately cassanda's timeline only goes to like, 2013 rn and will only go to 2015 for twp so. we'll never see that. i think he has nothing against her music because he is a Music Appreciator but he is probably a huge asshole about her as a person becuase he has a haters soul <3

jace- well i don't think jace listens to modern music <3 however i think in his post 2008 life he has more appreciation for human world art and he would eventually come across a vinyl of red or something (he's totally the type of annoying to have a record player do not dispute me on this) and i think from there he would like her, this is how clary is introduced to her music btw

alec- i literally don't think alec listens to music. other people listen to music around him, and he does NOT have a haters soul so he is NOT an asshole about any of said music.

izzy- yeah <3 and i think her and simon have had fights about it <3 it's not that deep to her though she only fights with him about taylor swift for fun and then they have crazy sex

magnus- well yeah. of course. he would love how swifties behave like a cult he would think that's soooo funny... he would love the glamour he would love her showmanship he would go to all her tours and have the time of his life. duh.

emma- yeah why not... she's a girls girl and she has an obsession with being just like jace. she is listening to taylor swift...

jules- he is listening to taylor swift with his beautiful girlfriend...

dru- dru is crucially a weirdo freak emo girl, i just know that when she puts on music it is an assult on the ears and no one likes it and ty wants to kill her about it. and also at the same time emma is functionally her big sister she looks up to and therefore she must appreciate taylor on emma's behalf

cristina- no because she's not american she doesn't have to give a shit about taylor swift

mark- if you asked mark blackthorn what his favorite song was he'd say some bullshit like "the sound of the river flowing at sunrise when the birds are chirping" so. like yeah he'd mostly be saying that just to fuck with you but goddamn that is annoying. anyway

helen- she's a gaylor. to ME

aline- the wife of a gaylor. but she thinks shake it off is the most annoying fucking song she has ever heard in her life <3

livvy- much like dru, she has to defer to emma with this, so yes she likes taylor swift, however i know in my heart of hearts that livvy is a pop music girlie and the fact that taylor was mostly country pre-livvy dying would piss her off soooo bad. she'd have to find put about 1989 from kit it would be a whole thing she'd make ty play it for her because she's a ghost who only has two friends it's terrible...

ty- it's complex. no. but also yes. but also crucially no. but yes. don't worry about it.

tessa- tessa would love ipods i know she does... girl from the victorian era living to the invention of the ipod touch.... dude. do i think she's listening to taylor on her ipod? maybe a little. but i think magnus probably made her a playlist of all the greatest songs from the last several decades that she missed while in the spiral labyrinth and she is just trying to catch up in her free time... obviously all too well is on that playlist though.

jem- man i just think he's thrilled to be alive. i think that guy likes everything, especially if tessa likes it. guy who is constantly overcome with the beauty of life fr

kit- i think he would make fun of jace for liking red so much and then he'd go home and listen to it and cry. he pretends to have the haters soul for clout but he doesn't and he never will and it makes him look fucking pathetic <3

[swanmaids]

tag memes

thank you for tagging me in both of these, @elevenelvenswords!!

no pressure tags for @meadowlarkx @imakemywings @theghostinthemargins @jouissants @welcomingdisaster. do either or both or neither!

meme #1

Favourite colour: Pink! I even have in my tinder bio that whoever matches me better be cool with my pink obsession hahaha

Last song: Walk Like This by FLO (eleven, this is like the ultimate celegorome song to me hahaha... if you listen you'll see why :'))

Last movie/TV show: I'm partway through Princess Kaguya

Next on my watch list: Azur and Asmar, it looks so pretty!

Last game: I don't play video games :(

Sweet/savoury/spicy: These questions are hard for me because I don't think you can have any without the other, a balance of all three is ideal

Relationship status: Single, online dating casually

Last online search: Chappell Roan vinyl. It was sold out :(

Current obsession: Pole is definitely taking over my life a bit atm. I really want to find the time to learn aerial hoop too.

