Home Blog Page 13

16 New Songs Out Today to Listen To: Tasha, Lambchop, and More

Konstantinos Pappis
-
0
16 New Songs Out Today to Listen To: Tasha, Lambchop, and More

There’s so much music coming out all the time that it’s hard to keep track. On those days when the influx of new tracks is particularly overwhelming, we sift through the noise to bring you a curated list of the most interesting new releases (the best of which will be added to our Best New Songs playlist). Below, check out our track roundup for Wednesday, May 6, 2026.

Tasha – ‘Spring’ [feat. L’Rain and Jamila Woods] and ‘Clarion’

The announcement of Tasha’s new album is wonderfully timely. You Are Spring, the follow-up to 2024’s All This and So Much More, arrives June 26 via Bayonet, and today, she’s shared two tracks from it: ‘Spring’, which finds the singer-songwriter harmonizing with fellow Artist Spotlight alumnus L’Rain and Jamila Woods, as well as the propulsive ‘Clarion’. About the latter, Tasha said: “While making the long drive between New York and Chicago (which I did 3 times in the span of 2 months in 2024) I repeatedly took note of a sign for the Pennsylvania town of Clarion and each time thought to myself, “That would make a great name for a song”. So I decided to make a song with that name. A song about coming and going, about wanting to change your life but not quite knowing how you’re going to do it, but feeling suddenly on the edge of figuring it out. The goodness is coming, it’s around the corner, you can feel it!”

Lambchop – ‘Weakened’

Lambchop is back with a new album, Punching the Clown, which brought Kurt Wagner’s band to Justin Vernon’s April Base studio in Wisconsin. Vernon plays banjo on the gorgeously understated lead single ‘Weakened’ and throughout the record, which also features Fog’s Andrew Broder.

Iceage – ‘The Weak’

Iceage’s new single ‘The Weak’ sounds very different from Lambchop’s ‘The Weakend’. In fact, it might be one of the most cut-and-dried rock and roll songs the Danish band has laid to tape, though it does catch you off guard with a ridiculous flute solo. It’s taken from their forthcoming album For Love of Grace & the Hereafter.

Aldous Harding – ‘Coats’

When I was writing a review of Aldous Harding’s upcoming album Train on the Island, I suspected closer ‘Coats’ could be a single. It’s out today before the record’s arrival on Friday, and it’s very much in line with previous offering ‘Venus in the Zinnea’, which also prominently features vocals from collaborator H. Hawkline.

Kim Petras – ‘Jeep’

Kim Petras’ new single is a country-inflected ballad that includes lyrics about listening to techno, Eminem, and Slipknot. My initial reaction to ‘Jeep’ was that it reminded me of Porches, and it turns out Porches actually co-wrote and co-produced the track, Nightfeelings, and Eric Cross. It arrives with a music video from director Leonie Miller-Aichholz.

Kurt Vile – ‘Zoom 97’

Kurt Vile has unveiled ‘Zoom 97’, the second preview of his new album, Philadelphia’s been good to me. It’s an inviting, breezy introduction to the record, all about how true love is the pure drug for him. Vile explained: “This was the first song that came together on this record that we knew was real special, like we knew we were on the right track ya know… And it’s a 100% Philly born and bred affair.  I could reminisce out loud but for now we takin it inward… ‘jump in my whip… my engine whines, yeah… zig zag my way… down Lincoln Drive, yeah…’ See yall out there in the world soon enoughs :)”

Thomas Dollbaum – ‘Pulverize’

“Pulverize this heart,” Thomas Dollbaum sings on the chorus of his striking new single, MJ Lenderman harmonizing alongside him. Taken from his forthcoming album Birds of Paradise, the track was inspired by the time he attempted to drive across Louisiana overnight before deciding to turn around halfway through. According to a press release, it’s “told from the point of view of a man plowing down the road, picking up strangers, trying to forget real awful things they can’t mention.”

Flo – ‘Therapy at the Club’

Flo have shared the details of their sophomore album Therapy at the Club, along with its title track, which they debuted during their Tiny Desk performance for NPR. “It’s a body of work that feels super personal to us, it’s been a labour of love,” they shared. “For us, the club is more than just a night out, it’s like therapy. I mean, where else do you feel more understood than in a girls bathroom on a night out…that’s the vibe!”

Jawdropped – ‘Monday’

Los Angeles band Jawdropped have signed to Transgressive Records/Canvasback, marking the announcement with an jangly, upbeat single called ‘Monday’. “Monday is about treading the waters of anticipation, but deciding to face your feelings head on,” the band shared in a statement. “The truth will set you free, even if it’s just the Sunday scaries.”

Luna Li – ‘Multiplied’

Luna Li has dropped a breezy, radiant new song, ‘Multiplied’, her first new music since 2024’s When a Thought Grows Wings. “’Multiplied’ is about the bittersweetness of growth; having to say goodbye to all of the different versions of myself I’ve been, as well as the people, places and things that made up those chapters of my life,” she explained. “A childhood home, an intimate friendship, a love that couldn’t last. But the refrain “I multiplied” simultaneously feels hopeful, optimistic; ready to welcome the new versions of myself I will become.”

Bedouine – ‘On My Own’

Bedouine has previewed her upcoming album, Neon Summer Skin, with a heartfelt song called ‘On My Own’. It was produced by Jonathan Rado, with contributions from Michael and Brian D’Addario of the Lemon Twigs. “I wrote ‘On My Own’ after I returned from visiting my parents in Saudi Arabia,” Azniv Korkejian reflected. “I felt such a deep sense of loss because it was likely one of my last trips there, at least while my parents were still living in the village-like place of my childhood. I was flooded with nostalgia for it all; the chatter in the house, the constant fighting between my brothers, but more than anything the feeling of belonging to something. I felt very lonely and pondered the space between the family you come from and the one you might one day create.”

GB – ‘Adrenaline’

AD 93, the label behind our 2026 AOTY, has announced its latest signee: Danish musician Gustav Berntsen, who makes music as GB. The artist’s new album, Herzsprung, is out August 21, and it’s led by the jittery, vibrant new single ‘Adrenaline’. After being cast in a viral Jaguar ad in 2024, Berntsen used the money to book a studio villa in the Swedish wilderness to craft the follow-up to 2024’s Gusse Music.

