Calvin Harris and Ellie Goulding have joined forces for a new song, ‘Free’, which they debuted at Harris’ set at Ushuaïa in Ibiza last weekend. Check it out below.
Harris and Goulding previously teamed up for 2023’s ‘Miracle’, 2014’s ‘Outside’, and 2013’s ‘I Need Your Love’. Harris’ most recent album was last year’s Funk Wav Bounces Vol. 2.
The Last Dinner Party have covered Blondie’s ‘Call Me’ for triple j’s Like A Version series. They also performed ‘Burn Alive’ from their debut album, Prelude to Ecstasy, which was just nominated for the Mercury Prize 2024. Watch their session below.
In the interview, Abigail Morris and Georgia Davies explained they picked the song because it used to be their go-to song at karaoke. “We would destroy it at house parties and clear the room,” Morris said. “This is us trying to reclaim all those years and do it well.”
“What’s good about this version is we didn’t try and do it like her because I don’t think I could’ve,” she added. “I think it’s nice we’ve been able to reinterpret it and do more of an homage rather than trying to be Debbie Harry because no one can.”
Online casino gaming has become a significant cultural phenomenon over the past few decades. What began as a niche form of entertainment has transformed into a global industry, rich with unique traditions, social dynamics, and vibrant digital communities. This evolution has reshaped how people engage with games of chance, blending traditional gambling practices with modern technology to create an engaging and inclusive online culture.
The roots of online casino gaming stretch back to the mid-1990s when the first internet casinos were launched. These early platforms were primitive by today’s standards, offering a limited selection of games with basic graphics and functionality. Yet, they laid the groundwork for a new way of gambling that transcended geographical boundaries and time zones.
The industry experienced rapid growth alongside advancements in internet technology and the proliferation of personal computers. By the early 2000s, online casinos had become more sophisticated, featuring a wider variety of games, including slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette. The introduction of secure online payment methods further bolstered the industry’s credibility and attracted a broader audience.
Technology has been the main driver of the evolution of online casino culture. High-speed internet, mobile devices, and advanced graphics have transformed online casinos into immersive experiences. Live dealer games, for instance, combine the convenience of online play with the authenticity of a real casino, using video streaming technology to connect players with live dealers in real-time.
Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are the latest innovations set to revolutionize the industry. These technologies promise even more immersive environments, where players can interact with the casino and other players in a 3D space. This evolution is not just about improving gameplay but also about enhancing the social aspects of online gaming, making it a more engaging and communal experience.
Among the diverse array of online casino games, slots have emerged as the most popular. Their appeal lies in their simplicity, variety, and potential for big wins. Online slots come in countless themes and formats, from classic three-reel games to complex video slots with multiple paylines and bonus features.
One of the most significant cultural shifts in online casino gaming is the emphasis on community and social interaction. Online casinos have integrated social features such as chat rooms, forums, and multiplayer games to foster a sense of community among players. These platforms allow individuals from around the world to connect, share experiences, and compete in a friendly and supportive environment.
Social media has also played a crucial role in shaping the culture of online casino gaming. Players often share their achievements, strategies, and experiences on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, creating a global network of enthusiasts. This interconnectedness has given rise to online influencers and streamers who broadcast their gameplay, offering tips and entertainment to their followers. These personalities have become integral to the online casino community, drawing in new players and building a sense of camaraderie.
As the popularity of online casino gaming has grown, so too has the awareness of the need for responsible gaming practices. Online casinos have implemented various measures to promote safe gambling, such as self-exclusion options, deposit limits, and access to support services for those struggling with gambling addiction. These initiatives are essential for maintaining the integrity of the industry and ensuring that it remains a source of entertainment rather than harm.
Regulation has also been a key factor in the development of online casino culture. Governments and regulatory bodies worldwide have established frameworks to oversee the industry, ensuring fair play, security, and transparency. These regulations help to build trust among players and create a safer and more reliable gaming environment.
The future of online casino gaming looks promising, with continuous technological advancements and an ever-growing global community of players. Innovations such as blockchain technology and cryptocurrency are set to further transform the industry by providing more secure and transparent transactions. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) could enhance personalized gaming experiences, offering tailored recommendations and support to individual players.
Moreover, as online casino gaming becomes more mainstream, it is likely to continue influencing popular culture. We can expect to see more collaborations between online casinos and entertainment industries, such as music, film, and sports, creating unique and engaging experiences for players.
The culture of online casino gaming is a testament to the dynamic interplay between tradition and innovation. What began as a simple digital extension of traditional gambling has blossomed into a complex, multifaceted community that spans the globe. Through technological advancements, social connectivity, and a commitment to responsible gaming, online casino culture continues to evolve, offering a rich and engaging experience for players of all backgrounds.
As we look to the future, the online casino industry is poised to remain at the forefront of digital entertainment, continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible and shaping the cultural landscape of gaming. Whether you are a casual player or a dedicated enthusiast, the world of online casino gaming offers a vibrant and inclusive community where the thrill of the game is just a click away.
