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Watch André 3000 Perform ‘That Night in Hawaii When I Turned Into a Panther…’ on ‘Colbert’

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André 3000 brought a track from his debut solo album, New Blue Sun, to the Late Show with Stephen Colbert. Joined by his collaborators, the musician performed a 10-minute rendition of ‘That Night In Hawaii When I Turned Into A Panther And Started Making These Low Register Purring Tones That I Couldn’t Control … Sh*t Was Wild’, and he also sat down for an interview with Colbert to talk about his love for the flute, his influences, and more. Watch it happen below.

Earlier this week, André 3000 announced a run of tour dates in support of New Blue Sun.

Phosphorescent Announces New Album ‘Revelator’, Shares Video for New Single

Phosphorescent has announced a new abum, Revelator, which is due for release on April  5 via Verve/Decca Records. It follows 2022’s The Full Moon Project, which saw Matthew Houck releasing monthly covers, and marks his first Phosphorescent LP since 2018’s C’est La Vie. Check out a video for the title track below, and scroll down for the album cover and tracklist.

Speaking about the new track, Houck said:

This is the song that made me realize I was writing an album.
There’s always one that does that
Until then I’m sort of floundering around with a bunch of song bits in various stages
With no clear picture of what it is I’m doing

Once the song ‘Revelator’ came to be
I could see what the album could be

I truly struggled with naming the album Revelator
As I feel like it probably has certain biblical and genre connotations
That don’t apply to this album or to Phosphorescent at all

But in the end I know what I mean by it
And the album really couldn’t be called anything else
And so that’s why this is the title track

I think it might be the best song I’ve ever written

Revelator was produced by Houck and recorded in his Nashville studio over the course of six months. Collaborators on the album include Jack Lawrence of the Raconteurs, Jim White of Dirty Three, and Houck’s partner, singer-songwriter and pianist Jo Schornikow. Schornikow wrote an original song for the record, ‘The World Is Ending’, marking the first Phosphorescent track to be written by someone other than Houck.

Revelator Cover Artwork:

Revelator Tracklist:

1. Revelator
2. The World Is Ending
3. Fences
4. Impossible House
5. Wide As Heaven
6. A Moon Behind The Clouds
7. All The Same
8. A Poem On The Men’s Room Wall
9. To Get It Right

Carly Rae Jepsen Joins Bullion on New Single ‘Rare’

Nathan Jenkins, the electronic producer and songwriter who records as Bullion, has announced a new album: Affection comes out April 26 via Ghostly International. To mark the announcement, he’s shared a new single, ‘Rare’, featuring vocals from previous collaborator Carly Rae Jepsen. Check it out below.

“I’ve been a fan of Bullion from the first listen,” Jepsen said in a statement. “His music just sends me some place good every time. We started writing together over zoom sessions in lock down and then met in real life in Toronto, London and LA. When I first reached out to him, I said ‘it would be fun to see how your world of music and mine could play together’ and it’s been one of the coolest discoveries. To be featured on Rare is such a sweet start to 2024. And as a fan still, I’m really looking forward to this whole album.”

In addition to Jepsen, Affection features collaborations with Panda Bear and Charlotte Adigéry. Bullion’s past credits include work with Ben Howard, Nilüfer Yanya, Avalon Emerson, Westerman, and more.

Affection Cover Artwork:

Affection Tracklist:

1. A City’s Never [feat. Panda Bear]
2. Affection
3. Rare [feat. Carly Rae Jepsen]
4. Your Father
5. The Flooding
6. Cinch
7. World_train [feat. Charlotte Adigéry]
8. Cavalier
9. Once, In a Borrowed Car
10. Open Hands
11. 40 Waves
12. Hard To Do

MELTS Announce New Album ‘Field Theory’, Share New Single ‘Figment’

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MELTS – the Dublin quartet made up of Robbie Brady, Hugh O’Reilly, Gaz Earle, and Eoin Kenny – have announced their second album, Field Theory, which is slated to arrive April 12 through Fuzz Club. The follow-up to 2022’s Maelstrom was recorded live to tape in Black Mountain Studios in the summer of 2023, with Gilla Band’s Daniel Fox producing. Check out a video for the lead single ‘Figment’ below.

Discussing the album’s themes, the band said in a press release: “Like gravity we are drawn to and miss people and like light waves we love people and are loved. We live in orbits of each other, drawn by unseen forces. The album explores these forces, how we relate to each other, the people we live with and the people we live without. At the heart of Field Theory lies the realisation that we inhabit each other’s worlds as much as our own, through a field of wide-ranging forces, as important as the ones keeping the planets in place.”