Greatest flaw: I have a very addictive and obsessive personality. Right now I'm basically constantly tightrope walking being a workaholic and a shopaholic at the same time :')

~~~

meme #2

Are you named after anyone?

My middle name is the name of the woman who set my parents up on a blind date!

2. When was the last time you cried?

Can't remember! I'm feeling pretty good lately.

3. Do you have kids?

No, but I'd like to.

4. What sports do you play/have played?

I'm an intermediate-level pole dancer right now and I want to try out more aerial arts, it's just a matter of finding the time.

5. Do you use sarcasm?

Daily.

6. What is the first thing you notice about people?

Their attitude.

7. What's your eye colour?

Brown.

8. Scary movies or happy endings?

It really depends what I'm feeling at the time tbh! Though I have to be in a certain mood for totally tragic endings.

9. Any talents?

People tell me I'm a lot physically stronger than I look. Also dancing in heels.

10. Where were you born?

North of England. Related to the "use sarcasm every day" point above.

11. What are your hobbies?

Pole dancing as mentioned, flexibility, reading, writing (when I can...), vinyl collecting, cooking and baking, konmari, doing those adult therapeutic colouring books. Also certain reddit snark subs.

12. Do you have any pets?

My parents have a dog back at home. She might be the dumbest animal in the universe but we love her.

13. How tall are you?

166 cm / 5'5 ft

14. Favourite subject(s) in school?

I despised school lmao. But I liked geography and sociology.

15. Dream job?

We said dream, so professional pole performer or conflict journalist.

[cleoselene]

nine favorite albums in no particular order,

tagged by @an-ivy-covered-summer (thank you I love to ramble about music)

Portishead - Dummy - This is probably my favorite album of all time? It's perfect to me. It makes me feel so good, physically and mentally. It's the quintessential 90s album, the definitive trip-hop album, and always makes the list of "25 Albums You Should Own On Vinyl" for a reason. It's immaculate and it spawned a slew of imitators who never ever got close to this kind of quality. I think people also don't appreciate hop much trip-hop/downtempo has influenced today's pop music. SZA's latest album especially felt super trip-hoppy, so did elements of Midnights.

Massive Attack - Mezzanine - if there's one other trip-hop album you should pick up, it's this one. This album benefits greatly from Elizabeth Fraser of Cocteau Twins' ethereal vocals. Every song on this is amazing. When I was playing this album for a friend about a decade younger, he said "oh this is the album with the music from all the movies." lol. Indeed It's been licensed to hell for a reason!

Tori Amos - Scarlet's Walk - Okay I set a rule for myself that each artist would only get one album in this list to avoid putting up nine Tori Amos albums, but Scarlet is my favorite. This road trip across America immediately after 9/11 is one of the first albums to... if not criticize the US response to 9/11, because it was really too early for that, but to be very, very wary of what the response would be. It's an album that expresses sympathy for a wounded nation, while also acknowledging the nation's sins. I think this is one of a few Tori albums that was too high concept for the mainstream audience, but Tori has never been for the mainstream audience, anyway.

Taylor Swift - evermore - Of all the Taylor Swift albums, it was reputation that brought me to the dance and Red that made me fall madly in love. But evermore is her best work. It's perfecting upon the formula she came up with in folklore. Which, don't get me wrong, I love folklore, but with Taylor's obsession with being "sonically cohesive" it's kind of a bummer of an album? I appreciate how the vibes of evermore are more varied. Also, "ivy" is the most beautiful song she's ever written.

Green Day - American Idiot - This album doesn't need much description, it's so well-known, but nothing really compares to how hard this album hit during the height of Bush Era Hell. As a 26 year old when this came out, it felt like my generation was getting our mainstream protest music, finally.

Paul Simon - Graceland - This album won the Grammy for Album of the Year for a reason: it's soooo good. I know there's a lot of drama/controversy surrounding it, but I always felt Paul approached his love of African music from a genuine place. It's such a good midlife crisis album, I understand it now more that I am in midlife than I did when I discovered it at age 12. And the bass line for "You Can Call Me Al" is fucking legendary, isn't it? PS - Paul Simon is the greatest songwriter of all time.

VNV Nation - Automatic - Why was it so hard to pick a VNV Nation album? I really kind of wanted to put last year's Electric Sun in the mix, but I need to let that sit with me before I add it to a list like this. This is the album that brought me to the dance: "Gratitude" is an all-time fave VNV song of hopefulness. "Control" is the dance club banger to end all dance club bangers. I loooooooove this band. I wish there were more futurepop bands out there, tbh, it's SUCH an excellent genre.

Lana del Rey - Norman Fucking Rockwell! - This is Lana's best. It's not really even close. This is one of the best albums of the 21st century. The way "The greatest" so perfectly encapsulates the Trump-era nihilism... I DO want shit to feel the way just like it used to. Kanye West IS blond and gone. We DIDN'T know that we had it all. :( The ache of nostalgia in our current very painful times hits perfectly on this record (WHYYYY don't I own it on vinyl yet??)

Puscifer - Existential Reckoning - So hard for me to pick a Maynard project and not pick TOOL, but Puscifer has become my favorite of his three bands. Existential Reckoning is similar to NFR! in that it captures the political moment. Maynard has never seemed particularly political in his music until this record, which is pretty interesting. ER seems to be advocating for a return to rationality over ideology, of moderation over extremism, of science over faith. It takes a very humanist approach to looking at life in 2020. "Apocalyptica" is probably the craziest song because it sounds like it was written about COVID, but it was not, in fact was written just a few months earlier. "Bedlamite" is the coda to the album that promises hope: It's gonna be all right. When they did this album Live at Arcosanti and sang this song while the sun rose behind them, four days before the 2020 election and Maynard crooned that it would be all right, I looked at my roommate, and I said, "it really is, isn't it?" And we both got kind of overwhelmed. And then a few days later, it was. Trump lost.

I went into way detail >_> told you I like rambling about music

tagging: @swiftzeldas @emmaswanned @brightnshinythings @mariacallous @ouijawaydidhego