The decision to buy a property is a significant milestone and can be a sound investment for many prospective homeowners. From financial advantages to personal fulfilment, owning a house offers numerous benefits that renting simply cannot match.
Long-term investment
One of the most compelling reasons to buy is the potential for long-term investment. Property generally appreciates over time, meaning your home can increase in value and provide substantial financial returns. Unlike renting, where monthly payments contribute to someone else’s equity, buying allows you to build your own wealth.
Despite fluctuations over the years, house prices generally tend to show an overall increase in value with the average cost of a home in England in 2023 being over £300,000 compared to just over £50,000 in 1995.
Stability and security
Homeownership provides a sense of stability and security that renting doesn’t. Renting can come with the risk of unexpected increased rental costs or termination of the lease. The stability provided by ownership can be particularly important for families, offering a secure environment to raise children and build a community. Knowing that your home is yours gives peace of mind and a stable foundation for planning your future.
Personalisation and control
Owning a house gives you the freedom to put your own stamp on it. You can renovate, decorate and modify the property to suit your tastes and needs without needing permission from a landlord. This also allows you and your family room to grow without necessarily having to move.
Financial benefits
Homeownership comes with several financial benefits beyond property appreciation. As well as building equity, you’ll have a degree of flexibility with your mortgage payments. Examples include options to choose fixed rate terms over a period of years or variable rates, depending on your situation and risk tolerance. Over time, you can pay off your mortgage in full which eliminates the cost, unlike rental payments which continue indefinitely.
Sense of community and belonging
Buying often leads to a greater sense of community and belonging. Homeowners tend to stay in one place longer than renters, fostering stronger relationships with neighbours and a deeper connection to the local area. This sense of belonging can enhance your quality of life, providing a supportive network and a place you are proud to call home. Engaging in community activities and local events and having familiar faces around contributes to a fulfilling and secure lifestyle.
This can also benefit families with children as it can help nurture friendships and provide a stable school life.
Considerations
While buying a property can provide a certain degree of stability that renting can’t, there are still financial factors to consider including taking out the right home insurance, maintenance costs and utility bills. You’ll also want to think about the costs of buying a home which include solicitor fees, stamp duty and moving expenses.
Just how an online casino game looks has changed so much in the past few decades. It’s not uncommon for players to simply have their breath taken away when seeing the incredibly high standard of visuals that now exist. We really have a lot to thank artists for in their incredible achievements.
First looks are so important and that’s definitely true with online casino games. It’s a highly competitive industry with a wealth of games being released month in month out. Therefore, how a game looks is of great importance.
A game having eye-catching visuals is one of the main targets. Players have so much choice when scrolling through a portfolio. Which one they choose to play isn’t all down to the size of the top prize.
After all, the chances of them winning the jackpot are slim, though they are won. How a game looks is so important, you don’t want to be spending hours looking at a game that you can’t stand the sight of.
Online casino games haven’t always looked as they do now. Just like the early computer games, the initial ones had a rather basic look to them. Fruit symbols dominated slot games with a few 7’s, bells and bars included too. Only one payline was available but they were still popular to play.
They were basic but eye-catching thanks to the bright colours of the symbols. Even now online casinos include in their portfolio some of these retro games. They are often ideal for those who are new to playing as they aren’t so complex as others.
When technological improvements arrived, games began to become more complex. It wasn’t just the fact that there were many more paylines available but the visuals of a game went through the roof.
It became clear to slot designers that the new technologies were enabling them to create a far more complex product. Not just in the gameplay but the visuals of their games.
Slot games use a wide variety of themes, available on countless online sites in today’s environment. Gone are the days when creating a slot was restricted to just the symbols we’ve already mentioned.
Now games had themes, there was a seemingly limitless supply of visuals that could be used. The games can be based on fairytales, horror stories, Christmas and animals galore. The kind of visuals that need to be created can enhance the theme of a game.
Often they can be of a cartoonish nature. They allow them to be extremely colourful and therefore visually striking. Not every player enjoys these but appreciating how a game looks is all down to personal taste.
Playing online casino games can be a bit like a history or geography lesson. Designers love to produce real money slots games with an Ancient Egyptian or Roman theme. There are plenty of games that feature Aztec temples or resemble a sightseeing tour of London or other capitals around the globe.
This aids the visuals of the games because they can include temples, pyramids, ancient ruins and Big Ben or the Houses of Parliament. All very eye-catching indeed and the standard of the visuals is stunning.
The themes that are used for games can also see players transported to other worlds. Sci-fi themed games are popular and allow artists to create new alien races and planets.
All of this new technology means that the art production process has become so much more important. It’s now fully recognised that getting the look of a game right can be the factor that decides whether it will be a hit or a flop.
Project managers have a key role as do animators and the 2D/3D artists. Creating a unique selling point is also important because that can make the game stand out from all the others released that month.
The theme of the game will be decided and then which visuals to use to enhance it. Although there is a lot of innovation in the visuals of online casino games, it is noticeable that it’s more a case of how they look rather than introducing new ones.
Playing card symbols are still those that pay the smallest wins but adapting them to fit in with the theme is a good touch.
