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Ela Minus Releases Video for New Song ‘UPWARDS’

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Ela Minus has dropped a new single, ‘UPWARDS’, taken from her upcoming album DIA – out January 17 via Domino. Arriving on the heels of lead single ‘BROKEN’, the song is meant for “safeguarding yourself, your body, and your soul,” according to the artist. Check out its accompanying video, directed by Albert Estruch and Marc Sancho (of Querida), below.

The new album follows the Colombian artist’s 2020 debut, acts of rebellion, as well as her collaborative ♡ EP with DJ Python. Revisit our 2022 interview with Ela Minus and DJ Python.

 

Vashti Bunyan Announces 20th Anniversary Reissue of ‘Lookaftering’

Vashti Bunyan has announced a 20th anniversary reissue of her Max Richter-produced second album, Lookaftering, to coincide with her 80th birthday. The new expanded edition, out February 7 via FatCat Records, includes the original studio album along with a second LP featuring demos, an alternate take, and a live performance. It also contains sleeve notes from Bunyan, Richter, Devendra Banhart, and FatCat’s Dave Howell, as well as a 16-page lyric booklet with paintings by Bunyan’s daughter Whyn Lewis. Listen to ‘If I Were (Demo)’ and take a look at the full tracklist below.

The Lookafternig demos were originally recorded between 2001 and 2005 by Bunyan at her home studio, where she accompanied herself on electric and acoustic guitar and experimented with accordion, piano, strings, pipe organ, harmonium, and recorders. Additionally, the live rendition of ‘Lately’ was recorded at an early “comeback” gig in LA in 2006, orchestrated to match the album version.

“It felt like a community project; a family of people coming together,” Richter reflected on the making of the album, which also involved Joanna Newson, Adem Ilhan, Robert Kirby, and members of the band Vetiver.

“The beautiful photograph of Max in the studio playing wine glasses with his young daughter’s violin bow, brings it all back to me – how very fortunate I have been,” Bunyan remarked.

Devendra Banhart added: “Lookaftering is a quiet prayer for a world left behind, a remembrance of a world that could have been but never was, a Lookforwarding to a world that may yet still be… As ethereal and haunted as these eleven songs may be, they are also rooted in the earthly magic of wisdom born from experience. Something so rare and honest it’s nearly otherworldly in its total human-ness.”

Read our interview with designer dlt (Dave Thomas), who worked on every record Vashti Bunyan put out in the second phase of her career.

Lookaftering – Expanded Edition Tracklist:

1. Lately
2. Here Before
3. Wayward
4. Hidden
5. Against The Sky
6. Turning Backs
7. If I Were
8. Same But Different
9. Brother
10. Feet Of Clay
11. Wayward Hum
12. Lately (Live, The Echo, Los Angeles, 2006)
13. Here Before (Demo, 2005)
14. Wayward (Alternative take, 2005)
15. Hidden (Demo, 2002)
16. Against The Sky (Demo, 2004)
17. Turning Backs (Demo, 2003)
18. If I Were (Demo, 2001)
19. Same But Different (Demo, 2005)
20. Brother (Demo, 2002)
21. Feet Of Clay (Demo, 2002)

two blinks, i love you Unveils New Song ‘baby drums’

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Ahead of the release of his new ep 2 this Fiday (November 22), two blinks, i love you – aka Liverpool songwriter Liam Brown – has shared a new single from it. ‘baby drums’ follows the previously unveiled cuts ‘alright’, ‘better the knife you know’, and ‘my girl’. “It’s got loads of heart this one and that’s why I think it felt like a good closer!” Brown remarked. Listen to it below.

Sophie Jamieson Shares New Single ‘How do you want to be loved?’

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Sophie Jamieson has released a new song, ‘How do you want to be loved?’, lifted from her upcoming album I still want to share. It follows previous offerings ‘I don’t know what to save’ and ‘Camera’. Check out a video for it below.

“I wrote this song after a particularly upsetting fight with a close family member,” Jamieson explained in a statement. “I wanted to write a song that would help me forgive and understand them – to write my way into being able to love them in the way I felt I should. But I couldn’t keep my anger and frustration out of the song. It kept bubbling through my attempts to embrace their humanity and complexity. In the end, the song seemed to become a battle between the wounded children in both of us. Their voice and pain came through somehow in a way that broke my heart. The song had to hold the very depths of my hurt, and the depths of theirs all in one.”

I still want to share arrives January 17 via Bella Union. Revisit our Artist Spotlight interview with Sophie Jamieson.

