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Tanukichan Announces New EP, Shares New Single ‘City Bus’

Tanukichan (aka Hannah van Loon) has announced a new EP, Circles, which will be out September 20 via Carpark Records. The first single, ‘City Bus’, arrives today alongside a music video directed by Payton Newcomer. Check it out below.

“This song is meant to be a little disjointed, stream of consciousness, made from memories and also the present,” van Loon shared in a statement. “Dealing with ideas of identity and my place in the world and society. When I heard the initial demo Franco sent to me and starting writing over it I was brought back to my childhood in SF, riding the bus everywhere through the city. Feeling the constant start and stop motion making me sway and keep my balance while watching the city go by, surrounded by all the different looking people, sounds and smells in SF.”

Circles marks Tanukichan’s first release not produced by Toro y Moi’s Chaz Bear. It sees van Loon teaming up with a new producer, Franco Reid, following their October collaboration ‘NPC’. The EP features a guest appearance from Wisp.

Tanukichan released her most recent album, GIZMO, last year. Check our Artist Spotlight interview with Tanukichan.

Circles EP Artwork:

Circles Tracklist:

1. City Bus
2. Circles
3. It Gets Easier [feat. Wisp]
4. Low
5. In a Dream

Transform Your Home: Benefits of Hiring a Reading Loft Conversion Company and How to Compare Car Finance

Homeowners are constantly looking for ways to improve their living spaces and increase property value. One of the most effective methods to achieve this is through a loft conversion. A well-executed loft conversion can transform an underutilized attic into a functional and stylish living area. To ensure the best results, hiring a Reading loft conversion company is crucial. Additionally, managing the financial aspect of such a project is essential, and comparing car finance options can provide the financial flexibility needed for home improvements. This article explores the benefits of loft conversions, the importance of choosing the right company, and how to compare car finance options to fund your renovation projects effectively.

The Benefits of Loft Conversions

Loft conversions offer numerous benefits that make them an attractive option for homeowners. Firstly, they significantly increase the usable space in your home without expanding its footprint. This is particularly advantageous in urban areas where space is limited. A loft conversion can be transformed into an additional bedroom, a home office, a gym, or even a cozy reading nook. The possibilities are endless, and the additional space can greatly enhance your quality of life.

Secondly, loft conversions can substantially increase the value of your property. Real estate experts estimate that a well-designed loft conversion can add up to 20% to the value of your home. This makes it not only a practical improvement but also a sound financial investment. Potential buyers are often attracted to homes with versatile spaces, and a loft conversion can make your property stand out in the market.

Choosing a Loft Conversion Company

While the benefits of a loft conversion are clear, achieving the desired results requires expertise and experience. This is where hiring a professional Reading loft conversion company comes into play. A reputable company will have a track record of successful projects and satisfied clients. They will be able to provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the process, from the initial design phase to the final touches.

One of the key advantages of working with a local company is their understanding of regional building regulations and planning permissions. Loft conversions often require approval from local authorities, and a Reading-based company will be familiar with the specific requirements in your area. This knowledge can help streamline the approval process and avoid potential delays.

Moreover, a professional loft conversion company will have a team of skilled tradespeople who can handle all aspects of the project. This includes structural work, plumbing, electrical installations, and interior finishing. By hiring a comprehensive service provider, you can ensure that the entire project is managed efficiently and to a high standard of quality.

Comparing Car Finance Options

Undertaking a loft conversion is a significant financial commitment, and managing your finances effectively is crucial. One way to free up funds for home improvements is by optimizing your car finance arrangements. When you compare car finance options can help you secure the best deal, reducing your monthly payments and freeing up money for your loft conversion project.

When it comes to car finance, there are several options available, including personal loans, hire purchase agreements, and leasing deals. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand what suits your financial situation best.

  1. Personal Loans: A personal loan can provide a lump sum that can be used to pay off your car loan and cover additional expenses, such as a loft conversion. The interest rates on personal loans are often fixed, providing predictable monthly payments. However, it’s essential to compare different lenders to find the best interest rates and terms.
  2. Hire Purchase Agreements: Hire purchase agreements allow you to spread the cost of a car over a fixed period, usually two to five years. This option involves paying an initial deposit followed by monthly payments. Once the final payment is made, you own the car outright. Comparing hire purchase deals from different providers can help you find the most affordable option.
  3. Leasing: Leasing a car involves paying a monthly fee to use the vehicle for a set period, typically two to four years. At the end of the lease term, you return the car and can choose to lease another one. Leasing often has lower monthly payments compared to hire purchase agreements, but you do not own the car at the end of the term. Comparing leasing deals can help you find the most cost-effective option.

