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Maximize Your Gains: What You Need for Effective Home Workouts

Home workouts are a convenient and cost-effective way to stay fit and healthy without the need for a gym membership. With the right tools, environment, and mindset, you can achieve your fitness goals from the comfort of your own space. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, this guide will outline everything you need to create an effective and sustainable home workout routine.

Create a Dedicated Workout Space

Setting aside a specific area in your home for workouts is essential. This space doesn’t have to be large or fancy, but it should be free from distractions and have enough room to move around comfortably. A clear space allows you to focus on your exercises and reduces the risk of accidents. If possible, choose a spot with good lighting and ventilation to create a motivating and comfortable atmosphere. Adding a mirror can help you monitor your form, ensuring that you perform exercises correctly and safely. 

Invest in Versatile Equipment

To make your home workouts effective, invest in a few versatile pieces of equipment. Dumbbells, resistance bands, and a yoga mat are great starting points. Dumbbells can be used for a variety of strength training exercises, while resistance bands are perfect for building muscle and improving flexibility. A yoga mat provides a comfortable surface for floor exercises, stretching, and yoga poses. Professionals from Kensui suggest that, if your budget allows, consider adding a stability ball, kettlebells, or even a foldable bench for more variety in your routines. The key is to choose equipment that aligns with your fitness goals and fits your available space.

Design a Balanced Workout Plan

An effective home workout routine should include a mix of strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises. Strength training helps build and tone muscles, while cardio improves heart health and burns calories. Flexibility exercises, such as yoga or stretching, enhance mobility and reduce the risk of injuries. Plan your workouts to target different muscle groups on different days, allowing for adequate recovery. For example, dedicate one day to upper body strength, another to lower body exercises, and a third to cardio. This balanced approach ensures that you’re working towards overall fitness rather than focusing on just one aspect. Of course, creatine also helps.

Leverage Online Resources

The internet is a treasure trove of workout resources that can guide and inspire you. From YouTube tutorials to fitness apps, you can find a wealth of exercises tailored to all fitness levels. Many apps also offer structured workout plans, tracking features, and even virtual trainers. If you prefer live interaction, consider joining online fitness classes. These options not only provide professional guidance but also help keep your workouts fresh and engaging. Be sure to choose resources from certified trainers to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the exercises.

Focus on Proper Nutrition

Exercise alone isn’t enough to achieve your fitness goals; proper nutrition is equally important. Your body needs the right fuel to perform well and recover efficiently. Focus on a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Stay hydrated by drinking enough water throughout the day, especially before and after workouts. If you’re working on specific fitness goals, such as building muscle or losing weight, consider consulting a nutritionist for a personalized meal plan. Remember, good nutrition supports your efforts and enhances your results.

Stay Consistent and Track Progress

Consistency is the cornerstone of any successful workout routine. Set a schedule and stick to it, whether you’re working out three times a week or every day. To keep yourself motivated, track your progress over time. Use a fitness journal or app to record your workouts, note improvements in strength or endurance, and celebrate milestones. Seeing tangible progress can boost your confidence and inspire you to keep going. On days when motivation is low, remind yourself of your goals and the benefits of regular exercise.

Incorporate Recovery and Rest

Rest and recovery are crucial components of any fitness regimen. Overworking your body can lead to fatigue, injuries, and burnout, derailing your progress. Incorporate rest days into your weekly schedule and prioritize recovery strategies such as stretching, foam rolling, and adequate sleep. Active recovery, like light yoga or a leisurely walk, can also help your muscles heal while keeping you moving. Listen to your body and adjust your routine as needed to maintain a healthy balance between activity and rest.

Stay Motivated and Overcome Barriers

One of the biggest challenges of home workouts is staying motivated. Without the structure of a gym or the encouragement of workout partners, it’s easy to lose focus. To stay on track, set realistic goals and remind yourself why you started. Create a playlist of your favorite workout songs or find an accountability partner who can check in on your progress. If boredom sets in, mix up your routine with new exercises, equipment, or workout challenges. Remember, consistency and adaptability are key to overcoming barriers and maximizing your gains.

