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Middle Kids Release Video for New Song ‘Bend’

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Middle Kids have released ‘Bend’, a new single lifted from their forthcoming album Faith Crisis Pt 1 – out February 16 via Lucky Number. Jonathan Gilmore produced the track, which follows previous offering ‘Dramamine’. Check out its accopanying video, directed by sibling directors The Potter Sisters, below.

“I grew up with a solid framework for what life is, but I got to a point when I started to question some of the fundamental truths of what I believed,” lead singer Hannah Joy explained in a statement about the song. “It was very painful and disorienting. I began to have this feeling that I couldn’t hold together all the things I valued, family, creativity, work, safety, community, spirituality.”

Ljubljana’s Charms: Exploring the Green Capital of Europe

Situated in the centre of Slovenia, Ljubljana is a city that is frequently recognised for its environmental awareness and serves as an example of Europe’s dedication to sustainability. Discover a variety of experiences in this dynamic capital that combines a modern metropolitan lifestyle with a solid historical background. From its lively art scene to its peaceful riverbanks, Ljubljana encapsulates a unique charm that beckons visitors to explore its many facets. Let’s journey through Ljubljana’s cobbled streets, green spaces, and cultural hotspots.

Discovering the Centre of the City

Ljubljana’s Old Town is what gives the city its charm. Walk beside the Ljubljanica River, lined with charming cafes and ornate houses, until you reach the well-known Triple Bridge. A lovely environment is created here by mixing modern life with historically significant architecture. For travellers planning their visit, obtaining a Slovenia evisa is essential, ensuring a hassle-free entry to this enchanting city. The Old Town also hosts a variety of artisan shops and local boutiques, perfect for finding unique souvenirs. On weekends, the riverside comes alive with street performers and artists, adding to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Try the local ice cream flavours as you wander through this enchanting part of Ljubljana.

The Castle on the Hill

Discovering Ljubljana’s historic castle is a must-do activity on each visit. Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill, provides sweeping city views. Accessible by a funicular railway, the court boasts a rich history and hosts various cultural events. Inside, the Museum of Slovenian History provides insights into the nation’s past, while the Outlook Tower promises breathtaking views. The castle grounds are also home to several charming cafes and a renowned restaurant offering traditional Slovenian dishes. During the summer, the castle’s courtyard becomes a venue for open-air cinema nights under the starlit sky. For a unique experience, join one nightly guided tour that reveals the castle’s secrets and legends.

Green Spaces and Dragon Tales

The 2016 European Green Capital, Ljubljana, has verdant parks and green areas. The biggest park in the city, Tivoli Park, is a sanctuary for those who enjoy the outdoors and working out. In the meantime, you must see the Dragon Bridge, ornamented with its famous dragon statues. Legend has it that the dragons will wag their tails when a virgin crosses the bridge! Discover the Botanical Gardens, which have a peaceful pond and over 4,500 different plant varieties, in addition to Tivoli. Join a guided bike tour that winds through the city’s green spaces for a singular outdoor experience. Families will love the ZOO Ljubljana, which is tucked away in the woods next to Tivoli Park and provides an insight into the work to save wildlife.

Culinary Delights and Local Flavors

Discover the flavours of Slovenian cuisine in Ljubljana, which combines Mediterranean, Alpine, and Hungarian influences. A hub for foodies, the Central Market serves up fresh produce, regional specialities, and handcrafted goods. Try a traditional Slovenian potica or a hearty Carniolan sausage. Go to one of the city’s Michelin-starred restaurants for a wonderful dining experience. Charming eateries offering the renowned bled cream cake—a treat you must try—can be found among the busy streets. Every Friday, chefs from all around Slovenia display their culinary prowess at the Open Kitchen food market, which transforms into the city’s centre of attention. Enjoy a Slovenian wine-tasting experience where you may learn about the rich winemaking history of the nation from local sommeliers if you’re a connoisseur of fine wine.

Cultural Immersion and Nightlife

The designs on traditional Slovenian clothing are just as rich and varied as the cultural tapestry of Ljubljana. The city is transformed into a thriving centre of nighttime vitality and artistic expression when the sun sets. Step into the bustling Metelkova Mesto, an autonomous cultural centre, where every wall and corner bursts with eclectic street art, offering an alternative insight into Slovenia’s creative spirit. Like the renowned Ljubljana Puppet Theatre, the city’s theatres present captivating performances that weave together Slovenia’s folklore and contemporary narratives. Local and international sounds are constantly pulsating through jazz salons, sophisticated wine bars, and vibrant nightclubs located in the city centre. People gather here, at the epicentre of Ljubljana nightlife, stories are exchanged, and the essence of Slovenian joie de vivre is felt in its most authentic form.

