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Arca Drops New Songs ‘Puta’ and ‘Sola’

Arca is back with two new songs, ‘Sola’ and ‘Puta’. The dreamier ‘Sola’ comes with a Daniel Sannwald-directed video, while the playful, sultry ‘Puta’ is accompanied by a Stillz-directed clip. Check them out below.

“‘Puta’ and ‘Sola’ are songs I’ve been perfecting for years,” Arca said in a statement. “Taking my time writing, recording, producing and mixing them on my own, slow cooking, has been important to getting the music just right. I’m so proud of these songs, and both Daniel Sannwald and Stillz are geniuses; the videos are so amazing. The themes lyrically span both extravagant sensuality for the dancefloor on ‘Puta’ as well as the vulnerability of tenderness and love in ‘Sola’. I hope they bring joy and comfort as well as confidence to all my fellow mutants!”

Bruce Springsteen Releases ‘Repo Man’ From Lost 1995 Country Album ‘Somewhere North of Nashville’

Bruce Springsteen has unveiled ‘Repo Man’, the latest preview of his upcoming box set Tracks II: The Lost Albums. It’s taken from Somewhere North of Nashville, a lost country album he recorded with the E Street Band in 1995, at the same time that he was working on The Ghost of Tom Joad. Take a listen below.

“What happened was I wrote all these country songs at the same time I wrote ‘The Ghost of Tom Joad,'” Springsteen explained. “Those sessions completely overlap each other. I’m singing ‘Repo Man’ in the afternoon and ‘The Line’ at night. So the country record got made right along with ‘The Ghost of Tom Joad.’ ‘Streets of Philadelphia’ got me connected to my socially conscious or topical songwriting. So that’s where ‘The Ghost of Tom Joad’ came from. But at the same time I had this country streak that was also running through those sessions and I ended up making a country record on the side.”

Tracks II: The Lost Albums is set for release on June 27. So far, Springsteen has shared the title track from Faithless, the score to a movie that never got made; ‘Blind Spot’ from Streets of Philadelphia Sessions; and ‘Rain in the River’ from the compilation Perfect World.

Squid Game: First Official Teaser Revealed for Third and Final Season

To open up 2025, Netflix made the welcomed announcement that Squid Game’s third season would premiere on the all-conquering streaming platform on 27 June. Aside from a brief overview of the season and a picture, that was all fans of the gore-laden Korean drama could go off.

Now, kicking off May and the two months to launch, Netflix has finally revealed the official teaser trailer. Given that the first season reached number one in 94 countries, broke the service’s record as the most-watched series at launch, and then Season 2 also broke debut records, the fanfare around the teaser is understandable.

Perhaps the most surprising thing, out of the context of Netflix’s obsession with cancelling shows with good writing, is that Squid Game Season 3 will be the last. After all, it’s become a pop-culture sensation that’s spread to all corners of entertainment.

The Third Season Won’t be the End of Squid Game

Squid Game was such a huge hit out of the gate that Netflix couldn’t help but make the most of the opportunity. After all, the original season was meant to be a one-off, according to the director. Then, Season 2 was meant to be the last, but they needed more episodes, thus Season 3 is on the way.

Beyond the streaming platform, there was a Squid Game event in the ever-popular Call of Duty game series, and a bunch of pop-up events and merchandise releases. Obviously, there are Funko Pop! Figures, but there was also a pop-up store in Paris in 2021 as well as many Red Light, Green Light events around the world. We’ve also seen a bunch of official Squid Game entertainment products emerge.

We’ve seen a bunch of Squid Game mobile games, but the most prominent recent release has been Squid Game Gganbu. Landing very well among other hit and new slot games, in Gganbu you collect marbles, crack cookies, and spin the deadly wheels in the hope of hitting the jackpot. Along with these games, there was, of course, the reality Squid Game: The Challenge game show that brought Squid Game to life in a much more tame environment.

Squid Game’s Season 3 has been Teased

While only 1:24 long, we get a lot from the Squid Game: Season 3 Official Teaser. Netflix has just swung expectations all over the place, from marching in the main character (Gi-hun) in a neatly-bowed coffin to signing off the trailer with the wails of a baby.

Plus, there are new games on the way. One has the set-up of the round capsule vending machine, which is more commonly associated with tacky little toys, and another is an X and O game. It promises to pick-up right after the crushing cliffhanger that concluded Season 2, but where the brutal tale will ultimately end up is anyone’s guess.

Squid Game is much more than the Gi-hun storyline now, and while Season 3 may be the final of the core story, Netflix is clearly keen on expanding its footprint across entertainment and, potentially, into a spin-off series.

What’s Packed Into the Vegas Slots Section of Online Casinos?