Alexis Taylor & Mike Simonetti – ‘Perfect Kiss’

Hot Chip’s Alexis Taylor and producer Mike Simonetti – founder of Troubleman Unlimited and Italians Do It Better, and half of the duo Pale Blue – have teamed up for a new collaborative EP on Smugglers Way. It includes just one original, the lovely ‘Perfect Kiss’, as well as a cover of Bonnie “Prince” Billy’s ‘I See a Darkness and remixes by claire rousay and Black Forces. . “It’s about being alienated and an outsider in society while wanting to be accepted for the true person that you are,” Taylor explained. “There’s the real you, but maybe that’s not how you appear to others–so you’re asking to be brought out of yourself and into the world, accepted for this other version of yourself.”

Ebbb – ‘Now You Know’

Ebbb – the London trio made up of producer Lev Ceylan, vocalist Will Rowland, and drummer Scott MacDonald – have announced their debut LP. Shallow Hits comes out July 10 via Ninja Tune, and it’s led by the playfully groovy and hopeful ‘Now You Know’. “‘Now You Know’ started life as a playful, riff-led instrumental,” Rowland commented. “Each layer brought the song to life – first the vocals with lyrics that depict obsessive love, and then the punchiness of the live drum groove, which really tied the song together in the studio. The song is the most playful and optimistic on the album.”

Personal Trainer – ‘Punch Drunk Love’

Dutch collective Personal Trainerhave announced a new album, Human Assholes, arriving September 4 via Bella Union. It’s led by the enchanting single ‘Punch Drunk Love’, which frontman and songwriter Willem Smit says “reminds me of a very strong feeling of being in love, or at least being infatuated by someone, which can then lead to obsession. The band is joined on this song by Susanne Linssen of Hospital Bombers, one of my favourite Dutch bands, and (ex-member) Franti Maresova.”

Should I Marry a Murderer? Season 2: Cast, Rumours & Release Date

Alexandra Pleșa
-
0
Should I Marry a Murderer? Season 2: Cast, Rumours & Release Date

The latest true crime docuseries to take the world by storm has the kind of premise that proves truth is often wilder than fiction. Should I Marry a Murderer? centres on a woman who stayed engaged with a man while actively gathering evidence against him.

Needless to say, the story sparked interest. The production is currently the second most-watched show on Netflix, with 10.6 million views this week. It’s also the #1 show in 21 countries. Could more episodes be on the way?

Should I Marry a Murderer? Season 2 Release Date

At the time of writing, Netflix hasn’t released any information about a potential Should I Marry a Murderer? season 2.

Given that this is a docuseries, a sequel is unlikely unless new information in the case comes to light. For now, the three episodes streaming are all there is.

Should I Marry a Murderer? Cast

  • Caroline Muirhead
  • Sandy McKellar
  • James O’Kelly
  • Margaret Muirhead
  • Stephen Muirhead
  • Tony Parsons
  • Robert McKellar

What Is Should I Marry a Murderer? About?

The docuseries follows the real-life story of Dr. Caroline Muirhead, a forensic pathologist whose whirlwind romance turns into a psychological nightmare.

After meeting Sandy McKellar on Tinder, Caroline falls in love and accepts his proposal. However, her world is shattered when he confesses that he killed a man years prior. Not only that, but his brother helped him bury the body.

Caroline faces an unthinkable dilemma. Does she protect the man she loves, or does she bring him to justice? Instead of walking away, she remains in the relationship but secretly works with the police. While risking her safety, she gathers evidence against her partner.

The show features interviews, recordings, and reenactments. All the while, it’s effective at conveying just how the relationship became a high-stakes undercover operation.

Both brothers are currently in prison, so Should I Marry a Murderer? season 2 probably won’t happen. The three episodes available tell a complete story, so they are enough to keep viewers glued to the screen.

How well do you really know those closest to you? It’s the kind of question that gives you plenty of food for thought.

Are There Other Shows Like Should I Marry a Murderer?

If you found Should I Marry a Murderer? intriguing, check out some of the other true crime content streaming on Netflix. Recent additions include Trust Me: The False Prophet, The Predator of Seville, The TikTok Killer, and Missing: Dead or Alive?.

Lambchop Announces New Album ‘Punching the Clown’, Shares New Single

Konstantinos Pappis
-
0
Lambchop Announces New Album ‘Punching the Clown’, Shares New Single

Lambchop have announced a new LP. Punching the Clown, the follow-up to The Bible, lands on August 21 via City Slang. The gorgeously meditative ‘Weakened’ leads the album, which was tracked at Justin Vernon’s April Base studio in Wisconsin. Check it out and find the album cover and tracklist below.

On the new album, band leader Kurt Wagner is joined by Andrew Broder on guitar and Justin Vernon on banjo, with mixing Mark Nevers and production by Ryan Olson. Wagner introduced it with this statement:

in early 2024 i heard a song on the radio on my way to get some gas.
just a minimal single chord strummed banjo and a small group of voices.
it seemed perfect in the moment as the moment became perfect in itself.
i never found out who it was, sounded kinda like early country gospel?
in a time of searching i discovered a type of gospel singing known as lined out singing
which is said to have begun in the late 1800s in scotland.
it migrated to appalachia and became an obscure root of american gospel, country….
a spontaneous call and response type of acapella singing led by a clerk with a chorus of singers
revealing the raw beauty and power of the human voice with its unique varieties
its unadorned simplicity gave weight to the words as they were sung.
i wanted to make a record that emulated this kind of music.
⏄
is this that? Perhaps
ryan and i decided to make another record together after the bible.
my idea was to go back to writing songs in the manner in which i began
then present them as described in ⏁ solely banjo voice and choir
ryan mentioned that justin had been playing the banjo
i’d done some prior work with blake for a live london performance with a choir
and there it was
recorded in 3 days, a year thereafter at april base
andrew justin ryan nevers blake with his selected six part choir
trusting in our mutual love and respect for each others proclivities
later adding 12 more singers in london and randal in minneapolis
we figured it out.
⏃
the songs took some doing
i needed to become a better writer
so i asked andrew to write some hits
he’d rarely written songs in this way of simple song demos of guitar and voice
i took to the study of the works of the many great songwriters, their work, lives, process.
in doing so allowing their madness pain and truth to become mine
i failed so often until i didn’t
it got better
in the end there were 30 songs that transcended into consideration
ryan and i picked 12 and decided the track listing
which we adhered to throughout the entire process
⏇
i’m conflicted not offering a more detailed accountings for these songs but this feels like enough
let’s just say i tried for simple, restrained vocabulary to get closer to a modest amount of truth
through a guise of hyper-naturalism grief love and humor