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart Announce New Rarities Compilation ‘Perfect Right Now’

The Pains of Being Pure at Heart have announced a new B-sides compilation, Perfect Right Now: A Slumberland Collection 2008-2010. It’s set to arrive on February 7. The album’s ten tracks are taken from 7″s that accompanied the band’s 2009 self-titled debut album, the Higher Than the Stars EP, and split singles. It ends with ‘Say No To Love’, which “points the way forward to the band’s next chapter,” according to a press release. Check out the tracklist below.

“Many of these songs, like those that comprised our debut record, were written in that *now* – making up in wild pop fantasy what we couldn’t quite yet achieve through musical ability,” the band’s Kip Berman said in a statement. “But even if that *now* is now an irrevocable *then,* I still believe that there is nothing better than making music with your friends and dreaming, as our Myspace page once proclaimed, of ‘being the biggest band in the world—to about 18 people.'”

Earlier this year, the Pains of Being Pure at Heart announced a string of reunion shows celebrating the anniversary of their first album. After the band broke up in 2019, Berman continued to release music as the Natvral. Check out our Artist Spotlight interview with the Natvrual. 

Perfect Right Now: A Slumberland Collection 2008-2010 Cover Artwork:

Perfect Right Now: A Slumberland Collection 2008-2010 Tracklist:

1. Kurt Cobain‘s Cardigan
2. Come Saturday
3. Ramona
4. The Pains of Being Pure at Heart
5. Side Ponytail
6. Higher Than the Stars
7. 103
8. Falling Over
9. Twins
10. Say No to Love

Angel Olsen Shares New Songs From Upcoming Compilation ‘Cosmic Waves Vol. 1’

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Angel Olsen has previewed the upcoming compilation Cosmic Waves Vol. 1 with two more songs. ‘Wonder Now’, an original track by NY-based band Camp Saint Helene, comes paired with Olsen’s acoustic rendition of their track ‘Farfisa Song’. Take a listen below.

Talking about her introduction to Camp Saint Helene, Olsen said: “We were driving to Trust, NC to shoot the cover and campaign for Big Time and Silken Weinberg and Angela Ricciardi were introducing me to some projects they were about to work on – one being for the band Camp Saint Helene, an album that was the perfect backdrop of cult folk for our adventure into the wild mountains of Buncombe county. After our shoot wrapped, I kept coming back to the record and feeling like it had encapsulated the memory of a chapter ending, and when I want to go back to the days of sunset at max patch, I put it on.”

Cosmic Waves Volume 1, which is out December 6, also features original songs (personally curated by Olsen) from Poppy Jean Crawford, Coffin Prick, Sarah Grace White, and Maxim Ludwig. Side B collects covers of songs from the aforementioned artists performed and recorded by Olsen.

Rabbits Vs Guinea Pigs: A Guide to Feeding Your Furry Friends

Rabbits and guinea pigs require high-quality nutrition in order to stay happy and healthy.

Their dietary needs may seem simple to those unfamiliar with these furry-friends, but there are key components needed in order to feed your small pets a healthy and balanced diet. Getting this right is key to their well-being!

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of feeding your small pets the correct food and making every mealtime enjoyable!

Why Hay is a Hero 

For rabbits and guinea pigs alike, hay isn’t just a snack: it should be the number one component of their diet. It plays a vital role in their overall health and wellbeing, from maintaining great and healthy teeth to aiding digestion.

  • Dental Health: Hay helps wear down their ever-growing teeth naturally, preventing painful overgrowth or dental disease
  • Digestive Benefits: Packed with fibre, hay helps keep their digestive systems in tip-top shape
  • Mental Enrichment: The act of nibbling on hay encourages natural foraging behavior, preventing boredom

Timothy hay is an excellent choice for both rabbits and guinea pigs. Timothy hay typically boasts high protein and high fibre, with a coarse texture that your pets will love. 

Also, it’s key to take into consideration high-quality pet hay that’s dust extracted as it can make a world of difference in terms of palatability. 

If you are eco-conscious as we all should be, then ensure that it is barn-dried using renewable energy such as solar panels. Anyway, let’s dive in more:

Similar but Different Diets

While rabbits and guinea pigs share a love for hay, fresh leafy greens, and a sprinkle of pellets daily, their specific needs differ in key ways.

The most significant difference lies in Vitamin C. Guinea pigs cannot produce this vital nutrient naturally, so their diet must include Vitamin C-rich foods such as bell peppers or spinach. Guinea pig specific pellets are also a great option.

Rabbits, on the other hand, can produce their own Vitamin C and don’t require foods high in it.

