Home Blog Page 514

The Smile Release New Single ‘Friend of a Friend’

The Smile have released another single from their upcoming album Wall of Eyes. This one’s called ‘Friend of a Friend’, and it follows the already-released ‘Bending Hectic’ and the title song. The track features strings from the London Contemporary Orchestra and saxophone from Robert Stillman. Listen to it below.

‘Friend of a Friend’ will be accompanied by a video from director Paul Thomas Anderson, which is set to premiere alongside a surround sound album playback of Wall of Eyes at a series of one-off events hosted at independent cinemas between January 18-25. Find more information here.

Wall of Eyes, the follow-up to 2022’s A Light for Attracting Attention, is due out January 26 via XL.

Baccarat Game Guide

Baccarat at non GamStop casinos is one of the most popular table games. You will also find blackjack, roulette and poker on the list. What are the characteristics of online baccarat and what makes it so popular? Read the article and you will find out everything!

What Is Baccarat Game?

The game was probably created in the 19th century (a variation called Baccarat Banque), becoming a popular pastime of the French nobility. Currently, the most famous baccarat is Punto Banco. So if you don’t see a variation in the game’s title, it’ll probably be this one. You might be interested in knowing that baccarat appeared in James Bond movies and books? His role was particularly important in Casino Royale, where virtually the entire plot is based on baccarat.

The game enjoys unflagging popularity in non GamStop casinos and is one of the mandatory table game categories. The titles available in casinos are not as numerous as blackjack and roulette, but their number is usually enough for fans. From a technical point of view, it is worth paying attention to RTP, i.e. the average return offered by baccarat.

The game has many versions, and each of them works on slightly different principles, which means that the payback amounts differ from each other. Banker Bet will give you the highest odds (98.95%). Choose it if you mainly care about the long game. Either Pair Bet offers the lowest percentage and at the same time the most emotions (86.29%). Between them you will find versions such as Player Bonus Bet (97.35%) and Perfect Pair Bet (91.95%).

How to Start Playing Baccarat?

Playing baccarat shouldn’t be a problem for you. It’s random and very fast. There is no room for strategies and plans here. If you still feel uncertain at the start, consider the following rules. To play baccarat, you usually need to create an account at a casino – especially when it comes to playing live. Many sites offer free demo versions for which you do not need to register, but you cannot win real money there either. Treat the baccarat demo as an opportunity to practice.

You will find all available versions in the table games, card games or live casino sections. Often, a separate section is created for baccarat, especially when casino customers show great interest in this game. Bonuses are awarded here for table games in general. So you don’t have to look for offers specifically for baccarat and you can use the bonus funds for other games if you want to take a break.

Simply put, baccarat involves betting on the player or banker’s victory (the casino then charges a 5% commission). You can also bet on a draw. In the classic version, the aim of the bet is to indicate which side will have a sum of points closer to 9. Ace has a value of 1. Cards 2-9 retain the value of their numbers. 10, Jack, Queen and King count as 0. If the total is quite low, the player can always ask for an additional card. When the result exceeds 9, it is reduced by the first digit, i.e. 10 will become 0 and 12 will become 2. As you can see, getting the sum to 9 is not that easy and ties are relatively rare. Setting an upper limit means that the game continues even after obtaining too high a sum. Despite its simple rules, baccarat is unpredictable and exciting! Game versions may differ in return to player, length of rounds, number of players and decks.

How to Improve Your Game at Non GamStop Casinos?

With such a simple game, it’s difficult to talk about technique or making significant corrections. Given how random and fast baccarat is, the game only requires estimating the chances of drawing the right card.

You can apply simple math here, but with such a large number of cards (usually 6 decks) it doesn’t make much sense. Alternatively, you can look for a variation that uses a smaller pot. Treat baccarat as a game in which a good streak is decisive. Don’t bet large sums and change versions from time to time. This way the game will give you the most satisfaction. What else is worth knowing? Don’t be afraid of lack of experience! If you know the rules of the baccarat variant you are currently playing, you have the same chances as other players. Online baccarat is very fair.

Which Baccarat Variant Is the Best?

Players’ needs and requirements are different. Punto Banco is, of course, recommended for beginners. With this database, you can learn and understand subsequent versions very quickly, because the differences will be relatively small.

Chemin De Fer

Chemin de fer, on the other hand, is a very fast variation of baccarat. Each round a new player becomes the banker. This version of the game will be best for experienced gamblers and people who want to see results as quickly as possible. Do you think the commission charged by the casino is too high?

No Commission Baccarat

Try No Commission Baccarat. This is a commission-free variation. Instead, the 6-point rule was introduced. When this amount appears in the banker’s hand, the player will only receive half of the bet.

