Home Blog Page 1136

Will More Artists Follow deadmau5’s Ventures into Video Games?

As Joel Zimmerman, AKA deadmau5, announces his new project with Kaskade, it’s amazing to think how far the Canadian electronic artist has come since releasing his debut album, Get Scraped, in 2005. According to Dancing Astronaut, the two musicians are joining forces to create Kx5, a project that has been in the making for 14 years and one that will allow them to create the music they want to make without any shackles from record labels.

This new venture probably wouldn’t be possible if deadmau5 hadn’t branched out in various ways to become one of the best-known musicians in the world. The 41-year-old’s forays into the world of gaming have been particularly noteworthy, and other artists may look to follow in his footsteps to boost their own profiles.

Is deadmau5 the World’s Most Forward-Thinking Musician?

The world of mainstream entertainment is becoming a blend of different media, with blockbuster films and television series now crossing over into games and other merchandise to get in front of larger audiences. This model has proven to be solid, and it has helped franchises like Jurassic World rake in billions at the box office. Despite this lucrative marketing system being obvious, few musicians have capitalised on it.

deadmau5 has attempted to leverage the power of other areas of the entertainment industry to boost his own prospects, and his success could persuade others to do the same. The six-time Grammy Award-nominated artist has been appearing in games since 2010, when he was a character in DJ Hero 2. He was then a secret unlockable character in Goat Simulator, known as deadgoa7.

More recently, deadmau5 has had his own branded titles. In 2016, he released Absolut deadmau5 for mobile and Oculus Rift, a game in which players got the chance to experience what it was like hanging out with the star in Toronto. He’s also recently teamed up with Niantic to develop an augmented reality game for musicians. The artists has tapped into other areas of the entertainment market as well, with the official deadmau5 slot from Microgaming. The title, which is available at Betway Online Casino, features some of the artist’s hits and gives off a nightclub feel. There’s no denying the fact that deadmau5 is setting an example for other artists to follow.

Travis Scott and Others Have Performed Live in Games

Aside from commissioning titles in other areas of the entertainment industry, another option for artists that’s becoming more popular is to perform within games. There are now numerous hugely popular free online titles that attract millions of players. Fortnite is the most notable of recent years, and this is where Travis Scott opted to host one of the most unique concerts of all time.

In 2020, Epic Games announced Travis Scott’s Astronomical, an event that allowed players to log in to see various performances from the star over a three-day period. The 30-year-old rapper made more than $20 million from the occasion and inspired other stars to follow in his footsteps. The likes of Ariana Grande, Royal Blood, and Block by Blockwest have all played songs in various games over the last few years.

More Artists May Have to Follow Suit When the Metaverse Goes Mainstream

Musicians like deadmau5 who have started trying to enhance their representation across other platforms are ahead of the curve, but it’s highly likely that there will be more crossovers in the years ahead. Metaverse statistics show that the concept of a virtual reality world is now a realistic possibility. If users are to enter this universe and spend time there, they will need entertainment options.

Musicians will have to figure out how they are going to tap into Meta’s next step beyond traditional social media, which is expected to be highly lucrative for Mark Zuckerberg’s company. Stars could create avatars in the same way Scott and others did in Fortnite, and film music videos within the Metaverse. They could make these exclusive events, selling tickets to users. They could also buy virtual land within the VR world and use this to meet with fans and sell merchandise.

deadmau5 is at the top of the music industry thanks to the popularity of his songs, but also because he has been shrewd with his marketing. He is now well placed to take advantage of emerging technology like the Metaverse. It’s highly likely that other artists will follow in his footsteps over the next decade.

5 Things You Need to Know Before Watching The Batman

Since being named as one of the top movies to kickstart 2022, anticipation has been rife about what The Batman has to offer. While passionate Bat-fans may have rushed to the first showing, others – particularly those who feel exhausted by superhero movies – may be waiting a little longer until the crowds peter out. 

By now, The Batman has been available in theaters for a week, and the longer you miss out, the more difficult it will be to avoid spoilers. That said, if you are planning to see it soon and want to know just what you’re getting into (without revealing the plot) here are five things you need to know before watching The Batman. 

