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Morpho Shares Video for Debut Single ‘Prism’

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Morpho, the Chicago-based project of guitarist Kristyn Chapman, has shared her debut single, ‘Prism’. It’s taken from the upcoming EP Morpho Season, which was mixed by Slow Pulp‘s Henry Stoehr and mastered by Greg Obis of Stuck. It’s out November 15 via Hit the North Records. Check out the Robert Salazar-directed video for ‘Prism’ below.

“It’s about being in love, feeling totally present in the moment with someone else,” Chapman explained in a statement. “Time feels suspended, like you’re living in a dream. I wrote this song in retrospect, trying to capture that expansive feeling after the relationship had ended.”

Morpho Season EP Cover Artwork:

Morpho Season EP Tracklist:

1. Prism
2. Half of Two
3. Morpho Friend
4. Blue Light
5. The End

Pom Pom Squad Share New Single ‘Street Fighter’

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Pom Pom Squad have put out a new song called ‘Street Fighter’, taken from the forthcoming album Mirror Starts Moving Without Me. It follows previous singles ‘Downhill’ and ‘Spinning’. Check out a lyric video for it below.

Talking about the song, Mia Berring said in a statement: “When Cody and I were messing around with this one we came across a synth patch that sounded like something straight out of Street Fighter! Reconnecting with core-self / inner child is a throughline of the album and guided a lot of the writing process – Street Fighter II was one of my favorite games as a kid, so it felt like a fun direction to take the song in. I finished the lyrics and vocals on the same night at like 4am – I was delirious from being exhausted which resulted in some silly, goofy, lyrics. In general, my writing leans a bit more moody and serious so it’s a different side of me for sure!”

Mirror Starts Moving Without Me, the follow-up to 2021’s Death of a Cheerleader, is out October 25 via City Slang Records. Read our Artist Spotlight interview with Pom Pom Squad.

Charli XCX Announces ‘Brat and it’s completely different but also still brat’, Releases ‘Talk talk featuring Troye Sivan’

Charli XCX has officially announced Brat and it’s completely different but also still brat, a “brand new version” of the album that will be out October 11. Today, the singer has shared the Troye Sivan remix of ‘Talk talk’, which will be included on the record along with the previously released ‘360’ with Robyn and Yung Lean, ‘Von dutch’ with A. G. Cook and Addison Rae, ‘Girl, so confusing’ with Lorde, and ‘Guess’ with Billie Eilish. The video for the new track features a cameo from Dua Lipa speaking French and Spanish. Check it out below.

Charli XCX and Troye Sivan’s Sweat Tour kicks off in Detroit this weekend. A couple of weeks ago, it was announced that Charli XCX has joined the cast of the forthcoming Gregg Araki movie I Want Your Sex.

Brat and it’s completely different but also still brat Cover Artwork:

Brat and it’s completely different but also still brat Tracklist:

Disc One

1. 360 featuring robyn & yung lean
2. Track two
3. Track three
4. Track four
5. Talk talk featuring troye sivan
6. Von dutch a. g. cook remix featuring addison rae
7. Track seven
8. Track eight
9. Track nine
10. Girl, so confusing featuring lorde
11. Track eleven
12. Track twelve
13. Track thirteen
14. Track fourteen
15. Track fifteen
16. Guess featuring billie eilish

Disc Two

1. 360
2. Club classics
3. Sympathy is a knife
4. I might say something stupid
5. Talk talk
6. Von dutch
7. Everything is romantic
8. Rewind
9. So I
10. Girl, so confusing
11. Apple
12. B2b
13. Mean girls
14. I think about it all the time
15. 365
16. Hello goodbye
17. Guess
18. Spring breakers

Margo Price Enlists Billy Strings for New Song ‘Too Stoned to Cry’

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Margo Price has teamed up with Billy Strings for a new single, ‘Too Stoned to Cry’. Listen to it below.