If the game is a spin-off from a movie or television show, then the visuals become even more important. Being able to get a licence to produce a game can mean the symbols and other visuals can be designed to closely resemble the main characters from the initial product. That always goes down well with the fans.
They’ll also be rather disappointed if the visuals don’t greatly resemble the characters they already love, so it’s an important part of the design process.
With the theme agreed, it’s time to use the many tools that are available to create the look of the game. The tools available to use by artists now ensure that the end product can be stunning.
What colours should be used in the game? We’ve mentioned the use of bright eye-catching cartoonish symbols but you can’t use those for every game. If there’s a horror theme for example, a much darker and gothic looking design can be employed. That’s not to say that horror themed games have to look like that. Just like the movies, there can be a great deal of humour included too. It’s not uncommon therefore for horror-themed games to also have a cartoonish set of symbols.
Even more technological advancements are now being made. Virtual Reality (VR) and 3D games help create a more immersive experience for players. Putting on a VR headset can see players transported into a famous casino or even another world.
That being the case, the visuals of games are going to become even more important and groundbreaking in the future and it promises to be an exciting one.
Ever wondered if your love life could be as customizable as your breakfast? No? Well, let’s talk about polyamory. This is a lifestyle choice as diverse as the color spectrum itself. But is it related to one particular color spectrum? Yup, there are debates. Let’s talk about it, shall we?
Alright, let’s break it down. Polyamory is the art (and yes, it’s an art) of engaging in multiple romantic relationships with the consent of everyone involved. You’re going on dates with Max. Max is dating Lily, and Lily is in love with two other guys. And everyone is happy with that. That’s what polyamory is. Think of it as a buffet of relationships, where everyone knows the menu and is delighted with the offerings—no surprises, just pure, honest passion. It’s like having your cake, eating it too, and sharing it with others who love cake just as much. It’s about trust and human respect. You are not a property. Sometimes, many forget about it.
Gone are the days when finding someone with the same relationship vibe was like hunting for a black cat in a dark room. Now, it’s more like swiping back and forth or something completely different.
So, what’s the deal with dating platforms and polyamory? Well, they’ve basically morphed into the ultimate wingman (or wing-app, if you will). Whether you’re a couple looking for a female or just someone curious about more inclusive forms of polyamory, these sites are like the cool, accepting friend you never had. Well, you might have had. We’re not judging.
Imagine a world where you can connect with potential partners who are not just into you but into the idea of an ‘us’ that doesn’t fit the typical mold. Online dating sites have cultivated a unique space where labels are out and open-mindedness is in.
Transitioning from their reputation as marriage hubs, modern dating sites have embraced the depth and diversity of human relationships. They offer tools for establishing and managing expectations, which is key in polyamory. It’s about more than just meeting up now. It’s about the possibility of being open about what you like and having an ace in your pocket. Think of it as gardening, but instead of flowers, you’re nurturing relationships, each with their unique needs and beauty.
Short answer? Not by a damn sight. Alright, let’s chop it up about polyamory and its ties—or lack thereof—to queer culture. So, the real tea? Polyamory isn’t a queer-only affair. It’s a relationship style, not a sexuality identifier. That means anyone can be into it, regardless of their sexual orientation. Yup, straight folks can—and do—live the poly life too. This doesn’t slap a queer label on them any more than eating vegan pancakes makes you a plant.
Polyamory and queer culture do cross paths because both push against traditional monogamous norms, sure. But being poly isn’t an automatic entry into queer identity. It’s more about how you love than who you love. Yes, there are also many polyamorous relationships among queer people. But that doesn’t make these relationships more queer than straight.
Let’s get this straight—polyamory is about having multiple consensual, intimate relationships at the same time. It’s not about who you’re attracted to. Comparing it to sexuality is like comparing apples to, we dunno, bicycles. Both are great, but not the same thing.
Both poly and queer communities have wrestled with societal norms, sure. They share a history of challenging what relationships ‘should’ look like. But remember, solidarity doesn’t mean identity. Each has its unique flavor in the cultural melting pot.
Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s set the stage with a quick guide on the do’s and don’ts of online dating because, guess what? Polyamory has its own set of nuances, and knowing the basics can keep you from tripping over your own feet. Ok?
So, there you have it—a quick and hefty guide to polyamory and its place (or not) in queer culture. Whether you’re dipping a toe into poly waters or just here for the ride, understanding these nuances can make all the difference. Stay savvy, and above all, stay safe.
Nina Cates and Zack James started playing music together as teenagers, but it wasn’t until they finished high school that they began writing songs together. Having both moved to Burlington to attend the University of Vermont, they put out a couple of EPs before landing on the name Robber Robber and adding Will Krulak on guitar and Carney Hemler on bass. Cates handles vocals and rhythm guitar, while James plays drums; as a duo, they co-produced the band’s debut album, Wild Guess, out Friday, working with engineers Benny Yurco (Grace Potter) and Urian Hackney (Iggy Pop, Rough Francis). Dizzying and delightful in equal measure, the record is an exercise in making the listener lean in and throwing you off, holding little back in its barrage of instrumentation while gracefully moving between post-punk, krautrock, and even shoegaze. Even when the music seems on the verge of collapsing in on itself, the group remains perfectly locked in, making the social chaos the lyrics often revolve around feel perfectly human. And though you won’t be able to make out a clear story, you’ll want to hear how it all plays out.