Effective home workouts don’t require expensive equipment or elaborate setups. You can achieve your fitness goals without ever stepping into a gym by creating a dedicated space, investing in versatile tools, designing a balanced plan, and staying consistent. Prioritize proper nutrition, recovery, and motivation to make your home workouts a sustainable part of your lifestyle. With determination and the right approach, you can maximize your gains and enjoy the journey to better health and fitness from the comfort of your home.

Top Trends in Baby Play Mats: What’s New for Parents This Year

When it comes to baby play mats, new trends and designs are continually emerging to meet the needs of both babies and parents. These mats provide a safe and engaging space for your little one, combining functionality with comfort. Modern designs now emphasize features like easy cleaning, eco-friendly materials, and aesthetics that blend into any room.

This year, significant advancements focus on a balance between comfort, safety, and style. You might find options such as the 100% linen round quilted baby play mat appealing, especially if you value natural materials and a cozy design. These choices reflect a growing interest in creating lively and secure play areas that adapt to your baby’s developmental stages.

Eco-Friendly Foam Play Mat

Eco-friendly foam play mats are a popular choice for parents. These mats provide a safe and comfortable play area for your child. They are crafted from materials like eco-friendly foam, which is free from harmful chemicals. This makes them a great option for maintaining a healthy play environment.

The mats often come in bright, engaging colors and patterns, which can help with your child’s sensory development. They’re also easy to clean, making them convenient for busy parents. You can simply wipe the surface to keep it fresh and hygienic.

When choosing an eco-friendly foam play mat, look for options that are tested for safety standards. This will give you peace of mind, knowing your child can play without exposure to toxins. These mats are not only practical but also help support a sustainable lifestyle.

Interactive Musical Play Mat

Interactive musical play mats are a fantastic option for engaging your baby. These mats often come with built-in sounds and melodies that capture your baby’s attention. The music can help stimulate their developing senses and keep them entertained for longer periods.

These play mats usually include toys that respond to your baby’s touch. Some have features like dangling toys or buttons that play tunes when pressed. This can encourage your baby to reach, grasp, and eventually crawl, promoting physical development.

Many interactive mats are designed to be soft and safe for little ones. They are often crafted from baby-friendly materials, providing a comfortable surface for play. The design of the mat may include bright colors and patterns that visually stimulate your child, making playtime enjoyable and beneficial for learning. Look for options that combine engaging music with interactive toys for a fun and stimulating experience.

Animal Alphabet Play Gym

The Animal Alphabet Play Gym is a fun and educational play mat for your baby. It combines bright colors with animal illustrations that make learning enjoyable. Each section of the mat has a different letter of the alphabet paired with an animal, helping your child to start recognizing letters and animals early on.

The mat’s soft material provides a comfortable place for your baby to explore. Babies can engage with hanging toys that promote reaching and grabbing. These activities are necessary for developing motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

The Animal Alphabet Play Gym is easy to clean, which is convenient for parents. Many designs are also portable, making them simple to take along when you’re on the go. This feature is great for maintaining a familiar play environment for your child, wherever you are.

Tummy Time Water Mat

Tummy time water mats are a fun addition to a baby’s play area. These mats have water inside that makes tummy time more exciting by creating moving and swirling visuals that catch the baby’s eye. Babies love to press on the mat, watching the floating items move around.

The mats are designed for babies older than three months. They offer a different experience from traditional foam or fabric mats, providing a unique surface for play. The visual effects can keep your baby entertained and support their development.

Measuring about 26 x 20 inches, these mats are a great size for small spaces. Choose a tummy time water mat if you want a playful and engaging way to help your baby during tummy time.

Sensory Ball Pit Mat

A sensory ball pit mat is a fun and engaging choice for your baby. This type of mat typically includes colorful balls that can turn the mat into a mini ball pit. It encourages your little one to explore and play.

This mat not only provides entertainment but also helps develop motor skills. Your baby can practice grabbing and moving the balls around.

Another feature to look for is a foldable design. Many mats come with sides that you can pop up to create a contained play area. This helps keep balls in place and provides a safe spot for play.

Additionally, some mats include features like ball drop canopies. These can add another layer of fun for your baby. They offer a safe, interactive experience that your child will likely enjoy.