It’s Long 

Let’s just get this out of the way before anything else. The Batman is a long movie and clocks in at around 2 hours 56 minutes, and even longer if you decide to stick around to watch the end credits and recognize everyone who played a part in making the movie. 

But, is this length that much of a big deal? Probably not. After Infinity War and Endgame, as well as the Syder Cut of the Justice League, audiences are (or at least should be) used to long runtimes. The beauty of The Batman, however, is that it doesn’t necessarily feel long, and some believe it could have even run longer to further flesh out scenes. 

If you’re someone who likes to check how long is left while watching the movie, whether to plan a bathroom break or just because you’re curious, you may find yourself wishing that it ran a little longer. 

It’s More Than A Superhero Flick 

Since Marvel decided to create a galaxy-spanning story with intertwining threads and stories, it seems obvious that DC would attempt something similar. However, the DC Cinematic Universe has suffered a more stuttering start compared to Marvel, which has further fueled the eternal Marvel vs DC debate.

The distinct difference that The Batman offers is that it’s more than a mere superhero flick. You could compare this to Endgame, where audiences were treated to a fun little heist movie within the broader world-saving heroics. The Batman focuses on something that previous interactions have considered a given: that he is the world’s greatest detective, and his skills are on-show here more than in any other version. 

But it’s even more than a detective story, too. There are elements of horror, with Paul Dano’s Zodiac-inspired Riddler being a particularly chilling highlight. And there’s more, too, but that would be spoiling things. 

It Gives Life to Gotham City 

Unlike Spiderman’s New York or even Superman’s Metropolis, Gotham City feels like a character in itself, which helps add to the murky, seedy atmosphere that our dark knight finds himself in and wants to improve for the better. 

It seems like a city that is always raining; one that is always dark; and with danger lurking around every corner. This atmosphere is crucial for giving the reason behind why Batman exists. 

Previous versions of Gotham seemed too clean (Nolan’s trilogy), while the Schumacher films were campy. Reeves’ Gotham is close to the Gothic beauty of Tim Burton’s movies, yet it is more grounded in realism that shows the struggle of the residents, with the city always feeling it could turn on them at any moment. 

It Is Perfect For Comic Book Lovers 

People who grew up reading Batman comics and watching Batman: The Animated Series will finally see something they recognize as a true representation of their favorite character. 

Some might consider it the most authentic adaptation of Batman in the character’s nearly 90-year history as it brings the Bat down to earth and rough around the edges. Comic fans will see the inspiration of Year Two and The Long Halloween, and there are more than a few easter eggs hidden within the script to get them excited about what could come next.

It Does Not Have a Post-Credit Scene

Marvel has perhaps ruined the post-movie experience for a generation of fans. It is almost expected that any movie, especially any superhero movie, will have a post-credits scene setting up the next chapter to entice you back to the cinema.

After sitting down for nearly three hours, you’ll be happy to know The Batman does not have a post-credits scene, but there may still be something worth waiting around for. 

Is He Vengeance?

This is not a review of the movie, although feedback so far from critics and audiences alike has been positive. It offers a little something for everyone and could carve out an interpretation for the World’s Greatest Detective that audiences have not seen before. Whatever happens next in Reeves’ universe, there is certain to be anticipation to see how his version of Batman, Bruce Wayne, and Gotham itself evolve.

Batman is one of the favorite movies of many fans. In addition to watching Batman movies repeatedly, movie fans also like to collect Batman peripherals, such as posters, stickers, badges and so on. If you are also a movie lover, you can also customize badges for your favorite movies or characters. Fixed badges based on each character icon and core value. Perfect for your coat, bag or hat, or to display in a box. This is the ultimate unique collectible for the loyal Marvel fan. You can design multiple characters to complete your collection of Avengers pin badges! Not only can you watch Marvel movies, but you can also bring elements of your favorite heroes to life. These custom gifts to support Marvel fans mark the latest and greatest gear from the Marvel universe, Order Now!

The Black Keys Announce New Album ‘Dropout Boogie’, Release New Single

The Black Keys have announced they have a new album on the way. Dropout Boogie will be released on May 13 via Nonesuch, almost a year after Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney put out their last LP, Delta Kream. The new record features contributions from ZZ Top’s Billy F. Gibbons, Reigning Sound and Oblivians’ Greg Cartwright, and Kings of Leon’s Angelo Petraglia. To mark the announcement, the band has shared a new single called ‘Wild Child’, which is accompanied by a Bryan Schlam–directed video. Check it out below.

