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James Blake Releases New Single ‘Thrown Around’

James Blake has dropped a new single, ‘Thrown Around’, via his own label CMYK. It marks his first release of the year as an independent artist. Listen to it below.

“‘Thrown Around’ is a nod to some of the music I grew up listening to, growing up in England,” Blake said in a statement. “It started as an ambient piece that I made with Dom Maker, that connected something very deep in me to the influence of British electronic bands.”

“It’s a defiant song that’s wrestling with where our job takes us, what it does to our life,” he continued. “It deals with the draw backs of spending so much time dedicated to work. We don’t have any drives towards community – we are all driven towards success. Then we feel lonely and Thrown Around. This song brings people together – it is the connection through defiance.”

James Blake released his most recent LP, Playing Robots Into Heaven, last year via Republic/Polydor. Earlier this year, he announced his collaboration with the direct-to-fan music platform VAULT.

This Week’s Best New Songs: Clairo, Young Jesus, Horse Jumper of Love, and More

Throughout the week, we update our Best New Songs playlist with the new releases that caught our attention the most, be it a single leading up to the release of an album or a newly unveiled deep cut. And each Monday, we round up the best new songs released over the past week (the eligibility period begins on Monday and ends Sunday night) in this best new music segment.

On this week’s list, we have Clairo’s ‘Sexy to Someone’, the incredibly catchy, homespun lead single from her Leon Michels-produced third LP Charm that splits the difference between the sound of her last two albums; Horse Jumper of Love’s windingly beautiful new single, ‘Wink’, featuring Wednesday’s Karly Hartzman; ‘Shame on the Devil’, the woozy yet vulnerable single from Vince Staples’ new album; ‘Rich’, the profoundly raw and haunting centerpiece of Young Jesus’ new album The Fool, which takes a moment to really sink in; Amyl & the Sniffers’ riotous anthem ‘U Should Not Be Doing That’; Youth Lagoon’s gorgeous, enchanting new song ‘Lucy Takes a Picture’; Been Stellar’s evocative, slow-burning ‘Pumpkin’; and Fashion Club’s ‘Rotten Mind’, a hauntingly ethereal collaboration with Julie Byrne.

Best New Songs: May 27, 2024

Clairo, ‘Sexy to Someone’

Horse Jumper of Love, ‘Wink’

Vince Staples, ‘Shame on the Devil’

Song of the Week: Young Jesus, ‘Rich’

Amyl & the Sniffers, ‘U Should Not Be Doing That’

Youth Lagoon, ‘Lucy Takes a Picture’

Been Stellar, ‘Pumpkin’

Fashion Club feat. Julie Byrne, ‘Rotten Mind’

Blood of Zeus Season 3: Cast, Release Date & Rumours

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Recently, Netflix’s beloved animated series Blood of Zeus returned for its second season on the immensely popular streaming service. Globally, it garnered a top 10 spot, making it one of the most-watched shows in May 2024. To find out more about the upcoming season, here are the rumours, the cast, and the potential release date for Blood of Zeus season 3 Blood.

Blood of Zeus Storyline

With Zeus gone, a power struggle ensues among the gods. This leaves Heron, Zeus’ demigod son, in disarray to find his rightful place. Haunted by a profound loss, Heron is tormented by a cryptic melody in his dreams. In response, he is driven to embark on a perilous quest to rescue his brother, Seraphim, from the Underworld. Little does he know that Hades is orchestrating a sinister plan to exploit Seraphim’s suffering to secure Zeus’ vacant throne. By doing this, he will put an end to the eternal suffering of his family.

Is Blood of Zeus based on a Real Myth?

Greek myths are incorporated into the show in addition to the real-life Hellenic myths. It’s certainly a show made for fans of Greek mythology, with rich animations and compelling storylines that capture you from the get-go.

Blood of Zeus Season 3 Release Date

The date for the release of Blood of Zeus Season 3 isn’t yet known. Charley and Vlas Parlapanides, creators of the show, confirmed to What’s on Netflix around the premiere of Season 2 that Blood of Zeus had already been renewed for a third season.

It has been four years since season 1 and season 2, so we should expect that to be shorter for season 3. Otherwise, we won’t see it again until 2028.

Blood of Zeus Season 3: Cast, Release Date & Rumours
Blood of Zeus Season 3: Cast, Release Date & Rumours

Blood of Zeus Season 3 Cast

Like the release date, the show’s cast isn’t fully confirmed, but based on rumours and assumptions, the core cast below will return to the show.

  • Heron played by Derek Phillips
  • Alexia played by Jessica Henwick
  • Seraphim played by Elias Toufexis
  • Zeus played by Jason O’Mara
  • Kofi played by Adetokumboh M’Cormack
  • Hera played by Claudia Christian
  • Evios played by Chris Diamantopoulos
  • Hades played by Fred Tatasciore
  • Hermes played by Matthew Mercer
  • Ares played by Matt Lowe
  • Electra played by Mamie Gummer
  • Apollo played by Adam Croasdell

Rumours of Blood of Zeus Being Cancelled

Rumours have been flying across the internet that the show may be cancelled. However, according to the creators, five seasons are planned for the show, and the third season has been renewed, meaning it will likely stay its course as long as viewership remains strong.

Reasons Why Maxi Dresses are the Best

Maxi dresses are wardrobe essentials, providing unrivaled comfort, versatility, and easy appeal. These dresses are perfect for every season and perfectly integrate utility and design, making them suitable for a variety of situations, from casual trips to formal parties.

  1. They have a feminine appearance.

Maxi dresses, in contrast to shift dresses that resemble bags, show off your shape. In fact plus size formal dresses like maxi are becoming common. You don’t have to sacrifice comfort to look feminine. Additionally, jewelry such as an elegant necklace, a plethora of silver bangles, or shoulder-grazing earrings may effortlessly elevate the feminine aspect. In the winter, complete the ensemble with ankle boots; in the summer, add metallic gladiator sandals.

  1. They are flattering.

A maxi dress that slightly extends from the waist may showcase your contours while concealing any problem areas. A scoop or v-neck is attractive because it draws attention vertically instead of horizontally. You may also add a high belt to create an empire waist, which will extend your legs.

  1. You need not be concerned about fitting in.

Putting together an outfit might seem quite difficult on certain mornings, especially if you find your favorite pants are in the laundry. You may wear a maxi dress without worrying about it clashing with basic black or brown accessories because most of them look amazing with them.