What springs to mind when you hear the term “Vegas Slots”? Whether you’re a complete novice to gambling or someone who’s spun the reels at both online and land-based casinos, you’d likely agree on one thing — it’s got to be tied to the legendary tourist hotspot of Las Vegas.

Each year, around 38 million visitors flock to this glittering city, and a fair share of them can’t resist stepping into its iconic casinos to try their luck on those classic slot machines. UK online casinos couldn’t ignore the pull of this legendary gambling hub – many have integrated a selection of authentic Vegas-style slots into their platforms. You don’t need to fly to Nevada to spin the reels. These games are available right from your device, and you can pay using convenient online casino payment methods like bank cards, e-wallets, and even mobile payment services.

But is it really that straightforward with these slots in the repertoires of online casinos? Are they simply cashing in on the Las Vegas theme — borrowing its name, aesthetics, and payline structures to draw players in? Not quite. The top platforms wouldn’t be considered top-tier if they didn’t bring their own unique flair to the table, even in a category as seemingly straightforward as Vegas Slots.

Vegas Slots: Expectation vs Reality

Do online casinos simply copy the slots you’d find in Nevada’s casinos? The answer is a firm no. This category features games exclusively from one provider — Playtech. Founded in 1999 in Tartu, Estonia, Playtech has since become a global giant in the iGaming world, now headquartered in London, England.

London and Nevada? That’s quite a distance apart. So, in reality, online casinos and Playtech are using the “Vegas” name as a clever marketing trick. The slots in this category don’t really capture the vibe of Las Vegas or the Strip’s casinos. Instead, these online casinos are playing on the associations players have with the city’s brightness, iconic status, and sheer thrill of gambling.

Two Types of Slots

To unpack this category, let’s start with the two types of slots you’ll find: progressive and non-progressive. It’s another clever move by online casinos, playing on the idea of jackpots that tie back to big gambling hubs like Las Vegas:

  • Progressive Vegas Slots are the ones with huge jackpots, often hitting seven figures. They’re linked to Playtech’s network, so every bet from players across all casinos using these slots boosts the shared jackpot. In online casinos, you’ll spot examples like Lunar Link: The Legend of King Arthur and Age of the Gods King of Olympus Extreme — the latter’s jackpot, at the time of writing, starts at £100,000.
  • Non-progressive Vegas Slots, on the other hand, are standard games with fixed prizes, not tied to Playtech’s jackpot network. They usually offer smaller wins, with popular picks like Fluffy Favourites, Wild Roll, and Book of Kings.

Which type of slot should you pick? If you’re ready to burn through your bankroll chasing a jackpot, go for progressive slots — but don’t be shocked if you end up empty-handed. Non-progressive slots are safer, paying out more often, though the wins won’t be as hefty.

Themes and Style

To see that the Vegas Slots category isn’t just copying Nevada’s classic machines or the Las Vegas vibe, you only need to look at the themes and styles of these games:

  • Historical and Mythological: Book of Kings, Mega Fire Blaze Khonsu God of Moon, Age of the Gods King of Olympus Extreme.
  • Adventurous and Exotic: Sahara Riches Cash Collect, Gold Trio Leprechaun’s Luck, El Ranchero Cash Collect.
  • Classic Slots: Flaming Bars, Drop N’ Connect: Lights of Luck.
  • Modern and Vibrant: Fluffy Favourites, Good Heavens 2025, Lil Demon: Blazing Lava.
  • Branded: Mega Fire Blaze: Breaking Bad (inspired by the TV series Breaking Bad).

From this mix, only the classic slots like Flaming Bars, with traditional symbols such as triple sevens and fruits, really echo the old-school Nevada slots.

A Mix of Mechanics and Features

Credit where it’s due—the slots in this category come with a variety of modern mechanics. That’s why Vegas Slots can actually serve as a sort of practice ground for players looking to get a feel for different prize and jackpot mechanics in slots.

Cash Collect

This feature lets you gather special symbols on the reels to unlock bonus prizes, often in the form of instant cash rewards or free spins. You’ll find it in games like Sahara Riches Cash Collect and El Ranchero Cash Collect.

Mega Fire Blaze

A mechanic that triggers bonus rounds with a grid of symbols, where you can land big multipliers or even jackpots. It’s a highlight in slots like Mega Fire Blaze Khonsu God of Moon and Mega Fire Blaze: Breaking Bad.

Drop N’ Connect

A fairly new mechanic where symbols drop down to form winning combos, often with cascading reels that keep the action going. You can try it in Drop N’ Connect: Lights of Luck.