“’Figment’ is about the relationship we have with the world around us, filtered through our own imagination, shaped and coloured by how the individual see’s the world,” they added of the new single. “The difference between the concrete and imagined. The video for ‘Figment’ was shot by Irish filmmaker Andy Parkes and explores similar themes as the song – how the mind perceives the world subjectively based on key elements: time, emotion and distance from the person or event.”

Field Theory Cover Artwork:

Field Theory Tracklist:

1. Figment
2. Waves Of Wonder
3. Clouded
4. WLDNG
5. Shelter Of The Shade
6. Main Sequence
7. Altered
8. The Never
9. Softly Breathes

Empress Of Announces New Album ‘For Your Consideration’, Enlists MUNA for New Song ‘What’s Love’

Empress Of has joined forces with MUNA for a new song called ‘What’s Love’. It’s set to appear on her just-announced album For Your Consideration, which is out March 22 (via Giant Music) and includes the earlier singles ‘Femenine’ and ‘Kiss Me’ featuring Rina Sawayama. Check out ‘What’s Love’ below, and scroll down for the LP’s cover art and tracklist.

For Your Consideration follows 2020’s I’m Your Empress Of and 2022’s Save Me EP. Lorely wrote the album in Los Angeles, Miami, and Montreal, working with songwriters and producers including Nick León, Billboard, Valley Girls, Cecile Believe, and Umru.

“I was in love with a director and he was announcing his ‘For Your Consideration’ campaign for the Oscars,” she explained in a statement. “He took me up on a hill and said he was emotionally unavailable and he kind of broke my heart. I went into the studio that day and we wrote a song called ‘For Your Consideration’ that reflects on glam and Hollywood. That was the gateway for the album and it gave me the opportunity to explore broader themes.”

For Your Consideration Cover Artwork:

For Your Consideration Tracklist:

1. For Your Consideration
2. Lorelei
3. Preciosa
4. Kiss Me [feat. Rina Sawayama]
5. Femenine
6. What Type of Girl Am I
7. Cura
8. Fácil
9. Sucia
10. Baby Boy
11. What’s Love [feat. MUNA]

A Comprehensive Guide to UNice Pre-Cut Lace Front Wigs

Lace front wigs have revolutionized the world of hairstyling, providing a seamless and natural-looking alternative for those seeking versatility and comfort. Among the various innovations in the wig industry, pre-cut lace front wigs stand out as a convenient and time-saving choice for wig enthusiasts. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of pre-cut lace front wigs, exploring their features, benefits, and how to make the most of this popular wig option.

What are UNice Pre-Cut Lace Front Wigs?

Pre-cut lace front wigs are designed with a delicate lace material at the front, mimicking the natural hairline and allowing for a realistic and undetectable look. What sets pre-cut lace front wigs apart is the meticulous pre-cutting of the lace, eliminating the need for customization before wear. This pre-cut design simplifies the application process, making these wigs an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced wig wearers.

Benefits of UNice Pre-Cut Lace Front Wigs

Time-Saving Convenience:

One of the primary advantages of pre-cut lace front wigs is the time saved during the application process. Traditional lace front wigs often require intricate customization to achieve a natural look. With pre-cut lace, the tedious task of cutting and shaping is eliminated, allowing for a quicker and hassle-free experience.

Effortless Application:

The pre-cut lace front design streamlines the application process, making it more accessible for individuals who may be new to wearing wigs. The carefully crafted lace seamlessly blends with the skin, creating a flawless and natural hairline without the need for advanced application techniques.

Versatility in Styling:

Despite the pre-cut lace, these wigs offer versatility in styling. The wearer can still part the hair in different directions, style it into various updos, or even pull it back into a ponytail. This flexibility ensures that wearers can achieve diverse looks without compromising the natural appearance of the wig.

Comfort and Breathability:

The lace front construction allows for increased breathability, preventing discomfort associated with heat and moisture buildup. This feature enhances overall comfort, making pre-cut lace front wigs suitable for extended wear.

How to Choose the Right Pre-Cut Lace Front Wig?

Hair Type and Texture:

Consider the type and texture of the hair used in the wig. Whether you prefer human hair or synthetic fibers, selecting the right texture that complements your natural hair is essential for a seamless blend.

Cap Construction:

Evaluate different cap constructions, such as full lace or lace front with wefted back. The cap type influences the overall fit and comfort of the wig.