  1. They’re comfortable.

When you want to spend the entire day in your PJs, a maxi dress is nearly as wonderful. Natural textiles are lightweight and breathable. Most choir dresses are comprised of a silky bamboo/cotton blend, so they feel amazing on your skin without giving off the college-student-in-sweats look. Pull it over your head, put on some adorable flats, and go!

Most Popular Celebrities With a Medical Degree

The celebrities we know and love are often associated with Hollywood’s glamour. We often think of actors, actresses, and other celebrities as struggling artists who’ve only focused on their acting, singing, or other entertainment careers.

Many celebrities lived entirely different lives before entering the entertainment industry. Some pursued careers in the culinary field, business, law, and more. But, a few have impressive academic careers and medical degrees. Whether they ever looked for nurse practitioner jobs or not, here are some of the most famous celebrities with a medical degree.

Michael Crichton

Michael Crichton attended one of the most prestigious medical schools before he became an actor in “Jurassic Park.” He went to Harvard Medical School, and while he did graduate with his degree, he ultimately pursued a writing career, over medicine.

His background from medical school heavily influenced Michael’s writing throughout his career. As the creator of the show “ER,” he was able to bring real-life, scientifically accurate detail to the show and all his other stories.

Lisa Kudrow

Lisa Kudrow might have the most interesting educational background before she finally made her way to acting. She’s known for her roles in “Friends,” “Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion.” Lisa earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Vassar College.

After earning her degree, she went to work for her dad, where she could put her biology degree to good use. She used her degree to help study the association between left-handed people and cluster headaches before gracing our TVs as “Phoebe Buffay.” While we’re sure she would’ve excelled in that career path, we’re glad she chose acting.

Ken Jeong

If the name Ken Jeong sounds familiar, it’s probably because you recognize the name from all three “The Hangover” movies. Long before his fame and success in Hollywood, he was a physician. He attended a great medical school at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and eventually completed his internal medicine residency at Oschner Medical Center.

Being a physician is a great career, so what made Ken give it all up to become an actor and comedian? During his residency in New Orleans, he decided to start doing stand-up comedy for fun but ultimately decided that comedy and acting were his calling.

Mayim Bialik

If you’ve seen “Blossom” or “The Big Bang Theory,” you know who Mayim Bialik is. Even though she’s always had one foot out the door to the path to acting, she also had grand educational goals. Much like her character, Dr. Amy, on The Big Bang Theory, she studied neuroscience.

Mayim attended UCLA, where she earned her PhD in Neuroscience. Her dissertation focused on a genetic disorder known as Prader-Willi syndrome. Her educational background helped her portray the character she’s best known for.

Graham Chapman

When you see a comedian performing, the last thing on your mind is probably what they studied in college or if they ever went. Most people know Graham Chapman from Monty Python, but he’s also incredibly intelligent outside of comedy.

Graham is similar to Ken Jeong in that he ended up in comedy over medicine. He studied medicine at Emmanuel College, Cambridge, and St. Bartholomew’s Medical College. Even though he’s not a physician, his medical knowledge has prompted many of his comedy sketches and influenced his humor.

Dr. Phil

This last one might be obvious thanks to everyone knowing him by “doctor.” Dr. Phil was always planning on studying psychology and went on to get his PhD in psychology from the University of North Texas.

Before rising to stardom, he had a psychology practice in Texas. He’s one of the celebrities with a medical degree, where he more obviously uses his education in his current career. His famous talk show allows him to use his skills when talking with all his guests. It might not be an exact match to what he thought he’d do for the rest of his life, but he’s still found great success.

Conclusion

The celebrities in Hollywood are more than just what we see on our screens. So many have unique educational backgrounds that have nothing to do with acting, singing, music, or anything else in the entertainment industry. These celebrities who studied medicine or another medical specialty show that they’re more than meets the eye.

A Beginner’s Guide to the Irish Whistle

The Irish whistle, also known as the tin whistle, penny whistle, or feadóg in Irish, is a simple yet enchanting woodwind instrument. It has been a staple of traditional Irish music for centuries, and its sweet, melodious sound is instantly recognizable. Whether you’re drawn to its haunting tunes in folk music or inspired by contemporary artists, learning to play the Irish whistle is a rewarding endeavor. This guide will introduce you to the basics, from choosing your first whistle to playing your first tunes.

Choosing Your First Whistle

When starting out, it’s important to select a whistle that suits beginners. Irish whistles come in various keys, with the key of D being the most common and versatile for beginners. Here are some tips for selecting your first whistle:

●       Material: Whistles are typically made from metal or plastic. Metal whistles, such as those made of brass or nickel, have a clearer, brighter tone, while plastic whistles are softer and more mellow. Both are suitable for beginners, so it often comes down to personal preference.

●       Price: You don’t need an expensive whistle to start. Many reputable brands offer affordable beginner whistles. Brands like Feadóg, Clarke, and Generation are well-regarded and provide quality instruments for a reasonable price.

●       Tuning: Ensure the whistle is in tune. Most whistles are tuned to concert pitch, but it’s good practice to use a tuner app to check.

Basic Techniques

Once you have your whistle, it’s time to learn the basic techniques. Here are the foundational skills every beginner should master:

●       Holding the Whistle: Hold the whistle with your left hand on top (covering the top three holes) and your right hand on the bottom (covering the bottom three holes). Your fingers should be relaxed and curved, not pressing too hard.

●       Breath Control: The whistle is a breath-sensitive instrument. Start with gentle, steady breaths. Overblowing can cause the pitch to jump to the next octave.

●       Finger Positioning: Cover the holes completely with the pads of your fingers. Leaks can cause squeaky, off-pitch notes.

●       Playing Notes: Practice playing the basic scale. The D major scale (D, E, F#, G, A, B, C#, D) is fundamental and a great place to start. Each note is produced by covering a specific combination of holes.

Learning to Read Whistle Music

Irish whistle music can be written in standard musical notation or tablature, which is a simplified form that uses numbers and letters to represent finger positions. Beginners often find tablature easier to start with, as it directly shows which holes to cover. Here’s how to understand each:

●       Standard Notation: Each note corresponds to a pitch. Sheet music for whistle is usually written in the key of D, making it easier to learn traditional tunes.

●       Tablature: This method uses a visual representation of the whistle’s holes. For example, “OXX OOO” means to cover the first and second holes (from the top) and leave the rest open to play a G.

Practicing Scales and Simple Tunes

Start with simple scales to build your finger strength and familiarity with the whistle. Once comfortable, move on to basic tunes. Here are a few beginner-friendly pieces:

●       “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”: This simple melody is a good practice for breath control and finger placement.