Dropout Boogie arrives one day before the 20th anniversary of the Black Keys’ debut album, The Big Come Up. “It’s the natural chemistry Pat and I have,” Auerbach remarked in a statement. “Being in a band this long is a testament to that. It was a real gift that we were given. I mean, the odds of being plopped down a block-and-a-half from each other in Akron, Ohio–it just seems crazy.”

Dropout Boogie Cover Artwork:

Mint Green Announce Debut Album, Share Video for New Song ‘Trying’

Boston indie rock band Mint Green have announced their debut LP: All Girls Go to Heaven comes out June 3 via Pure Noise Records. New single ‘Trying’ arrives with a video directed by Haoyan of America. Check it out below.

“This song explores the narrative of someone who is holding on to what is left of their failed relationship while the other person has already seemingly moved on,” vocalist Ronnica explained in a statement. “Its tone is upbeat and bouncy in the verses. The lyrics pair the mundane with the fantastic. They are both giddy and frivolous. Determined, yet futile.”

All Girls Go to Heaven will include the previously shared single ‘Body Language’. Mint Green have released two EPs, 2016’s Growth and 2018’s Headspace.

All Girls Go to Heaven Cover Artwork:

All Girls Go to Heaven Tracklist:

1. Against the Grain
2. Body Language
3. What I’m Feeling
4. Make Me Stay
5. Trying
6. Ready
7. Golden
8. Whatever Happens
9. (We) Should Have Spoken
10. Ringtone

The xx’s Oliver Sim Shares Debut Solo Song ‘Romance With a Memory’

Oliver Sim, best known as the bassist and vocalist of the xx, has shared his debut solo single. ‘Romance With a Memory’ was produced by Jamie xx and arrives with a video starring Charity Kase, HoSo Terra Toma, and Gena Marvin. Watch and listen below.

“I’m thrilled, excited, ecstatic, overcaffeinated and overjoyed to be sharing ‘Romance with a Memory’ with you all,” Sim said in a statement. “Terrifyingly, this is the first song I’ve ever released under my own name, I really hope you all enjoy it. Produced by my dear older brother Jamie xx. I’ve also made a compilation of some of my favourite monsters, killers and queers getting down. I hope both the music and monsters make you feel as happy as they make me—I cannot tell you how much joy it brings me to watch a ghoul having a good time. P.S. still very much in a loving and happy relationship/band with Romy and Jamie.”

Charlie Hickey Announces Debut Album ‘Nervous at Night’, Shares New Song

Pasadena-based artist Charlie Hickey has announced his debut album, Nervous at Night. It’s slated for release on May 20 via Phoebe Bridgers’ label Saddest Factory Records. Along with the news, Hickey has also shared a video for the album’s title track. Check it out and find the record’s cover artwork and tracklist below.

Nervous at Night features contributions from Hickey’s childhood friend Phoebe Bridgers, producer Marshall Vore, as well as musicians Harrison Whitford, Christian Lee Hutson, and Mason Stoops. Bridgers previously collaborated with Hickey on ‘Ten Feet Tall’, a track from last year’s Count the Stairs EP, which Vore produced.

“‘Nervous At Night’ is one of the first songs that was written for this album,” Hickey explains. “It captures a lot of the anxiety and beauty that comes with growing up and having new feelings. It’s a song about being nervous for no particular reason, which is a running theme on this album, and also one that I think a lot of people, particularly of my generation, can relate to.”

Nervous at Night Cover Artwork:

Nervous at Night Tracklist:

1. Dandelions
2. Gold Line
3. Mid Air
4. Thirteen
5. Missing Years
6. Every Time I Think
7. Nervous At Night
8. Springbreaker
9. Choir Song (I Feel Dumb)
10. Month of September
11. Planet With Water

Charlie Hickey 2022 Tour Dates:

May 10 – London, UK – The Garage *
May 11 – London, UK – Sebright Arms
May 11 – 14 – Brighton, UK – The Great Escape Festival
May 17 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge ^
May 21 – Los Angeles, CA – Troubadour #

* with MUNA
^ with Gabe Goodman
# with Ryann

Watch Father John Misty Perform ‘Goodbye Mr. Blue’ on ‘Colbert’

Father John Misty was the musical guest on last night’s episode of The Late Show With Stephen Colbert, where he performed his brand new single ‘Goodbye Mr. Blue’. Watch it below.