Practical Tips for Comparing Car Finance

When comparing car finance options, consider the following tips to ensure you make an informed decision:

  1. Interest Rates: Compare the annual percentage rate (APR) offered by different lenders. A lower APR means lower overall costs.
  2. Loan Term: Consider the length of the loan term. Longer terms result in lower monthly payments but higher total interest costs.
  3. Total Cost: Look at the total cost of the finance agreement, including interest and fees, to understand the overall financial commitment.
  4. Flexibility: Check if the finance option offers flexibility, such as the ability to make additional payments or pay off the loan early without penalties.

Conclusion

Transforming your home with a loft conversion can bring numerous benefits, from increasing living space to boosting property value. Hiring a professional loft conversion company ensures that the project is completed to a high standard, adhering to local regulations and delivering the desired results. To manage the financial aspect of the project, comparing car finance options can provide the necessary funds, allowing you to undertake home improvements without straining your budget. By taking a strategic approach to both home renovations and financial planning, you can create a more comfortable and valuable living environment.

Kelly Lee Owens Announces New Album ‘Dreamstate’, Shares Video for New Song

Kelly Lee Owens has announced her fourth studio album, Dreamstate. The follow-up to 2022’s LP.8 is due out October 18 via dh2, a new electronic music imprint at Dirty Hit spearheaded by George Daniel of the 1975. It features producer-writer credits from Bicep, Tom Rowlands of the Chemical Brothers, and Daniel himself. Today’s announcement comes with the release of the new single ‘Love You Got’, which is accompanied by a Samuel Bradley-directed video. Check it out and find the album’s cover artwork and tracklist below.

“‘Love You Got’ was born out of the curiosity of discovering my own inner euphoria – balancing the dark & the light within myself to find ultimate bliss in connection with others,” Owens explained in a statement.

Dreamstate Cover Artwork:

Michael Kiwanuka Returns With New Single ‘Floating Parade’

Michael Kiwanuka is back with a new single called ‘Floating Parade’. The British songwriter made the track with Danger Mouse and frequent collaborator Inflo. Check it out below.

‘Floating Parade’ marks Kiwanuka’s first new music since the release of ‘Beautiful Life’ in 2021 for the Netflix documentary Convergence: Courage in a Crisis. His Mercury Prize-winning third LP, KIWANUKA, arrived in 2019.

Kylie Minogue Enlists Bebe Rexha and Tove Lo for New Song ‘My Oh My’

Kylie Minogue has teamed up with Bebe Rexha and Tove Lo for the new single ‘My Oh My’. Steve Mac produced the track, which you can hear below.

Minogue released her latest album, Tension, last year. Early last month, she debuted a new song called ‘Midnight Ride’ with Orville Peck at Outloud Fest.

The otHER Exhibition: Female Artist HengTian Zhou and Her Unique Emotional Perspective

Hengtian Zhou is a young artist based in London, UK. She started to express her voice in the field of visual art in 2018, which she utilizes to express the relationship between women, social class and nature. Her work has been exhibited in several international exhibitions in Los Angeles, London, Hong Kong and Paris and has been cataloged. The artist currently lives and works in London, UK.

It is worth mentioning that at The otHER Exhibition in London, we are honored to invite the artist to collaborate with us and present her work of high artistic standards: Twin Flame, we hope that the artist’s work can bring a thought and change for the society. The exhibition was open to the public on December 7, 2023 at the Duke of Somerset’s House in London, UK, with artists from all over the world, as well as the audience and the media.

Duke of Somerset’s House, London, England

The exhibition is in conjunction with REFORMATION CHARITY, and during the December 6-8 festival, the otHER exhibition aims to engage in productive discussions on themes such as gender, identity and neocolonialism. In addition, a number of events dedicated to supporting aspiring artists from Los Angeles, London, and beyond will come together to showcase their artwork. Through our eclectic program of events and presentations, we hope to create a multi-perspective festival that reflects the diversity of our culture

Twim Flame, a visual artwork by HengTian Zhou

In this artwork by artist Hengtian Zhou, she has won wide recognition for her unique perspective and deep emotional expression. More than just a presentation of love and desire between women, this work delves into the complex themes of gender identity, social norms and power structures. Through the use of visual art: deep colors and bold compositions, Zhou demonstrates the intimacy, conflicts and struggles of lesbian relationships, conveying a deep and authentic emotional experience.