When it comes to fruit, both species can enjoy an occasional treat. Always remember to keep portions small, as too much sugar can be harmful to both rabbits and guinea pigs.

Types of Hay: Which is Best for Your Pet? 

Different hay types bring different health benefits, so let’s compare timothy hay, meadow hay, ryegrass hay and alfalfa hay,to help you pick the perfect option for your furry friends.

Timothy Hay 

This is the gold standard for rabbits and guinea pigs. High in fibre and high in protein, it supports dental and digestive health. Timothy hay typically has coarse, long stems and is sweet to taste – making it a hit with the small pet community.

Best For: Rabbits and guinea pigs.

Pro Tip: To encourage your small pets to eat more hay, try incorporating hay feeders and toys to their daily routine. Watch them have fun, whilst nibbling more hay!

Meadow Hay

A softer hay which is typically a mix of various, traditional meadow grasses. Meadow Hay is high in fibre to support dental and digestive health, whilst being extremely palatable.

Best For: Rabbits and guinea pigs.

Pro Tip: Due to its soft texture, it also pairs as a great bedding hay too!

Ryegrass Haye

Known for its palatability and fibre content, ryegrass hay is a great option to feed alongside Timothy Hay and Meadow Hay. It’s great for enrichment and additional nutrition too, suiting the fussiest of small pets!

Best For: Rabbits and guinea pigs who need variety or softer hay.

Pro Tip: Sprinkle a handful of Ryegrass Hay on top of Timothy or Meadow Hay to encourage foraging

Alfalfa Hay

Rich in protein and calcium, alfalfa hay is best suited for young rabbits, growing (up to 6 months) or pregnant small pets to support health and development.

Best For: Young, growing rabbits or guinea pigs, or pregnant/nursing pets

Pro Tip: Adult pets can enjoy small amounts of Alfalfa Hay, however we would recommend that the majority of their diet consist of Timothy or Meadow Hay

Everyday Essentials for Small Pets

Ensuring you feed the correct diet for your small pets can go a long way in ensuring your pets thrive:

  • 80% to 90% of their diet should consist of high-quality hay
  • 5-10% pet specific pellets
  • 5-10% leafy greens and vegetables
  • Provide fresh, clean water daily

It’s recommended to schedule regular exotic vet check-ups to ensure your small pets are nice and healthy.

By focusing on a diet built around hay, fresh veggies, and just the right amount of pellets, you’re setting your furry friends up for a long, happy, and healthy life. 

So, go ahead and enjoy the sound of nibbling hay, binkying and popcorning – it’s a sign you’re doing everything right!

Online Auctions: Features of Choosing a Car

Buying a car through online auctions is becoming increasingly popular. This method allows you to buy a car profitably. However, for the purchase at auction to be successful, you should understand how to choose the right vehicle and consider the features of such transactions.

Choosing the right platform is an essential component of a successful car purchase. CARS4.BID offers an auto auction in Jacksonville FL with a wide range of models for every taste. The proven platform offers up-to-date data and original photos.

How to Prepare for Buying at an Auction

Before you start looking for a car at an online auction, you should prepare and study the nuances of this format. Determine your budget, type of car, and critical parameters in advance. This approach allows you to avoid emotional purchases and protects you from overpaying.

The main steps of preparation include:

  1. Study the auction rule – each platform has specific requirements for participants and terms of the transaction.
  2. Check the platform’s reputation – choose only verified auctions with reviews and a history of successful transactions to avoid fraud.
  3. Determine the parameters of the car – decide in advance which characteristics (model, year of manufacture, mileage) are vital to you to narrow down the choice.

Such steps will help you avoid common mistakes and buy a car that meets the requirements.

Checking a Car Before Buying

Buying a car at an online auction does not allow you to inspect it in person. Therefore, it is crucial to trust verified information. You can use the services of specialists who can check the vehicle remotely. Pay attention to the following important aspects:

  • car history;
  • technical condition;
  • legal purity.

These criteria will help you choose a car that will last a long time and will not cause legal or technical problems.

Conclusion

Choosing a car at an online auction requires preparation and attention. Follow the basic recommendations and check essential parameters. This approach will ensure the purchase of a high-quality and reliable car and avoid possible risks.

Navigating the World of In-game Purchases: A Guide to Safe and Responsible Spending

Every gamer across every platform buys in-game items. According to Statista, 26% of console gamers in America spent over $100 on microtransactions by March, 2024. While this behavior seems harmless, it can lead to financial strain, addiction and data security risks.

What are In-Game Purchases?