“It was such a joy to work with Billy on this song. He really nailed the vocals and laid down a beautiful lead,” Price said in a statement. “I have wanted to record this song for years now, ever since I heard the writer Andrew Combs sing it. My buddy Beau Bedford and I had been in the studio together working on an Orville Peck track, and I asked him to produce this single for me. He put together a really great band – Beau and I, plus my husband Jeremy Ivey played acoustic, Aksel Coe on drums, Misa Arriaga on Bass, Russ Pahl on pedal steel, Joey McClellan on electric. Once we got Billy to add his guitar and singing, I knew this song was gonna be a special recording.”

The new track follows Price’s 2023 album Strays. “When I first came on the scene, I was a countryfied, hard headed, whiskey drinkin nobody who was pissed off at the establishment,” she added. “All of that’s still true, except for the whiskey drinkin part. If anything, now that I’ve lived for a while inside of the establishment, I’m even more pissed off. I’ve let some people go, I’m still fighting with others to let me be myself, but I know, I’m gonna make this next record the way I want to make it, no matter what it takes.”

Equestrian Clothing Essentials: What Every Rider Needs in Their Wardrobe

Equestrian sports require not only skill and a deep connection with the horse but also the right clothing to ensure comfort, safety, and performance. A rider’s wardrobe is essential in enhancing their experience, whether they are competing, trail riding, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride. From head to toe, each piece of equestrian clothing plays a crucial role. This guide will outline the key essentials every rider should have in their wardrobe to stay stylish, safe, and comfortable.

The Importance of Equestrian Clothing for Every Rider

Equestrian clothing is designed with both style and function in mind, ensuring riders are equipped for safety, comfort, and performance. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced equestrian, having the right horse riding clothes can make all the difference in your overall experience. From protective helmets to durable boots, every piece serves a purpose. Riding apparel is crafted to provide flexibility, breathability, and grip, making sure riders can focus on their technique without distractions. By investing in high-quality clothing, riders not only enhance their comfort but also ensure their safety while on horseback.

Riding Helmet: Safety First

One of the most important pieces of equestrian clothing is the riding helmet. Safety should always be a priority when engaging in any equestrian activity, as falls or accidents can happen unexpectedly. A certified riding helmet is designed to protect your head from serious injury and should be a non-negotiable part of every rider’s wardrobe. It’s essential to ensure the helmet fits snugly without being uncomfortable, as a poorly fitting helmet can compromise protection. Look for helmets that meet international safety standards and have good ventilation to keep you cool during rides.

Riding Breeches: Comfort and Flexibility

Riding breeches are another must-have item in any rider’s wardrobe. These specialized pants are designed to offer comfort, flexibility, and grip when riding. Traditional jeans or leggings simply won’t provide the same level of performance, as they can rub or bunch up, leading to discomfort. Breeches are made from stretchy, breathable fabric that allows for ease of movement and typically feature reinforced knee patches or full-seat grips for better stability in the saddle. They come in various styles and cuts, so riders can choose between classic high-waisted options or more modern, mid-rise designs depending on their preference.

Riding Boots: Protection and Performance

Footwear is a critical component of equestrian clothing, and riding boots are specifically designed to provide both protection and control. There are two main types of riding boots: tall boots and paddock boots. Tall boots, like dressage or field boots, cover the rider’s calf and offer additional leg support, often required in competitive riding. Paddock boots, on the other hand, are ankle-length and are often paired with half chaps for casual riding. Both types of boots offer a sturdy heel to prevent the foot from slipping through the stirrup and are made from durable materials like leather or synthetic alternatives. Comfortable, well-fitting boots can make a significant difference in both safety and overall riding experience.

Equestrian Gloves: Grip and Comfort

Riding gloves may seem like an optional accessory, but they are, in fact, essential for maintaining a secure grip on the reins while also protecting the hands from blisters and chafing. During long rides, the reins can cause friction, especially when dealing with difficult or excitable horses. Equestrian gloves are designed to offer both grip and dexterity, allowing riders to maintain control without sacrificing comfort. In colder weather, they also provide warmth, making them a year-round necessity. Look for gloves with reinforced areas between the fingers where the reins sit, as this is where wear and tear occurs most frequently.