●       “Merrily We Roll Along”: Also known as “Mary Had a Little Lamb,” it’s a straightforward tune that helps with learning transitions between notes.

●       Irish Tunes: “Báidín Fheilimí” and “Sí Beag, Sí Mór” are traditional Irish tunes that are relatively easy to learn and capture the essence of Irish music.

Developing Your Skills

As you progress, focus on improving your technique and expanding your repertoire. Here are some tips for intermediate practice:

●       Ornamentation: Traditional Irish music is rich in ornamentation. Techniques like cuts, rolls, and slides add character to your playing. Start by learning simple ornaments and gradually incorporate them into your tunes.

●       Listening and Imitation: Listen to recordings of skilled whistle players. Pay attention to their ornamentation, breath control, and phrasing. Try to mimic their style and incorporate it into your playing.

●       Join a Group: Playing with others is a great way to improve. Look for local Irish music sessions or online communities where you can share your progress and learn from experienced players.

In summary, the Irish whistle is a delightful instrument that opens the door to the rich world of traditional Irish music. With its simple design and beautiful sound, it’s an ideal instrument for beginners. By choosing the right whistle, mastering basic techniques, and gradually building your skills, you can enjoy the magic of Irish music. Happy whistling!

Kratom vs. Delta 8 THC: Differences, Similarities, & More

In this article, we consider the difference between kratom and delta 8, two prominent compounds that have gained popularity for their peculiar impacts. We will examine each substance in detail, discussing their properties, effects, legal status, and potential benefits. 

This analysis will also cover how each substance affects the user, their presence in drug tests, and safe usage practices. Whether you’re interested in mood enhancement, pain relief, or understanding their legal implications, we provide comprehensive guidance on how to use both Kratom and Delta 8 THC effectively. Join us to learn everything you need to know about these intriguing compounds.

What Is Kratom?

Kratom, scientifically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, predominantly found in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The leaves of this tree have been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to their psychoactive properties. 

Traditionally, the leaves are chewed fresh or dried, ground into a powder, and brewed as tea by locals to combat fatigue and improve work productivity during long hours.

Kratom contains several active compounds, with mitragynine and 7-hydroxy mitragynine being the most prominent. These compounds interact with opioid receptors in the brain, producing sedation, pleasure, and decreased pain when taken in large doses.

In lower doses, however, Kratom acts as a stimulant, providing users with increased energy and alertness. The dual nature of its effects makes Kratom unique and has led to its varying uses, from aiding in managing withdrawal symptoms from opioids to enhancing physical endurance. Kratom shots offer a convenient way to consume Kratom on the go.

What Is Delta 8 THC?

THC is always abundant and is called delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol; thc-). However, trace amounts of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (thc-8- ) remain present. There also exists a similar molecular structure between CBD and Delta 9 THC, which is believed to be the main psychoactive element of cannabis.

Indeed, a noticeable point is the biosynthesis of the metabolite through this structural change—the location of a double bond on the drug’s molecule. These slight structural modifications greatly change how Delta 8 THC behaves in the brain and has a more toned-down psychoactive reaction in comparison to Delta 9 THC.

Users usually refer to the Delta 8 THC’s effect as a higher level of clarity and mellowness than the usual Delta 9 THC effect, which may result in greater anxiety and paranoia. Anecdotal evidence shows these benefits can include a curb on nausea, calmness, awareness of an appetite, and pain relief. However, more research needs to be conducted to understand these consequences fully.

The legal status of Delta 8 THC in the U.S. is a confusing subject, being the decisional authority of the state, though fully legalized federally under the 2018 Farm Bill when taking into account hemp as a source of its extraction. It is a must-have to double-check the region-specific laws and regulations before using or purchasing Delta 8 THC products.

What Are the Differences Between Kratom and Delta 8 THC?

Kratom and Delta 8 THC are naturally occurring substances popular for their distinct impacts on mood, perception, and physical sensation, yet they differ significantly.

Origin and Composition

-The alkaloids responsible for Kratom’s health benefits are found in the tree’s Mitragyna speciosa plant that grows abundantly in Southeast Asia with over 40 different compounds like mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.

The context of Delta 8 THC in a cannabis plant is minimal. Therefore, it is produced in most cases using CBD derived from hemp because that amount is naturally low.

Legal Status

Kratom is legal in different areas and prohibited in others where the concerns are safety and addiction.

The THC derivative delta 8 is the current legal shadowy area in the U.S. It is federally legal if extracted from hemp but is strictly forbidden or prohibited in many states because of its psychoactive effects.

Effects

Kratom users report effects ranging from increased energy and focus at lower doses to sedation and pain relief at higher doses. The effects are due to its interaction with opioid receptors.

Delta 8 THC provides a milder psychoactive experience than Delta 9 THC (the primary psychoactive component in marijuana), with users noting clear-headedness, relaxation, and euphoria, along with potential anti-nausea and analgesic effects.

Usage and Applications

Kratom is multi-function and involves pain relief, mood elevation, energy boosters, and drug addiction overcoming.

Delta 8 THC is beneficial because of the low intensity of its high, and as such, it is used for relaxing and medical sectors while keeping you from the incredible jitters of Delta-9.

Safety and Side Effects

– Both substances can cause side effects. Kratom may lead to nausea, constipation, dependency, or more severe health issues with prolonged use. Delta 8 THC can result in dry mouth, red eyes, and short-term memory loss. Both require careful dosage management and consideration of individual health conditions.

Is Kratom Legal?

The legality of Kratom in various parts of the world is different from each other (one of the competing positions taken by regulatory agencies) in regard to the safety and the beneficial effects that this plant can offer. In the United States, Kratom experiences a complicated regulatory scheme. 

It is not federally classified as illegal, permitting its sale, purchase, and consumption without prescription. However, several states and local jurisdictions have imposed regulations or bans due to safety concerns, potential abuse, and the absence of FDA approval for medical uses. States like Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Wisconsin have declared Kratom illegal. 

In contrast, others have enacted the Kratom Consumer Protection Act to regulate its purity and sale, enhancing consumer safety.

Internationally, the legal status of Kratom is even more varied. Countries such as Australia, Denmark, Malaysia, and Thailand enforce strict regulations or bans on their sale and use, while others may allow their consumption but regulate sales and distribution.

Given this regulatory patchwork, individuals interested in Kratom should thoroughly understand the laws in their specific country, state, or local area. The diverse legal scenarios highlight the ongoing debates about Kratom’s safety, therapeutic value, and the balance between consumer safety and access to potentially beneficial natural products.

Is  Delta 8 THC Legal?