At the same time, in this work, Zhou breaks with the traditional aesthetic and narrative framework to bring a refreshing visual experience. For example, she employs a mixture of mediums in her characterization, showing the daily lives and inner worlds of lesbians. The work is not only of high aesthetic value, but also challenges the audience’s preconceived notions and provokes deeper reflection on gender and sexual orientation. Through authentic and resonant narratives, it makes more people realize the existence and value of the lesbian community, and promotes social understanding the LGBTQ+ community. The artwork not only enriches the diversity of artistic expression, but also provides a platform for lesbians to express themselves and seek recognition, making it an indispensable part of contemporary art.

In the future, Hengtian Zhou want to study social issues and focus on multicultural racial immigrant issues, which is a direction she have been researching and delving into lately. She form of expression will continue to be theatre and visual arts presentations, and she will conduct in-depth interviews and research on the lives and Identity of 1.5-2.0 generation immigrants through a variety of skin colours, backgrounds, ages, and class choices, so that each of them can have a perfect answer to their own lifelong questions.

We look forward to more collaborations with the artist in the future, and congratulate the successful conclusion of The otHER Exhibition!

How to Make a Great First Impression: Curb Appeal Tips for Sellers

When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are crucial. The exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see, and it needs to be inviting and well-maintained to capture interest. Curb appeal can significantly impact a buyer’s decision, and a little effort on your part can go a long way. Here are some essential tips to help you enhance your home’s kerb appeal and make a lasting first impression.

Tidy Up Your Gutters and Guttering Supplies

One of the often-overlooked aspects of kerb appeal is the state of your gutters and guttering supplies. Clean, functional gutters not only add to the aesthetic appeal of your home but also indicate to potential buyers that the property is well-maintained. Ensure that your gutters are free from debris and properly aligned. If needed, invest in new gutters and guttering supplies to replace any worn or damaged parts. This not only helps in preventing water damage but also adds a polished look to your exterior.

Freshen Up the Paint

A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the appearance of your home. Whether it’s just the front door or the entire exterior, new paint can make your home look more vibrant and well-cared-for. Choose neutral colours that will have broad appeal and avoid bold, personalised choices that might not resonate with everyone. Paying attention to details like windowsills and shutters can also make a significant difference.

Landscape Like a Pro

Well-maintained landscaping is like a welcome mat for your home. Trim overgrown bushes, mow the lawn, and plant seasonal flowers to add a burst of colour. If you have a garden, make sure it is tidy and free from weeds. Simple touches like adding mulch to flower beds and placing potted plants near the entrance can make your home feel more inviting. If you’re not well-versed in gardening, consider hiring a professional landscaper to ensure everything looks its best.

Invest in Outdoor Lighting

Proper lighting can dramatically improve your home’s kerb appeal, especially for evening viewings. Highlighting pathways, driveways, and key landscape features with tasteful lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Solar-powered lights are an eco-friendly option that are both easy to install and maintain. Make sure that all outdoor lights are functioning correctly and replace any burnt-out bulbs.

Update the Front Door and Hardware

The front door is one of the focal points of your home’s exterior. Replacing an old door or simply giving it a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference. Choose a style and colour that complements the overall look of your home. Additionally, updating the hardware—like door handles, knockers, and house numbers—offers a crisp, polished finish. These small updates can make a substantial impact without breaking the bank.

Clear Away Clutter

A clutter-free exterior makes your home look larger and more appealing. Store away any garden tools, bicycles, bins, and other personal items that can make your space look untidy. Make sure that the driveway and pathways are clear and easy to navigate. A neat and organised exterior indicates that the interior is likely to be just as well-kept.

Repair and Maintain

Before you put your home on the market, take a hard look at any repairs that might be needed. Fix cracked paving stones, repair any loose roof tiles, and ensure that fences and gates are in good working order. Small maintenance tasks that may seem insignificant can collectively impact a buyer’s perception of your property. Attention to detail in these areas shows prospective buyers that the home has been well looked after.