Live baccarat

Live baccarat comes in different versions. So if you want to play with a real dealer, you still have plenty of choices. The advantage here will be contact with real players – authentic decisions and the feeling that on the other side of the screen someone is experiencing the game with you. However, for some users this may turn out to be a disadvantage. Remember that living people do not act automatically. The game will necessarily take a little longer. That’s where its charm lies!

Baccarat Demo

The demo version may also be the best one! After all, not everyone wants to play for real money. Regardless of your plans, it’s worth playing for free. This way you will get to know all versions of the game. Some of them have low RTP and in their case it is undoubtedly worth doing a quick test without deposit. Each of the options mentioned is dedicated to a different type of customer, but it is worth trying at least a few. After all, it’s mainly about fun, and variety greatly improves the experience and prevents you from getting bored.

Thumbstory Season Two: Captivating Audiences with Magical Animation

0

Thumbstory Season Two has become a sensational hit in the animated series, captivating audiences far and wide. According to Sohu News, this engaging series has reached an astounding 200 million viewers on the internet, marking a significant milestone in its popularity.

At the heart of Thumbstory lies the intriguing tale of three teenagers – Daniel, Sara, and Paul – each endowed with unique magical abilities. The narrative follows their journey as they come together to support the downtrodden and combat malevolent forces. The series is celebrated for its character designs, which are both unique and adorable, contributing to the high recognizability of the show.

Considering the target audience, each episode of Thumbstory is thoughtfully crafted to not exceed five minutes, keeping in line with children’s viewing habits and prioritizing their visual health. This meticulous approach ensures that the series is both entertaining and responsible.

The driving force behind the success of Thumbstory Season Two is Zekai Zhang, the lead animation creator. For Zhang, this project was a formidable challenge. “Creating a full episode in such a short timeframe seemed like an impossible mission,” he admits. Yet, the team’s dedication and creativity turned this daunting task into a triumphant success.

Zhang and his team streamlined the production process by meticulously planning each episode. They developed detailed storyboards for 3D layouts and animation timing, drawing inspiration from the protagonists of Season One. A comprehensive list of props for each scene was created, which were then modeled using 3D software.

Collaboration played a key role in this process. Zhang worked closely with voice actors, synchronizing their performances with the storyboard. This collaboration resulted in animatic storyboards that served as blueprints for the episodes.

Understanding the urgency of the modeling phase, Zhang shifted his focus to creating 3D models that resonated with the original character designs and scene requirements. The team then progressed to texture mapping and render testing.

To optimize rendering times and reduce costs, Zhang’s team employed a novel approach. They separated each shot into different layers – character, reflection, scene, shadow, etc. This technique not only accelerated the rendering process but also allowed for greater flexibility in adjusting lighting and refining animations.

The final stages involved compositing in Nuke and crafting visual effects in After Effects. This meticulous process ensured that each element of the animation blended seamlessly to create a visually stunning final product.

The overwhelming success of Thumbstory Season Two, surpassing even Zhang’s expectations, is a testament to the hard work and passion of the entire team. Zhang reflects on the varied reactions from the audience: “Some love your work, others may not, but many feel the energy you put into it. These diverse responses signify that your work is being recognized.”

 

For Zhang and his team, the journey of Thumbstory Season Two is not just about achieving viewership milestones; it’s about the joy of creating animation that resonates with and impacts its audience. As Thumbstory continues to enchant viewers worldwide, Zhang’s vision and dedication remain a beacon of inspiration in the animation industry.

EA FC 24: Best Young CB Wonderkids for Career Mode

0

Having a powerful centre-back in the heart of your defence is one of the most desired things in EA FC 24 career mode. This list of players will highlight the most promising wonderkids with great defensive attributes in this year’s rebranded FIFA 24 that has mixed reviews.

Joško Gvardiol (Overall 82 – Potential 88)

Having begun his career playing for Dinamo Zagreb, Gvardiol gathered a lot of attention and swiftly moved to RB Leipzig in Germany, where he made 59 appearances and managed to score three goals, even going back on loan to his former side during the 2020-21 season. After a successful showcase in the German side and his World Cup appearances for Croatia at the 2022 World Cup, Gvardiol became a hot target for Premier League winners Manchester City, who bought him in the 2023 summer transfer window for a mighty £77.6m.

In the game, Gvardiol has a substantially impressive stat line with a bohemian potential of 88, making him one of the best in the world. Defensively speaking, he starts with a well-rounded stat line, including 81 in defensive awareness, 84 in standing tackle, and 84 in sliding tackle. While not a strike, Gvardiol’s weakness is his finishing, which is only 42. However, if you get a header with him, you can score as he rates 78 heading accuracy. Indeed, a good player to start a list.