Punching the Clown Cover Artwork:

lambchop

Punching the Clown Tracklist:

1. Just West Of Nicollet
2. A Doctor In The House
3. Weakened
4. Stella
5. Punching The Clown
6. White People
7. The New World Wave
8. Andrew Jackson Asshat
9. Afterburner
10. Cigar
11. To Do
12. No Chicago

Flo Announce New Album ‘Therapy at the Club’, Share New Song

Konstantinos Pappis
-
0
Flo Announce New Album ‘Therapy at the Club’, Share New Song

Flo have announced a new album, Therapy at the Club. The follow-up to 2024’s Access All Areas is out July 24 via Republic. Check out the title track, which was first debuted on their Tiny Desk performance, below.

“We’re incredibly proud to finally share Therapy at the Club, our sophomore album with the world,” Flo said in a press statement. “It’s a body of work that feels super personal to us, it’s been a labour of love. For us, the club is more than just a night out, it’s like therapy. I mean, where else do you feel more understood than in a girls bathroom on a night out…that’s the vibe!”

The group worked with songwriters such as Amy Allen, Steph Jones, Julian Bunetta, and Boy Matthewson on the new record. “We’ve been very hands on with the writing and creation of this project alongside our very special collaborators, and that’s made it even more meaningful to us,” they added. “This album represents where we are right now – honest, evolving, and unafraid to feel everything. We really hope you love it!”

Man on Fire Season 2: Cast, Rumours & Release Date

Alexandra Pleșa
-
0
Man on Fire Season 2: Cast, Rumours & Release Date

A retired CIA operative is out for revenge in thriller series Man on Fire, based on the popular novel by A. J. Quinnell.

If that title sounds familiar, it’s because the novel has already been adapted into a 1987 movie starring Scott Glenn, and again in 2004, starring Denzel Washington. This time around, the main character is played by Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, whom you might know from Aquaman, Candyman, or Ambulance.

Turns out, audiences aren’t sick of that enticing premise just yet. Man on Fire is currently the most-watched show on Netflix, with 11 million views this week. It’s also the #1 show in 29 countries. Does that mean a second season is definitely on the way?

Man on Fire Season 2 Release Date

At the time of writing, Netflix hasn’t officially renewed the series for more episodes. With viewership numbers so strong, though, it’s probably just a matter of time.

The title isn’t listed as a limited series on the platform. Moreover, when talking to Screenrant, star Abdul-Mateen II said he could see himself playing the character for a long time.

If everything lines up, Man on Fire season 2 could arrive in 2027 or 2028.

Man on Fire Cast

  • Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as John Creasy
  • Billie Boullet as Poe Rayburn
  • Scoot McNairy as Henry Tappan
  • Alice Braga as Valeria Melo
  • Bobby Cannavale as Paul Rayburn
  • Paul Ben-Victor as Moncrief
  • Thomás Aquino as Prado Soares

What Could Happen in Man on Fire Season 2?

Man on Fire revolves around John Creasy, a former U.S. Special Forces soldier and CIA contractor. He is struggling with PTSD and haunted by a failed mission that killed his entire team.

Creasy is pulled out of isolation by an old friend, Paul Rayburn, for a security job. When a catastrophic bombing kills Rayburn and most of his family, leaving only his daughter Poe alive, Creasy takes it upon himself to protect her. As he hunts those responsible, what starts as a revenge mission becomes a deep dive into a much larger conspiracy.

While action-packed, the series still manages to highlight Creasy’s internal struggle. The seven episodes available lead to an explosive finale that wraps up the main plot, so you don’t have to worry about cliffhangers in that sense. Even so, it also teases that the story is far from over.

Creasy receives an offer to pursue those responsible for killing his team. There’s a good chance a potential Man on Fire season 2 would pick up from there and send the character on a dangerous path to confront past demons.

Are There Other Shows Like Man on Fire?

If you enjoyed Man on Fire, similar series include The Night Agent, Reacher, Bodyguard, The Terminal List, Hijack, and The Night Manager.

The Best-Dressed Stars at the 2026 Met Gala

Vera Adamidou
-
0
The Best-Dressed Stars at the 2026 Met Gala

Mondays share a secret talent for feeling exactly the same, which usually doesn’t offer much. You drag yourself out of bed, slip back into routine, and start planning your escape to the weekend before noon. Unless, of course, it’s the first Monday of May: Met Gala Monday. The one day New York feels like it’s powered by hairspray fumes and (too) high expectations. Celebrities, designers, and an average of twenty people you’ll never see collaborate to produce every detail of the red carpet look you end up judging online. This time, the evening’s dress code was “Fashion Is Art,” while the exhibition “Costume Art” folded the body into the artwork itself. “Even the nude is never naked,” Andrew Bolton, curator in charge, told Vogue a few months back.

Kylie Jenner at the 2026 Met Gala
@schiaparelli via Instagram

Kylie Jenner in Schiaparelli

Most celebrities aren’t exactly known for subtlety on a red carpet. And with this year’s theme putting the body at the center, everyone expected skin. Kylie Jenner, however, went for a different kind of “naked,” one that wasn’t actually hers. Designed by Daniel Roseberry and built over 11,000 hours of embroidery, the result was a Schiaparelli gown that lands her firmly in our Top 1 best-dressed spot.

Kendall Jenner at the 2026 Met Gala
@gap via Instagram

Kendall Jenner in Gap

Speaking of the Jenners, Kendall was not far off. The model worked with Zac Posen, who created a custom dress inspired by the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Greek sculpture of the goddess Nike, standing at the top of the Louvre’s most famous staircase, as if greeting you. The duo reworked Gap’s classic T-shirt into a fluid dress, built over a 3D-printed corset.