Lunar Link

This system offers bonus levels with a hold-and-win style, where you can chase fixed jackpots or multipliers. It’s featured in Lunar Link: The Legend of King Arthur, often tied to progressive jackpots.

Should You Play Vegas Slots?

It all comes down to what you’re after. If you’re checking out this category expecting classic American slots with a proper Nevada vibe, you’ll likely be disappointed. Honestly, it’d be nice if Playtech added more classic slots with that Vegas feel to make the name fit better.

That said, if you’re here for a mix of modern mechanics and the chance to chase jackpots — and you’re fine with the house keeping roughly 4.03% of all bets, a very rough estimate based on an average RTP of 95.97% — then this category will suit you well.

So, this category probably won’t satisfy your craving for a classic Vegas casino experience. However, it does have its own advantages and nice features.

Utah and Workplace Culture: What Employers Are Doing to Retain Top Talent

Utah’s dynamic economy, powered by a thriving tech sector, a robust outdoor recreation industry, and a culture of innovation, positions it as a top destination for professionals. Beyond its stunning landscapes, from red rock deserts to snow-capped peaks, and abundant economic opportunities, Utah’s workplace culture is a key draw for attracting and retaining top talent. 

Businesses, from fast-growing Silicon Slopes startups to established firms in Salt Lake City, are focusing on staff well-being with flexible work options, thoughtful benefits, and a genuine approach to satisfaction. 

We will explore for you six ways Utah employers are creating workplaces where people thrive and choose to stay long-term.

Prioritizing Work-Life Balance

Utah’s deep-rooted values of family, community, and personal fulfillment shape its workplace ethos. Employers embrace this by offering flexible schedules, enabling workers to attend school recitals, volunteer locally, or hit the trails for a midday hike in Zion National Park.

Hybrid and remote work arrangements, now a cornerstone post-pandemic, empower employees to seamlessly blend professional and personal responsibilities, enhancing their quality of life.

Leading companies like Adobe and Overstock provide generous paid time off (PTO), encouraging workers to recharge without being stressed about falling behind. Wellness programs are also on the rise, with offerings like subsidized gym memberships, on-site yoga classes, meditation apps, or designated mental health days. 

By valuing employees’ lives outside the office, employers foster deep loyalty, reduce burnout, and create a workplace that feels supportive and human.

Investing in Employee Safety and Support

A safe and caring workplace is essential for retention, and Utah employers are setting a high standard. Beyond meeting OSHA requirements, they provide regular safety training, ergonomic workstations, and accessible mental health resources, including counseling services.

In higher-risk sectors like construction, manufacturing, or logistics, businesses prioritize hazard prevention, rigorous safety audits, and clear guidelines to protect their teams from harm. When workplace injuries occur, employees deserve transparent support and fair treatment.

Resources like a workers’ compensation attorney in Utah guide workers through claims, ensuring they receive rightful benefits to aid recovery. Employers who openly communicate about these options and partner with trusted advocates build trust, demonstrating genuine care for their team’s well-being in challenging times. This commitment strengthens workplace confidence and reinforces a culture of security.

Offering Competitive Benefits Packages

To stand out in a competitive job market, Utah employers craft benefits packages that resonate deeply. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans are standard, but many companies go further with unique perks like fertility support, pet insurance, wellness stipends, or student loan repayment assistance. 

Robust retirement plans with generous employer matching signal a commitment to employees’ long-term financial security. Small businesses, a vital part of Utah’s economy, shine with creativity. Some offer profit-sharing or equity stakes, aligning personal success with company growth. 

Others lean into Utah’s outdoor lifestyle, providing ski pass discounts, access to mountain retreats in Park City, or even company-sponsored camping trips. These tailored benefits make employees feel valued, foster a sense of belonging, and create a workplace that feels uniquely connected to Utah’s vibrant culture.

Fostering Professional Growth

Utah’s ambitious workforce craves opportunities to grow, and employers deliver with robust professional development. Companies provide tuition reimbursement, subscriptions to platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera, and in-house training to sharpen technical and leadership skills. Mentorship programs pair newer hires with seasoned professionals, offering personalized guidance for career advancement and confidence-building.

Domo, Pluralsight, and Lucid Software are some tech-heavy Silicon Slopes firms that host hackathons, technical workshops, and industry summits to promote innovation and collaboration. 

Clear promotion paths, cross-departmental roles, and stretch projects show employees a future with the company. By investing in growth, Utah employers boost engagement, empower their teams, and cultivate a workforce eager to stay and contribute to long-term success.

Building Inclusive and Collaborative Cultures

A sense of belonging is critical for employee happiness, and Utah employers are fostering welcoming workplaces. Diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are expanding, with companies hosting cultural parades, forming employee resource groups for underrepresented communities, and providing bias training to ensure respect for all. 

