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DIIV Share Video for New Song ‘Return of Youth’

DIIV have returned with a new song, ‘Return of Youth’, the band’s first new music since last year’s Frog in Boiling Water. It was recorded after the fires in Altadena, California, that resulted in frontman Zachary Cole Smith losing his home. “Breathe silent hope/ Into a world unknown/ Guide me on a path that leads/ Innocent and dumb,” he sings on the track, whose music video, too, surveys the aftermath. Check it out below.

In a lengthy statement, Smith said:

Hi

DIIV has a new song out today, “Return Of Youth”. Sorry for the long statement

‘Frog’ was an album that focused our gaze outward at the world around us. It captured a series of snapshots of our condition, in confusion and disgust and awe.

The writing period for this album was part of a beautiful time in my life, as we prepared and waited for our first child to be born. That beauty was cut with a profound existential dilemma: how can we bring a child into this world?

The common thread running through the fragmented world of the album was hope. We’ve talked about it a bit. Real hope, false hope, something to give your life meaning. It’s an individual journey. I found it in parenthood, but you can find it anywhere you want.

“Return Of Youth” was written before our son was born, a projection, zooming in until the larger existential dilemmas were out of frame. Where “Fender On The Freeway” found peace in the patterns of a gigantic macro, this one finds it in a mundane and simple micro. I imagined seeing myself through the eyes of my child, a rebirth of sorts, laced with fear and insecurity, discovering beauty and serenity together in the simplest places.

At the very beginning of the year my family and I lost our home and everything we owned to the wildfires in Altadena, CA. We had been preparing for the birth of our second son. We were living in the beautiful world at home that I had imagined in this song, and at once that world was gone.

When we re-approached this song to finally release it, I couldn’t help but hear the song differently in the aftermath. What makes a home? Can you ever escape the outside world? Is hope just a delusion? Is anyone actually prepared to be a parent? How CAN you bring a child into this world?

I found again the big questions were irrelevant. You just keep on living I guess. Life happens on life’s terms.

Anyway, make of the song and the video whatever you want, it’s just a snapshot, albeit a more personal one this time.

Enjoy.

Cole

Read our inspirations interview with DIIV.

Taylor Swift Debuts ‘Look What You Made Me Do (Taylor’s Version)’ in ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’

Taylor Swift premiered ‘Look What You Made Me Do (Taylor’s Version)’ in the latest episode of Hulu’s The Handmaid’s Tale. The re-recorded and revamped version of the 2017 hit appears in the opening scene of the penultimate episode of the series. Check it out below.

“I’ve been wanting to use a Taylor song for many years on the show and we finally found the perfect spot for a track from her, and I’m so glad we waited because there could not be a more perfect song for a more perfect moment,” star and executive producer Elisabeth Moss told Billboard. “Taylor has been such an inspiration to me personally. As a Swiftie myself, and I think I can speak for [co-star] Yvonne [Strahovski] and our entire cast as well, who are all Swifties, it’s such an honor to be able to use her music in the final episodes of our show.”

Moss continued, “I said to my editor, Wendy [Hallam Martin], ‘I really want to find a place for a Taylor track in the last two episodes of the show’ and we wanted to find a music queue for the opening of nine, and all the credit goes to Wendy for picking this track for this moment!”

Handmaid’s Tale editor Wendy Hallam Martin added: “In trying many songs for this specific moment in our series and knowing how much Lizzie wanted a strong female voice and message, Taylor was really the artist that delivered both lyrically and tonally. Our badass main character June in this scene, really was saying ‘look what you made me do’ and the song couldn’t have been more on point. A perfect pairing. When I laid the song up against the scene, it just landed perfectly thematically, rhythmically and magically hit all the edit points which sometimes happens if it’s meant to be.”

Reputation is just one of two albums Swift has yet to re-record in an effort to reclaim her masters, having previously completed Fearless (Taylor’s Version), Red (Taylor’s Version), Speak Now (Taylor’s Version), and 1989 (Taylor’s Version). She previously teased ‘Look What You Made Me Do’ in an episode of Apple TV+’s The Dynasty: New England Patriots, and in August 2023, offered a glimpse of ‘Delicate (Taylor’s Version)’ on Prime Video’s The Summer I Turned Pretty. Her 11th album, The Tortured Poets Department, came out in April 2024.

Vines Announces Debut Album ‘I’ll be here’, Unveils New Song ‘Evicted’

Vines – the project of Brooklyn artist Cassie Wieland – has announced her debut album, I’ll be here. Following 2023’s Birthday Party EP, the 10-track effort will be released on July 18. On the mesmerizing lead single ‘Evicted’, Wieland repeats the questions, “Am I getting sick/ Or am I over it/ Am I being born/ Or just evicted,” piling one sonic layer after another. Check out its Evan Chapman-directed video below.