Foam Tiles Puzzle Mats

Foam tiles puzzle mats are a popular choice for parents looking for safe play areas. These mats usually come in colorful tile pieces that you can fit together like a puzzle. This makes it easy to cover large spaces or create custom shapes for your child’s play zone.

One of the key benefits of foam tiles is their cushioning. This provides a soft and safe surface for babies who are learning to crawl and walk. The foam material used is often non-toxic, adding peace of mind for parents.

Puzzle mats are also easy to clean. Most of them are water-resistant, so spills can be wiped away without fuss. They offer both practicality and style, fitting well into various room decors. Whether placed in a nursery or living room, foam tiles puzzle mats can improve the safety and appearance of your baby’s play area.

Travel-Friendly Foldable Mat

When you’re on the go, having a baby play mat that is easy to carry and store is important. A foldable travel mat can be a great option because it can fit into your luggage or car without taking up much space.

These mats often come with features like waterproof material, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. They are designed to be compact and lightweight, so you can take them wherever you need to go.

Look for mats with a simple folding mechanism that allows for quick setup and takedown. This way, you can spend more time enjoying your trip and less time dealing with complicated equipment.

Conclusion

When it comes to baby play mats, recent innovations bring exciting features to the table. Many mats now use eco-friendly materials, improving safety and reducing environmental impact.

You’ll find mats that incorporate interactive elements, like hanging toys and mirrors, which can boost your baby’s development.

The size of play mats varies greatly, so consider your available space before choosing. Some offer generous dimensions for more play areas, while others fit better in smaller spaces. Safety and ease of cleaning are important factors to keep in mind.

These trends in baby play mats aim to make playtime both safe and fun for your little one.

Best Leather Business Briefcases for Men

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First impressions in business extend beyond words.

Accessories, particularly a well-crafted leather bag, reveal your attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Selecting a piece that embodies professionalism is more than a matter of utility; it demonstrates your values and the standards you hold yourself to.

For example, walking into a meeting with a scuffed, ill-fitting carryall can inadvertently convey a lack of preparation. A polished leather case, on the other hand, exudes confidence and readiness. The kind of elegant professionalism you could display with a stylish case from a quality company lifts your game and gives you the best possible first impression.

Key Point: A professional bag isn’t just storage; it’s a functional statement piece and a key player in your professional image.

Our Favorite Business Briefcase: Von Baer No.1

No.1 Men’s Leather Briefcase | vonbaer.com

Carrying the Von Baer No. 1 Premium Leather Briefcase feels like stepping into the day with purpose. The moment you open the box, the rich scent of genuine leather and the impeccable craftsmanship strikes you—it’s a piece that commands attention without ever needing to shout. Walking into a meeting, it feels natural to rest your hand on the sturdy handle, knowing it looks as sharp as the rest of your outfit.

The design is clean, understated, yet undeniably refined. It has just enough structure to keep your essentials organized—a laptop, documents, and a notebook all fit effortlessly—but not so much bulk that it feels clunky. The smooth zipper and thoughtful interior layout make accessing everything seamless, whether you’re prepping for a client presentation or catching a flight to your next deal.

The vegetable-tanned full-grain Italian leather is the best of the best, guaranteed to develop a patina over time.

What makes it stand out is how it adds quiet confidence to your day. It’s not just a tool for work; it’s an extension of your professional self. Whether you’re walking into a boardroom or sitting down at a coffee shop for a quick catch-up, this briefcase sends the right message: you’re prepared, polished, and ready to handle whatever comes next. It’s the kind of investment that pays off every time someone notices the quality and subtle elegance it brings to your routine.

Visit their website here to see it.

They also have a few other options, including the CITY laptop bag below:

City Leather Laptop Bag | vonbaer.com

Material Matters: The Art of Choosing Quality Leather

Not all leather is created equal. Full-grain leather, the pinnacle of quality, retains the hide’s natural imperfections, offering unmatched durability and a patina that grows richer with age. In contrast, corrected grain and bonded options are mass-produced and sacrifice character and resilience.