These steps create environments where every employee feels valued and heard. Collaboration thrives in Utah’s workplaces, with open-plan offices, team-building retreats in the Uinta Mountains, and regular feedback sessions sparking creativity and connection. 

Companies like Zions Bank and Intermountain Healthcare champion teamwork, reflecting Utah’s tight-knit community spirit. Employees who feel connected to their colleagues and aligned with their company’s mission are far more likely to stay, building a loyal and cohesive workforce.

Listening to Employee Feedback

The most powerful retention tool in Utah is listening. Employers use annual surveys, open town hall meetings, and regular one-on-one check-ins to understand employee needs and aspirations. 

This input drives meaningful changes, from refining policies to upgrading facilities or addressing workload concerns. Some companies conduct “stay interviews,” asking workers what keeps them engaged, what challenges they face, and how the workplace can improve.

For example, when employees at a Utah-based retailer raised concerns about rigid scheduling, management introduced a flexible system that boosted morale and productivity. By acting on feedback, employers foster trust and show employees their voices shape the workplace. This culture of openness and responsiveness ensures workers feel valued, respected, and committed to their roles, reducing turnover significantly.

Why Utah’s Approach Works

Utah’s unique blend of economic vitality, cultural values, and forward-thinking workplace practices makes it a magnet for talent. Employers recognize that retaining top performers requires more than competitive salaries—it demands a workplace where people feel supported, valued, and inspired. 

By emphasizing work-life balance, safety, meaningful benefits, professional growth, inclusion, and responsiveness, Utah companies create environments that resonate with the state’s community-driven ethos.

For employees, this translates to fulfilling careers in a state that celebrates both professional achievement and personal joy. For employers, it builds a loyal, productive workforce and cements their reputation as top workplaces. As Utah’s economy continues to grow, its unwavering dedication to exceptional workplace culture will ensure it remains a leader in attracting and retaining the brightest talent.

Nick León Announces Debut Album ‘A Tropical Entropy’, Enlists Ela Minus for New Single

Nick León has announced his debut album, A Tropical Entropy, which arrives June 27 via TraTraTrax. It includes the previously released Erika de Casier collab ‘Bikini’, as well as guest spots from Casey MQ, Xander Amahd, Jonny from Space, Esty & Mediopicky, and Lavurn. Today, León has dropped the intoxicating ‘Ghost Orchid’ featuring Ela Minus. Check it out below, and scroll down for the album cover and tracklist.

A Tropical Entropy Cover Artwork:

Tropical Entropy

A Tropical Entropy Tracklist:

1. Entropy feat. Xander Amahd
2. Ghost Orchid [feat. Ela Minus]
3. Metromover [feat. Jonny from Space]
4. Millenium Freak [feat. Esty & Mediopicky+]
5. Hexxxus
6. Crush
7. R.I.P. Current
8. Product of Attraction [feat. Lavurn]
9. Ocean Apart [feat. Casey MQ]
10. Broward Boyy
11. Bikini [feat. Erika de Casier]

What’s Stopping Your Business From Being A Great Place To Work?

Are you a business owner about to post some job openings? If the answer is yes, we recommend putting a halt on the next step right now; there’s a few things you need to go over first! Mainly, whether or not your business is a great place to work. 

This is the kind of question all business owners should ask themselves from time to time, but it’s much more of a pressing question when you’re actively looking for new employees. 

Maybe you need to fill a role ASAP, after your previous hire left during their trial period? Or maybe you’re trying to grow and scale your business right now, and that’s coinciding with an increased need for manpower? Either way, you’re in need of skilled employees and a team that knows what they’re doing! 

And the best way to ensure you can build such a team? Focus on making your business the best place to work.

Attractive job roles aren’t just about the salary range included in the bottom of the job description. They’re also made from your company background, working policies, workplace culture, and the various benefits available through being your employee. 

These are the things to think about before putting your next hiring campaign into action. Because of that, we’ve listed below a few of the main elements involved in creating a desirable workplace. If you can make sure none are missing from your offerings, you’ll have a much stronger chance of bagging the best talent currently in the job market. 

You Expect Too Much

You’re the expert on your business. You’re the expert on your product. You’re the expert in your field. These are all true statements you should be proud of. However, as the boss, you need to understand how this expertise can influence the expectations you hold for any new employee that comes through the door. 

It’s often said that experts forget what it means to be an expert. Often known as ‘the curse of knowledge’, it’s very easy to forget that what you’re capable of is specific only to you. Any new employee you hire isn’t going to have this same level of knowledge and insight, even when they hold qualifications and expertise in the capacity you’ve hired them for. 

