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Bartees Strange Announces New Album ‘Horror’, Shares New Single ‘Sober’

Bartees Strange has announced his third LP, Horror. The follow-up to 2022’s Farm to Table is due for release on February 14 via 4AD. Today’s announcement comes with the release of the new single ‘Sober’, which follows the previously unveiled ‘Lie 95’. The track is accompanied by a video from director Ricardo Betancourt that draws inspiration from Sly & the Family Stone’s 1974 Soul Train performance. Check it out below and scroll down for the album cover and tracklist.

Strange produced ‘Sober’ with Jack Antonoff, Yves Rothman, and Lawrence Rothman. “This song is about falling short in a relationship, over and over and drinking because of it,” he explained in a statement. “I think this is something a lot of people can probably relate to. Being in love, but not being the best at showing it or feeling successful within it. And being afraid that this is something you’ll just always deal with because you never really saw a better example of how love works.”

Strange began working on the album at his home studio, laid down parts of it during a session with Yves and Lawrence Rothman, and finished it with Antonoff. Strange previously contributed to the self-titled album by Antonoff’s band Bleachers, which came out earlier this year. He was also featured in the soundtracks for Apple TV’s The New Look, produced and curated by Bleachers, as well as A24’s I Saw the TV Glow.

“In a way I think I made this record to reach out to people who may feel afraid of things in their lives too,” Strange reflected. “For me it’s love, locations, cosmic bad luck, or that feeling of doom that I’ve struggled with for as long as I can remember. I think that it’s easier to navigate the horrors and strangeness of life once you realize that everyone around you feels the same. This album is just me trying to connect. I’m trying to shrink the size of the world. I’m trying to feel close – so I’m less afraid.”

Horror Cover Artwork:

Horror Tracklist:

1. Too Much
2. Hit It Quit It
3. Sober
4. Baltimore
5. Lie 95
6. Wants, Needs
7. Lovers
8. Doomsday Buttercup
9. 17
10. Loop Defenders
11. Norf Gun
12. Backseat Banton

Geordie Greep Shares New Single ‘Blues’

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Ahead of the release of his debut solo album, The New Sound, this Friday, black midi’s Geordie Greep has shared one more preview, ‘Blues’. It follows the lead single ‘Holy, Holy’. Check it out below, along with a live performance video filmed at TV Eye in Brooklyn, New York.

Katie Malco Enlists SOAK for New Song ‘Babette’

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Katie Malco has released a new single, ‘Babette’, which features guest vocals from SOAK. It follows July’s ‘Fatal Attraction’, which marked the singer-songwriter’s first single in four years. Take a listen below.

“I wrote ‘Babette’ after a phone call with someone, where I felt I didn’t say any of the right things, they couldn’t hear me (literally and metaphorically), and ultimately, when I hung up, I felt that I didn’t fit into their life,” Malco explained in a statement. “I think the phone call is an analogy for not always knowing how to fit into social situations. I’m either too quiet and reserved or too loud and boisterous, but I can’t help it. I guess my personality can be a little too extreme in one direction or the other, and when I wrote Babette, I felt helpless to change it.”

SOAK added: “Myself and Katie navigated our way through North America with little more than our drivers’ licences and delusion a year or so back. Night after night when Katie began ‘Babette’ the relief was immediate. Not only had we successfully located the venue and survived that day’s gas station ‘lunch’ but we were really doing the thing! We were playing music in towns with names we couldn’t pronounce to handfuls of welcoming strangers. What more could we have asked for?”

Exploring the Appeal of Foot Fetishes: A Deep Dive into Modern Fetish Culture

Foot fetishes, a subcategory of body part fetishes, have steadily gained attention in mainstream and online spaces. This fascination, once considered taboo or niche, is now openly discussed across various platforms, allowing individuals to explore their preferences in more accepting environments. This article takes a deep dive into the appeal of foot fetishes, examining their origins, the psychology behind them, and how they fit into the broader landscape of modern fetish culture.