When choosing a leather product, closely inspect the material. Full-grain leather will feel substantial yet supple. Its unique texture can’t be replicated in synthetic or lower-grade alternatives. Vegetable-tanned leather, for example, offers a depth of color and a tactile richness achieved through an organic, centuries-old process. It also avoids the harsh chemicals used in chrome tanning, making it an eco-conscious choice (source).

Additionally, consider the origin of the leather. Italian craftsmanship is renowned for its superior tanning processes. Opting for a product made with high-grade materials from regions with a tradition of excellence ensures your investment holds its value.

Pro Tip: Run your fingers over the surface—quality materials feel warm and natural, not plasticky or overly smooth.

Takeaway: Prioritize full-grain, vegetable-tanned materials for durability, character, and an unmistakable air of quality.

Functionality and Style: Balancing Form and Usefulness

A professional’s leather accessory should strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and functionality. Beyond looking impressive, it must meet the demands of your daily routine (source). When evaluating designs, think about how they align with your specific needs.

Look for:

  • Multiple compartments to separate work essentials like documents, pens, and personal items (source). Ensure there’s a dedicated section for tech devices, such as a padded laptop sleeve.
  • Secure closures like high-quality zippers or lockable clasps that keep valuables safe, especially during travel.
  • Ergonomic handles and straps to avoid discomfort when carrying heavier loads.

For instance, if you frequently travel for work, consider a slim case with a trolley sleeve for easy attachment to luggage. If your days involve walking between meetings, a lightweight design with an adjustable shoulder strap can be a lifesaver.

Consider your profession’s nuances. A lawyer may require a structured model with ample space for legal files, while a creative professional might opt for a soft, messenger-style bag to accommodate sketch pads or tablets.

Takeaway: Choose an accessory that integrates seamlessly with your daily life, enhancing productivity and style.

Craftsmanship: Spotting the Details That Count

The craftsmanship of a leather bag determines its appearance as well as its durability and usability. A discerning eye for detail ensures you avoid common pitfalls.

  • Stitching: Inspect the seams closely. Even, tight stitching prevents fraying and ensures the bag retains its shape. Poor stitching is a clear sign of mass production (source).
  • Hardware: Metal components like zippers, clasps, and buckles should feel sturdy and operate smoothly. Brass or stainless steel is preferable over cheaper alloys that corrode or break.
  • Lining: Quality doesn’t stop at the surface. A well-made product will have a durable lining, often in cotton or suede, to protect its contents.

Anecdotally, a colleague once opted for a bag with flimsy hardware. Within weeks, the strap buckles snapped, leaving them juggling documents mid-commute. Investing in superior craftsmanship eliminates these frustrations and enhances long-term satisfaction.

Pro Tip: Test zippers and buckles before purchasing—they should move fluidly without sticking.

Takeaway: Superior craftsmanship ensures your accessory withstands the rigors of professional life while maintaining its refined appearance.

Practical Examples of Daily Excellence

Imagine stepping into a boardroom with a meticulously organized leather briefcase. As you pull out your presentation materials, the smooth glide of the zipper and the understated elegance of the bag’s interior draw subtle yet admiring glances. This isn’t vanity; it’s a reflection of your professionalism.

Consider another scenario: a conference trip. A bag with a dedicated laptop compartment and a trolley sleeve eliminates the hassle of juggling multiple items. You’re not just saving time; you’re projecting an image of efficiency and preparedness that colleagues and clients notice.

These real-world applications illustrate the profound impact of choosing the right accessory. It transcends convenience, aligning your tools with your ambitions.

Takeaway: A thoughtfully chosen bag enhances both your productivity and the impression you leave on others.

The Subtle Power of Color and Design

The color and design of your leather accessory play a pivotal role in how it complements your overall appearance. Neutral shades like black, brown, and tan are timeless and versatile, while unique tones like oxblood add character without straying into ostentation.

Consider the finish. A matte texture conveys understated sophistication, while a polished finish can lean more formal. Minimalist designs with clean lines and discreet hardware project modernity, whereas traditional styles with flap closures or buckles suggest classic taste.

Coordinate your choice with your wardrobe. For instance, a sleek black bag pairs impeccably with a tailored navy suit, while a rich brown case harmonizes with earth-toned ensembles.