“‘Evicted’ is the first song with lyrics that I wrote for this record,” Wieland explained in a statement. “It’s about going through a transitional period in your life and not knowing where it’s going. I’m reflecting on the insecurity and discomfort that can come with healing.”

Read our Artist Spotlight interview with Vines.

I’ll be here Cover Artwork:

I’ll be here Cover Artwork

I’ll be here Tracklist:

1. I’m getting sick
2. Evicted
3. We’ve made it this far
4. Undercurrent
5. King of swords
6. Omw
7. Happy is hard
8. Tired
9. Keep driving
10. I’ll be here

How the Art Industry is Shining With Green Poster Printing

With the rise of sustainability, more artists and creatives are thinking about their impact on the planet. Art is evolving, and so are the tools and processes to create it. One area seeing a big shift is poster printing. Artists are moving towards greener and cleaner options for poster printing. The change is a movement that is catching fast in the entire industry.

Why Eco-Friendly Poster Printing Matters

Traditional printing methods haven’t always been kind to the Earth. They often include:

  • Petroleum-based inks
  • Non-recyclable paper
  • Toxic solvents
  • Excess energy use

These methods can harm the environment. However, eco-friendly poster printing is changing the game. Artists and printers are finding smarter ways to create without causing damage.

What Makes Poster Printing Eco-Friendly?

Green poster printing uses materials and methods that reduce environmental harm. Here are some options

  • Soy/Vegetable-based inks: These release fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) than traditional inks.
  • Recycled or FSC-certified paper: These options make sure that the trees are sourced or reused in a responsible manner.
  • Water-based coatings: Less harmful than chemical finishes.
  • Digital printing: It creates less waste and uses less power.
  • Local production: Reduces carbon emissions from shipping.

Artists Leading The Change

Eco-conscious artists are at the front of this movement. They care about the message and the method. Many artists are making the following changes:

  • Print with green-certified studios
  • Choose minimalist designs to reduce ink use
  • Sell digital downloads instead of physical copies
  • Educate their followers about sustainable choices

Benefits For The Art Community

Sustainable printing is good for the Earth. On top of this, it is an excellent choice for artists and collectors. The community feels good to create and collect art that does not harm the planet.

Here are some other major benefits:

  • Lower long-term costs with digital and local printing
  • Healthy work environments with non-toxic materials
  • Higher appeal to eco-conscious buyers
  • Stronger brand identity for eco-friendly artists

Steps To Start Printing In A Sustainable Manner

Well, if you are thinking of making the switch, it is pretty easy. Here are some of the steps to start with sustainable printing.

Step 1: Choose the right printer- You have to look for companies that offer eco-printing options.

Step 2: Ask questions-  Try to find out more information about their inks, processes, etc.

Step 3: Opt for digital when you can- It is cleaner and more efficient to print posters.

Step 4: Print only what you need- This will help you avoid overproduction and waste.

Step 5: Educate your audience- Share your sustainability choices to help others make the switch.

The Future Of Poster Printing

Well, there is a bright future for sustainable pester printing. The demand for sustainability is on the rise and the industry is evolving with it. You will expect to see:

  • Biodegradable inks
  • Fully recycled and tree-free papers,
  • Low-energy printing machines become standard

Also, digital printing will improve production by making it clean and quick. Besides this, there is a push toward on-demand printing which will reduce the level of overproduction and waste. More artists and studios will prioritize local sourcing and eco-friendly packaging.

Why Travel Storage Bags Are a Must-Have for Frequent Flyers

If you spend a lot of time in planes and airports, travel storage bags are a must-have item. As someone who flies a lot, you probably already have your tips and tricks lined up, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make things even easier on yourself with a custom travel bag with a logo. It’s never too late to include something else, like travel storage bags, that will make your frequent flying easier on you.

The Challenges of Frequent Travel

Traveling is exciting, but when you travel a lot, it brings down the level of excitement you may have over the change in location. You just want to get where you need to go! There are a number of challenges for those who fly frequently. Here are a few: 

  • Delays

When you have a tight schedule, delays put you behind schedule. Even if you have time to kill, delays are an annoying inconvenience.

  • Lost Baggage

The more you fly, the more likely it is that you have lost a bag at some point or another. It’s a bummer, but whether you travel for business or pleasure, there are items in those suitcases you need. It’s costly to have to buy new items whenever you’re stuck without your back.