Kim Kardashian at the 2026 Met Gala
@kimkardashian via Instagram

Kim Kardashian in Allen Jones and Whitaker Malem

The sculpted bodice theme quickly became a family favourite. Kim, a woman whose silhouette has become inseparable from her identity, was the first the public expected to fully commit to it. She teamed up with Allen Jones, who revived his ‘60s tangerine fiberglass body plate, alongside Patrick Whitaker and Keir Malem on the skirt, all guided by Nadia Lee Cohen’s creative direction.

Madonna at the 2026 Met Gala
@voguemagazine via Instagram

Madonna in Saint Laurent

Ever seen Leonora Carrington’s 1945 painting The Temptations of Saint Anthony Fragment II? Madonna has. She showed up in a custom lace-and-satin slip dress by Anthony Vaccarello, naturally paired with a horn instrument, an alarmingly long wig, and a satin headpiece complete with its own ship. The organza cape only added to the impression that the painting’s surreal figures had walked out of the canvas just to attend the Met.

Sabrina Harrison at the 2026 Met Gala
@marieclairenigeria via Instagram

Sabrina Harrison in archival Jean Paul Gaultier

There are those who team up with the first designer who reaches out. Those who go through every possible option before settling on the perfect collaboration. And then there are the few who just walk into their closets. Harrison, a known fashion collector, went for a piece from Jean Paul Gaultier’s 2010 “Mexico” collection, paired with a beating-heart bag by Chris Habana and Cameron Hughes, under the direction of Carlos Alonso Parada.

Emma Chamberlain at the 2026 Met Gala
@muglerofficial via Instagram

Emma Chamberlain in Mugler

Chamberlain is no stranger to the Met Gala, or to Mugler’s universe. Miguel Castro Freitas delivered a look that felt like a living canvas, or an artist’s palette, in this case belonging to Anna Deller-Yee, who hand-painted every little detail. Fringed sleeves included.

Rihanna at the 2026 Met Gala
@maisonmargiela via Instagram

Rihanna in Margiela

Rihanna is one of the Gala’s elite. This time, that meant a walking sculpture made from more than 115,000 crystal beads. Glenn Martens designed the custom gown with the Artisanal 2025 collection in mind, drawing inspiration from the medieval architecture and atmosphere of Flanders. The same influence, apparently, extended to the hair.

Olivia Wilde at the 2026 Met Gala
@thombrowne via Instagram

Olivia Wilde in Thom Browne

The evening carried more corsets than a Victorian palace, yet Thom Browne still finds ways to push the structure elsewhere. Wilde wore a black satin corset dress, accompanied by exposed leather panniers and a petticoat made from 300 meters of off-white tulle. So wrong, and exactly right.

Adut Akech at the 2026 Met Gala
@adutakech via Instagram

Adut Akech in Thom Browne

Thom Browne was a favorite this year, but Adut Akech was one of ours. Inspired by birth and new beginnings, the gown is crafted from lace, silk organza, cut glass beads, and sculptured sequins, see-through in all the right spots. Like the belly, for example, decorated with little pink lily flowers, a stone long linked to May birthdays.

Why FIFA 2026 Is a Big Deal for Malaysian Football Fans

Sebastian Bickley
-
0
Why FIFA 2026 Is a Big Deal for Malaysian Football Fans

Introduction

The FIFA World Cup has always been one of the most exciting global sporting events, but FIFA 2026 is set to be even bigger. With an expanded format, more matches, and a wider range of teams, this tournament is expected to attract more attention than ever before.

For Malaysian football fans, this is more than just another World Cup. It is an opportunity to experience football in a more connected, interactive, and rewarding way—especially with platforms now offering special event features alongside the tournament.

A Bigger Tournament Means More Excitement

FIFA 2026 will feature more teams compared to previous editions, which means:

  • More matches to watch
  • More underdog stories
  • More unpredictable results
  • Longer tournament duration

For fans in Malaysia, this creates a richer experience. Instead of focusing only on top teams, there is now more variety and more chances to follow different matchups.

This also means fans can stay engaged for a longer period, making the World Cup feel like a continuous event rather than just a short tournament.

Football Is Becoming More Interactive

In the past, fans mainly watched matches and followed results. Today, the experience has evolved. Fans now:

  • Track team performance closely
  • Follow live updates and stats
  • Engage with platforms during matches

This shift has made football more interactive and engaging. It is no longer just about watching—it is about being involved throughout the tournament.

Special FIFA 2026 Event Features on Platforms

With the growing interest in digital engagement, many platforms are introducing special features during FIFA 2026.

On platforms like winbox, users can explore event-based activities designed to enhance the overall experience. These may include mini games, reward systems, and limited-time events tied to the World Cup.

These features give fans something extra beyond just watching matches, making the entire tournament more enjoyable.

Getting Started Is Simple

Winbox Register Process

For new users, the first step is to create an account through the winbox register process. This step is designed to be quick and simple, allowing users to get started without unnecessary steps.

New users can also benefit from a welcome pack, which provides added value when joining during the FIFA 2026 period. This helps users explore features more comfortably at the beginning.

If you’re interested in joining, you can click here to access the registration page and get started.

Winbox Login for Daily Access

Once registered, users can access their accounts through the winbox login system. A smooth login experience is important, especially during major events when users want quick access.

For existing users, there are additional benefits such as daily login rewards, which encourage regular engagement throughout the tournament.

This makes it easier for users to stay connected and not miss out on any ongoing FIFA 2026 activities.

Promotions That Add More Value

Winbox Promotion

During major events like the World Cup, platforms often introduce special offers to enhance user experience. The winbox promotion system may include event-based rewards, bonus features, and limited-time campaigns.

These promotions are designed to make the FIFA 2026 experience more engaging. However, users should always review the details to fully understand how each offer works.

For those who want more information, you can learn more about the available promotions and how they are structured during the event period.

Mobile Experience for Real-Time Action

Most Malaysian users now follow football through mobile devices. Whether at home or on the go, having access to real-time updates is essential.

A mobile-friendly platform allows users to:

  • Check match updates instantly
  • Access their account anytime
  • Participate in event features easily

This flexibility is especially important during FIFA 2026, where matches happen frequently and excitement builds quickly.