We caught up with Robber Robber’s Nina Cates and Zack James for the latest edition of our Artist Spotlight series to talk about the origins of the band, co-producing their debut album, its lyrical themes, and more.
You started playing together when you were kids. What are your memories of that time?
Zack James: Yeah, we were in a band together all throughout high school, and for me, even before I was in high school.
Nina Cates: When I met Zack – you can’t tell how tall he is now, but he’s taller than me – I was taller than him. He hadn’t quite hit puberty yet. I joined the band he was already in, and I think we played our first live show like 10 years ago in February of this year. We’ve played in a lot of bands over the years, but usually he’s on drums and I’m on bass. We’ve had a lot of time to gel and listen to each other as the rhythm section; in a band, I feel like it’s really important to be locked in with the other member of that section.
ZJ: We had a lot of time to just play music together, be musicians together, and play shows before we even thought about sharing any sort of creative ambitions. By the time we were writing music together, we already had this other aspect pretty much dialed in, which is cool. We’ve been trying to figure out how to grow as collaborators, which has been a lot easier having already gotten really good at touring and playing together for so many years.
How naturally did writing together come for you? Was it something you both dabbled in separately?
ZJ: Definitely something we dabbled in separately before joining forces on that. But also, not even that much; we were still trying to figure out how to make music and were sort of doing that together.
NC: We collaborate in a lot of different areas, but still one of the hardest things we do is writing a new song together and being able to tell each other, “Hey, that’s not the vision or the vibe,” while giving each other’s ideas enough space to breathe, even if they don’t immediately click with you. It’s definitely a balancing act we have to navigate every time. And I think overall, we are getting better at it. We’ve been writing since we had Wild Guess done, and it’s getting a little more streamlined, but it’s always going to be a lot of work.
ZJ: I think we’re pretty good at it, but we’re always trying to get better and find different ways of doing it.
Are you always working toward it being more streamlined, or is the challenging aspect of it crucial to you?
NC: I kinda never want it to be too easy.
ZJ: Yeah. We’ve made songs in so many ways that if we wanted to settle on a streamlined process, we could have several times by now. But we’re more interested in just seeing what happens if we try out different stuff.
NC: I feel like our process is very curious a lot of the time, and that’s what keeps it fun to come back and write new stuff.
It’s been half a decade since you put out the Guy Ferrari EP, which at the time was self-titled. How do you feel like your process, both individually and as collaborators, has evolved since then?
NC: It’s funny, we were writing the Guy Ferrari EP together before we even went off to college. That was really just testing the waters of: Can write together? do we like the type of music we wind up with when we write together? Is it something we would ever want to keep doing? I think I’ve grown a lot as a songwriter since then. I feel like with the new music, we’re able to more fully translate an interesting image. That earlier stuff was a lot more straightforward, just getting the song done; I still like elements of those songs, but I feel we’ve grown a lot since then.
ZJ: I don’t know how common this is for bands, but the first couple of EPs felt more like an exercise or a learning experience. There definitely was a moment, years after we started the project, when we decided to book more shows and take the band more seriously. We said to ourselves, “Okay, if we’re going to actually put time into this project, we should try to make more inspired music.” The first two EPs were just us going crazy.
NC: Those were just made in Zack’s basement, and we just threw it up on Bandcamp. This time, I feel like we’ve given it time to develop, and with that, we want to give it a proper send-out.
I’m curious about your approach to co-producing the record, starting with ‘Seven Houses’, which condenses the rhythm and chaos of the album into a relatively short track. The drums play an interesting role, where they’re sort of feeding into the background noise rather than propelling it, except when they cut through the refrain. What was the thinking behind it?
ZJ: That’s one of our favorite songs on the record.
NC: The whole song is sort of a crescendo, and when we were thinking about it, I really liked the idea that there’s anticipation involved with that; you expect some or release in tension or change, and it’s kind of unrelenting. That was interesting to play out with. Also, with that concept, it would have been exhausting to make the song much longer. But I love the energy it brings to the record.
ZJ: We were thinking about, like, when a CD starts skipping; we were thinking of a song that sounds like that, the same half-second getting repeated. The guitars are doing really simple stuff with the same four chords the whole time, but the bass plays more off of the vocals and introduces different notes as the root note. The vocals and the bass are kind of dancing together.
What were the pressures of going into the studio without necessarily having a fully-fleshed idea of a song?
NC: We were really lucky. We worked with Benny Yurco in Burlington, as well as our friend Urian Hackney, and both of them have studios. Urian is an incredible drummer; he’s been playing with the Armed and Iggy Pop. We knew, with some of the more drum-forward songs and things that we wanted to be loud and rambunctious, we wanted to try and go into Urian’s to do those just because the sound of that studio would capture it well and be interesting on the record. And then with Benny, he’s a good friend of ours. We hang out in the studio a fair amount, just to hang out with him, but also Zack does a lot of drum work for other local people who are coming into the studio. So we’re really comfortable there, and we’ve spent a lot of time just relaxed there, so that helped us being like, “We’re gonna go in, and the goal is to record today.” But he’s great at creating an environment where you’re not like, “Oh my God, I’m on the clock right now.” The songs that we did there with just the two of us felt like we could be a lot more experimental with them. It’s cool that we were able to test out both styles on the record.