  • Crowds

What might you run into if you fly in and out of popular areas, tourist destinations, and large cities? Long lines, crowds, and higher prices.

  • Health Issues

When you travel a lot, you’re going to be around a lot of people. People have germs. You may very well be open to catching an illness. Depending on where you travel and how careful you are, food and water contamination could become an issue as well.

Streamlining Packing with Compact and Versatile Storage Solutions

When you travel frequently, you might have packing down to a science. If you are just starting to travel more, you may still need a little help. Lay out everything you want to take and then figure out how you can make it compact with storage bags for travel. 

Have a packing strategy and put larger items, like shoes, on the bottom. You can then put things inside the shoes and fill gaps with softer items. Consider rolling or folding, which is best for you? Rolling clothes helps to save space and cut back on wrinkles. If you have enough space, fold away!

If you have versatile compact storage solutions, you may be able to get everything you need into a carry-on bag. That kind of compact travel allows you to forget about lost suitcases. 

Protecting Belongings During Travel

While you want your bags to arrive at your chosen destination, you also want them intact and unbroken. Certain items, like clothing, can take the abuse of a tossed bag, but you may take other items along with you that need more protection. Find travel storage solutions that insulate precious items, like toiletries, that might break during the traveling process.

Consider what you take with you on a regular basis and decide what kind of material and protection you need in any travel bags you may use.

Enhancing Convenience at Airports and Beyond

It’s never a bad idea to choose travel accessories that stand out so you can easily spot the bags you brought and grab them fast. If you have a branded bag, it’s unique and unusual, making it easy to spot.

If you have a black suitcase, guess what, so does everyone else. But a bag with a brand on it helps it to stand out and saves you time as you watch for it on the carousel.

A Branding Opportunity for Businesses

If you own a business, you may want to work with Save Your Ink on creating branded travel accessories. Frequent travels can make use of your items, and since they get around a lot, your brand and logo would get around as well!

If you offer branded travel items, those looking to go places appreciate the usefulness of the item, and you could get your name out there farther than you would otherwise. Create something stylish, but unique, and efficient to be truly useful to any traveler who might want to make use of the item.

In conclusion

Storage bags for travel are a great option for those who travel frequently and need to streamline their packing process. There are a lot of issues that can arise with frequent flying, and travel bags can’t fix everything, but they can help with efficient packing. Logo bags also stand out as unique among the many other suitcases. You’ll be able to spot your stuff with ease and move on to your next location faster than you would have otherwise. Include the right storage bags in your must-have list, and frequent travel suddenly becomes easier.

Sister. Announce New Album ‘Two Birds’, Share New Single

Sister. have announced a new album, Two Birds, which is slated for release on July 11 via Mtn Laurel Recording Co. It features the previously unveiled single ‘Blood in the Vines’, and today, the New York-based band have shared the LP’s title track, which was written by Hannah Pruzinsky (aka h. pruz) and Ceci Sturman. Check it out and find the album cover and tracklist below.

A communal spirit reverberates through the stunning ‘Two Birds’, which finds comfort in shared grief. “Hannah and I wrote ‘Two Birds’ on the night we moved out of our old apartment to live apart from each other for the first time in 9 years,” Sturman explained in a press release. “We tried to go to a friend’s birthday party and both cried too much so had to leave immediately and sit down in our packed up music room and create something to share. At the core of anything we make we are trying to draw lines in the sand about what our relationship means to each other and then we draw them again and again and again.”

Two Birds Cover Artwork:

Two Birds Cover Artwork

Two Birds Tracklist:

1. Blood in the Vines
2. Honey
3. Patient Guy
4. Two Moons
5. Two Birds
6. Star Interlude
7. Piece of Silver
8. Power
9. Levity
10. Sta

MSPAINT Share New Single ‘Drift’

MSPAINT have previewed their recently announced EP No Separation with a new song called ‘Drift’. Following lead cut ‘Angel’, the track is brooding and dynamic, with vocalist Deedee’s voice punching through the distortion. Check it out below.

No Separation drops on May 23 via Convulse Records. Revisit our Artist Spotlight interview with MSPAINT.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet: New raid event set for late May

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Nintendo and GameFreak’s most recent success, Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, has just announced the next in-game event, a Seven-Star Tera Raid.

The event will allow trainers to face the pseudo-legendary Pokemon Garchomp with the chance to catch one already at level 100.

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet: What type of Pokemon is Garchomp?