Pro Tip: Evaluate how the item looks under different lighting conditions to ensure it suits both day and evening settings.

Takeaway: Align the color and design of your accessory with your professional and personal aesthetic for a cohesive, polished look.

Maintenance: Protecting Your Investment

A leather accessory is an investment, and proper care is essential to ensure it serves you for years to come. Regular maintenance keeps the material looking pristine and prevents premature wear.

  • Cleaning: Use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe away dirt and dust. Avoid harsh cleaners that strip leather of its natural oils.
  • Conditioning: Apply a leather conditioner every few months to maintain suppleness. This prevents cracking and preserves the bag’s natural luster.
  • Protection: Keep the item away from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause fading, and moisture, which leads to staining or mildew.
  • Storage: When not in use, store your item in a breathable dust bag. Avoid plastic covers that trap humidity.

For stains, seek professional leather cleaning services rather than attempting risky DIY fixes. A small investment in professional care can save you from irreparable damage.

Takeaway: Routine care ensures your leather accessory ages gracefully, retaining its elegance and functionality.

Making the Right Choice

A leather accessory is far more than just an item; it reflects your professional ethos. Whether you value impeccable organization, timeless style, or unmatched durability, choosing with care ensures it becomes a reliable companion in your career journey. Equip yourself with a piece that speaks to your standards and supports your success.

4 Albums Out Today to Listen to: Boldy James & RichGains, Lil Baby, Ian Wellman, and More

In this segment, we showcase the most notable albums out each week. Here are the albums out on January 3, 2025:


Boldy James & RichGains, Murder During Drug Traffic

Over the past few years, Boldy James has been on such a prolific collaborative streak that you might have missed his 2023 team-up with RichGains, one half of the production duo Blended Babies. (It’s well worth a listen.) Today, the pair have followed up Indiana Jones with a new album called Murder During Drug Traffic. RichGains once again conjures a psychedelic haze that perfectly matches the rapper’s bleary yet compelling as-ever delivery, and it’s also great post-holiday music. The record really picks up steam after the highlight ‘Janky’, at which point a number of guests start rolling in, including Double Dee, Jonathan Chapman, Street Lord Juan, Detroit King Tape, and Cassie Jo Craig.


Lil Baby, WHAM

Lil Baby is back with a new album called WHAM – an acronym for Who Hard As Me, as the album cover makes clear. Most notably, the follow-up to 2022’s It’s Only Me includes Young Thug’s first verse since being freed from jail last fall. (“I don’t even believe I was locked up, for real,” Thug raps on the track, which also features Future.) Other than that, the record really presents itself as the first blockbuster rap album of 2025, and it does go pretty hard. GloRilla, 21 Savage, Travis Scott, Rod Wave, and Rylo Rodriguez make guest appearances, too, while production comes from Wheezy, Southside, London On Da Track, and Krazy Mob, among others.


Ian Wellman, Can You Hear the Street Lights Glow

Los Angeles artist Ian Wellman deploys a combination of distorted tape loops, field recordings, and other experimental textures as a form of storytelling. His latest, recorded between November 2023 – August 2024 and mastered by Lawrence English, is appropriately icy and foreboding, and its title hints at the narrative within. In the Bandcamp bio, Wellman offers a description of the specific environment he set out to capture: “I moved to Pasadena during the fall last year. One of the first new sounds I noticed were the mercury-vapor street lights that filled the air as the sun went down every evening. Under the sidewalks, exhaust vents hummed along to the song of crickets and the rumble of traffic. Being away from the inner city, more individual details in the soundscape emerged.”


New Mexican Stargazers, patient floral arrangement

New Mexican Stargazers’ prolific output continues with patient floral arrangement, another hypnagogic release from the vaporwave-inspired Philadelphia outfit. Stretching over 90 minutes, the record opens with ‘floating lantern parameter’, which starts with hollowed-out percussion and slowly builds a beautifully soothing soundscape. “it slowly overtook the front of my house, almost like a reminder of things i needed to accomplish but never had enough energy to do,” its Bandcamp description reads. “in fact, if i was living alone, there is no telling how long it would have continued to grow for. i had taken some pictures of the beautiful, yet intrusive display of residential flora, and it was the only the very next day that it had been removed. out of my life, finally allowing for light to enter my room once more.”