The first in-game purchase to hit the US came from Bethesda in 2006. It offered horse armor for $2.50 in the popular title Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. While gamers initially saw it as overpriced, it sparked the flame of a trend.

Microtransactions first became popular as loot boxes and downloadable content (DLC) like extra missions and storylines. Later on, they expanded to digital currency and cosmetic items like outfits, skins and weapons.

Today, microtransactions are available in almost every title, especially free-to-play games like Fortnite and Apex Legends. They’re predominantly cosmetic, offering players no advantage. However, some games use a pay-to-win model, where in-game purchases give gamers a significant boost.

The Importance of Data Privacy and Security

Protecting your personal information is vital when gaming online. There are risks from the developers, publishers and other gamers. So, before you make a microtransaction, you must review the privacy policies and ensure the company is securing your data. If they’re sharing it, find ways to remove your information from the internet to clear any sensitive information from exploitation.

Keeping your login details and sensitive data private is essential. Use a strong password and two-factor authentication. Be wary of any suspicious communications, such as game developers or other gamers asking for personal information.

Why Should You Set a Budget and Track Spending?

Data security isn’t the only risk involved in microtransactions. It’s easy to overspend if you don’t have a reasonable budget. Developing one and strictly following it can help prevent financial strain.

You also need to consider who else has access to your games and accounts. If you have children, teach them the value of money, explain the difference between wants and needs and implement parental controls.

You can also set up a spending allowance for any games they play or simply disable in-app/in-game purchases.

Game Responsibly

Many game developers use operant conditioning to elicit habits in gamers. These behaviors either encourage gameplay or spending. Certain in-game items, like loot boxes, reward players using an unpredictable schedule, which can lead to excessive and impulsive purchases.

Gamers need to be aware of their spending and gaming habits. Limiting game time and access to devices is an excellent start to prevent gaming burnout and addiction. Staying active and exercising also helps improve mental health.

If you feel you’re becoming dependent on gaming, call a helpline or seek professional guidance. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a method that can help you replace thoughts about gaming to change your behavior.

Consider Parental Controls

When your children are playing online, you may need to implement parental controls. Use communication and online restrictions, time limits and content filters to protect your children.

Educate your kids on how to safely navigate the online environment. Discuss the risks of messages that seem too good to be true or links that could hold viruses. Teach them how to avoid and report any toxic or predatory people they encounter.

Interesting fact: why do dog lovers often win on casino slots?

Operators of virtual gambling clubs offer a large number of slot games dedicated to dogs. These are slots where pets play the main role. Online casino owners have also noticed that, according to statistics, dog owners are much more likely to win on slots than other gamblers. 

By the way, safe online casinos nowadays give no deposit bonuses. Every novice gambler gets a free shot at winning the jackpot.

Calmness and discipline

Living with a pet under one roof is not as easy as it seems at first glance. Both puppies and adult dogs can be overactive. A homeowner must constantly monitor the animal and also train and exercise. Training a dog is a long process and not always successful.

Gambling also requires players to be disciplined. A user who bets randomly, does not monitor the size of his bankroll and spends bonuses without strategy is always a loser.

Professionals, after registering at an online casino site, first study the prize system. Then the player proceeds to select slots. The user must test each slot machine and determine the strengths and weaknesses of the game mechanics. Only then does the gambler proceed to replenish the account with real money and compete for the jackpot.

Discipline in gambling determines the probability of winning 50%. Gambler who is not willing to wait a long time to win is unlikely to become a millionaire. Slots with high volatility can give 1000 rounds without winning. To win, gamblers should play with the same minimum bet every round and not spend their bankroll too quickly.

Patience and emotional stability

Even a player who has wagered more than $10,000,000 can get zero at an online casino site. This is because the player is overcome by profit motives. 

Dog owners are calmer and more patient. A pet does not understand commands immediately and training can take months and even years.

Emotional stability makes it easier not to get caught up in the giddiness of success. A professional gambler will never keep playing for money if he has already earned the amount he initially wanted to win. Then the casino customer spins the slot machine reels in demo mode and does not expose his bankroll to unnecessary risks. The same goes for big winnings.

The same goes for big wins. The casino visitor must understand that only games with high volatility can yield prizes in excess of $1,000,000. However, a player can wait up to several hours at a time on an online casino site for a jackpot. The user must have a large reserve of patience so that at the most crucial moment, he does not end the gaming session one step away from a big payout. 

By the way, slots dedicated to dogs are in high demand. These slots have a plot and therefore the providers here add multiple bonus options at the same time. The more prize features the slot machine has, the better for the player.