Released yesterday, ‘Goodbye Mr. Blue’ is the latest single from Father John Misty’s upcoming record, Chloë and the Next 20th Centurywhich will be out on April 8 via Sub Pop and Bella Union. Previously, Josh Tillman previewed the album with the singles ‘Q4’ and ‘Funny Girl’.

Jordana Shares Video for New Song ‘Pressure Point’

Jordana has dropped a new track called ‘Pressure Point’, which will appear on her forthcoming album Face the Wall. Following lead single ‘Catch My Drift’, the single arrives with an accompanying Luke Orlando-directed video. Check it out below.

“‘Pressure Point’ is about acknowledging limits and knowing when it’s time to stop,” Jordana explained in a statement. “The entirety of Pressure Point is talking yourself out of an anxiety attack. It’s a personal song about smoking weed and becoming too anxious to function normally — overthinking every inch of your surroundings and everything going on in your head all at once.”

Face the Wall will be released on May 20 via Grand Jury.

L’Objectif Announce New EP, Share New Single ‘Get Close’

Leeds quartet L’Objectif have announced a new EP, We Aren’t Getting Out But Tonight We Might, which is out June 3 via Chess Club Records. Listen to the new single ‘Get Close’ below.

“It’s a love song probably or at least a song about intimacy,” frontman Saul Kane said of ‘Get Close’ in a press release. “I kind of liked the idea of writing about having a borderline existential crisis but then thinking “forget that” and just focusing on wanting to be with someone. All the thoughts going round your head can sometimes overwhelm the senses and make you panic but I just imagined how they can all be put to the side in the pursuit of a person. I mean the title ‘Get Close’ is what it’s about really, wanting to get close to someone and the rest can wait.”

We Aren’t Getting Out But Tonight We Might will follow L’Objectif’s debut EP, Have It Your Way, which arrived last year.

We Aren’t Getting Out But Tonight We Might EP Cover Artwork:

We Aren’t Getting Out But Tonight We Might EP Tracklist:

1. Same Thing
2. Get Close
3. Feeling Down
4. To Be Honest
5. Thought It Was Real

L’Objectif 2022 Tour Dates:

Mar 12 – The Vinyl Whistle (in-store), Leeds Sold Out
Mar 26 – Mechanics, Wakefield
Apr 1 – O2 Academy, Leeds*
Apr 13 – Roundhouse, London*
May 14 – The Great Escape, Brighton
Jun 4 – Live At Leeds In The Park, Leeds
Jul 9 – Brudenell Social Club, Leeds

*supporting Everything Everything

Crake Release New Single ‘Bobbie’

Crake have shared a new song, ‘Bobbie’, the latest offering from their forthcoming debut LP Humans’ Worst Habits. It follows previous entries ‘Winter’s Song’ and ‘Lamb’s Tail’. Give it a listen below.

According to a press release, ‘Bobbie’ was inspired by Frank Frazer Darling’s book Island Years, Island Farm, which describes how the Scottish naturalist made temporary homes on remote Hebridean Islands while researching seabirds and seals. Rather than centering on the book’s protagonist, however, the song offers a largely fictional account of the story of his wife, Bobbie Frazer Darling.

“She’s there with him the whole time, helping with his work alongside all the care work to bring up their child in these remote and inhospitable places,” the band’s Rowan Sandle explained in a statement. “Yet we are given very little information about her, so ‘Bobbie’ is me wanting to know what it was like from her perspective. Some events are factual, directly taken from the book, for example her love of chickweed and the time they had to call a vet as no doctor was near. But other things are more speculative, imagined and questioned. The answers I’ll never know, and maybe she wanted it that way.”

Crake’s Humans’ Worst Habits is due out May 27 on Fika Recordings.