There is no single clear answer to the legal status of Delta 8 THC in the USA, which is often in flux due to its chemical similarities to Delta 9 THC (the main psychoactive compound in marijuana) and the imperative nature of the hemp legality. Under the Hemp and Hemp Derivatives Provision of Republic Act No. 11524, legal hemp and its derivatives must have THC (Delta 9) amounts less than 0.3% by dry weight. Since one can be extracted from CBD, which is legally extracted from hemp, Delta 8 THC exists in a legal gray area (visibly), being legitimate under some conditions.

The legal status could be more certain at a state level. In the states of Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Idaho, Iowa, Mississippi, Montana, Rhode Island, and Utah, Delta 8 THC has been either restricted or banned because these responsible authorities were concerned with its irrational effects, possible health risks, and the lack of regulation.

The regulatory agencies or departments like the FDA and DEA are following the same method. They have also recently come up with statements and some guidelines that could influence Delta 8 THC’s legalities. They are focusing on the consumers’ safety and product purity. It is important to understand that the laws for Delta 8 THC will change over time, so those who want to purchase this type of product must stay updated about their local laws to avoid legal problems.

Does Kratom Get You High?

The natural product Kratom, derived from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia, exhibits a uniquely complex pharmacological profile and is incredibly variable depending on the dose. Kratom can even work as a low dose in a manner of stimulation – it increases alertness, energy level, and sociability. 

At high doses, it similarly stimulates the opioid system with mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which are the major alkaloids that facilitate the opioid receptors present in the brain.

The “high” of Kratom appears to be described as peace, a sense of euphoria, or pain reduction, and the strength may vary from one person to another because of the type of body, resilience, and how one reacts with Kratom’s chemicals.

Researchers are still examining the safety profile, dependency, and abuse potential.  Kratom users who seek the psychoactive effects of the plant should exercise caution as there are legal issues, possible side effects, and the current stage of Kratom research where data about its long-term effects is lacking.

Does Delta 8 THC Get You High?

Delta-8 THC, although found in the low amount (0.1%-1%) in cannabis, produces the psychoactive effects. As for our feelings, it usually is of lower intensity than Delta-9 THC, which is the major psychoactive cannabinoid we mostly know. The enhanced Delta 8 THC users often gain a sensation of clear-headedness, a more gentle high with less anxiety and paranoia. Therefore, it has become very popular among individuals who look for relaxation or other benefits cannabinoids can provide with weaker psychoactivity.

Delta 8 THC actions include a similar high, increased feelings of relaxation, and minor changes in the perception, but these effects are less powerful than Delta 9 THC. Indeed, it is because of its pain-relieving ability, anti-nausea, enhancing appetite, and quality of sleep that the market is willing to accept this alternative natural medication.

The strength of Delta 8 THC’s effects varies based on factors such as the user’s tolerance, consumption method, and dosage. Users should start with a low dose to assess tolerance and avoid adverse effects. As Delta 8 THC is psychoactive, individuals should also consider the legal status in their area, as it differs significantly between regions.

What Are the Benefits of Kratom?

Mood Enhancement

Many consumers note the effect of the herb as a significant mood booster. Kratom leaf alkaloids bind with the opioid receptors of the brain, and this process lets the endorphins and serotonin, neurotransmitters responsible for mood regulation in the brain, to be released. These interactions can trigger positive feelings, leading to happiness or fading away mild melancholy or pessimism.

Increased Energy

The response to small doses is stimulation followed by suppression of fatigue and diminished ability of concentration. Adrenergic receptors are one of the main targets of this drug and cause the release of secondary chemicals such as noradrenaline and adrenaline into the system. It is especially utilized by individuals who prefer to obtain their energy from nature rather than have jittery side effects commonly associated with caffeine and other suspensions.

Stress Reduction

The relaxing character of the kratom can help people to lower their stress levels and bring calm. By reducing cortisol levels, Kratom can minimize the body’s stress response, and thus, people feel less overloaded and more relaxed even in stressful situations.

Improved Focus

Kratom has been claimed to be cognitively stimulating, leading to better focus and concentration. It influences the opioid receptors in several ways, such as diffusing into the brain and infusing acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter), which is essential in building a perfect focus and limiting pain and muscle contraction. Furthermore, it controls the endocrine system.

Anxiety and Depression

Where it is not medically proven as a treatment for anxiety and depression, some people still consider the psychoactive impacts of Kratom to relieve symptoms of anxiety and depression temporarily. It can be reasoned that this is due to its mood-improving and stress-reducing effectiveness, and thus, a state of tranquility and well-being is restarted.

Immune System Support

It is recognized that kratom has numerous alkaloids that help with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulating effects. The research in this field is limited. However, traditional medicine and anecdotal evidence recommend that Kratom be consumed regularly and moderately to boost the immune system, thus enabling the body to fight off illness more efficiently.

What Are the Benefits of Delta 8 THC?

Potential Anxiety Reduction

Delta 8 THC is known to have anxiety-reducing (anxiolytic) properties, while it does not have the severe hallucinogenic effects of Delta 9 THC. That is why this option is needed by those who want a feeling of ease without the impairment and the increased anxiety that some users get when using Delta 9 THC.

Appetite Stimulation

Like Delta 9 THC, Delta 8 THC has been observed to stimulate appetite. This property can be particularly beneficial for individuals facing appetite loss due to medical conditions or treatments. Its efficacy in low doses makes it a practical option for those seeking to increase food intake and maintain nutrition.

Pain Relief

Delta 8 THC can be presumed to be helpful in bringing relief as the pain signals are processed in the brain. Considered as one of the promising complementary treatments for chronic pain conditions, inflammation, and neuropathic pain, it offers alternatives for those who are looking for a natural kind of pain relief solution.

Antiemetic Properties

According to the studies, Delta 8 THC was proven not only to decrease nausea and vomiting but for cancer patients undergoing chemo as well. Its antiemetic characteristics reveal a promising possibility for it to be used in augmenting the treatment regimen of patients who normally develop nausea from their treatments.

Neuroprotective Effects

Initial research indicates that Delta 8 THC possibly has neuroprotective activity that helps to maintain sound brain underlings by suppressing adenylyl cyclase and currents of potassium and calcium channels in the central nervous system. Such actions could stimulate cognitive function and prevent the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases.

Improved Sleep Quality

Delta 8 THC is a natural substance that has been known to cause a sense of calmness, and this is why many individuals who struggle with sleeping problems like insomnia and sleep disturbances rely on it as a solution. Through its tendency to foster physical manifestations for relaxation and psychological burden-relieving, stress can be limited, leading to better sleep quality and duration.