Arnau Martinez (Overall 80 – Potential 86)

Martinez of Spain began his career in 2020, starting for Girona B, the second side of Girona, which currently plays football in Tercera Federación. However, it didn’t take long for him to power up and move to the main squad after only seven appearances for the B side. Currently, Martinez has made over 90 appearances and scored six goals as a centre-back and right-back. He has also made 12 appearances for the mighty Spain U21 side.

Game-wise, Martinez is no joke, as he starts with an overall rating of 80 and a potential of 86. He is a credible player who would fit in any top La Liga, Premier League, or even Bundesliga side. His best attributes are present in the movement category, with acceleration being 82, while sprint speed not falling far behind at 78. Regarding defensive qualities, his standing tackle stands at 79 and sliding tackle at 77, with a slightly low strength of only 66. Though he is primarily a right-back in real life, this is pretty much the same — depending on where you position him on your career mode side.

Gonçalo Inácio (Overall 79 – Potential 86)

Starting his career at Sporting CP, Inácio hasn’t shifted anywhere since his debut in 2020. Since then, he has made over 96 appearances for the side and managed to bag seven goals. For his international career, Inácio has made quick progress through the youth ranks, quickly progressing into the senior Portugal side in 2023, making five appearances and scoring two goals.

Reflective of real life, Inácio ranks well in the game with a potential 86. His most prominent attribute, as expected, is his defence, in which he has 81 for defensive awareness and 82 for standing tackle. Moving on, Inácio also has excellent movement attributes for a centre-back, as he has an acceleration of 78 and a sprint speed of 81. That might be impressive and works well with counter-attacking teams that need defenders who can push quickly on the offence and pull back when needed.

António Silva (Overall 78 – Potential 88)

One of the most prominent youngsters on the list is another Portuguese wonderkid, António Silva. He has a potential of 88 in the game and currently plays football for Primeira Liga’s Benfica in Portugal. Like Inácio, Silva began his career in Portugal with his side and has maintained his position in his home country. Silva has made over 45 appearances for Benfica, scoring four goals. Like Inácio, he has also made seven appearances for the Portugal national team since 2022.

In the video game, Silva has excellent strength, which is at 82, stamina at 83, and standing tackle at 81. He is a well-rounded player with a release clause of €62.7 million, making him a steal if you’re willing to grow him into the starting 11 players you hope to have. Sadly, even though he is a prominent player in football, he doesn’t have a real face within the game.

Jorrel Hato (Overall 73 – Potential 88)

Ajax’s Jorrel Hato is another superb wonderkid in the game. He started his career in 2022 with the second team of Ajax, most commonly known as Jong Ajax (or Ajax II). For the second team, Hato made 13 appearances and scored 1 goal before he moved to the main team. He currently has 27 appearances with 1 goal. His international career has also grown from when he started to play for the Netherlands U16 side in 2021 to 2023, where he played for the Netherlands senior team, making his debut against Gibraltar in a UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifying match.

As a 17-year-old, Hato has a heap of potential within the game that reaches an astounding 88. The craziest thing about his player in the game is the release clause, which is only €13.2 million, making him one of the must-have players, especially if you like building up your teams. Stat-wise, he has a superb acceleration of 82 and a sprint speed of 88. his defensive stats are not too shabby either, with 72 defensive awareness and 74 standing tackles. In our honest opinion, Hato is undoubtedly the best player to buy on this list. He is a sound investment and can make your team into the next Champions League winning side.

Giorgio Scalvini (Overall 75 – Potential 86)

Last but certainly not least on our list is Italian centre-back Giorgio Scalvini, who is rapidly growing for the Seria A side Atalanta, who has currently made 67 appearances, scoring three goals. Scalvini made his pro debut in 2021 after joining the Atalanta youth sector, which he has been part of since 2015 after moving from Brescia. Scalvini has also appeared for the Italian national team, making seven apps since 2022.

Much-like other talent on this list, Scalvini isn’t a shy defender holding well-rounded defensive stats with 80 in standing tackle and 78 in a sliding tackle. His strength could do some work with it only being 68, and speed-wise, he isn’t the fastest but can certainly hold up well with 78 in interceptions and 74 in reactions.

Holly Macve Unveils New Single ‘1995’

0

Holly Macve has released a new single, ‘1995’, taken from her forthcoming EP Time Is Forever. It follows previous cuts ‘Beauty Queen’ and ‘Suburban House’ (featuring vocals from Lana Del Rey). Check out a visual for it below.

In a press release, Macve described ‘1995’ as “the most hopeful song I’ve ever written,” adding, “I had just come back from a US tour and was feeling excited and at peace with love and the idea of the future for the first time in a long time. It was written on the same piano as ‘Suburban House’, and about 6 months prior, so little did I know the ship was about to be rocked. But I think I managed to encapsulate that content feeling into the song and I just hope people will feel that when they listen.”