Color and Length:

Choose a color that matches your skin tone and a length that aligns with your desired style. Pre-cut lace front wigs come in various shades and lengths, allowing for customization according to personal preferences.

Caring for Your Pre-Cut Lace Front Wig

Gentle Washing:

Use a mild shampoo and lukewarm water when washing your wig. Gently comb through the hair with a wide-tooth comb to remove any tangles.

Avoid Heat Damage:

If the wig is made from synthetic fibers, avoid excessive heat exposure. Human hair wigs can withstand heat styling, but it’s crucial to use heat protectant products.

Storage and Maintenance:

Store your pre-cut lace front wig on a wig stand or in its original packaging to maintain its shape. Brush the wig regularly to prevent tangling and matting.

Conclusion

Pre-cut lace front wigs have undoubtedly become a game-changer in the world of wig fashion. Their user-friendly design, time-saving benefits, and natural appearance make them a popular choice for individuals seeking a convenient and stylish solution for their hairstyling needs. By understanding the features, benefits, and proper care techniques, wig enthusiasts can confidently embrace the elegance and versatility that pre-cut lace front wigs offer.

Spending Time with Family and Friends: 5 Ways

Spending time with your family and friends once in a while is essential. Doing this makes lasting connections you can treasure for a long time. And when spending time with family and friends, it is equally important to plan it for it to become enjoyable. Further, of course, you want the time spent with them to be memorable.

So, what are the best ways to spend time with your family and friends? Don’t fret because there are things that you can do with them that would be equally fun. You just have to consider your family’s and friends’ interests so you can choose which one to do. Here is a list of activities you might want to do with them.

Go On a Picnic

Going on a picnic is the most traditional yet fun way to spend time with family and friends. There’s nothing better than eating food outside with your loved ones while enjoying nature. You can pack and prepare some food and go to a nearby park. Or you can go to the beach while enjoying the breeze and having some quality time eating.

Have a Movie Marathon

One usual activity with family and friends is preparing popcorn and drinks and watching a movie. Or you can also consider watching TV shows everyone enjoys and marathon it. You can choose a set of films or series and then spend the day or evening watching them. As what they usually say, Netflix and chill!

Organize a Game Night

If you want a fun and interactive time with your family, then you can organize a game night. Go ahead and gather everyone together and play your favorite games. For a thrilling and competitive night, you can play board games, card games, slots, or video games. Unleash their competitiveness and see who is good at playing and winning games!

Plan a Themed Dinner

Themed gatherings are now a thing. Why not plan a themed dinner where you can dress up, decorate, and enjoy delicious food with your family and friends? Nothing is better than seeing matchy or themed clothes with your loved ones. Themed stuff would add up to a fun and exciting activity during your time with them. Don’t forget to take many pictures you can treasure for a long time!

Visit a Tourist Destination or Local Museum

If you’re into traveling or simply going out to take a day off from your usual day at home, then you can also plan to go to a popular destination or a local museum. You can research and explore your city by visiting famous places usually featured in vlogs or shows.  Take this opportunity to try new places and discover new things with your family and friends.

Wrapping Up

There are certainly tons of different ways that you can spend time with your family and friends. Our list includes going on a picnic, watching movies, a competitive yet fun game night, and more. Just select one that interests them to ensure an enjoyable time.

How to Make Your Pictures Pop

We humans take around a trillion photos every year, and that’s not including the ones that they were keeping in their private collection. While not every single picture that’s ever taken by people on their phones or on their cameras is worthy of being posted on their social media, that’s still a staggering number of photos. And we take more and more pictures so that we can make memories, capture those memories, and have something to look back on.

Did you know that social media sites like Instagram share a whopping 1.3 billion images per day? That’s a lot of visual marketing if you’re a business, and a lot of personal reflection if you are just posting for yourself. Understanding why you should be applying a vibrant filter to my mountain climbing photo may go over your head initially, but if you start to gain a serious interest in photography then you’re going to learn very quickly exactly why filters and covers are an excellent choice. Let’s take a look at some excellent tips to make your pictures pop.