Do Kratom And Delta 8 Show Up On A Drug Test?

Whether Kratom and Delta 8 THC appear on a drug test depends on the specific substances tested and the sensitivity of the testing methods.

Kratom

Kratom is not run as usual by the standard drug tests like the SAMHSA-5, which enforces tests for common drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, and opiates. Furthermore, there are specialized tests that can differentiate between the Kratom primary alkaloids called mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, though these are not commonly used unless Kratom consumption is particularly suspicious. Because of its status and FDA’s non-regulation, Kratom will be searched on just rare occasions, particularly in most typical drug testing contexts.

Delta 8 THC

Delta 8 THC could show up on drug tests as THC, as standard tests often target THC metabolites and do not distinguish between Delta 8 and Delta 9 THC isomers. This can lead to positive test results for THC when using Delta 8 THC. Those using Delta 8 should be aware of their risk in drug testing scenarios, especially considering the legal and employer-based variability in how THC consumption is viewed.

Individuals concerned about drug tests should understand what substances are screened and the possibility of false positives or detection of specific substances like Delta 8 THC. Consulting with legal or medical experts about the implications of substance use on employment or legal issues is recommended.

How to Use Kratom?

Kratom Powder

The oral drug is the most common way of administering medication deployment, which could be the controlled dose that the patient should take in a predefined schedule. The end-users themselves can take the powder straight using the “Toss and Wash” method or mix it with their favorite drinkable beverages like juice, smoothies, and tea for good taste. Beginners should follow a low starting dose and adjust that based on the tolerance level and also on the intended effects.

Kratom Capsules

Kratom capsules provide a convenient and discreet way to consume Kratom without tasting the powder. They come in pre-measured doses, making monitoring and controlling intake easier. Capsules tend to take longer to feel the effects since they need to dissolve in the stomach first. This method is ideal for those who prefer a no-mess, no-taste option.

Kratom Extracts

Kratom extracts are potent forms of Kratom made by boiling down leaves or powder to extract the alkaloids, resulting in a concentrated form. Due to their strength, extracts should be used with caution, especially by those new to Kratom. They can be added to food or drinks or taken directly, but always start with a very small dose to assess tolerance.

Kratom Tea

The traditional intake method involves bringing water to a boil and pouring in the leaves or powder, which is then steeped for 20-30 minutes, strained, and consumed. This approach causes a slow onset of its effects and is less hurtful to the stomach. Lemon juice is an option for extracting alkaloids from compounds. Honey and sugar will also improve the taste.

Kratom Tinctures

Tinctures are liquid mixtures in which kratom extract is added to vegetable glycerin or ethanol to create a concentrated solution. Tinctures are taken sublingually, so their absorption and effects are noticed quickly. Due to their potency, tinctures should be used sparingly, with careful measurement of each dose.

How To Take Delta 8 THC?

Delta 8 THC, which is known for its moderate psychotropic effects and most likely treatments, has numerous ways of ingestion, which are known for their different time of onset, duration of effects, and ease of use. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular methods:

Edibles:

Edibles such as gummies, chocolates, or baked goods made from Delta 8 are good for discerning with a known measured dosage. Create your own: Dosage is due to the bowel’s absorption rate; for frequent users, a tolerance is built, and regular consumption should be avoided. Beyond other forms of effects, its outcomes tend to be the same as others, but it usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours for the effects to show and last longer than other forms.

Vape Cartridges: 

Vaping is one of the quickest methods to experience Delta 8 THC, with effects starting within a few minutes. Cartridges come in various flavors and strengths, suitable for customizable experiences. Start with small puffs to manage potency and avoid overconsumption.

Tinctures: 

These liquid extracts are taken sublingually for fast absorption, generally acting within 15 to 45 minutes. Tinctures allow for precise dosing and can be mixed into foods or drinks, although this may delay effects.

Oil: 

Delta 8 THC oil is versatile. It can be consumed orally, added to food, or applied sublingually. When ingested, effects appear within 30 minutes to an hour, quicker if used sublingually. Oils provide flexible usage and precise dosage.

Even though you choose the eatable or application delivery method, add a minimal amount to your system and then increase the dosage if your body permits it. Although Delta 8 THC is known for its recreational benefits, balance, and calmness, it is advisable to source Delta 8 THC from trustworthy vendors to guarantee the quality of the product and its purity.

Types of Kratom

Kratom has many different types. Each type of kratom has its special effects. Knowing about these types can help people pick the right one for them.

Maeng Da Kratom

Maeng Da Kratom is from Thailand and is famous for being strong and having lots of good stuff called alkaloids. It can make you feel awake and focused, which is great for getting things done.

Bali Kratom

Bali Kratom doesn’t just grow in Bali; it’s found all over Indonesia. People like it because it’s calming and helps with stress, anxiety, or trouble sleeping. Some also say it helps with pain, but not too much.

Thai Kratom

Thai Kratom comes from Thailand and makes you feel happy and energetic. It’s used to lift your mood and give you more energy. But be careful because real Thai Kratom might be hard to find because of laws in Thailand.

Borneo Kratom

Borneo Kratom is from the island of Borneo and comes in different colors. Red Borneo helps you relax and feel less pain. White Borneo gives you energy and makes you feel better. Green Borneo is right in the middle, giving you a mix of both.

Trainwreck Kratom

Trainwreck Kratom is a blend of various kratom strains, designed to provide users with a comprehensive and potent experience. It’s known for its balanced effects, offering a mix of relaxation, energy, and mood enhancement. Trainwreck Kratom is often chosen by those seeking a versatile and powerful kratom experience.

Malay Kratom

Malay Kratom is from Malaysia and lasts a long time. It helps with pain, mood, and feeling anxious. There are different types: red, green, and white, each with its own good things.

Conclusion 

In this article, we delved into the distinct characteristics, effects, and legal considerations of Kratom and Delta 8 THC. Kratom, from the Mitragyna speciosa tree, is specialized in effect, stimulating at lower doses and sedative at higher doses, with the main activity targeting opioid receptors. Delta 8 THC, a milder cousin of Delta 9 THC from cannabis, offers subtler psychoactive effects, making it appealing for those seeking gentler relief.

 Both substances face complex and varied legal statuses across jurisdictions, requiring informed navigation by users. For those considering these substances, starting with small doses and purchasing from reputable sources is crucial. Explore more about these compounds and find trusted products by visiting reputable brand websites.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do Kratom and Delta 8 THC interact with prescription medications?