They need to have time to get used to working for you, and keeping up with the specific demands of your business. If they request support, you need to be there to give it to them. This is why probation periods and employee onboarding is so crucial; they’re very unlikely to know how to handle all of this when they first start! 

By letting yourself operate with unchecked expectations, you’re far more likely to reject perfectly good candidates for long term positions. You’re also far more likely to see a high rate of employee turnover. You probably won’t even be aware that this is what’s going on, and that’s what makes this such a pervasive issue in the workplace. 

There’s a Sense of Micromanagement

On the other side of the above issue, there comes the problem of micromanagement. This is when you hover over an employee as they go about their work day, making comments, pulling them up on little things, and generally being a nuisance as they try to get the job done. 

Again, you may not realize this is what’s going on, but it can be a killer of workplace motivation! People don’t do their best work when they’re being monitored, especially if they cannot have the space to explain what it is they’re doing and why they’re going about it in their chosen way. Micromanagers don’t often listen more than they talk! 

Benefits aren’t as Good as They Could Be

We live in a very competitive world. If you want to attract the top talent and make sure they stick around for years to come, you’re going to need to offer them the best benefits possible. Every business has their own budget, of course, but make sure you’re stretching to use it properly in this manner. 

Good benefits like health insurance, bonuses, guaranteed pay rises, and even the chance to own shares in the business can all be put on the table here. While it’s fun to offer things like gym membership and the chance to wear casual clothing on a regular basis, make sure you get these big hitters down on paper and out of the way first. 

You want your employees to know they have a strong sense of advantage when they work for you, even if your salary is less competitive than others you’ve seen in the industry. Sometimes the benefits package can more than make up for not being able to pay what you’d really like to! 

There’s a Lack of Security

A lack of security is a big problem. In the modern workplace, there’s a lot that can go wrong when you don’t pay attention to who’s on site and/or who’s in your system. Both sides of the equation can spell disaster for your business in a variety of areas. 

For one, it could impact how well you can pay your employees, and it can also allow third parties into the private details your employees have trusted you to safeguard for them. 

As such, make sure you review your current on site security practices and your current cybersecurity practices. 

How often do you patch your network? How often do you double check who has access to it? What’s your password policy? Do all employees follow it? Do you let your devices go offsite, even if they have access to your own company server and all the data it contains? These are the policy questions to go over periodically. 

In terms of physical security, a modern upgrade will never go amiss. Indeed, you may want to invest in access control systems to ensure only the right people are on site at any time. If your premises are located in a very busy, high traffic location, access control can help you to keep an eye on the crowd and where it goes. 

After all, you don’t want your employees constantly having to check to see if their bag is still in the cloak room! That won’t lead to a satisfying working setup at all. 

No Options to Grow

Finally, it’s best to ensure you have training programs in place for your employees to take advantage of. If someone joins your business and finds there’s very little room to grow from here, they’re likely to go elsewhere within a few months. 

You don’t want them to only give their all for a limited time, so give back to them by promising them an opportunity for the future. 

Let’s Make Your Business the Best Place to Work

Your business can become an incredible place to work with just a bit of forward planning and attention to detail. Make sure you keep this in mind when you’re trying to bring in new staff. The more you care about the employee experience, the more they’re going to enjoy working for you, and the lower your turnover is going to be. 

Start with your own actions and behavior, then focus on what you can do to open up the working world for your team. You should also think about day to day safety, common problems that can crop up in the workplace, and how you can help your employees to feel their best when they’re on the job.

19 New Songs Out Today to Listen To: Ada Lea, La Dispute, 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 Tuesday, May 13, 2025.


Ada Lea – ‘baby blue frigidaire mini fridge’

Ada Lea has announced a new album, when i paint my masterpiece, with the radiant and touching lead single ‘baby blue frigidaire mini fridge’. The singer-songwriter said the track was inspired by “the Chantal Akerman film where the camera moves in slow circular pans around her apartment. Then what if the frame quickly zooms out as far as it could possibly go? And in that wide pull back, what we recognize as universal is still ‘this chair, this window, this mountain view.’ Then, move out again, even further. What we are left with—three things: ‘our old time souls, this old time moon.’ Two things, I mean.”