Add Personal Touches

While keeping things neutral is generally advisable, adding a few personal touches can make your home stand out. Items like a stylish welcome mat, a wreath on the front door, or a comfy porch swing can give your home personality and charm. These elements can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the space, which is a critical step in making a sale.

Final Thoughts

Enhancing your home’s kerb appeal doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By focusing on these areas, you can create a welcoming and attractive exterior that draws potential buyers in. Remember, first impressions are lasting, so investing time and effort into your home’s exterior could lead to a quicker sale and potentially a higher asking price. Happy selling!

Mica Levi Releases Video for New Song ‘slob air’

Mica Levi has released a new single, ‘slob air’, their first for the legendary electronic label Hyperdub. The track comes paired with a video starring a skateboarding Madi Swain, made with Izzy Moriarty Thompson, Joe Auborn, and Jack Parton. Check it out below.

Levi’s most recent work was the soundtrack to Jonathan Glazer’s The Zone of Interest, the artist and director’s reunion after 2014’s Under the Skin. Their last studio albums were 2020’s Ruff Dog and 2021’s Blue Alibi.

5 Mistakes You Must Avoid If You Want to Go Flawless in Destiny 2 Trials of Osiris

Struggling to go Flawless in Trials of Osiris? We’re here to help! Today, we’ve put together a list of some of the most common mistakes and things you need to avoid to make your way to the Lighthouse faster and smoother. Whether you’re a solo queuing player or someone with a regular team, this guide will be useful for every Guardian aiming for that perfect 7-0 streak. And for those looking to improve their Trials performance even further, check out the Trials of Osiris boosting offers from our friends at WowVendor. They’ll help you snag the best Trials weapons and armor, rank up easily, and finally achieve that coveted Flawless run — quickly, reliably, and at a great price!

And now that we’ve got the intro out of the way, let’s dive into the key points!

What You Should Stop Doing to Get Better at Trials of Osiris

Don’t Leave the 2v1 Fights

Imagine this: you and your teammate end up in a 2v1 situation, guarding enemy orbs. It makes sense to stay put and finish off the remaining opponent who will likely go for revives to even the odds. It’s a simple and effective way to win the round, right? Yet, people often make the mistake of leaving their teammate alone to revive the last member of the team. This is a big no-no!

The enemy will quickly grasp what’s going on and set up a barricade, and the lone teammate left will struggle to break through due to sheer lack of firepower. The enemy will get a revive, quickly turning it into a 2v1, with the Lone Ranger against an overshielded opponent. By the time the one who left returns with the revived Guardian, the lone teammate is already down, and you’re now in a 3v2, but the numbers are not in your favor. What looked like a solid win has quickly turned into a potential loss just because someone decided to go for a run. To avoid such mishaps, remember to always play the numbers advantage. Whenever your team has more players than the opponents, use that to your benefit and never risk turning the odds against you.

Don’t Multi Super 

It’s no secret that Supers are crucial in Trials. If planned properly, they can secure not just a round but even the entire match for your team. Many guides advise not to hold on to your Super, which is overall a great tip. However, there’s a nuance to consider: sometimes your team can activate multiple Supers simultaneously, wasting them mid-match or even at the very start. This often happens because of a lack of coordination. For instance, an enemy uses a Super, your team panics, and starts counter-ulting all at once. Don’t get us wrong: countering is okay, but the multi-Super part could have been easily avoided if you’d just coordinated your actions. Communicate with your team through game chat, Discord, or any other convenient means, and just let them know you’re planning to use your Super. This simple step will help prevent double or triple Super activations in a single round and significantly boost your chances of winning the game.

Don’t Chase the Enemy Alone

You’ve probably been in a situation where it’s a 3v1 in your favor, and the last standing enemy starts running away. You might think chasing them down solo to finish the job is a good idea, but it’s not. Your strength lies in numbers, and the last thing you want is to turn a solid winning scenario into three separate 1v1 situations that can easily lead to unpleasant surprises. Instead of pulling that unnecessary heroic solo chase, stop and think about how to maintain and possibly even increase your advantage. Why risk it when you can force the enemy into a more favorable scenario? If the enemy decides to engage, the three of you can easily take them down. If they choose to extend the round, you can use the extra time to build your Super energy. Simple and safe, right?