Kratom and Delta 8 THC both have the potential to interact with prescription medications. Before mixing these with other drugs, it is necessary to seek for a consultation with a healthcare provider.

What should consumers consider before trying Kratom or Delta 8 THC?

Consumers need to look at their legal state, possible health ramifications, and individual health status. Additionally, check product purity and buy from trustworthy suppliers.

Is Delta 8 THC and Kratom a good combination?

The combination of Delta 8 THC and Kratom is not extensively researched, and the effects can be very individual. Precaution and consultations with a medical practitioner are recommended.

What are the main differences between Kratom and Delta 8 THC?

Kratom predominantly acts on the opioid receptors to give stimulant or sedative effects in relation to the dosage. Delta 8 THC works on cannabinoid receptors and produces weaker psychoactive results as compared to Delta 9 THC.

Is It Safe to Mix Kratom and Delta 8?

The safety of combining Kratom and Delta 8 THC is not yet well-researched. Possible interactions and side effects should be considered, while consulting a healthcare provider is recommended.

NewJeans Share New Single ‘How Sweet’

K-pop quintet NewJeans have dropped a new single called ‘How Sweet’. It follows last month’s ‘Bubble Gum’. New Zealand alt-pop artist BENEE and UK producer Oscar Scheller are listed among the song’s co-writers, along with NewJeans member Danielle. Check it out via the accompanying music video below.

Last year, NewJeans released the Get Up EP, which topped our best EPs of 2023 list.

Cash Cobain and J. Cole Team Up on New Song ‘Grippy’

Cash Cobain and J. Cole have joined forces for a new song called ‘Grippy’. It’s a new version of Cash Cobain’s ‘Dunk Contest’, which was co-produced by Gvrlnd!. Check it out below.

The song marks J. Cole’s first release since his mixtape Might Delete Later, which originally featured the Kendrick Lamar diss track ‘7 Minute Drill’ before the North Carolina rapper removed it from digital streaming platforms. ‘Grippy’ is also the latest in a series of big-name collaborations by Cobain, following the Ice Spice remix of ‘Fisherrr’.

DIIV on How Daniel Quinn, Shoegaze, Post-Truth, and More Inspired Their New Album ‘Frog in Boiling Water’

DIIV‘s new album, Frog in Boiling Water, lifts its title from the “Boiling Frog” in Daniel Quinn’s 1996 novel The Story of B. The premise is well-known and self-evident – if you throw a frog in a pot of boiling water, it will instinctively jump out; but if you place it into lukewarm water and gradually raise the temperature, it will be lulled into comfort and boil to death. More than simply recognizing it as a metaphor for the decline of modern society, the shoegaze quartet identify the paradoxical complexities within it: How can the collapse feel so overwhelmingly slow and rapidly accelerating? How can it contain such vast amounts of both pleasure and pain? And how can one – in this case, frontman Zachary Cole Smith – lyrically grapple with the effects of end-stage capitalism while bringing a child into the world?

The results are neither entirely bleak nor hopeful, and Frog is less of an explicitly political album than a politically outward-facing one, following a series of albums centered around addiction and mental illness. As much it curdles with anxiety and existential dread, the record is alternately haunting, soothing, sour, and enthralling, a culmination of DIIV’s singular sound after their attempt to make a “proper” shoegaze album with 2019’s Deceiver. Its world feels even wider and more playful when you factor in the promotional cycle behind it, which has included their own websites and a fake SNL performance featuring Fred Durst. “I’m not afraid/ I’ve lived through pain/ But I’m learning to see through/ Everything,” Smith sings on ‘Soul-net’, and maybe everything is water, but at least it’s not lost on you then; maybe it’s a path to coping, however jagged. It’s up to you how the balance shakes out.

We caught up with DIIV to talk about some of the inspirations behind Frog in Boiling Water, including Daniel Quinn’s Story of B, the post-truth era, shoegaze/shoegaze-adjacent music, and more.


The collapse of modern society

This is a broader theme that reflects some of the inspirations we’re going to discuss later on, but on a more essential level, it also comes as a result of shifting your gaze outward. What made this feel like a viable or compelling direction lyrically?

Zachary Cole Smith: To continue the frog in boiling water metaphor, the collapse of society, that’s the water we’re in. It’s like that David Foster Wallace lecture that everybody loves talking about. That’s just the water we’re swimming in; it’s everywhere, for me, it’s everything. So it feels difficult not to talk about.

Why was now the right moment?

Andrew Bailey: I feel like we had to get some things out of the way first. The first few records were more introspective. You know when there’s an artist saying, “Hey guys, society sucks, and we should fix it,” but then that person sucks too? So we had to first establish how we suck and work to fixing it, and now we have turned our gaze on broader society.

Ben Newman: Yeah, I think that the state of the world got a little more unavoidable, too. Everything seems to be heating up quicker than it used to.

Even when you’re grappling with a societal structure or problem, the songs are still sung from the perspective of a character who’s either on the brink of collapse or clinging to some form of hope. What was it like to trace these individual journeys against this backdrop?

ZCS: In examining capitalism or whatever the root cause of collapse is, it was important to look at the symptoms as well as the causes. A lot of the symptoms are things people experience – not necessarily us, although maybe there’s elements of ourselves in all the characters. They just felt like snapshots of things endemic to that system.

BN: Each character represents a piece of subject matter that we’re interested in, so it unfolded naturally with each song having a different sliver of something we could talk about.

Daniel Quinn’s Story of B

Story of B was was the inspiration for the album title and this a metaphor for societal collapse. I’m curious if it was one of the books you discussed when you initially got together and started workshopping these songs in early 2022.

ZCS: No, it wasn’t. It’s not a book that is deeply important to me. It’s more just that idea, that specific metaphor spoke to the world we had been building or summed up the collapse and the apathy around it, the increasing normalizing of atrocity or dystopian realities. We did talk about a lot of books or referenced them, and it’s funny that that became the biggest reference on the record. It was just a book I read in high school, and this idea stuck with me. But I’m not a Daniel Quinn fan or something.

AB: I am a Daniel Quinn fan. The Story of B is the second book in a trilogy that had a pretty big impact on me when I was 18. But my favorite is Beyond Civilization, which he wrote after the trilogy, when everybody rode in saying, “Dude, you’re right. Everything is so messed up. What do we do?” Coming from the Neo-tribalist movement, his whole point is, “You guys are stuck on the idea that civilization is the only option and therefore try to figure out a right way to do it.” There’s a cool quote from Noam Chomsky, where he’s arguing with Foucault, I think. He’s saying we’re born with the capacity to learn different things, so our brain has a module for learning algebra or for learning language, but we don’t know if it has one for conceptualizing a just society. And Daniel Quinn is saying we don’t, so therefore, let’s just not. He’s not saying, “Let’s just die off.” He’s saying, “We gotta think of something new. We’re humans. We’ve proven over and over again that we’re able to conceptualize new things that people thought were impossible. We just have to do it.” That always spoke to me pretty deeply.