La Dispute – ‘I Shaved My Head’, ‘Man With Hands and Ankles Bound’, and ‘Autofiction Detail’

La Dispute are back with news of their next LP, the self-produced No One Was Driving The Car. They’ve already shared the first of five acts – comprising the songs ‘I Shaved My Head’, ‘Man With Hands and Ankles Bound’, and ‘Autofiction Detail’ – which was inspired by Paul Schrader’s 2017 psychological thriller First Reformed. Frontman Jordan Dreyer shared: “it begins with a man examining his own slow dissociation from himself while shaving his head alone in a bathroom at night, then shifts through a neighbor’s open window to a conversation about control and desire, framed via the image of a man seen through it: bound on the floor with a woman standing before him, presumably a sex worker. when the woman exits the building (her companion still tied up), the narrator leaves his own, following less her than the idea represented by her inside his own struggle to reconnect to desires for life severed by time, self, and circumstance, or perhaps fleeing the implication he draws from the man left behind (his helplessness, maybe, or else his confidence to pursue something complicated where the narrator has so consistently failed). the third song follows him on that destination-less late night walk, among the street people and their disasters, ending where he had the whole night subconsciously always headed: the hospital where\ his partner works, at which point an internal reckoning occurs.”

Folk Bitch Trio – ‘Cathode Ray’

Newly signedto Jagjaguwar, Folk Bitch Trio have announced their debut LP, Now Would Be A Good Time, dropping July 25. It’s led by the lilting, claustrophobic new single ‘Cathode Ray’, which the band’s Gracie Sinclair said “expresses a feeling of being trapped in myself and wanting to break out of that so violently that Iʼm literally talking about opening up a body viscerally. Itʼs about frustration and knowing thereʼs no cheap thrill thatʼs going to fix that.”

Pile – ‘Born at Night’

Pile have announced a new album, Sunshine and Balance Beams, sharing the dynamic and foreboding ‘Born at Night’ along with the news. “The fulfilment I receive from pursuing art has been a guiding force for me,” frontman Rick Maguire shared. “But it can be damaging when that pursuit subscribes to material expectations of where you might be able to go, and then doesn’t square with the reality that follows.”

Standing on the Corner – ‘Baby’ and ‘Friends 2day Enemies 2morrow’

The enigmatic New York art collective Standing on the Corner is back with two drowsy, jagged new songs, ‘Baby’ and ‘Friends 2day Enemies 2morrow’. Their last full-length was the 2017 mixtape RED BURNS.

Slow Crush – ‘Thirst’

Slow Crush, who hail from the Belgian city of Leuven, have announced their third LP, Thirst – out August 1 on Pure Noise – and shared its gauzy, visceral title track. “‘Thirst’ is about an unquenchable desire for what’s next, with focus on essence and balance, not losing yourself in the ever-growing distractions that surround us,” the band said. “A yearning pulse for renewal, ‘Thirst’ ripples with a craving for something pure, something vital. It churns with an unrelenting drive, building an electrifying momentum that surges forward and breaks through, offering both release and rebirth.”

Liquid Mike – ‘Groucho Marx’ and ‘Selling Swords’

Liquid Mike have detailed Hell Is An Airport, the follow-up to last year’s excellent Paul Bunyan’s Slingshot, arriving September 12. “Airports are these weird, intermediary spaces that have always made me feel like I’m stuck in limbo,” Mike Maple explained. “This album deals a lot with themes surrounding feeling stuck and unable to crawl out. Airports are stressful and congested and bureaucratic and never sleep; I imagine hell operates very much like an airport.” ‘Groucho Marx’ and ‘Selling Swords’ hook you right in.

Joseph Shabason and Dawn Richard – ‘Broken Hearted Sade’

Dawn Richard and Toronto saxophonist Joseph Shabason pay tribute to Sade on their new collaborative single, ‘Broken Hearted Sade’. It blends Sade’s classic songs ‘No Ordinary Love’ and ‘Cherish the Day’ with Shabason’s ‘Broken Hearted Kota’, and the resulting track has a fractured yet gentle beauty. “Back in the fall, when I was touring with Dawn and Spencer [Zahn], I would soundcheck with ‘Broken-Hearted Kota,’” Shabason said in a statement. “Almost immediately after the first soundcheck, Dawn would come in and start singing Sade songs over the chords. It worked so seamlessly that we made it part of the show every night. After the tour ended, we knew we had to record it. In February, Dawn sent me her vocals, and I rearranged and remixed the original song so that the arrangement worked. The end result is a fun reimagining of both the Sade songs Dawn sang and what ‘Broken-Hearted Kota’ could be.

Tune-Yards – ‘How Big is the Rainbow’

Ahead of the release of their new LP Better Dreaming on Friday, Tune-Yards have served up one more single, the incredibly danceable ‘How Big is the Rainbow’. “The title lyric came out in a flash, and felt more sincere than I’ve ever been lyrically, maybe,” Merrill Garbus shared. “But in this day and age, there is no room for subtlety when it comes to advocating for every single human being, for our trans family especially. And SHIT, how big IS the fucking rainbow?! It feels like the time to prove it to each other, to show each other how big it can be.”