1. The History of Fetishism

Fetishes have been part of human sexuality for centuries, with foot fetishes being one of the most common. Historically, different cultures viewed feet in various symbolic ways. For instance, in ancient China, the practice of foot binding reflected ideals of beauty and femininity. Meanwhile, in medieval Europe, feet often held connotations of humility and submission. The rise of fetishism in psychology, spearheaded by Sigmund Freud, further introduced the idea of sexual attraction to non-genital body parts, feet being one of the most frequently mentioned examples. This historical context provides a backdrop for understanding the cultural fascination with feet in modern society.

2. Psychological Foundations of Foot Fetishes

Psychologists believe that foot fetishes are often linked to certain developmental stages or personal experiences. Freud’s theories suggested that fetishes could stem from childhood experiences or associations that solidify over time. Others believe it could be connected to sensory factors, such as the texture of feet or the way they look. Neurologically, the brain’s sensory map places feet near the areas that process genital sensations, which could explain the crossover for some people. This psychological framework helps explain why foot fetishes have such a broad and diverse following.

3. The Role of Media and Pop Culture

The portrayal of feet in pop culture, from iconic movie scenes to celebrity photoshoots, has certainly played a role in popularizing foot fetishes. Celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Uma Thurman have been praised for their feet in certain roles, cementing them as a focal point for admiration. In today’s digital age, social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have given rise to fan pages dedicated to celebrity feet. This increased visibility of feet in mainstream media has removed much of the stigma surrounding the fetish, allowing more people to feel comfortable discussing their interests.

4. The Evolution of Fetish Communities Online

With the advent of the internet, niche interests like foot fetishes found a safe space to thrive. Online forums and websites dedicated to various fetishes have allowed individuals to connect, share, and explore their preferences without fear of judgment. The rise of platforms specifically designed for buying and selling content related to feet, like Feet Finder, has further validated the interests of those with foot fetishes. These communities have cultivated a sense of belonging and acceptance, proving that such fetishes are not as uncommon or unusual as once thought.

5. Why Feet? The Allure of a Simple Body Part

For many, the appeal of feet lies in their subtle eroticism. Unlike more overtly sexual body parts, feet can be displayed in public without raising eyebrows, adding an element of mystery or intrigue for those who find them attractive. The sight of someone barefoot, in sandals, or wearing high heels can trigger arousal for those with a foot fetish. Furthermore, feet are often associated with vulnerability and submission, which plays into the desires of those who enjoy dominance and submissiveness within their sexual dynamics.

6. Foot Fetishism in Relationships

While foot fetishes are often misunderstood by those outside the fetish community, they can be integrated into relationships in a healthy and consensual manner. Many individuals with foot fetishes report that their partners are accepting, and even open to incorporating foot play into their intimacy. Communication and mutual consent are essential for exploring any fetish, including foot fetishes. Establishing trust and setting boundaries allows both partners to feel comfortable and respected, ensuring that the fetish enhances their connection rather than detracts from it.

7. The Intersection of Foot Fetishes and Fashion

Footwear plays a significant role in the appeal of foot fetishes, as shoes can accentuate the shape and form of feet. High heels, for instance, are often associated with power, elegance, and sensuality, which can amplify the fetish appeal. Shoes that expose the feet, such as sandals or open-toe styles, are also popular among foot fetishists. The fashion industry, perhaps unknowingly, caters to this fetish by continuously creating designs that draw attention to feet. This intersection between fetishism and fashion underscores how the allure of feet is not limited to their bare form but extends to how they are adorned and presented.

8. Breaking the Stigma Around Fetishes

Despite the growing visibility of fetishes like foot fetishes, there is still a lingering stigma attached to them. Many people feel embarrassed or ashamed to admit their preferences, fearing judgment from others. However, with greater representation in media and more open conversations about sexual diversity, the stigma is slowly being dismantled. As society becomes more accepting of different sexual preferences, people are increasingly finding the courage to embrace and share their fetishes without fear of condemnation.