Riding Jackets and Vests: Weather-Appropriate Layering

Weather conditions can greatly impact a rider’s experience, making appropriate outerwear a crucial part of equestrian clothing. A good riding jacket or vest offers protection against the elements while allowing freedom of movement. Jackets specifically designed for equestrian activities are often lightweight, breathable, and water-resistant, ensuring that riders can stay dry and comfortable in various weather conditions. Vests, particularly body protector vests, can also offer additional safety in case of a fall. For colder months, layering is key, so opt for thermal riding jackets or fleece-lined vests to maintain warmth without bulkiness.

Equestrian Shirts: Style and Functionality

Equestrian shirts are designed with both style and functionality in mind. Whether it’s a casual day at the barn or a competition event, riders need shirts that allow for movement, wick away sweat, and look polished. Many riders opt for moisture-wicking performance shirts in breathable fabrics to stay cool in warmer weather. For more formal events, riders may need a collared show shirt that pairs well with competition jackets. The key is to find shirts that offer flexibility and comfort without compromising on aesthetics.

Half Chaps: Extra Leg Support

Half chaps are a great addition to paddock boots and offer extra protection for the lower leg while riding. They are worn over the breeches and paddock boots, extending from the ankle to just below the knee. Half chaps help prevent chafing and provide additional grip, making them especially useful for beginner riders or those engaging in long rides. They come in various materials, such as leather or synthetic options, and are a more casual alternative to full-length riding boots.

Riding Socks: Cushion and Support

Although often overlooked, riding socks are an essential part of a rider’s wardrobe. Proper riding socks provide extra cushioning in the foot and ankle areas, ensuring comfort during long hours spent in boots. Many equestrian socks are designed with moisture-wicking properties to keep feet dry, and some even offer compression support to improve circulation. Look for socks that are tall enough to cover the calf and prevent rubbing against boots, as well as those made from breathable, durable fabrics.

Equestrian clothing is much more than just a stylish outfit—it plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety, comfort, and performance of riders. From helmets to riding boots, each piece is carefully designed to meet the unique demands of horseback riding. A well-rounded wardrobe equipped with these essentials allows riders to focus on their connection with the horse and fully enjoy the experience, whether they are beginners or seasoned equestrians. Investing in high-quality, functional equestrian clothing is an investment in both safety and success on horseback.

Adeline Hotel Releases New Song ‘I Will Let Your Flowers Grow’

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Adeline Hotel has unveiled a new song, ‘I Will Let Your Flowers Grow’, from the upcoming album Whodunnit. Featuring Jackie West on backing vocals, the track follows the previously released title track and ‘Grief’, the latter of which made our Best New Songs segment. Give it a listen below.

Whodunnit is set for release on September 27 via Ruination Record Co.

Fashion Club Shares New Single ‘Confusion’

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Fashion Club – the moniker of Los Angeles-based artist Pascal Stevenson – has released a new song called ‘Confusion’. It’s the third single from her forthcoming album A Love You Cannot Shake – due October 25 via Felte Records – following the Perfume Genius-assisted ‘Forget’ and ‘Rotten Mind’ featuring Julie Byrne. Check out a video for it below.

“You have to read into it quite a bit, but I think it’s about these feelings of self-doubt and low self-worth that come from the crushing capitalism inherent in American society,” Stevenson said of the new track. “It’s about trying to make yourself feel useful and feel worth something in a society that says, ‘If you’re not functioning a certain way, you’re not worth anything.’”

Kendrick Lamar Shares First New Song Since ‘Not Like Us’

Kendrick Lamar has dropped a surprise song on his Instagram page. The rapper’s first new song since ‘Not Like Us’ was posted without a caption or title, but people are unofficially calling it ‘Watch the Party Die’. Featuring references to his collaborator Terrace Martin and the Christian rapper Lecrae, the track arrives just days after it was announced that Lamar will be headlining the Super Bowl LIX halftime show. Check it out below.

 

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MTV VMAs 2024: Watch All of the Performances

The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards took place on Wednesday night (September 11) at UBS Arena in Long Island, NY. The show was hosted by Megan Thee Stallion, who was also among the night’s many performers. Sabrina Carpenter, Katy Perry, Chappell Roan, Eminem, Halsey, Camila Cabello, Karol G, Rauw Alejandro, and Glorilla also took the stage. Check out all of the performances from this year’s VMAs below, and find the full list of winners here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

League of Legends Boosting: Is it Safe?