Why Malaysian Fans Should Pay Attention

Football has always had a strong following in Malaysia, but FIFA 2026 brings something extra. The combination of a larger tournament and digital engagement creates a more complete experience.

Fans can now:

  • Enjoy more matches than ever before
  • Engage with interactive features
  • Access rewards and promotions
  • Stay connected throughout the event

This makes FIFA 2026 not just a tournament, but a full digital experience.

A Smarter Way to Enjoy FIFA 2026

To fully enjoy the event, users are encouraged to take a structured approach:

  • Complete the winbox register process carefully
  • Use winbox login for secure and regular access
  • Explore features step by step
  • Understand how winbox promotion works

By doing this, users can avoid confusion and make the most of everything the platform offers during the World Cup.

A New Level of Football Experience

FIFA 2026 represents a new level of excitement for football fans. With more matches, more teams, and more ways to engage, the experience is bigger than ever before.

For Malaysian fans, this is a chance to enjoy football in a more connected and interactive way. With features like welcome packs for new users and daily rewards for existing users, platforms like winbox help enhance the overall journey.

In the end, it is not just about watching the World Cup—it is about being part of it.

Getting Offline With Sofia Kavlin, Conceptual Artist Making Space For Unsent Letters and Subway Poetry

Abbie Wilson
-
0
Getting Offline With Sofia Kavlin, Conceptual Artist Making Space For Unsent Letters and Subway Poetry

You may have heard of Sofia Kavlin, a New York City-based conceptual artist whose work sits at the intersection of poetry and urban installation.

Her “Unsent Letters Mailbox,” founded on Valentine’s Day in 2024, had the artist haul a wooden mailbox into the heart of Washington Square Park in New York City, inviting passersby to submit anonymous letters that they wanted to send to an ex, let’s say, but have not. 

In addition to this, Kavlin allows guests to read someone else’s letter from the mailbox, as a way to let people know they are not alone. 

Over the past two years, Kavlin has organized writing workshops, events and gatherings to help bring together the broken-hearted and give them space to share their story, anonymously. 

It highlights a big city’s emotional underground and creates a living, anonymous archive of our unspoken, inner thoughts. “The Unsent Letter Mailbox” has become a quiet phenomenon across the city, garnering buzz by word of mouth. Since it started, Kavlin has received over 4,000 anonymous letters and had over 50,000 people participate in the project. 

The project has since grown into a fiscally-sponsored multi-disciplinary group underNuyorican Poet’s Cafe, an institution renowned as the birthplace of poetry slams and the launchpad for notable literary careers since 1973. 

This partnership, which started in 2025, provides crucial institutional backing for fundraising and networking, allowing “The Unsent Letter Mailbox” to expand its reach. 

The Unsent Letter Mailbox provides creative engagement through free pop-ups, ticketed events, collaborations with visual and performance artists, and partnerships with institutions and companies. 

“I designed and built the original unsent letter mailbox while completing my studies in Design and Urban Ecologies at Parsons in February 2024, and at the time, I was woodworking and decided to try my hand at creating urban installations,” said Kavlin. “I love the thought of bringing participatory art into the cities, and inviting residents to expand on the original work.” 

“With the addition of award-winning producer Bonnie Edwards to the team, the project has already begun its geographic expansion, notably with programming in Tennessee last October, culminating in a month-long gallery exhibit at Clear Story Arts in January of this year,” said Kavlin, a conceptual artist, performance artist and educator who has performed at PS122 Gallery in New York, has developed a performative and participatory urban practice consisting of alternate reality game design (WNDRLND urban scavenger hunt), a pop-up event series titled “Slow Matters” (2023), temporary urban installations (2023-2024), and a live anonymous letter-writing series titled “The Write to Read” (2024). 

Next up, Kavlin will host an upcoming event, “Subway Mailbox: Pop-up” on June 2nd, followed by an anonymous writing salon on May 29th. The “Unsent Letter Mailbox” activation, complete with a larger-than-life mailbox and writing stations, is designed to transform a subway car (a quintessential New York meeting point) into a collective space for reflection and expression. 

The subsequent writing salons, co-hosted with DASHE mixologists and partnered venues across the city, offer a more curated setting for live anonymous readings, fostering moments of shared catharsis and unexpected human connection around themes like “First Loves.”

“The Unsent Letter Mailbox was designed as an urban activation inviting people to write and read anonymous unsent letters,” she said. “We set up the signature larger-than-life mailbox, a writing table, doodled-tent, and provide pen and paper. I’ve always wanted to activate a subway car, as a space that screams out New York City, and is by default, a place where New Yorkers from all walks of life come together. The anonymous writing salon emerged from this original urban activation as a way to invite people to write and participate in live anonymous readings in a curated and intimate setting. We partner with venues around New York, and a mixologist group called DASHE to create craft cocktails drawing from our chosen theme (the May salon will be around First Loves).” 

She explains how this all ties into the meaning of the project: “What is produced is a moment of shared catharsis, by expressing what you were never allowed to say out loud, as well as unique moments of human connection and belonging where strangers realize that they are much closer to each other than they might think.” 

Beyond public art installations, Kavlin has carved a unique niche by bringing poetry into high-profile commercial and experiential settings. While at Ars Poetica, she closed over $50,400 in contracts within six months, collaborating with brands like Brunello Cucinelli, Glossier, and Soho House. 

These organizations, facing an increasingly AI-driven and mediated world, sought poetry to center what Kavlin describes as “what makes us human — and offers a chance for these organizations to interact with their client base in an intimate, analog and unmediated way.” 

For Valentine’s Day activations, Cucinelli and Glossier used typewriter poetry, while Soho House commissioned a poetry week featuring a slam, a workshop, and an open mic.

“Both Brunello Cucinelli and Glossier wanted poetry to be an essential part of their Valentine’s Day activations, while Soho House brought me in to organize a poetry week for which I designed a poetry slam curating guest writers from the Austin community, and inviting Soho House members to exercise their creative thinking with a poetry workshop followed by an open mic at the slam,” said Kavlin. With AI becoming central to many organizations’ workflows and even acting as a mediator for clients; there are less opportunities for high-profile organizations to center what makes us human.”