9. The Role of Consent and Boundaries in Fetish Exploration

As with any form of sexual expression, consent and boundaries are crucial when exploring fetishes. It’s essential that all parties involved are comfortable and enthusiastic about participating in fetish-related activities. Whether in a relationship or through online platforms like Feet Finder, where users can buy and sell feet-related content, mutual respect is key. Healthy fetish exploration is about understanding the needs and limits of oneself and one’s partner, ensuring that all experiences are positive and consensual.

10. The Future of Fetish Culture in a Digital World

As technology continues to evolve, so too does the world of fetishism. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are already making waves in the adult industry, offering new ways for individuals to experience and engage with their fetishes. Foot fetishism, like many other fetishes, is likely to see even greater integration into these technological advances, allowing for more immersive and personalized experiences. The future of fetish culture will likely continue to break down barriers, fostering an environment where people can freely explore and enjoy their unique interests without judgment.

Feet Finder: A Platform for Foot Fetish Enthusiasts

One platform that has embraced this niche market is Feet Finder, a dedicated site where users can buy and sell content related to feet. It provides a safe and secure space for individuals to explore their interests without fear of judgment or exploitation. For both sellers and buyers, the platform offers a straightforward, user-friendly experience that caters specifically to the foot fetish community. Through this service, people can connect with like-minded individuals and explore their fetish in a consensual, respectful manner, making the exploration of foot fetishes more accessible than ever before.

Conclusion

Foot fetishes, once shrouded in secrecy, are now gaining recognition as a valid and accepted part of sexual expression. Whether through online platforms, pop culture, or interpersonal relationships, individuals with foot fetishes are finding new ways to embrace their preferences. With ongoing discussions about consent, boundaries, and the role of fetishes in modern sexuality, the appeal of foot fetishes continues to grow, reflecting a broader societal shift toward acceptance and understanding of diverse sexual interests.

claire rousay Announces New Album ‘The Bloody Lady’, Shares New Single

claire rousay has announced a new album, The Bloody Lady, which is set for release on November 8 via VIERNULVIER Records. It features the reimagined score rousay wrote for Viktor Kubal’s 1980 animated film of the same name, which she debuted at Videodroom/Film Fest Gent 2023 in Ghent, Belgium. The record is accompanied by an extensive booklet including film stills and liner notes by Rastislav Steranka and Wouter Vanhaelemeesch. Listen to the first single ‘III’ below.

Based on the folktale of Elisabeth Bathory, The Bloody Lady follows the story of a Slovak noblewoman who murders hundreds of young women in order to stay youthful. “The actions surrounding the heart are pivotal in the film, and, along with its heartbeat, they formed the initial pulse of the score,” rousay shared.

rousay released sentiment, her debut Thrill Jockey album, earlier this year.

When Chinatown Meets Brooklyn Bridge: The Making of a Disruptive Streetwear Experiment

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From September 20 to 22, 2024, renowned multidisciplinary fashion artist Guowei Su masterfully orchestrated the planning and execution of the fashion shoot for the “Birth of Royal Child” Autumn/Winter 2024 and Pre-Spring/Summer 2025 collections. This event was more than a typical fashion campaign; it was a vivid fusion of artistic expression, fashion innovation, and social commentary. It marked an exhilarating collaboration between Su and key figures in the fashion and music industries, including the popular influencer Beenslackin and renowned photographer Bladi, known for his impactful work within New York’s hip-hop scene.

During the campaign’s pre-production phase, Su and his team meticulously crafted a central theme that not only highlighted the brand’s urban identity but also wove a rich tapestry of exclusivity and empowerment. Drawing inspiration from the brand’s core philosophy of treating each consumer as the “chosen one,” Su created a visual spectacle centered around stark juxtapositions. He positioned models against the raw, unembellished backdrops of urban landscapes, creating a dramatic contrast with the luxurious textures and intricate craftsmanship of the garments. This visual strategy emphasized the adaptability of high fashion to the rugged realities of urban life, showcasing the garments’ versatility.

(The skate park beneath the Brooklyn Bridge.)