League of Legends boosting is a controversial practice where a highly skilled player takes control of a lower-ranked player’s account to increase their rank. While it might seem like a quick way to climb the ladder, it comes with significant risks and ethical concerns. 

This guide will explore the concept of LoL boosting, its potential consequences, and why it’s generally considered unsafe and detrimental to the game’s integrity.

What is LoL Boosting?

LoL boosting typically involves one of the following methods:

  1. Account boosting: A high-skilled player logs into a lower-ranked account and plays matches to increase its rank.
  2. Duo boosting: A high-ranked player pairs up with a lower-ranked player to help them win games and climb ranks.

Is LoL Boosting Safe?

The short answer is no, LoL boosting is not safe. Here’s why:

1. Violation of Riot Games’ Terms of Service

Boosting explicitly violates Riot Games’ Terms of Service. If caught, players can face severe penalties, including:

  • Account suspension
  • Permanent account bans
  • Removal of season rewards
  • Rank reset

2. Account Security Risks

When you give your account information to a booster, you’re exposing yourself to several risks:

  • Account theft
  • Personal information compromise
  • Potential financial fraud if payment information is stored

3. Skill Discrepancy and Game Quality

After boosting, players often find themselves in matches beyond their skill level, leading to:

  • Poor game experience for the boosted player
  • Frustration for teammates who expect higher performance
  • Unfair matches that ruin the competitive integrity of the game

4. Psychological Impact

Boosting can have negative psychological effects:

  • Decreased sense of achievement
  • Imposter syndrome in higher ranks
  • Frustration when unable to maintain the boosted rank

5. Community Impact

Boosting harms the LoL community in several ways:

  • Disrupts the ranking system’s integrity
  • Creates unfair and imbalanced matches
  • Diminishes the value of legitimate rank achievements

Legal and Ethical Considerations

While boosting itself isn’t illegal, it’s considered highly unethical in the gaming community. Some countries have begun to treat boosting services as a legal issue:

  • In South Korea, game boosting can result in fines and even jail time.
  • Other countries are considering similar legislation to protect the integrity of esports.

Alternatives to Boosting

Instead of resorting to boosting, consider these safer alternatives for improvement:

  • Practice and self-improvement:
      • Focus on mastering a small champion pool
      • Study game mechanics and macro strategy
      • Analyze your replays to identify areas for improvement
  • Coaching:
      • Hire a legitimate coach to help improve your skills
      • Participate in community coaching sessions
  • Playing with higher-ranked friends:
      • Learn from better players in normal games
      • Remember, duo boosting in ranked is still against the rules
  • Watching educational content:
    • Follow high-elo streamers and learn from their gameplay
    • Study champion guides and strategy videos

Consequences of Getting Caught Getting Boosted

If Riot Games detects boosting activity on your account, you may face:

  1. Immediate account suspension
  2. Removal of all season rewards
  3. MMR and rank reset
  4. Potential permanent ban for repeat offenses

How Riot Detects Boosting?

Riot employs various methods to identify boosted accounts:

  1. Sudden changes in play patterns or performance
  2. Unusual login locations
  3. Drastic improvement in win rates or KDA
  4. Reports from other player

LoL Boosting – FAQs 

Q: Can I get banned for playing on my friend’s account?

 A: Yes, playing on someone else’s account is a form of boosting and can result in penalties for both accounts involved.

Q: What if I buy an account that’s already high-ranked? 

A: Buying and selling accounts is against Riot’s Terms of Service and can result in the account being banned.

Q: Is it okay to have a high-ranked friend play a few games on my account? 

A: No, this is still considered boosting and is against the rules, regardless of who is doing the boosting.

Q: How can I report suspected boosting? 

A: You can report suspicious activity through the post-game reporting system or by submitting a ticket to Riot Support.

Conclusion

While the promise of a quick rank increase might be tempting, LoL boosting is neither safe nor ethical. It violates game rules, puts your account at risk, and ultimately detracts from the satisfaction of genuine improvement. Instead, focus on developing your skills through practice, learning, and legitimate means of improvement. Remember, the journey of improving at LoL is as important as the destination of a higher rank.