NxWorries – ‘Everybody Gets Down’

Knxwledge and Anderson .Paak have shared a new NxWorries track, ‘Everybody Gets Down’, which is a thumping dance tune. It accompanies the announcement of the duo’s first North American tour, kicking off in the fall.

The Swell Season – ‘Factory Street Bells’

The Swell Season – the duo of Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová – have shared a new single, the tenderly heartfelt ‘Factory Street Bells’. “We live on a street in Helsinki called Tehtaankatu (Factory Street), in former shipyard workers flats. There’s a church on our street with a very distinctive hourly bell pattern,” Hansard explained. “Christy, my son, has always visibly enjoyed the bells…and when leaving for work I’d promise him, I’ll be back as soon as I can, and in the meantime, the bells would remind him of my love and return.”

Golomb – ‘Real Power’

‘Real Power’ is the exhilarating lead single from Columbus, Ohio band Golomb’s newly announced album The Beat Goes On, which comes out July 25 on No Quarter. If you’re a fan of Yo La Tengo, don’t let this slip under your radar.

Aunt Katrina – ‘Peace of Mind’

Aunt Katrina, the project of Former Feeble Little Horse member Ryan Walchonski, have announced their debut album, This Heat Is Slowly Killing Me. It arrives July 11 via Crafted Sounds, and the mesmerizing, heartfelt ‘Peace of Mind’ is out now.

King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard – ‘Grow Wings and Fly’

King Gizzar have previewed their forthcoming orchestral LP, Phantom Island, with a new single called ‘Grow Wings and Fly’. “There are so many strange and beautiful ways to grow wings and fly,” director Hayden Somerville said of its accompanying video. “We had a very special time down the coast with the band and our crew, releasing our sea creature—who somehow makes me feel a little ill and completely full of joy at the same time.”

Jane Paknia – ‘The Dream Is This’

Jane Paknia have shared a new single, ‘The Dream Is This’, taken from her forthcoming LP Millions of Years of Longing. It’s as kinetic as it is hypnotic. “In Providence, I had a dream that Elmo died,” Paknia recalled. “Elmo as in Sesame Street Elmo. It was very beautiful; he said goodbye and just stepped down into the abyss under the window until I couldn’t see him anymore. I saw it as some inner child business in my heart truly reconfiguring. At the same time I was saying goodbye to people like angels who had changed my life. Although there’s no end to the process of growing and becoming the next iteration of yourself, there are ways of relating to it besides discomfort and self-disavowal. This way was the feeling of heading towards a dream, being alongside one, or within one.”

Step Into the Future of Bitcoin Mining with Miner Wars

We know, we know—Bitcoin mining sounds complicated, right? Expensive rigs, constant maintenance, and a lot of technical jargon. But what if we told you there’s a super fun way to mine Bitcoin without all the hassle?

Enter GoMining—your new best friend in the world of crypto. We’ve turned Bitcoin mining into something that’s accessible, engaging, and rewarding—and we’re about to level it up with Miner Wars. Buckle up, because you’re about to dive into the coolest way to earn Bitcoin while having a blast.

What’s the Deal with Bitcoin Mining?

Let’s start with the basics. Bitcoin mining is how new Bitcoins are created and how transactions are verified on the blockchain. Traditionally, miners use high-powered computers to solve complex puzzles, and in return, they’re rewarded with Bitcoin. Sounds cool, but also kinda like a hardcore techie thing, right?

GoMining changes all of that. We’ve simplified it by creating Digital Miners—NFTs that represent actual mining power. You don’t need a fancy rig or tech expertise to get started. Simply own a Digital Miner NFT, and it starts mining Bitcoin for you.

But wait—there’s more! 👀

What Is Miner Wars?

Miner Wars is Bitcoin mining meets gaming—with a whole lot of fun thrown in. Instead of just passively earning Bitcoin from your NFT miner, you get to play a game that’s all about strategy, teamwork, and, of course, Bitcoin rewards. It’s like the game everyone’s been waiting for—and the best part? The more you play, the more you earn.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Join a Clan 🏴‍☠️: Find your tribe and compete against other players for massive Bitcoin rewards.
  2. Complete Challenges 🎯: Every week, you’ll face new challenges and quests that let you boost your miner’s performance and earn more.
  3. Deploy Your Miner 🔧: In the game, you use your Digital Miner NFT to battle it out in strategic missions. Your miner’s real-world mining power is at stake, and your actions will determine how much Bitcoin you’ll earn. The more you win, the more you get!

Why Gamification Makes Everything Better

Okay, so why gamification? Here’s the deal: Web3 (the cool new internet powered by crypto) is all about giving you control. But let’s be real—sometimes that can be, well, a little overwhelming. Introducing gamification—it’s like adding a cherry on top of the whole Web3 experience.