Her expertise extends to designing the poetry components for major experiential events, including the 2025 album launch for Gracie Abrams, an artist with over 6 million Instagram followers. Working with Slaack, an experiential production studio, Kavlin designed a live typewriter poetry activation for Abrams’ multi-city pop-ups in Los Angeles, Toronto, and New York City. Fans, drawn to Abrams’ “pop catharsis” narrative style, received on-the-spot poems tailored to their thoughts and feelings, resulting in over 600 bespoke pieces written over two days.

“After aligning on a series of creative decisions including ambiance, palette, and copy we designed the live typewriter poetry activation where guests could receive on-the-spot poems in response to their thoughts and feelings,” she said. “Gracie Abrams’ creative process draws heavily on the narrative arts and poetry offers this cathartic experience for fans in a way that allows them to enter the world of the album, and participate in the creative process in a way that no other activation can mimic.”

“I was honored to receive a Hinge One More Hour grant, which is given to artists and projects creating spaces for in-real-life connection for Gen Z as a way to respond to the U.S Surgeon General’s 2023 advisory on the loneliness epidemic linked to a major decline in social participation,” notes Kavlin. 

“This is a highly competitive grant selecting standout projects that center in-person quality time, and incentivize cost-effective and convenient ways for people to gather. The Unsent Letter Mailbox stood out as a project that is meeting Gen Z where they are; on the streets of major cities, and providing an outlet for them to express real anxieties and longings away from the performative pressure of social media.” 

Similarly, the ArtsBuild grant Kavlin also recognized the project’s capacity to enhance community quality of life and inclusion by bridging social differences through anonymous letter writing, leading to high community participation and economic value in Tennessee.

“The ArtsBuild Artist Work grants are awarded to projects that provide access to artistic experiences addressing issues such as quality of life and inclusion,” she said. “The Unsent Letter Mailbox met ArtsBuild’s and the Tennessee Arts Commission’s goal of building a stronger community by creating a unique way to bridge across social differences through the art of anonymous letter writing. The result was an unusually high degree of community participation with over 200letters collected over the course of 3 pop-ups, 13 local artists selected for the exhibition series, and 5 pieces of art sold on opening night creating meaningful cultural and economic value for the community.”

Kavlin holds a BA in Anthropology from the University of Toronto (2018), an MSc in Development Economics from LSE (2019), and an MA in Design and Urban Ecologies from Parsons School of Design (2024). She is the recipient of the Nudge Global Impact Award (2022) and became a Soho House fellow in 2024.

RSVP to her events here: unsentlettermailbox.com.

The Five Best Dispensaries in Lincoln Park: 2026 Buyer’s Guide

Sebastian Bickley
-
0
The Five Best Dispensaries in Lincoln Park: 2026 Buyer’s Guide

If you’re looking for a dispensary in Lincoln Park, you have several good options nearby. Some are built just for speed and convenience and others take a more comprehensive approach. 

Finding the best dispensary depends on how you like to shop. Maybe you know exactly what flower, edible, vape, or pre-roll you want. Maybe you’d rather ask questions and get a little guidance. Either way, a good dispensary should make the process feel easy, comfortable, and worth your time.

Here are five of the best dispensaries in Lincoln Park to consider.

Karma Club

Karma Club takes the top spot because it offers the strongest overall dispensary experience in Lincoln Park. It has the location, menu variety, staff support, and independent feel that make it stand out in a crowded Chicago cannabis market.

Located in Lincoln Park, Karma Club is an independent, recreational dispensary built around cannabis and community. That community angle matters because the shop doesn’t feel like a generic retail stop. It feels more personal, more local, and more welcoming, which can make a big difference when you’re buying cannabis.

The menu gives you plenty of room to find what fits your plans. Karma Club carries flower, pre-rolls, vapes, concentrates, edibles, tinctures, topicals, accessories, and more. That makes it a useful stop whether you’re picking up a quick pre-roll, trying a new edible, or comparing products before a weekend night out.

The staff is another big reason Karma Club ranks first. A dispensary menu can feel overwhelming when there are dozens of strains, formats, potencies, and brands in front of you. Karma Club’s team helps make that process easier. You can ask questions, explain what kind of experience you’re looking for, and get help without feeling rushed.

Karma Club also has a strong practical advantage. It’s easy to reach from different parts of the neighborhood, and the rear parking lot is a welcome detail in Lincoln Park. If you live in Chicago, you already know that parking can change the whole mood of an errand. Having that extra convenience makes Karma Club easier to work into your day.

The daily specials and discounts also help. Cannabis in Illinois can get expensive, so deals on flower, vapes, edibles, and concentrates can make a real difference if you visit regularly. Karma Club also offers discounts for medical patients, veterans, and seniors.

Karma Club is the best overall choice because it balances everything well. You get a broad menu, a friendly local feel, knowledgeable staff, regular specials, and a convenient Lincoln Park location. If you’re only trying one dispensary in the area, this is the best place to start.

ÜMI

ÜMI is one of the more stylish dispensaries in Lincoln Park, and it’s a strong choice if you care about the feel of the shopping experience.

The dispensary leans into a more designed, sensory approach. Instead of feeling like a basic counter-service shop, ÜMI aims to create a more polished environment. That makes it a good fit if you like to browse, take your time, and enjoy a retail experience that feels a little more considered.

ÜMI is especially useful if you’re newer to cannabis or still exploring different product types. A calm, well-organized space can make the process easier when you’re comparing flower, vapes, edibles, concentrates, and pre-rolls. The right setting can help you slow down and make a better choice instead of grabbing the first product that looks familiar.

The dispensary also has a rewards program, which is worth paying attention to if you plan on coming back. Loyalty points and special access days can help you save money over time, especially if ÜMI becomes one of your regular stops.

The main reason ÜMI lands behind Karma Club is that Karma Club offers a stronger all-around mix of neighborhood feel, daily deals, broad appeal, and local identity. Still, ÜMI is a very good option if you want a dispensary that feels modern, stylish, and more experience-driven.

Curaleaf

Curaleaf is a familiar name, and that familiarity can be helpful if you want a straightforward dispensary visit.