Time Is Forever is due out February 2 via Loving Memory Records/Believe.

Jamie xx Returns With New Song ‘It’s So Good’

Jamie xx has released ‘It’s So Good’, a new song that soundtracks the latest Chanel Coco Crush campaign that also launched globally today. Listen to it below.

‘It’s So Good’ follows Jamie xx’s 2022 offerings ‘LET’S DO IT AGAIN’ and ‘KILL DEM’. The musician recently worked with his the xx bandmate Romy on her debut solo album, last year’s Mid Air, and contributed production work on Oliver Sim’s 2022 solo debut Hideous Bastard. Last week, Romy confirmed the xx are back in the studio working on their next album.

Omni Enlist Automatic’s Izzy Glaudini for New Song ‘Plastic Pyramid’

0

Omni have served up a new single, ‘Plastic Pyramid’, featuring Izzy Glaudini of Automatic. It appears on the Atlanta trio’s fourth album and second for Sub Pop, Souvenir, which arrives on February 16 and was led by the single ‘Exacto’. ‘Plastic Pyramid’ comes with a video directed by Zach Pyles, which you can check out below.

“‘Plastic Pyramid’ was one of the first songs written for Souvenir,” the band shared in a statement. “It took a while to figure out what arrangement worked best. We tore it apart and pasted it back together again a number of times before settling on its current form. Our friend Izzy Glaudini of Automatic graciously agreed to sing on the track, making it the very first Omni duet. We hope you like it.”

Bodega Announce New Album, Share New Single ‘Tarkovski’

Bodega have announced their signing to Chrysalis, which will release the NYC band’s new album, Our Brand Could Be Yr Life, on April 12. Accompanying the announcement is the new single ‘Tarkovski’, which comes with a video directed by Luca Balser. Check it out below.

Our Brand Could Be Yr Life is a reworking of Ben Hozie and Nikki Belfiglio’s sole LP as Bodega Bay, a 33-track collection that was self-released in 2015. “It was super meticulous but aggressively lo-fi at the same time, treated like a lush Brian Wilson epic but recorded through a scrappy MacBook mic,” Hozie recalled, adding of the process: “We thought of it like a director remaking one of their old films, like when Hitchcock remade The Man Who Knew Too Much, or when Yasujirō Ozu re-did The Story of Floating Weeds. When you’re older and better at your craft, you can revisit the same material but do different things with it.”

“The theme is still a pressing one,” Hozie said. “The idea of the corporatisation of guitar music has only been exacerbated. The big philosophical question that I end up asking myself is: has it always been this way? Was rock always superficial, but I was just too young and naive to understand? If you look back to 1957 rock music, it had this incredible surge of electricity to it. Chuck Berry really was an underrated poet. I’m not denigrating the original rock’n’roll at all, which I still love and cherish. But it was superficial by design. It was meant to be like a quick product that you could market to teenagers and then toss aside.”

Our Brand Could Be Yr Life Tracklist:

Our Brand Could Be Yr Life Cover Artwork:

1. Dedicated To The Dedicated
2. G.N.D. Deity
3. Bodega Bait
4. Tarkovski
5. Major Amberson
6. Stain Gaze
7. Webster Hall
8. ATM
9. Set The Controls For The Heart Of The Drum
10. Protean
11. Born Into By What Consumes
12. Cultural Consumer I
13. Cultural Consumer II
14. Cultural Consumer III
15. City Is Taken

Buffalo Tom Announce New Album, Share New Song ‘Helmet’

0

Boston alt-rockers Buffalo Tom have announced their next LP, Jump Rope, the follow-up to 2018’s Quiet and Peace. It finds the group reuniting with producer David Minehan, recording the album at his Woolly Mammoth studios with additional help from John Agnello. Lead single ‘Helmet’ comes paired with a video directed by Marley Maginnis. Check it out below.

“As with most things in Buffalo Tom, we have a chemistry and a natural sound that emerges no matter how we try to manipulate it,” guitarist Bill Janovitz explained in a press release. “‘Helmet’ is a prime example of this phenomenon, a song that could be at home on any of our previous records, but I associate it mostly with the layered crisp sounds of Big Red Letter Day.”

Fat Dog Share Video for New Song ‘All the Same’

0

South London band Fat Dog, who signed to Domino Records last year, have shared their second single for the label. ‘All the Same’ follows last year’s ‘King of Slugs’, and it was co-produced by James Ford. Check out a video for it below.

Commenting on the track, Fat Dog said in a statement: “What if you could turn the clock back and make a change? Just a single, well-placed kick, that perhaps could change the whole course of your life. Perhaps the party never has to stop?”