Don’t Do Long Flanks

You might think flanking is a smart move, but it’s not always the case, especially if it takes you to the other edge of the map, leaving your team outnumbered for a really long time. By the time you get back to try to catch the enemies off guard — which likely won’t work since they can always see you on the radar — your teammates might already be down, turning a promising 3v3 into a 3v1 with you against the full trio.

If you want to flank, it’s better to stick to quick runs no further than mid-map, so you’re not out of the fight for long and can quickly re-engage from another angle. Trials are all about teamwork, so you have to support your teammates and avoid making them take on more than they actually need to.

Don’t Leave the Enemy Orb

This mistake is sadly too common in Trials, made by both newbies and seasoned players alike. You’ve probably seen it happen many times: you secure a hard-earned kill, but then your team leaves the enemy orb unguarded, allowing the opponents to resurrect their fallen comrade, which makes all your efforts go to waste. In elimination mode like Trials of Osiris, it’s crucial to always keep the enemy orbs under watch to prevent revives. If you get a kill, make sure this Guardian really stays down. The numbers advantage is a significant factor in winning the games in Trials. Plus, preventing revives also stops the fallen enemy’s Super from charging, which can give you a big edge in later rounds.

Interview: Xinyue Song

Xinyue Song embarked on her educational journey at the School of Visual Arts in New York, where she completed her degrees in Graphic Design and Computer Arts. Upon graduating, she discovered a profound interest in illustration, which significantly shaped her career path. She has collaborated with prestigious clients such as The New York Times, Converse, Adidas, Greenpeace, Cartoon Network, and W Hotel. Her artwork, characterized by vivid colors and inventive compositions, frequently explores themes centered around women and everyday life, offering viewers a visually striking experience.

Can you trace back to the moment when your interest in illustration first began to manifest?
While I was studying graphic design and computer arts, I always enjoyed creating, but it wasn’t until I finished school that I truly fell in love with illustration. I started seeing it as a powerful way to tell stories and connect with people on everyday themes, especially those related to women’s lives. This realization really shaped my path, leading me to work with amazing clients and dive deeper into topics that I’m passionate about.

Where do you draw your inspiration from?
Most of my inspiration comes from everyday stuff—objects I see, things I experience. Small details often spark ideas. For example, my work “Beads” uses the imagery of beads to discuss societal constraints on women, inspired by the everyday limitations I observed affecting women. This work also reflects my attempt to address serious topics like gender equality through an engaging, approachable art style.

You’ve mentioned that a lot of your work focuses on themes related to women. Could you share some examples?
Sure, my series “Waiting” is a good one to talk about, and it was recently shortlisted in the Communication Arts illustration competition. It’s all about the experience of waiting, particularly from a female perspective, exploring the strength and complex emotions behind waiting. Women are often expected to exhibit more patience in many aspects of life, whether in career progression or personal matters. This series captures those quiet, often overlooked moments, aiming to convey that waiting is more than just passing time—it’s a reflection of deeper emotional states and attitudes towards life.

How does cultural diversity influence your work?
I have a deep appreciation for traditional Chinese art, and I really enjoy blending ancient patterns and techniques with modern styles in my illustrations. My work often focuses on East Asian women, differing from traditional aesthetic stereotypes of delicate and graceful femininity. I strive for them to have a strong, powerful physique, as well as greater mental strength. By integrating influences from different cultures, I aim to showcase this burst of inspiration in my work.

In what ways do you keep your creative approach fresh and evolving?
Working on commercial projects has been crucial for honing my skills and expressive abilities. In these collaborations, maintaining my unique artistic style is essential. At the same time, I also strive to ensure that my work effectively communicates the commercial content’s needs, finding a balance that fits both my style and the message I want to convey. I’ve been fortunate to work with some well-known brands, where juggling these aspects is always a key challenge.

Additionally, over the past few years, I’ve continually enriched my experience by participating in competitions and exhibitions. Winning some awards and receiving nominations from contests like AI-AP, ADC, and Communication Arts has been a great way to elevate my profile and prove my capabilities.

Looking forward, what are your aspirations for the future?
I am eager to further my illustration career by creating artworks that are both emotionally resonant and commercially viable. I also plan to host my own illustration exhibition to showcase pieces that deeply resonate with audiences. This endeavor is a personal exploration for me, and I look forward to sharing my journey and expertise with a broader community of art enthusiasts through my work.