The Lincoln Park area location gives you access to a large cannabis retailer with a broad product menu and an easy online ordering process. If you already know what you want, Curaleaf can be a practical stop. You can browse the menu, place an order, and pick it up without making the visit more complicated than it needs to be.

Curaleaf usually carries the main product categories you’d expect, including flower, pre-rolls, vapes, edibles, concentrates, and more. That makes it useful for everyday cannabis needs, especially if you’re looking for a recognizable menu structure and frequent promotions.

It’s also a good option if you like consistency. Larger dispensary groups tend to have more standardized systems, which can make the visit feel predictable. You know what to expect, and that can be a plus when you’re short on time.

The tradeoff is that Curaleaf may not feel as personal or neighborhood-centered as some of the other dispensaries on this list. If you want a warmer local experience, Karma Club has the edge. If you want a convenient chain dispensary with a familiar setup, Curaleaf is worth considering.

Chicago Cannabis Company

Chicago Cannabis Company is a good pick if you want a dispensary with more of a neighborhood identity.

This shop has a local feel, which fits Lincoln Park well. It’s the kind of dispensary that may appeal to you if you prefer independent businesses over larger corporate cannabis retailers. The experience feels more rooted in the city, and that can make the visit more memorable.

Chicago Cannabis Company carries a selection of cannabis staples, including flower, vapes, pre-rolls, edibles, and concentrates. It’s a solid stop if you want to browse a focused menu and support a dispensary that feels connected to the surrounding neighborhood.

The atmosphere is one of the main reasons to consider it. Some dispensaries feel overly clinical. Others feel too busy or too transactional. Chicago Cannabis Company gives you a more approachable middle ground, especially if you want a shop that feels casual and local.

It doesn’t quite match Karma Club’s overall combination of convenience, menu variety, discounts, and welcoming staff support, but it still earns a place among the best dispensaries in Lincoln Park. If you like smaller shops with more local character, it’s worth a visit.

Dr. Greenthumb’s

Dr. Greenthumb’s brings a different type of energy to the Lincoln Park cannabis scene.

The name carries a strong cannabis culture connection, which makes it stand out from more traditional dispensaries. If you like shops with a little more personality and lifestyle appeal, Dr. Greenthumb’s may be a good fit for you.

The dispensary serves the North Side and works well if you’re closer to Ashland, Bucktown, Lakeview, or the western side of Lincoln Park. It may not be the first choice for every Lincoln Park route, but it’s still close enough to be part of the area’s cannabis conversation.

The menu includes familiar cannabis categories such as flower, pre-rolls, vapes, edibles, and concentrates. You can use it for a standard pickup, but the bigger appeal is the shop’s identity. Dr. Greenthumb’s feels more connected to cannabis culture than some of the more polished retail spaces nearby.

It’s a strong option if you want name recognition, a louder personality, and a dispensary that feels less generic. For the best all-around Lincoln Park experience, Karma Club still comes out ahead. But Dr. Greenthumb’s gives you another worthwhile option if you’re exploring dispensaries around the neighborhood.

How To Choose A Dispensary In Lincoln Park

Choosing the right dispensary starts with knowing what matters most to you.

If convenience is the priority, look at location, parking, public transit, and online ordering. A dispensary might have a great menu, but if it’s hard to reach, you probably won’t want to make it your regular spot.

If product selection matters most, check the menu before you go. Look for the categories you actually buy, whether that’s flower, pre-rolls, edibles, vapes, concentrates, tinctures, or topicals. A bigger menu can be useful, but only if it’s organized well enough for you to compare your options.

If you’re newer to cannabis, staff support should be near the top of your list. You want a dispensary where you can ask questions without feeling awkward. A good team can help you understand dosage, product type, onset time, and what kind of experience different formats may offer.

Price also matters. Illinois cannabis can add up quickly, especially with taxes. Daily deals, loyalty programs, and discount categories can help you get more value from each visit.

What To Bring Before You Visit

Bring a valid government-issued ID every time you visit a dispensary. Recreational cannabis in Illinois is for adults 21 and older, and dispensaries will check your ID before you buy.

You should also check the payment options before heading out. Some dispensaries accept debit or cashless payment methods, while others may still be easier with cash. Having a backup payment option can save you from an annoying extra stop.

If you’re placing an online order, wait for confirmation before leaving. Cannabis menus can change quickly, and popular products may sell out. A quick confirmation makes pickup smoother.

Final Thoughts

Lincoln Park has several strong dispensary options, but Karma Club stands out as the best overall choice. It combines a convenient location, a wide product menu, helpful staff, regular specials, and an independent social equity identity that gives the visit more character.

ÜMI is a strong pick if you want a more polished and sensory retail experience. Curaleaf works well if you want a familiar chain dispensary with easy ordering. Chicago Cannabis Company is a good choice for a more local neighborhood feel. Dr. Greenthumb’s adds cannabis culture and personality to the North Side mix.

If you’re looking for the best dispensary in Lincoln Park, start with Karma Club. It gives you the selection you want, the guidance you may need, and the kind of comfortable local experience that makes a dispensary worth returning to.

Artist Interview: Maddy Inez

Gerda Krivaite
-
0
Artist Interview: Maddy Inez

Maddy Inez utilises ceramics and sculpture to explore themes of healing and ancestral memory, treating clay as both a medium and a metaphor for collective trauma. Her works often evoke plants known for their healing properties or mythological significance, merging the spiritual with the ecological. This approach prompts reflection on humanity’s fragile yet powerful relationship with the natural world. Inez’s artistic practice is deeply influenced by her matrilineal heritage; her mother, Alison Saar, and grandmother, Betye Saar, are both renowned artists whose legacies of Black feminist and spiritual artmaking resonate through her work. This lineage informs Inez’s exploration of intergenerational knowledge and the transformative power of art as a means of healing and remembrance.

Maddy Inez lives and works in Los Angeles and earned a BFA from the Pacific Northwest College of Art in Portland, OR. Her solo exhibitions include “Of Pith and Balm” at Harkawik Gallery, New York, and “Venus Freak” at NOON Projects, Los Angeles. Group exhibitions include “Adornment Artifact” at Crenshaw Plaza and Band of Vices, Los Angeles; “Earth House Hold” at Murmurs, Los Angeles; “Obscurity and the Unknown” at Sebastian Gladstone, Los Angeles; and the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center, Los Angeles; among others.