Thematically, the album partly revolves around scrambling for connection or finding the words to express yourself. Do you feel like there’s a sense of progression there, from songs like ‘Mouth’ and ‘Backup Plan’ to ‘Dial Tone’ and ‘Machine Wall’, even if it wasn’t chronologically how you wrote them?
NC: Yeah, it’s interesting. A while ago, I was writing out the lyrics for all of the tracks, and I realized throughout the record that the songs that have fewer words, we wound up putting earlier on the album, and then the songs that are a lot more wordy, we wound up putting later on. It’s kind of like I’m warming up my voice and my ability to actually reflect on things. I do feel like missed connections and just struggling to connect is definitely a thematic piece of the whole record, and it’s just something that I think about a lot, maybe just at this age, with going out and building up careers and networking – it all has to do with expressing yourself properly.
Do you feel like that struggle being at the core of the songs makes them tricky to talk about within the band?
NC: It’s funny. Whenever I’m writing lyrics, I write a lot and then take them to the band, and I’m like, “What do you think about this? How about that one? Is this one cool?” [laughs] And they’re all like, “Oh, yeah, those are fine.” But I don’t usually come to the group like, “This one’s about struggling to connect within nightlife.” Each song has a meaning at the core, but they’re also kind of collage-like. I find it hard to write in a linear way, focusing on one idea for a whole song, so there are a lot of different things people can connect to.
ZJ: You do a good job of thinking about the character of the song, and I think that’s something we think about a lot when we’re writing a song or lyrics to go with some instrumental part.
NC: I think a lot about the sound of the words, too, as they fit in; the words as another instrument.
Is that kind of lyrical filtering something that mostly happens when you’re bringing the song into a collaborative or communal space?
ZJ: One thing I admire about Nina is that she’ll show lyrics to anyone who will listen.
NC: That’s not always true. [laughs] To people who are good lyricists that will listen.
ZJ: You have a broader network of songwriting confidants than most other songwriters I know. Most people I know, no one can tell them shit about their lyrics.
NC: Yeah, I do want to hear if something sounds weird. I mean, the Burlington music scene is incredible right now, so it’s cool to be a part of it. And if I have lyrics I’m excited about or unsure of, I’ll show them to another person to either gain more confidence in them or pinpoint what’s weird about them.
‘Machine Wall’ is one of the songs where the lyrics feel less collage-like, and one line leads directly to the next. One that stood out to me particularly is, “It keeps on pushing forward even when you’re trying to eject/ We’re trying to return to where it feels like summer never left,” which seems to almost describe the tension of your music. I wonder if you feel like songwriting is about capturing a feeling that’s almost definitely gone.
NC: It’s hard to say. As far as songwriting to get back to a feeling you had before, there is a sense of nostalgia and maybe sugarcoating some of the imagery.
ZJ: But I don’t think the goal is to recreate anything. Because I don’t think it’s going to work, necessarily – it’s going to come out as a jumbled, bastardized feeling. ‘Machine Wall’ is very stream-of-consciousness, so maybe that’s why it sort of stays on topic.
NC: I wrote those lyrics in one session, which is unique for me. Usually, I write a lot of lyrics and come back to them a bunch of times, but that one was like a single day. We were in the studio with Benny and I had a few lines figured out, and by the end of the afternoon, we had the whole thing written. It was one of those days where you feel a little bit more tuned into the flow of it all.
Is that flow something you constantly reach for?
NC: Absolutely. I think that’s a state that is the dream to be able to tap into with more ease. One of our goals in making music over the next couple of years is to have an infrastructure in place for our lives so we can be in positions to do that. That moment was special because we were in the studio, we were really focused on it, and there wasn’t a lot of life interruption. In writing music going forward, I still want to be able to approach it in a bunch of different ways and come at it from many angles. I think we’ll become stronger songwriters every time we take a new, distinct concept and create something we’re proud of. But just being able to create more of a lifestyle for ourselves that will make it easier to songwrite without all the other fluff getting in the way.
What does that look like for you?
NC: We’re working on setting up a space in each of our houses where we have access to recording gear, at least to be able to do demos. Eventually, being able to spend less time on our day jobs to pay the bills – and we’ve already been able to do this a little bit by playing in other bands and touring as much as we can. We want to live more in music overall – being out there and playing, and even when we’re at home, just thinking about music.
ZJ: We’re both very recently out of college, and now we’re just thinking about what’s the best way to design our lives around the music, rather than fitting music into where there’s space.
NC: Especially while recording this record, we did it largely on weekends around everyone’s different work and school schedules, and we want to put ourselves in a position where music is more front and center.