Garchomp was first introduced in Pokemon Diamond and Pearl as a dragon and ground type mach Pokemon. It is the evolved version of the Gible and Gabite Pokemon and a mega-evolution version, Mega Garchomp, was introduced in Pokemon X and Y.

Garchomp is also the signature monster of Cynthia, the renowned Pokemon League Champion of the Sinnoh region. It’s highest stats are its HP and physical attack, meaning it can utilize moves like Earthquake, Outrage, and Poison Jab with brutal efficiency. Garchomp’s versatile moves, physical power, and high health make it a staple Pokemon in most competitive battle teams.

However, as with any other Pokemon, Garchomp suffers against its natural opponents, fairy, ice and dragon type Pokemon, which are able to deal greater damage and recieve less HP hits when battling against dragon and ground type Pokemon.

Despite these weaknesses, trainers trying to get their hands on the level 100 Garchomp are faced with a major challenge.

When will the event go live?

The event will start a few days after the ongoing Metagross Tera Raid event ends, with Pokemon Scarlet and Violet players having a few extra days to get their teams into order to take on the Garchomp challenge.

According to GameRant and Serebii.net, the event is set to start on May 23, running through to May 25 with a second round open from May 30 to June 1.

GameRant outlined: “Like other pseudo-legendary Pokemon featured as Seven-Star Tera Raid bosses in Pokemon Scarlet and Violet, Garchomp will have two potential abilities to draw from.

“Its Sand Veil ability boosts its evasiveness during a Sandstorm, while Rough Skin deals damage to any attackers that make physical contact with their moves.

“Both of Garchomp’s abilities can be negated by either using a different weather move like Rain Dance or avoiding using physical attacks altogether.

“But, Garchomp’s reputation as a competitive Pokemon battle staple is not without reason, as it can still use strong physical attacks like Earthquake and Dragon Claw to punish its foes.”

Pokemon Scarlet and Violet is available on Nintendo Switch and will be released on the Nintendo Switch 2 when available.

How Training Providers Can Streamline Operations with the Right Software

In the moving world we live in today, it’s essential for training providers to stay ahead and be effective. Optimizing their processes can lead to better service and happier clients. Choosing the right software is key to making this happen. With the right tools in place, training organizations can boost efficiency, cut down on expenses, and provide top-notch service to their clients. This article delves into how training providers can use software solutions to enhance their operations. 

Pinpointing the Issues Faced in Operations 

Training organizations encounter obstacles in their day-to-day activities, such as coordinating schedules and attendance records and dealing with transactions and communication issues, among others, which can be quite daunting without a solid framework in position. Recognizing these difficulties is the initial phase in discovering a remedy. By pinpointing operational hurdles, companies can gain deeper insight into their requirements and choose the appropriate software for training providers to tackle them. 

Selecting the Appropriate Software

Choosing the right software is vital for optimizing processes in training programs. Providers should explore options with a range of features designed to fit their specific requirements. Software that integrates scheduling, payment handling, and communication capabilities can effectively lessen administrative tasks. It is also important to select a system that smoothly connects with current setups. This integration guarantees a seamless shift and decreases any potential disturbances.

Improving Time Management and Arrangement

Successful training programs rely heavily on scheduling as a component. With the help of appropriate software tools, professionals are able to streamline scheduling activities by automating them. This results in a reduction of the time spent on tasks. Notifications and reminders are automatically generated to ensure that both trainers and participants are updated. This functionality decreases the likelihood of missed sessions. It improves the efficiency of the program. Additionally, user-friendly interfaces in software enable management and adjustments to schedules based on requirements. 

Enhancing Communication and Teamwork

Good communication plays a role in the effectiveness of training organizations. Using software that comes with communication features can make it easier for trainers to connect with participants and administrative team members smoothly and efficiently. Functions such as messaging options and video calls help encourage collaboration among everyone involved in the training process while ensuring that everyone stays up-to-date and involved in the learning journey. By improving communication channels like this one’s ease of use, providers can respond quickly to any questions from participants and create an atmosphere for learning. 

Simplifying the Payment Procedures 

For training providers, managing transactions can feel overwhelming. Software that provides payment processing solutions can make this part of operations simpler. With automated invoicing, secure payment gateways, and real-time tracking, organizations can manage their finances efficiently. This feature helps reduce errors and ensures clients make payments on time. Additionally, a smooth payment process boosts client satisfaction by providing fee settlement options. 

Monitoring Advancement and Achievements

Keeping track of how participants are doing and how well they’re learning is key to running top-notch training programs. Programs that come with tools for analyzing data and generating reports give providers the chance to collect information. By looking into details such as attendance records, completion rates, and test scores, organizations can pinpoint areas that need work. This data helps training providers customize their programs to match better what their clients currently need. Moreover, monitoring progress keeps participants excited and committed as they go through the learning process. 