  • Always make the focus of your image off center. It may sound like a ridiculous idea, but most photographers understand the rule of thirds. When deciding on a composition of a photo, the rule encourages you to make the focused point of your image off center so that you can create a more balanced view. This allows for more visual appeal as an off center point works better to draw in the eye and get people talking about your images.
  • Play around with angles. A great way to make your pictures pop is to play around with different angles. Take a range of photographs of what you are choosing to subject and move around. Capture it from top to bottom, the left, the right, even upside down. Not only will you have more flexibility when you choose the end result to post online, you’ll be able to hone your skill and figure out how you can take more balanced and better pictures as a result.
  • Give it a human element. Social media photos that show a lone figure going around the globe and discovering new things is exciting., but it’s more exciting to see people in pictures than it is just to see landscapes. Don’t forget the filters though, because you may want to make it black and white to really pop.
  • Not every picture needs a close up shot. It can feel quite claustrophobic to have every single photo as a close up. You want to draw the eye in, so use the negative space in a positive way. The odd close up works really well for certain subjects, but you really do need to think about how negative space can be worked as well.

All taking pictures that pop will take some time and you may end up discovering a great skill that you didn’t know you had.If you have a passion for photography, it’s definitely something you can do now to make your pictures pop and Start learning.

Crucial Things To Add To Your Haircare Routine After 50

Navigating the changes in hair texture and health that come with age can be a challenging aspect of self-care, particularly after the age of 50. As we age, our hair tends to lose its natural oils, can become thinner, and may appear less vibrant. With the right approach, it’s entirely possible to keep your hair looking lush, vibrant, and healthy, even as it undergoes natural age-related transformations.

Gentle Cleansing

The initial step in an effective haircare routine post 50 is adopting a gentle cleansing approach. As we age, our scalp produces less oil, making our hair prone to dryness. Using harsh shampoos can exacerbate this issue, stripping away essential oils and leaving hair brittle and lifeless. Opting for sulphate-free or mild, moisturising shampoos can help in preserving these vital natural oils. Additionally, it’s advisable to limit hair washing to a few times a week to prevent over-drying, ensuring your hair retains its natural moisture and stays resilient against breakage.

In line with gentle cleansing, it’s also important to be mindful of the water temperature. Hot water can be harsh on delicate hair, leading to further dryness and damage. Using lukewarm water helps in maintaining the integrity of your hair, keeping it soft and manageable.

Deep Conditioning

As hair ages, its ability to retain moisture diminishes, making deep conditioning an essential part of your haircare routine. Integrating a nourishing deep conditioner into your weekly regimen can significantly improve the texture and health of your hair. These treatments penetrate deeply into the hair shaft, replenishing lost moisture and repairing damage. They also help in smoothing the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and enhancing the overall appearance of your hair.

In addition to regular use of a deep conditioner, consider occasional hair masks or oil treatments for an extra boost of hydration. Natural oils like argan, coconut, or jojoba oil can be particularly beneficial. They moisturise and provide essential nutrients and antioxidants, promoting hair strength and vitality. Leaving these treatments in your hair for an extended period, or even overnight, can maximise their efficacy.

Scalp Care

The health of your hair is directly linked to the condition of your scalp. An ageing scalp may suffer from dryness, reduced blood circulation, or a buildup of products, all of which can impede hair growth and health. Incorporating scalp massages into your routine can stimulate blood flow, promoting healthier hair growth. Additionally, using gentle, nourishing scalp treatments can help in maintaining scalp health, balancing oil production, and removing product buildup.

Selecting the right products is crucial for scalp care. Look for ingredients like tea tree oil, peppermint, or salicylic acid, which are known for their scalp-soothing properties. Avoiding overly harsh chemicals and opting for natural or gentle formulations can also prevent irritation and maintain a healthy scalp environment. Remember, a well-cared-for scalp is the foundation for strong, vibrant hair.

Regular Trimming

Frequent trims are essential to maintain the health of ageing hair. Regular trims, ideally every 6-8 weeks, can prevent split ends from travelling up the hair shaft, which can cause further damage and weaken the hair. Keeping hair neatly trimmed promotes its health and enhances its appearance, ensuring it looks fresh and well-maintained.

While regular trims are important, it’s equally important to find a hairdresser who understands your hair’s specific needs. A skilled professional can suggest the best cutting techniques and styles that complement your hair’s texture and condition. They can also provide valuable advice on how to care for your hair between salon visits, ensuring it remains in optimal condition.

Thinning Hair Solutions

Adapting your haircare routine to address thinning hair is a key consideration in your 50s. Knowing how to treat thinning hair effectively can make a significant difference in your hair’s appearance and health. Integrating a thickening shampoo into your routine is a straightforward yet effective step. These shampoos are designed to add volume and density, making your hair appear fuller and more robust. They work by coating each hair strand, temporarily increasing its diameter, and providing an overall fuller look.