ZJ: I guess that is like streamlining, but it’s streamlining the less fun stuff – the stuff that isn’t the making music part, so that the making music part can get even crazier and expand even more. We made Wild Guess just setting up our laptops on the coffee table and passing a pair of headphones back and forth because we had one pair of headphones. That’s where we’re coming from.
Can you each share one thing that inspires you about each other, be it musical or personal?
NC: I’m pretty expressive, very much thinking-out-loud, verbal processor. But I think there’s a sort of mystery to the way he thinks. [both laugh] Okay, yeah, it’s weird with you being right here. But when you take the time to ask him, “Hey, so what’s going on up there?,” it’s usually very deliberate and succinct. Not to make you feel any certain way about the way you think, but I think the way you process things is very straightforward, and for me, it’s kind of calming to be able to access and tap into that. Even me saying this is a pretty scattered way of doing it, but I can take my scattered idea and run it through you. You’re like, “Oh, yeah, it boils down to this.” I find that very cool.
ZJ: Thank you. Nina’s got a crazy work ethic, and that’s very inspiring to me. Nina’s very organized in her approach, which I’m not always. She displays a lot of the qualities of someone who just gets things done, which is great for me to be around. She’s able to take a structure of how to approach something and still feel that genuine inspiration and passion for the art within that structure, which is cool.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.
Robber Robber’s Wild Guess is out July 26.
Planning a horse riding holiday? Excellent choice! This kind of adventure offers a great opportunity to slow down, soak in nature’s beauty, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Whether it’s the stunning landscapes, the fresh air, or the warmth of the sun, riding alongside your equine partner promises unforgettable experiences. To ensure your adventure is comfortable, enjoyable, and safe, having the right equestrian clothing and footwear is paramount. That’s where Ariat steps in.
Established in 1993, Ariat has carved a reputation for itself as a premier brand in equestrian and outdoor footwear, apparel, and accessories. Their commitment to superior performance, comfort, and durability has made Ariat a favourite among equestrians and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Here’s a list of Ariat gear to ensure the perfect riding holiday.
Every rider needs a reliable gear bag to carry their essentials. Ariat gear bags stand out with their blend of style, functionality and durability.
One of the standout features of Ariat gear bags is their robust construction. These bags are made from high-quality materials, meaning they can withstand the rigours of barn life and travel. The durable fabric is often water resistant, ensuring that your gear stays dry and protected in different weather conditions. Reinforced seams and sturdy zippers add to the bags’ longevity, making sure they can handle heavy use over time.
The brand understands the need for organisation in equestrian gear. Their gear bags feature multiple compartments and pockets, offering ample storage for helmets, boots, grooming supplies, and personal items.
Take, for instance, the “Ariat Team Gear Bag” with its spacious main compartment, separate helmet pocket, and ventilated boot compartments—all designed to keep your gear neatly organised. Comfort is also prioritised with adjustable shoulder straps and padded handles for easy carrying. If you prefer a backpack style, the brand offers options that provide ample space and comfort for long riding days.
If you’re the kind of person who prefers a backpack style, the Ariat gear bag is another great choice. It offers ample storage space with compartments for your helmet, boots and other essentials. The padded back panel and shoulder straps provide comfort, making it ideal for long riding days when you need more items.
Wearing the right riding attire will help keep you comfortable and protected. For example, denim pants will help prevent scrapes on your legs. Shorts are something you should avoid wearing because they won’t protect you from brambles and other sharp plants along the journey. Not to mention that saddles can become quite hot in the sun.
Ariat offers a range of jeans designed specifically for riding. Their jeans blend cotton, polyester, and spandex for durability, comfort, and flexibility. The boot-cut design fits perfectly over riding boots, combining style with practicality. With various washes and styles available, Ariat ensures there’s something to suit every rider’s preference and personal style.
Layering is key to adapting to weather changes. Lightweight and technical riding T-shirts and long-sleeved base layers provide protection from the sun and enhance comfort during warm weather. For unpredictable conditions, mid-layers or lightweight waterproof jackets offer added insulation.
Ariat tops and shirts are crafted from high-performance fabrics that wick moisture away from the skin, keeping riders dry and comfortable. Many garments also feature UV protection, shielding against harmful sun exposure during prolonged outdoor activities. Additionally, Ariat offers a range of breeches and jodhpurs designed to provide optimal comfort and flexibility. These riding pants are tailored to fit snugly and support your movements, whether you’re trotting, cantering, or galloping. Reinforced seams and knee patches add durability and grip, making them ideal for both beginners and seasoned riders.
For cooler climates, the brand offers insulated jackets and vests that provide warmth without compromising mobility. These outer layers are designed with advanced insulation technology to keep you warm while allowing your skin to breathe, ensuring you stay comfortable even during intense rides. Waterproof and wind-resistant materials protect you from the elements, making these jackets and vests a must-have for any serious rider.
The best footwear for all horse riding trips is walking-riding boots with a sole that offers good grip. And this brand offers a wide selection of riding footwear.