Other albums out today:


Kilometre Club
, overnight; charaxes, Proof of Life; Richard Sallis, Felix.

hey, nothing Unveil New Song ‘Barn Nursery’

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hey, nothing – the Atlanta duo of Tyler Mabry and Harlow Phillips – have unveiled a new song, ‘Barn Nursery’. It’s a poignant and mesmerizing track that follows their November single ‘Sick Dogs’. Check it out below.

 

billy woods Joins Panchiko on New Song ‘Shandy in the Graveyard’

Panchiko, a British band that was originally active from 1997-2001, went viral after someone found a copy of their 2000 debut EP D>E>A>T>H>M>E>T>A>L in a charity shop and uploaded it online. Now, they’re readying a new album, Ginkgo, which will come out April 4 via Nettwerk. After previewing it with the title track, Panchiko have now shared ‘Shandy in the Graveyard’, a collaboration with rapper billy woods (of Armand Hammer). Check it out below.

Nosferatu Achieves Its First Major Global Box Office Milestone

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Nosferatu has exceeded box office expectations despite competing against major releases like Sonic the Hedgehog 3, Mufasa: The Lion King, and A Complete Unknown. It earned an additional $2.9 million on Tuesday, December 3, bringing its global total to $50 million in less than a week.

Eggers’ highest-grossing domestic film, Nosferatu, grossed $48 million — over $10 million more than The Northman (2022), which he previously directed. Internationally, however, it trails The Northman with a worldwide total of $69 million, mainly due to a $35 million overseas performance. Due to limited theater showings, Eggers’ film earned $3 million internationally, the lowest in his career. Expansion into more markets could significantly boost these numbers.

In the box office, the film grossed $11.5 million on Christmas Day, finishing second to only Mufasa: The Lion King. Compared to other blockbusters such as Sonic the Hedgehog 3 and Wicked, it earned twice as much as Moana 2. Following its opening, Nosferatu continued to perform well, adding $7.6 million the day after Christmas and totaling $21 million over the weekend, consistently staying in the top three.

On Rotten Tomatoes, Nosferatu has received an 86% approval rating from critics, while a 74% approval rating from general audiences. Despite Eggers’ lowest critics’ scores, The Northman, The Lighthouse, and The Witch all exceed 90%, the film has the highest audience rating.

Cast of ‘Nosferatu’

Nicholas Hoult stars as Thomas Hutter, contributing to his impressive career box office total of $4.6 billion, largely driven by his role as Hank McCoy/Beast in the X-Men franchise. Lily-Rose Depp plays Ellen Hunter, while Bill Skarsgård takes on the role of Count Orlok, adding to his repertoire of iconic monster characters, including Pennywise from the recent IT films. The cast also features Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Willem Dafoe, Emma Corrin, and Ralph Ineson. Robert Eggers not only directed but also penned the screenplay, further solidifying his creative vision for the film.

Yawners Release New Song ‘1 de enero’

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Madrid-based band Yawners started off the new year with the aptly titled ‘1 de enero’ (‘January 1.”) Listen to the new track below.

Yawners’ most recent album, Duplo, came out in 2022.

Beach Fossils Cover Duster’s ‘Inside Out’

Beach Fossils have released a cover of Duster’s ‘Inside Out’, from the slowcore band’s iconic 1998 album Stratosphere, via Numero Group. Give it a listen below.

Beach Fossils’ last album was 2023’s Bunny. Check out our inspirations interview with the band.

Rose Gray Shares New Single ‘Party People’

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Rose Gray has released ‘Party People’, the latest single from her upcoming debut album, Louder, Please. It follows previous cuts ‘Free’, ‘Angel Of Satisfaction’, ‘Switch’, and ‘Wet & Wild’. Check it out below.

‘Party People’ was written after a Paris session with Sega Bodega. “I had 3 hours of sleep, took the Eurostar, wrote all day, and loved it instantly,” Gray recalled. “It captures the euphoria of entering a party.”

Louder, Please comes out January 17 via Play It Again Sam.