Maddy Inez: Nascence will be on view May 16 – June 20, 2026 at Megan Mulrooney Gallery in LA.

You come from an extraordinary artistic lineage – your grandmother Betye Saar and your mother Alison Saar are both towering figures in sculpture. Was making art ever a question for you or did it feel inevitable? How did it feel to carve out your own artistic identity within that context?

We always say that art making is in the blood. My aunt, grandfather, cousins, brother and dad are all artists as well. Making art is just how I was taught to think critically and process the world. I feel so honoured to be able to create amongst the women in my life. We are all interested in similar topics, whether it be social justice, myth or magic but we all have unique voices and perspectives. I’ve never felt like I need to fight to have my own identity, I was always taught to honour and respect my ancestors. I’m very proud to be an accumulation of the people who raised me. 

Blood Bloom, 2026 Glazed Ceramic 24 1/2 x 16 1/2 x 8 in 62.2 x 41.9 x 20.3 cm (MLE26.003) Courtesy of Megan Mulrooney and the artist. Photo: Paul Salveson

Your practice moves between ceramics and printmaking, two processes that feel quite different in temperament. Do you find yourself in a different emotional or mental state depending on which you’re working in?

They are different in so many ways but they both have long processes and a little bit of alchemy. I used to work mainly in intaglio in print making, and I found the process so meditative. There was preparing the copper plate, applying the hard ground, the etching bath, the aquatint booth, and finally the act of cleaning the ink off with your hand. I found that the processes are what really drew me to printmaking more than the final result. Ceramics is the same in that I’m drawn to the meditative process. I usually coil build, so there is a moment in my studio where I’m rolling a big pile of coils in preparation of making a sculpture. The sensation of rolling a coil feels deeply ritualistic to me. There is something innate and ancient in working in clay that I’m attracted to. 

Each vessel in your upcoming show at the Megan Mulrooney Gallery is an ode to a specific plant brought over during the transatlantic slave trade, including Okra, Sudanese Hibiscus, Black-eyed peas, Palestinian olives. How did you arrive at that one-to-one relationship between vessel and plant?

I work in the shape of the vessel because of the human history ties to it. For as long as humans have had a relationship to clay, we have been making sculptures of bodies. I think there is an unspoken language of understanding when a viewer is looking at a vessel. We see ourselves or our gods in the shape. I think of my sculptures as votives to the spirits of the plants I am researching. 

Za’ atar Pistil, 2026 Glazed Ceramic 16 1/2 x 13 x 8 in 41.9 x 33 x 20.3 cm (MLE26.006) Courtesy of Megan Mulrooney and the artist. Photo: Paul Salveson

Finding your great-great-great grandmother’s midwifery certificate must have been an extraordinary moment. Can you take us back to that discovery and what it unlocked in you? Was it immediately clear that it would influence your work?

I had just recently read Nalo Hopkinsons’s book Salt Roads when I found it. The book is about lineage, suffering, resilience and magic. Making the discovery of a healer in my lineage felt validating, and I knew I wanted to research her experience. That research led me to knowledge about the cycles of colonisation that we are still witnessing today. 

You investigate themes of healing in your artwork, processing trauma through clay and viewing vessels as “votives of ancestral alchemy.” Has making this show been healing for you?

Researching this show has been really heavy. There were moments where I felt hopelessness at the way humanity was progressing. I was frustrated and angry with the patterns of erasure I was witnessing. That’s when I decided to interview farmers, land stewards and educators that share the same ideas as I do. I landed on the idea of gardening as an act of resistance. Having a relationship to land when so much violence is being inflicted on that land and its people is one of the purest examples of reliance. Talking to these people who are planting for a future they believe in was very healing for me. 

Gumbo Rising, 2025 Glazed Ceramic 15 x 9 1/2 x 2 1/2 in 38.1 x 24.1 x 6.3 cm (MLE26.007) Courtesy of Megan Mulrooney and the artist. Photo: Paul Salveson

The show frames gardening as an act of resistance. You volunteer at your local garden in Pasadena, you’ve interviewed farmers and herbalists across LA… How do you view the relationship between art practice and community practice? 

Community work has always been really important to my practice. I worked at this amazing organisation for adult artists with developmental disabilities in Los Angeles called Tierra Del Sol for five years. While teaching there the artists and I processed the Covid pandemic, BLM movement, ICE raids and wars through art. It was the voices and friendships that I made there that made me realise that building community was part of my practice. Hearing stories and learning from the people around me has really helped me grow as a person and as an artist. My community feeds my art practice and I hope my art gives something back in return. 

Clay and soil are both earth, so you’re working with the same element in the studio and in the garden. Do you think about that often? Does one influence how you handle the other?

Yes, absolutely. Until this year, my studio was located in the garage at my parents house in Laurel Canyon. Working alongside my mother’s garden and with the plants I grew up with really informed my practice. I made a lot of work based on the plants in that garden. One of these was Dandelion – I made many sculptures based on this plant and drinking tea from its root is part of my everyday life. Sometimes I will buy the plant I’m researching to draw and look at under a microscope, and then it will be placed in my garden. 

Black-eyed Angel, 2026 Glazed Ceramic 26 x 18 x 5 in 66 x 45.7 x 12.7 cm (MLE26.001) Courtesy of Megan Mulrooney and the artist. Photo: Paul Salveson

Do you have any rituals in the studio – music, silence, a particular time of day? And do you think the conditions you make art in show up in the work?

I listen to a lot of audio books while working in the studio. I use the LA county library app and borrow a lot of science fiction books, which have influenced my art aesthetically and conceptually. One of the books I was listening to while working on this body of work was Conjuring of America: Mojos, Mermaids, Medicine, and 400 years of Black Women’s Magic by Lindsey Stewart. I learned a lot about the plants I was researching from this book, and there was a really special chapter that mentioned one of my grandmother’s pieces that brought me to tears. At night, when I’m the only person in the studio, I will listen to music and dance around.  

1...121314...1,963Page 13 of 1,963