In simpler terms, gamification means making boring stuff fun—and in this case, turning Bitcoin mining into an awesome game that keeps you coming back for more. It’s all about making it engaging, rewarding, and social—because why should earning money be boring?

Here’s what gamification does for you:

1. Makes Earning Bitcoin Way More Fun

Gone are the days of waiting around for your miner to passively do its thing. With Miner Wars, you’re actively working with your Digital Miner NFT to earn real Bitcoin. It’s not just about owning a miner—it’s about getting in on the action and competing for rewards. It’s fun, it’s fast, and it’s designed to keep you engaged.

2. Builds Real Communities

It’s not just about what’s in your wallet (although the Bitcoin rewards are pretty nice). It’s about teamwork. Miner Wars lets you join a Clan and compete alongside your friends (or new ones!) to earn rewards and climb the ranks. You’ll strategize, work together, and cheer each other on as you rise up the leaderboard. This is community gaming at its finest.

3. You Get Real Rewards

This isn’t your average game where you earn points that are just for show. Miner Wars rewards you with real Bitcoin and GOMINING tokens. The better you play, the more rewards you earn. No gimmicks, no fake currency—this is the real deal.

How Does It All Work?

Let’s break it down into a few simple steps so you can get started and earn real Bitcoin while playing:

Step 1: Get Your Digital Miner NFT

You’ll need one of our Digital Miner NFTs—this is your ticket into the world of mining. It’s like getting your own little mining machine, but without the noise and electricity bills.

Step 2: Join the Action

Once you’ve got your Digital Miner, it’s time to jump into Miner Wars. Choose your Clan, get ready to compete, and dive into the weekly challenges.

Step 3: Play and Earn

This is where the fun starts. Each challenge you complete helps you earn more rewards. Your Digital Miner works in the background, but the more you strategize, play, and win, the bigger the rewards. Plus, you’ll get to collect some pretty cool NFT achievements and boosts along the way.

Step 4: Win, Win, Win

The more you play, the better your chances of earning Bitcoin. Whether it’s through Clan victories, individual missions, or strategic gameplay, Miner Wars ensures you’re always moving up and earning more. And did we mention the weekly leaderboards? Get to the top and watch your rewards stack up.

So, Why Should You Care About Gamification?

Great question! Gamification is the secret sauce to making Web3 (and earning crypto) more fun and less intimidating. Here’s how it’s changing everything:

1. Making Web3 Accessible to Everyone

It’s not just for the tech-savvy anymore. With games like Miner Wars, anyone can jump into Web3 and start earning real Bitcoin. All you need is a Digital Miner NFT and a desire to have fun!

2. Rewarding Engagement

Instead of just passively waiting for rewards, you’re actively participating in the game. The more you play, the more you earn. It’s that simple.

3. Building Stronger Communities

It’s not just about individual success—it’s about working together as a team. Miner Wars encourages players to come together, strategize, and share in the rewards. It’s all about the social side of Web3.

Ready to Play?

If you’re ready to level up your Bitcoin mining game, Miner Wars is your ticket to the future. With fun gameplay, real rewards, and a community-driven experience, it’s time to get involved and start earning. Whether you’re a seasoned miner or a complete newbie, Miner Wars makes it easy to play, compete, and win.

So, what are you waiting for? Jump into Miner Wars today, grab your Digital Miner NFT, and start earning real Bitcoin while having a blast!

Pile Announce New Album ‘Sunshine and Balance Beams’, Share New Song

Pile have announced a new album, Sunshine and Balance Beams, which is due out August 15 via Sooper. It will follow 2023’s All Fiction and the 2024 EP Hot Balloon. The stirring, climactic lead single ‘Born at Night’ arrives today alongside a Josh Echevarria-directed video. Check it out and find the album cover and tracklist below.

Pile worked with engineer Miranda Serra (Kal Marks, Kira McSpice), mixer Seth Manchester (Model/Actriz, The Hotelier, Big Brave), and mastering engineer Matt Colton (James Blake, Depeche Mode, Band Bear) on the new LP. “The fulfilment I receive from pursuing art has been a guiding force for me,” frontman Rick Maguire reflected. “But it can be damaging when that pursuit subscribes to material expectations of where you might be able to go, and then doesn’t square with the reality that follows.”

Sunshine and Balance Beams Cover Artwork:

Pile Cover

Sunshine and Balance Beams Tracklist:

1. An Opening
2. Deep Clay
3. A Loosened Knot
4. Bouncing in Blue
5. Uneasy
6. Holds
7. Born at Night
8. Meanwhile Outside
9. Carrion Song