Ariat boots are renowned for their excellent design and functionality. They’re made from high-quality leather and materials that withstand the rigours of riding and outdoor activities. With advanced footbed technology, They also provide excellent support, cushioning and gripping, ensuring comfort during long hours of riding and walking. Many of the boots are also water-resistant, keeping your feet dry in wet conditions.
Even if you think you can manage with just a few pairs of riding socks, it’s important to bring at least one fresh pair for each day you plan to ride. If you’ll be riding in the morning and evening with long breaks in between, consider bringing extra socks. It’s a good idea to wear breathable, moisture-wicking riding socks, as you’ll be less likely to want to wear your regular socks when your feet are sweaty and damp.
Designed with the needs of equestrians in mind, Ariat socks offer unparalleled comfort. They feature moisture-wicking technology that keeps your feet dry, reducing the risk of blisters and discomfort during long hours in the saddle. The seamless toe construction further enhances comfort by preventing chafing and irritation.
On a horse riding trip, you’ll spend more time in the saddle than usual. Plus, the reins may be different from what you’re used to. So, even if you don’t typically ride with gloves, it’s worth getting a pair. Wet, cold, or aching hands are the last things you want while travelling.
The sort of gloves you should take depends on where you’re going and the time of year. For a hot destination, a lightweight glove will suit you best. For spring and autumn, you’ll benefit from something more typical in weight. If you’re going somewhere chilly, you’ll need the best winter riding gloves.
Ariat offers a range of gloves designed for all weather conditions. Their gloves are designed with advanced grip technology, ensuring you maintain a firm hold on the reins. The ergonomic design ensures a snug fit without compromising flexibility, allowing for precise hand movements.
Creating a playroom is an exciting endeavour that allows you to cultivate a space dedicated to fun, learning, and creativity for your children. Whether you have a small corner or an entire room to transform, these seven DIY playroom ideas will help you create a magical and functional environment for your little ones.
Interactive wall art can be both decorative and functional, offering endless possibilities for creativity and learning.
Chalkboard and Whiteboard Walls
Paint a section of the wall with chalkboard paint or mount a large whiteboard. This gives kids a canvas for drawing, practising writing, and solving math problems. The flexibility of these surfaces encourages spontaneous creativity.
Magnetic Wall
By applying magnetic paint, you can create a magnetic wall where kids can play with alphabet magnets, magnetic puzzles, and other interactive toys. This can help develop fine motor skills and is an excellent tool for teaching letters, numbers, and shapes.
A cosy reading nook can foster a love for books and provide a quiet corner for your child to escape into the world of stories.
Built-in Bookshelves
Install built-in bookshelves or repurpose an old bookcase to store a variety of books. Keep the shelves low and within reach to encourage independent reading. Organise books by theme, author, or colour to make them visually appealing.
Comfortable Seating
Adding flexible seating options like cozy bean bags can make a playroom more inviting; for those in Adelaide, check out where to shop bean bags Adelaide for comfortable choices kids will love.
An art station can be a dedicated area for your child to explore their artistic talents.
Craft Table
Set up a sturdy craft table with enough space for painting, drawing, and other art projects. A table with storage drawers or shelves underneath can keep supplies organised and within easy reach. For those considering adding acrylic surfaces to their craft tables or projects, learning how to cut acrylic sheets can make your DIY efforts more precise and professional.
Supply Organisation
Use clear bins, jars, and caddies to organise art supplies like crayons, markers, paint, scissors, and glue. Label each container to make it easy for kids to find and put away their materials.
An indoor playground can provide a safe and fun environment for physical activity, especially on rainy or cold days.
Climbing Wall
Install a small climbing wall with handholds and footholds. Ensure it’s securely anchored to the wall and has a soft mat below to cushion any falls. This can help develop strength and coordination.
Swing or Hammock
If space allows, hang an indoor swing or hammock. These can be great for sensory play and offer a calming retreat for kids. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines for installation.
A role-play area can spark imagination and allow children to engage in pretend play, which is crucial for their development.
Play Kitchen
A play kitchen stocked with pretend food, pots, pans, and utensils can provide endless hours of imaginative cooking and restaurant play. You can buy a ready-made play kitchen or create one from an old piece of furniture.
Dress-Up Corner
Designate a corner for dress-up with a clothing rack or hooks to hang costumes, hats, and accessories. A full-length mirror will enhance the experience, allowing kids to see their outfits in full.
Incorporating A1 frames into your playroom can transform it into a dynamic gallery that showcases your child’s creativity and achievements.
Art Gallery Wall
Designate a wall in the playroom as an art gallery. Hang several A1 frames to display your child’s artwork, achievements, and favourite posters. This not only boosts their confidence but also creates a vibrant and personalised atmosphere.
Rotating Displays
To keep the display fresh and engaging, rotate the artwork regularly. This can be a fun activity to do together, allowing your child to choose which pieces to display next. Use easy-to-open frames to make changing the artwork a breeze.
Themed Displays
You can also create themed displays in the frames. For example, during the holiday season, you can showcase festive drawings and crafts. For a more educational twist, you can display charts, maps, or educational posters that align with what your child is currently learning.
A sensory play area can help children develop their senses and motor skills through tactile, visual, and auditory experiences.