Su’s selection of locations was strategic and laden with symbolism. The back entrance of an Asian grocery store in Manhattan’s Chinatown was chosen for its textured authenticity and cultural vibrancy. This setting, with its weathered signage and colorful cultural artifacts set against the bustling backdrop of Chinatown, provided a rich narrative layer that highlighted the refined elegance of the clothing while rooting them in a space of cultural heritage. In contrast, a skate park beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, with its rough textures and dynamic graffiti, tapped into the pulse of street culture, infusing the campaign with an energetic, youthful vibe that complemented the luxurious garments.

These carefully chosen locales were instrumental in crafting the campaign’s narrative, demonstrating the brand’s unique ability to merge high fashion with elements of street culture. Each photograph resonated with themes of resilience, identity, and empowerment. Collaborating closely with Beenslackin, Guowei Su drew deeply from New York’s rich streetwear heritage to inform his styling choices. Together, they aimed to honor the city’s authentic urban culture while casting it through a lens of luxury and exclusivity that is integral to the “Birth of Royal Child’s” brand ethos.

Building on the foundational elements of classic New York streetwear—such as sophisticated layering techniques, vintage denim, and iconic Timberland boots—Su infused the collection with symbols of resilience and the enduring spirit of the urban landscape. To these, he added luxurious embellishments like pearls and rhinestones, which endowed the outfits with a regal, elevated quality that set them apart from conventional streetwear.

(The skate park beneath the Brooklyn Bridge.)

A curated color palette of muted, tonal earth tones and deep blacks created a cohesive visual context, allowing the intricate embellishments to shine brilliantly. This color scheme achieved a perfect balance between tradition and innovation, where the past and present coalesced seamlessly. The final visuals of the campaign brilliantly captured the essence of “Birth of Royal Child,” presenting a harmonious blend of street culture and opulent luxury. The selected backdrops, characterized by their inherent raw and chaotic energy, provided the perfect canvas for the polished, meticulously designed garments. These settings underscored the brand’s adeptness at juxtaposition—urban grit against luxurious detail—highlighting the adaptability of the pieces across varied environments.

(Final results from this photoshoot)

Ultimately, the campaign did more than showcase garments; it made a profound statement on the evolving landscape of streetwear, illustrating that luxury and street culture can coexist harmoniously to forge something genuinely transformative. “Birth of Royal Child” doesn’t just design clothes; it crafts experiences, empowering each wearer to feel uniquely royal and deeply connected to both the heritage and the progressive future of urban fashion. Through this campaign, Guowei Su has not only showcased his stylistic expertise but has also pushed the boundaries of what fashion can represent in modern urban culture.

Clairo Joins Jonah Yano on New Single ‘Snowpath’

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Jonah Yano and his band the Heavy Loop have enlisted Clairo for ‘Snowpath’, the latest single from their upcoming self-titled album, which arrives on Friday. Check it out below.

Last year, Clairo joined Yano on the song ‘concentrate’, contributing backing vocals and clarinet. Yano’s sophomore album, portrait of a dog, came out in January 2023.

Maria Somerville Unveils New Single ‘Projections’

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Maria Somerville has released a new single, ‘Projections’. It marks the Irish musician’s first new single in three years, as well as her first release for 4AD. The track comes paired with visuals by Somerville, Michael Speers, and Róisín Berkeley, recorded on VHS across Marseille and Somerville’s native Galway. Check it out below.

Understanding Long Term Disability Payments in Toronto: A Comprehensive Guide

Navigating long-term disability (LTD) benefits can be challenging, especially when facing the stress of a medical condition. If you reside in Toronto and find yourself in need of financial support due to a disability, it is crucial to understand how LTD benefits work and what kind of compensation you can expect. This article provides a thorough overview of LTD payments in Toronto, helping you understand the eligibility criteria, benefit calculations, and the role legal professionals like Affinity Lawyers play in ensuring you receive fair compensation.

What Is Long-Term Disability Insurance?

Long term disability insurance is designed to provide income replacement to individuals who are unable to work due to a prolonged illness, injury, or other medical conditions. LTD policies are often offered through employer-sponsored group insurance plans, though some individuals opt to purchase private coverage.