Beyond using a thickening shampoo, it’s also important to consider other lifestyle factors that might contribute to hair thinning. Stress, hormonal changes, and certain medications can all impact hair health. Managing stress through activities like yoga or meditation, consulting with a healthcare professional about hormonal balances, and ensuring a nutrient-rich diet can all support healthier, fuller hair. Additionally, avoiding tight hairstyles that put stress on the hair follicles and minimising the use of harsh hair treatments can help in preserving your hair’s natural thickness.

Minimising Heat Styling

The use of heat styling tools can be particularly damaging to ageing hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and loss of natural shine. To minimise damage, it’s advisable to reduce the frequency of heat styling and when necessary, use these tools at the lowest effective temperature. This can help in preserving the hair’s natural moisture and integrity.

When heat styling is unavoidable, always use a high-quality heat protectant. These products form a protective barrier on the hair, shielding it from the damaging effects of high temperatures. Additionally, consider alternative styling methods that don’t involve heat, such as air drying, using rollers, or embracing your natural hair texture. These methods can be gentler on your hair, helping to maintain its health and appearance.

Balanced Diet

A well-balanced diet is fundamental for maintaining healthy hair. Hair is made up of proteins, so ensuring adequate protein intake is crucial. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and seeds, can also benefit hair health, providing the necessary oils for a healthy scalp and shiny hair.

Staying hydrated is another key aspect of hair health. Adequate water intake supports the overall health of the body, including the scalp and hair. Drinking plenty of water ensures your hair stays hydrated from the inside out, promoting a healthy, vibrant appearance.

Avoiding Harsh Chemicals

As hair ages, it becomes more sensitive to the chemicals found in hair dyes, perms, and other treatments. Reducing the use of these treatments, or opting for gentler, more natural alternatives, can help in preserving the integrity of your hair. Harsh chemicals can strip hair of its natural oils, leading to dryness, brittleness, and damage.

When colouring hair, consider using ammonia-free dyes or gentle colour treatments. These options are less damaging and can help maintain the health of your hair. Additionally, spacing out chemical treatments as much as possible allows your hair to recover and maintain its strength. The goal is to find a balance that allows you to enjoy your preferred hair styles and colours while minimising potential damage.

Embracing Natural Texture

Embracing the natural texture of your hair can significantly reduce the need for damaging styling practices. Whether your hair is straight, wavy, curly, or coily, learning to care for and style it in its natural state can be beneficial. This involves using products designed for your specific hair type and avoiding treatments that alter its natural structure.

Understanding and working with your hair’s unique characteristics can be empowering. It reduces the reliance on heat styling and harsh chemicals, allowing your hair to maintain its health and vitality. Experimenting with different products and styling techniques can help you find the best approach for your hair type, celebrating its natural beauty and minimising potential damage.

Summary

Maintaining healthy and vibrant hair after 50 is a journey that requires a thoughtful and tailored approach. By incorporating these crucial steps into your routine, you can effectively address the unique challenges of ageing hair. The key is to understand and cater to the changing needs of your hair, ensuring it remains strong, luscious, and full of life.

Pillow Queens Announce New Album ‘Name Your Sorrow’, Release New Song ‘Gone’

Pillow Queens have announced their third album: Name Your Sorrow arrives April 19 via Royal Mountain. The follow-up to 2022’s Leave the Light On will feature the early single ‘Suffer’, as well as a new song, ‘Gone’. Check it out and find the album cover and tracklist below.

According to the band, “‘Gone'” is a song that looks into the vapid nature of brief romantic encounters and the hyperbole that can become so monotonous, it makes you jaded.” Lead vocalist, guitarist, and bassist Pamela Connolly added, “Lines like, ‘I was in your top five things to do’ convey a lack of self-worth that’s tackled throughout the album. It’s a song that showcases a vulnerability that allows for no silver linings–it’s the reality of how someone is feeling in the moment.”

The new record was produced by Collin Pastore (Lucy Dacus, boygenius) at Analogue Catalogue in Northern Ireland. “It is about stages of love, loss and grief and how they can all exist alongside one another–intertwined, messy, beautiful–how both love and loss can coexist,” vocalist Cathy McGuinness explained.

Name Your Sorrow Cover Artwork:

Name Your Sorrow Tracklist:

1. 8th February
2. Suffer
3. Like A Lesson
4. Blew Up The World
5. Friend Of Mine
6. The Bar’s Closed
7. Gone
8. So Kind
9. Heavy Pour
10. One Night
11. Love II
12. Notes On Worth