What impact did it have on you?

AB: Well, when I first read Daniel Quinn, somebody had lent me a book, and I was on my way to work. I didn’t go to work that day, and I never went back. It was one of those books where it was probably not a good time for me to read it, because I was just a young little alcoholic out in the free world for the first time, and then somebody tells me, “Hey, civilization is bullshit!” And I was like, “Oh, great! I don’t have to try, I guess.” I wish I was a little more mature when I got that message.

ZCS: I think we talked in another podcast [The DIIV Podcast] about the fantasies that we all experience around “return to monkey,” these kind of anarcho-primitivist ideas. I think there’s an element of ourselves in that kind of idea.

The post-truth era

I think of a line from the title track: “The future came and everything’s known/ There’s nothing left to say/ Show’s over, take me home.” I’m curious what the conversation was like, beyond the conceptual level of discussing how to present this post-truth world, around evoking what it feels like to live in in it – especially when the lyrics are open-ended in that way.

Colin Caulfield: I think musically, it happens more naturally. We’re just trying to capture how we feel, and musical language is much more abstract. We would talk about a feeling that a song was evoking and we wanted to lean into it, but it wasn’t like we needed to capture – except for a song like ‘Everyone Out’ or ‘Raining on Your Pillow’, ones that were much more evocative-sounding. Usually, we were just trying to make the best-sounding song. But I think by the end of tracking, when Cole started to work on the lyrics in earnest, he was like, “Okay, now the lyrics have to be really great because the music is really great.” At that point, I feel like the feeling of the music and the themes of the lyrics started to really coalesce and merge, and Cole was responding to feelings that were in the song. Because I think if lyrically you wrote a song like ‘Raining on Your Pillow’ or ‘Everyone Out’ and the music was totally mismatched, it would fall flat or be confusing. I think the cool thing about this record is that there’s a lot of synthesis between the musical feeling and the lyrics, but it wasn’t like we were necessarily talking that way when we were tracking or writing the music.

ZCS: We had talked a lot about the pitfalls of political music and things we specifically wanted to avoid, like some kind of preachy solutions-based approach, electoralism, or boilerplate liberal talking points. We didn’t necessarily have a lot of great role models for that approach, so we figured out what we didn’t want to do, and knowing that gave us a bit of a path for how to walk the line of making political music. There’s hope in it, but a lot of that hope is diluted or false o avoiding cliché messages like “go out and vote.”

What sort of challenges came with matching the lyrics to the instrumentals?

ZCS: Well, the instrumentals, songs, demos, and everything that came before were so methodical, thought-out, and complete, so it was kind of like big shoes to fill. There were some placeholder lines that were jumping-off points – when you make a demo, you just sort of sing stuff that gives you a cadence and a melody, it gives you rules. Some of those words were nonsense, just placeholders, and some of them were keepers. Then I started to broadly think about what kind of idea the song evokes and made a document that listed at the top what I thought of. I tried to build it around that idea, using the rules that were in place, and would send it back and forth to the band, being like, “What do you think?” Sometimes they were on the right track and sometimes they were on the wrong track, but a lot of those broad ideas, the blurb at the top, stuck.

A good example is the song ‘Everyone Out’, where there were a lot of placeholder lyrics that Ben had put in that ended up staying. My interpretation of what he was saying was correct in some senses and in others was my own interpretation and led it in a different direction – and maybe picked up on some things about Ben or his perspective that are inherent to him and made it into the song, either because I know him or because it was somewhere in the words.

CC: And now it’s cool because Cole has an interpretation of that song, Ben has one, I think Andrew and mine are slightly different. But now, the album’s gonna come out, and everyone will have their own interpretation. What you’re saying about some of the lyrics being ambiguous is really powerful. Even if they were less ambiguous, there’s an inevitability of people having their own experience with the song, so it’s funny to look back on that time as us passing things back and forth and talking about the lyrics as a microcosm of everyone else’s experience of just listening and drawing their own conclusions.

BN: We had another interview the other day, and the guy was talking about that song, ‘Everyone Out’. He was like, “I interpreted it this way, is that what it’s about?” We were kind of like, “No, you actually got it the opposite.” He was like, “Oh, I misinterpreted it.” And I wish I had jumped in and said, “You didn’t misinterpret it; you just interpreted it.” Like Colin said, everybody’s gonna have their own experience.

AB: My girlfriend writes lyrics for her band and refuses to tell people what her lyrics are about because she thinks it’s crucial to the art for people to have their own interpretations that aren’t influenced by the artist’s intent. If the artist can’t convey with their lyrics what they want it to be about, then it’s open for everyone, and that’s that. With ‘Everyone Out’, it’s about a guy who thinks that when society collapses, he’ll rise to the top because he’s naturally better than everyone. It’s possible for someone to interpret that song as, “Yeah, that’s me, and I’m proud of it,” and we’re not in a position to say that’s wrong, even if it’s the opposite of what we intended the song to be about.

Shock value, mystery, and doubt

How are these concepts tied together in relation to the album?

BA: There’s this book called The Shock Doctrine about how when catastrophic events happen, there’s a real opportunity for people to seize power. If they had a plan they wanted to do all along, when people are really confused and scared is a great time to implement them. Similar to the frog in boiling water thing, people don’t notice things are changing when there’s such chaos. I think mystery and shock go hand in hand because when things are chaotic, it’s hard to tell what’s real and true. Living through the pandemic was a great example, because information was always changing and it became really hard to decipher what was real and what was just someone trying to influence things.

AB: And both can be true. The vaccines did help, but it was also a huge cash grab involving corruption.

ZCS: During the four-ish years we were making the record, we experienced a lot, including that period of the pandemic. At the same time, I was about to have a kid, which makes you think about the world at large. It becomes this really zoomed-out macro thing, where you’re pondering existential questions about life and bringing someone into the world without their consent. It’s these big questions, but it also forces you to zoom in really micro and think about your own life and the house or routines you’re bringing them into. That experience, in the context of the world and everything we had been through as a society, represented the thoughts that were on all our minds, but were definitely on my mind with that larger question at hand.