Protecting Data Security and Ensuring Regulatory Compliance 

Ensuring data security is a concern for training providers who deal with client information. These providers rely on software solutions equipped with security features to prevent access. Encryption techniques, solid access controls, and routine backups play a role in keeping information secure. Additionally, it is essential for training providers to comply with industry regulations by choosing software that meets standards. This not only protects their reputation but also fosters trust with clients. 

Improving Customer Satisfaction

Creating a satisfactory client experience is crucial for training providers who want to establish connections with their clients. Utilizing software that provides learning paths, tracks progress, and offers feedback can greatly enhance client happiness. When training providers offer solutions, it shows their dedication to addressing each person’s requirements. A positive experience not only encourages clients to return but also leads to referrals through word of mouth, ultimately boosting the organization’s growth. 

Summary

Optimizing processes is key for educational institutions looking to boost their productivity and positively impact the efficiency and effectiveness of their operations. With the aid of software solutions, organizations can tackle operational obstacles effectively,, enhancing communication and delivering customer service. Investing in technology tailored to their specific requirements empowers training providers to concentrate on their primary objective, which is providing top-notch education and encouraging lifelong learning.

Why Shoot Your Next Film Production in Thailand

Thailand is currently a destination of choice for foreign music and film producers. Its diverse landscape, production professionals, and fiscal incentives offer a practical and creative option. Budget films and music videos are catered to there, and producers can receive quality services at a lower rate.

Variety of Natural and Urban Settings Available

Thailand has beaches, hills, rainforests, and towns within easy travelling distance. Movie producers can film tropical landscapes one day and city nightscapes the next. Bangkok provides the city locations, and Krabi and Chiang Mai provinces provide the rural locations. This diversity saves time and money in location shooting and transportation.

Experienced Local Crew and Talents

Thailand’s staff is composed of skilled camera operators, lighting technicians, makeup artists, and production assistants. Staff tend to be English-speaking and internationally shoot-experienced. Local agents may be able to help provide models, actors, and extras who are familiar with on-set expectations. Hiring these experts maximises efficiency and ensures quality. 

Government Subsidies on Foreign Productions

The Thailand Board of Investment offers rebates for qualifying productions. Productions, which incur minimum prescribed amounts and utilise Thai country services, can be granted up to a 20% cash rebate. The programme promotes long-term alliances with Thai production houses. It promotes crew training of locals, which would be apt for foreign as well as local industries. 

Access to Production Infrastructure and Equipment

Thailand offers current studios, post-production facilities, and equipment rentals. Bangkok studios have soundstages, green screens, and editing suites. Rental houses have brands used by Hollywood and international media organisations. The producers do not have to import equipment by saving funds and getting what they need locally.

Lower Production Costs Compared to Western Countries

Thailand’s cost of living attests to levels of low-cost production. Crews, locations, catering, and logistics are cheaper than in the US or Europe. Such cost savings allow filmmakers to budget more on talent, effects, or additional shooting days. For music videos, this creates more visual impact on modest budgets.

Friendly Permit and Regulatory Processes

The Thailand office facilitates location permits and visa application support. Local production companies typically help clients with these tasks. This facilitation helps prevent delays and unexpected roadblocks. A crew can secure clearance for most private or public locations with advance planning.

Reliable Weather for Year-Round Shooting

Thailand’s tropical climate allows for outdoor shooting throughout the entire year. There is dry and clear weather with steady lighting from November to April. Directors can schedule scenes with confidence that weather interference will be minimal. Indoor studios are a readily available backup during monsoon periods.

Deep Cultural Resonance for Narration

Street life in Thailand, temples, and festivals provide authenticity to visual storytelling. Cultural elements or traditional wear are incorporated in music videos to create depth in the final output. Cultural elements can be utilised by directors to generate distinctive visual storytelling. With research and respect, this setting provides global appeal.

Examples of Thai International Productions

Large productions such as Fallen Angels and The Hangover Part II used Thailand as a location. Such productions proved the potential of the country to accommodate international-level projects. Thailand also used to provide locations for shooting music videos of international and regional artists. Such shoots further enhance the country’s reputation for creativity and hospitality.

Thailand offers the best blend of beauty, support, and value for video production. Producers gain a competitive advantage without sacrificing quality. Book your next music video or movie shoot in Thailand. Discover what local suppliers like bangkokfilmproductions.com can do for your creative team in this vibrant location.