Key Features of Long-Term Disability Insurance

  • Income Replacement: Typically replaces a portion of your regular earnings, ensuring you have a financial safety net while you’re unable to work.
  • Waiting Period: Benefits usually start after a waiting period (known as the “elimination period”), which can range from 90 to 180 days after your short-term disability benefits or sick leave end.
  • Benefit Duration: LTD benefits can last until you recover, reach a specific age (such as 65), or meet the maximum duration set by the policy.

How Are Long-Term Disability Payments Calculated?

LTD benefits are typically calculated as a percentage of your pre-disability income. However, the exact amount you receive can vary depending on your insurance policy’s terms and your specific circumstances.

Percentage of Income Replacement

In Toronto, most LTD policies offer compensation between 60% to 70% of your pre-disability gross monthly earnings. The specific percentage depends on your employer’s insurance plan or private insurance agreement.

For instance, if your gross monthly income before the disability was $5,000, and your LTD policy covers 65%, your monthly LTD benefit would be:

$5,000 x 0.65 = $3,250

Taxation of LTD Benefits

Whether LTD benefits are taxed depends on who pays the premiums:

  • Employer-Paid Premiums: If your employer pays the LTD premiums, your benefits will be taxed as regular income.
  • Employee-Paid Premiums: If you pay the LTD premiums out of your own pocket, your benefits are typically non-taxable.

It’s important to consult with a financial advisor or legal professional to fully understand how your LTD benefits will be taxed.

Eligibility Criteria for Long-Term Disability in Toronto

To qualify for LTD benefits, you must meet the eligibility criteria outlined in your insurance policy. While specific requirements may vary, common criteria include:

  • Medical Condition: You must have a medical condition that prevents you from performing the essential duties of your job.
  • Elimination Period: You must complete the elimination period, which is usually 90 to 180 days, during which you are not working and not receiving other benefits like short-term disability or sick leave.
  • Proof of Disability: You must provide adequate medical documentation and evidence that your disability impairs your ability to work.

It is essential to thoroughly review your insurance policy to understand all the terms and conditions, as some policies have more restrictive definitions of disability than others.

Types of Disabilities Covered Under LTD

LTD policies in Toronto cover a wide range of disabilities, from physical injuries to mental health conditions. The primary categories include:

  • Physical Disabilities: Chronic pain, musculoskeletal disorders, neurological conditions, and serious injuries from accidents.
  • Mental Health Conditions: Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health disorders that significantly impair one’s ability to work.
  • Chronic Illnesses: Autoimmune diseases, cancer, diabetes, and other long-term medical conditions.

Understanding the scope of your coverage can help you better assess whether you qualify for LTD benefits.

Common Challenges in Receiving LTD Benefits

While LTD insurance is meant to provide financial support during times of need, the claims process can be complicated and sometimes contentious. Some of the common challenges faced by claimants include:

Denial of Claims

Insurance companies may deny LTD claims for various reasons, such as lack of sufficient medical evidence or discrepancies in the documentation. In such cases, working with an experienced legal professional, such as those at Affinity Lawyers, can be invaluable in appealing the decision and securing your rightful benefits.

Termination of Benefits

In some cases, insurance companies may terminate LTD benefits prematurely, arguing that the claimant is no longer disabled or can return to work. It’s crucial to understand your rights and seek legal advice if your benefits are unfairly terminated.

Disputes Over the Definition of Disability

LTD policies often differentiate between “own occupation” and “any occupation” definitions of disability. This distinction can significantly impact your eligibility for benefits, as the criteria for each are different:

  • Own Occupation: You are considered disabled if you cannot perform the duties of your specific job.
  • Any Occupation: You are considered disabled only if you cannot perform the duties of any job for which you are reasonably qualified, given your education, training, and experience.

Seeking Legal Assistance: When to Contact a Lawyer

While some individuals can navigate the LTD process on their own, many find it beneficial to seek legal assistance, especially when dealing with denied claims or terminated benefits. Law firms like Affinity Lawyers specialize in disability law and can help ensure that your case is properly presented, increasing your chances of receiving the benefits you are entitled to.