Sensory Table
A sensory table filled with materials like sand, water, rice, or beans can provide hours of exploratory play. Change the materials regularly to keep the experience fresh and engaging. Make sure the table is easy to clean, and the materials are safe for kids.
Sensory Bins
Create smaller sensory bins with different themes, such as a nature bin with leaves and pinecones or a beach bin with sand and shells. These can be rotated in and out of the playroom to keep things interesting.
Crafting a Personalised Playroom Masterpiece
Creating a playroom tailored to your child’s interests and developmental needs can be a rewarding project. By incorporating these seven DIY ideas, you can design a space that promotes creativity, learning, and physical activity. Remember to involve your child in the planning process to ensure the playroom reflects their personality and preferences. With a little creativity and effort, you can create a magical playroom that will be cherished for years to come.
Dry eyes can range from a mild nuisance to a chronic condition affecting your daily life. While occasional dryness may not be a cause for concern, persistent symptoms could indicate a more serious issue.
Knowing when to consult a dry eye doctor in Georgia is essential for maintaining optimal eye health. Here are seven signs that it’s time to seek professional help.
Redness and irritation are common symptoms that many people experience occasionally. This can be due to environmental factors like pollution, dust, or seasonal allergies. However, if you notice that your eyes are consistently red and irritated, even after using over-the-counter treatments like artificial tears or antihistamines, it could be a sign of chronic dry eye syndrome.
If redness and irritation persist for more than a few days or worsen over time, it’s crucial to seek professional advice. An eye specialist can perform a thorough examination to determine if your symptoms are due to dry eye syndrome or another underlying condition.
Eye fatigue, or asthenopia, is a common issue, especially in our digital age, where screen time is extensive. This condition manifests as a feeling of tiredness or strain in the eyes, often accompanied by headaches or discomfort in the neck and shoulders. While regular breaks and ergonomic adjustments can help alleviate eye strain, persistent fatigue may indicate dry eye syndrome.
If you find that your eyes feel constantly tired despite taking regular breaks and practising good eye hygiene, it’s time to consult a dry eye specialist. They can assess whether your fatigue is related to dry eyes and suggest treatments to improve tear production and eye comfort.
Photophobia, or light sensitivity, can be more than just a minor inconvenience. For individuals with dry eyes, exposure to bright light can cause significant discomfort. This sensitivity often results from an imbalance in the tear film, which normally protects and lubricates the eye’s surface.
If you experience persistent light sensitivity, it’s essential to consult an eye doctor. They can determine if your photophobia is linked to dry eye syndrome and recommend appropriate treatments, such as prescription eye drops or specialised eyewear, to reduce glare.
Blurred vision can occur for many reasons, including refractive errors like nearsightedness or farsightedness. However, if you notice that your vision frequently becomes blurry, especially when performing tasks that require clear sight, dry eye syndrome might be the culprit.
If blurred vision persists and does not improve with blinking or using artificial tears, it is crucial to see a dry eye specialist. They can evaluate your tear film and eye surface, providing treatments that can enhance your visual clarity.
It might seem counterintuitive, but excessive tearing can be a symptom of dry eyes. This occurs when your eyes produce an overabundance of tears in response to irritation. The tears produced in such cases are usually of poor quality and do not provide adequate lubrication, leading to a cycle of dryness and tearing.
Excessive tearing can be bothersome, making it difficult to focus on tasks or see clearly. It can also be a sign of underlying inflammation or damage to the eye’s surface.
If you notice that your eyes are frequently watering, it’s essential to get a professional evaluation. An eye doctor can diagnose the cause of excessive tearing and recommend treatments to improve tear quality and reduce irritation.
For many people, contact lenses are a convenient alternative to glasses. However, wearing contacts can become uncomfortable or even unbearable for those with dry eyes. Symptoms can include a gritty or burning sensation, redness, and the feeling that something is in your eye.
If you experience discomfort while wearing contact lenses, consult a dry eye specialist. They can recommend solutions such as rewetting drops, different lens materials, or other vision correction options that are more suitable for dry eyes.
Driving at night can be challenging for many reasons, including glare from headlights and reduced visibility. For individuals with dry eyes, these challenges can be exacerbated by decreased tear production and poor-quality tears, leading to impaired vision and increased discomfort.
If you find that driving at night is becoming increasingly difficult, it’s time to seek professional help. A dry eye doctor can evaluate your symptoms and recommend treatments to improve your night vision and overall eye health.
If you experience any of these symptoms consistently, it’s essential to consult a dry eye doctor in Georgia. A specialist can diagnose the severity of your condition and recommend treatments tailored to your needs. Early intervention can prevent more serious complications and improve your overall eye health.
When selecting a dry eye specialist in Georgia, consider their experience, patient reviews, and the range of treatments they offer. A good specialist will provide a comprehensive evaluation and a personalised treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Dry eyes are more than just an inconvenience—they can significantly impact your daily life. By recognising the signs and seeking professional help when necessary, you can manage the condition effectively. If you’re in Georgia and experiencing persistent dry eye symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a specialist. Your eyes will thank you for it.
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