Uncanny Valley and AI

ZCS: I feel like that world was more something we explored, for lack of a better term, during the rollout. When we were talking about this dystopian hellscape, the aesthetics of AI-generated art or deep fakes felt endemic to that theme. AI just looks dystopian to me, and the implications of it are so severe, and we tried to draw parallels on the frog and boiling water website, fibw.org – there’s discussions about the more sinister implications of AI. I think it’s tempting as an artist, when there’s a new tool, to lean too far into it, but we wanted to tip our hat towards it as just being another signifier of a sick society without embracing or leaning too far into it. It’s just a piece of the puzzle.

CC: We talked about building a world, and a lot of this stuff is the lore of the album, but it doesn’t mean it’s explicitly found on the album. It’s just in the life the album takes on beyond just pressing play on Spotify or whatever. I play a lot of video games, and you can play a game and not read any of the appendices or journals you find, but then you can play it again and dig into the lore and have a completely different experience of the game. Both are valid experiences.

ZCS: To tie it in musically, I feel like it’s relevant that the place where most people will consume this, on Spotify or whatever – that is an AI platform, a machine learning data collection service. That’s the product they’re selling, and the music is used to sell that.

The phrase “uncanny valley” is something we talked about a lot, especially around the ‘Brown Paper Bag’ SNL video. When we put it out, we were getting texts from aunts and uncles saying, “Congratulations on SNL!” At first, I was like, “Man, their media literacy is low,” but then I realized that when they watched SNL, like, the Replacements were on it. It was a place to discover music. As institutions crumble or become co-opted by the status quo or big corporate entities, it felt worth playing with or exposing. Our label was like, “Aren’t you worried about alienating SNL?” But it’s like, no, we will never be on that show. Kind of like the post-truth thing we were talking about it, all the issues within capitalism that we talk about on the record apply to the music industry, too. It felt like something that was worth drawing attention to as well, because it’s all the same.

Shoegaze/Shoegaze-adjacent music

You talked about setting out to make a shoegaze record with Deceiver, whereas Frog in Boiling Water feels more like a culmination of what DIIV has done so far. How do you see the relationship between the genre and the band now, in terms of how you conceptualize or feed your music through those sounds and signifiers?

ZCH: It’s funny because the contrarians in us want to reject the shoegaze conversation because it feels kind of reductive to us. But also, shoegaze is experiencing a moment, this thing that’s happening, and we want to be part of it too. We know a lot about shoegaze, we like shoegaze, but also we’re also sick of talking about it. But also, we want to be included in the conversation, not sitting on the sidelines.

CC: Right when were done with Deceiver, we were like, “Let’s make another record right now.” That was very naive of us, to think we could just quickly make another record. But the takeaway from that is that we still had more to say in that vein. We hadn’t explored all the ideas, so it felt like shoegaze, even though with this one we didn’t set out to make a genre record in the same way, it was inevitably going to be part of the DNA of this album. It’s so cool now because the genre has very much exploded. Deceiver is genre-bending a little bit, but it’s more indebted to the historical concept of shoegaze. Now, especially with the blending of electronic music and production ideas, I feel like the genre is really pivoting and evolving. This album feels more connected to that, at least spiritually.

BA: I think that when we reference stuff when we’re actually making music, it’s super specific to a guitar part or synth sound, rather than a big-picture genre thing. I think that’s how a lot of times the influences bleed in – through really specific tones, rather than aiming to make a shoegaze song or record, or any genre for that matter.

The brutal realities of end-stage capitalism

Obviously, this is related to a lot of the thematic elements we already talked about. But one aspect I wanted to home in on is that sonically, it doesn’t feel like the record is trying to mirror that kind of brutality – it may be referenced in the lyrics, and the instruments brood and swell, but I don’t feel like they really reach that point of being brutal to the listener. Was that intentional?

ZCH: Yeah, we definitely didn’t want to make something one-dimensional. We wanted more to evoke the complex nature of individual experience within it, not just lean too far into making something entirely brutal. You still gotta live your life, and your feelings are complex around any number of issues. The way that we try to bring any “brutal” part in the song will be – we always call them the Jesu guitars. The big guitar stuff on ‘In Amber’ and ‘Fender on the Freeway’, that kind of serves as a signifier of that. But we try to balance it or contextualize it in a way that’s more nuanced. My favorite music is the kind that makes you feel multiple emotions at the same time, like I mentioned with shoegaze, or different people will experience it in different ways. We didn’t want to just hand-feed an emotion to somebody.

CC: I think in chasing the idea of DIIV or what this music is supposed to feel like, a lot of times it comes back to ambiguity; this liminal space between opposing or contradictory emotions, even musically speaking in terms of the theory happening in the music. There’s rarely a song that’s in a major key or a minor key; there’s always this blending. Even in ‘In Amber’, the album starts off very directly, and that first guitar solo is one of the most brutal parts of the record, but then it’s immediately followed by one of the dreamiest parts of the album. It’s this push-and-pull between emotions – if anything, that mirrors what it feels like to be alive now more than just an explicitly brutal soundscape.

My mind goes to ‘Fender on the Freeway’, where you leave things open as to whether the conclusion is a life of pain or comfort. That song feels like it lives in this liminal space, but I wonder if that ambiguity was ever a point of conflict or debate within the band.

AB: When I contributed to the lyrics, that’s my problem, is that it was always too on the nose because I’m bad at ambiguity. I always felt like people didn’t understand what I was trying to say, so I’m just way too obvious with it, I guess. There was definitely an effort to keep everything not explicit.

CC: With that song, too, there was some wrestling – not even conflict, but there was always an attempt to draw out the dissonance. That song has some post-rock leanings, which can read as very cheesy, and post-rock, as a genre, the thing I don’t like about it is that it reads as “epic” in a way that just feels one-note. But we like so many aspects of that music in theory, so it’s about trying to inject it with enough weirdness – putting in an odd meter thing or dissonant guitar parts or swirling textures to make you feel a depth of emotion rather than something straightforward like, “Oh my god, this song is like climbing a mountain.”

ZCS: I feel like ‘Fender on the Freeway’ is one of the ones that builds in that conflict, the idea of pain as pleasure and pleasure as pain. It’s the human experience of that paradoxical thing where there is no resolution or answer; the reality is that unresolvable thing at a big-picture level. That’s the most zoomed-out one. It’s like, “We live in heaven and we live in hell,” those two things are true at the same time. I don’t see that contradictory nature as coming from two competing ideas within the band that we wanted to put in, it’s more just talking about the nature of things. That’s the story we wanted to tell.


This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity and length.

DIIV’s Frog in Boiling Water is out now via Fantasy Records.