How Can a Lawyer Help?

  • Assessing Your Claim: A lawyer can review your LTD policy and medical documentation to assess the strength of your claim.
  • Gathering Evidence: Legal professionals can help gather the necessary medical and vocational evidence to support your disability claim.
  • Appealing Denied Claims: If your LTD claim is denied, a lawyer can represent you during the appeals process, negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf.

Final Thoughts: Understanding LTD Payments in Toronto

Receiving long-term disability benefits can be a complex and often overwhelming process, especially when dealing with a disability that affects your life and career. Understanding how LTD benefits are calculated, knowing the eligibility criteria, and being aware of the common challenges can help you better navigate the process.

For individuals in Toronto, consulting with professionals like Affinity Lawyers can provide valuable insights and assistance, especially if your claim has been denied or terminated. By being proactive and informed, you can ensure that you receive the financial support you need during difficult times.

If you are facing challenges with your LTD claim, it’s always advisable to seek guidance and support to help you through the process.

10 interesting facts about modern online casinos

The history of the gambling industry goes back more than 25 years. During this time, a lot has happened in the world of online slots and roulette simulators.

Today, the meilleurs casino francais en ligne published thousands of slots. Operators come up with a system of free bonuses for each game.

Opening of the first virtual hall

It happened in 1994. The company Microgaming, which was producing slot machines for land-based gambling clubs, decided to explore a new segment in the form of Internet games. It was in this year that the first model of online casino appeared, where you could make real bets in slots.

The emergence of the first regulators

Online gambling clubs were not regulated or licenced by anyone for a long time. The first regulator appeared in 1996; in full, these companies have earned only since the mid-twenties. Today, when choosing a platform, you should be guided by a certificate from a regulatory organisation. Otherwise, you can not count on the integrity of payments.

Presentation of the first progressive slot machines

The world of online casinos turned upside down when Microgaming released the first progressive slot. The prise fund was formed not from the coefficients of pictures but from the percentage deductions from the bets of players around the world. Therefore, users had the opportunity to compete for the first time for winnings of more than 10000000 euros. Actual selection with casinos for money confirms the presence of such jackpots.

The boom of slot machines

It happened in the early two thousand years. It was then that the Austrian studio Novomatic and dozens of other companies debuted on the market. This led to the fact that new slot games began to be added to the casino windows every week. Today, in popular gambling clubs, you can find 1000’s of models, both past and present.

The emergence of games with live dealers

In 2007, gambling reached a new level of development. It happened thanks to the introduction of the live casino section. Now, with the help of their personal computers and laptops, visitors could connect to the online room and start playing gambling in the virtual broadcast mode. On the other side of the screen, the gambler was waiting for a real dealer, with whom you could chat.

The first progressive jackpot

Despite the fact that progressive slot machines appeared in the late nineties, the first big win had to wait more than 10 years. In 2011, an anonymous player from Australia won more than $100,000 and got into the Guinness Book of Records.

The first mobile application

The era of the 2010s marked a new direction in the Internet mobile gambling. Gambling clubs one after another began to release their own programmes. Today, applications of licenced casinos can be installed on both Windows and Android.

Modernisation of the bonus system

It was in the mid-twenties that a large number of bonuses began to appear in casinos. One of the central elements of the prise system becomes a loyalty programme. In it, the number of bonuses depends on the player’s activity.

The emergence of Bitcoin casinos

The discovery of cryptocurrency most directly affected the state of the gambling industry. Gaming clubs didn’t just start accepting digital coins. Some operators launched gaming platforms that worked exclusively with cryptocurrency money.

Legalisation of online gambling in Europe

By the end of the 2010s, many EU countries realised that there was no point in restricting and banning online casinos. State regulators began to appear, which brought gambling into the legal mainstream.

Today everyone can start playing at online casinos. To do this, you need to confirm your age, register an account, and open a deposit. Casinos support different payment systems, where, in addition to bank cards, you can work with e-wallets.