Ljubljana’s seamless fusion of environmental initiatives, history, and culture makes it more than just a travel destination. Its streets tell stories of past and present, its cuisine reflects the richness of Slovenian traditions, and its green ethos resonates throughout. As you delve into the enchanting streets of Ljubljana, every turn reveals a new marvel, a fusion of sensory experiences and captivating folklore. The city embraces you, urging you to immerse in its diverse attractions, from historical wonders and natural beauty to the irresistible allure of its culinary scene.

The Reason Why Gaming Is Growing As a Favourite Pastime

Today we’re taking a peek into why gaming is such a wildly popular pastime. Grab your joystick, mouse, or whatever your weapon of choice is, and let’s dive into this pixelated world.

The Great Escape

Outside, the world hustles and bustles with the mundane, but inside your screen lies a universe of endless possibilities. Gaming is the ultimate escape hatch from the boredoms of daily life. It’s where you can scale mountains in Skyrim, swing through New York City as Spider-Man, or build an entire civilization from scratch. This digital escapism isn’t just about running away from reality; it’s about embracing a world where the only limits are your imagination and maybe your GPU’s processing power.

The Thrill Of Victory

There’s something deeply satisfying about overcoming challenges, especially in the gaming world. Every boss defeated, every level up, every quest completed feels like a personal triumph. Remember the time you finally beat that Dark Souls boss after the umpteenth try? That wasn’t just a win; it was a rite of passage. Gaming teaches us that persistence pays off, and the thrill of victory is often proportional to the difficulty of the challenge. Plus, let’s not forget the bragging rights that come with these victories. “Oh, you climbed a real mountain? That’s cute, I defeated Malenia in Elder Ring.”

Social Butterflies In The Gaming World

Remember LAN parties? Or the first time you put on a headset and teamed up with people from around the world? Gaming creates communities, friendships, and sometimes even rivalries (looking at you, player always camping in PubG). It’s where introverts and extroverts alike can find common ground, where friendships are forged in the fires of cooperative play or competitive matches. Gaming is the new town square, a place where people gather not just to play, but to share stories, strategies, and the occasional good-natured trash talk.

A Story Better Than Your Favorite Book

Ever played a game that had you so hooked you thought about it even when you weren’t playing? That’s the power of storytelling in games. Unlike movies or books, games put you in the driver’s seat of the narrative. You’re not just watching a hero’s journey; you are the hero. The choices you make, the paths you choose, all weave together to create a tale that’s uniquely yours. Whether it’s the complex narrative of The Witcher series or the emotional journey in The Last of Us, these stories stay with us long after we’ve turned off the console.

Skills To Pay The Virtual Bills

Let’s not forget the real-world skills gaming can hone. Think about it – managing resources and building cities in games like Civilization or SimCity isn’t too far off from project management skills. Those fast-paced FPS games? Hello, improved hand-eye coordination and split-second decision making. Even MMORPGs, with their focus on team-based objectives and social interaction, can teach us a thing or two about teamwork and leadership. So next time someone questions the hours you spend gaming, just tell them you’re in the middle of an intense skill-building session. It’s not just a game; it’s personal development, one level at a time.

The Collector’s Joy

Ah, the sweet satisfaction of collection! Every gamer knows the thrill of finding that rare item. It’s like digital treasure hunting. Each new item is a trophy, a testament to your dedication (and maybe a bit of luck). Whether it’s Pokémon or rare skins in CS:GO, there’s a certain pride in having something others don’t. It’s the gamer’s version of having a rare stamp collection or unique antiques, only cooler because you can show them off in a virtual world. Plus, there’s always that one item that eludes you, keeping you coming back for more. It’s not just collecting; it’s an endless quest for the holy grail of gaming loot.

Patience, Not Just A Card Game

In the world of instant gratification, gaming throws a curveball with titles like Patience. It’s not just a card game; it’s a metaphor for the strategic planning and forethought that many games require. This isn’t about mindless clicking or grinding; it’s about calculated moves and playing the long game. It’s a reminder that sometimes, slowing down and thinking ahead can be just as thrilling as the fast-paced action games. Plus, there’s something oddly satisfying about aligning those cards in perfect order, a small oasis of calm in the high-energy world of gaming.

A Challenge For The Brain

Games are the brain’s gym. They’re where cognitive skills do their heavy lifting. Puzzle games like Portal or strategy-heavy games like StarCraft demand critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. These games don’t just entertain; they sharpen the mind. They’re like mental Sudoku, but more fun, with better graphics. Each challenge conquered is a neuron trained, each puzzle solved is a bit of mental agility gained. And let’s be honest, there’s a certain smug satisfaction in outsmarting a particularly tough game. It’s not just playing; it’s brainpower flexing.

The Ever-Changing Landscape

The gaming world is a shape-shifter. It’s always evolving, with new technologies, genres, and experiences emerging constantly. Remember when VR seemed like sci-fi? Now, it’s here, and it’s spectacular. This constant evolution keeps gamers on their toes. You never know what’s coming next – a game that pushes the graphic boundaries, a new indie darling that takes the world by storm, or a technological innovation that changes the way we play. This ever-changing landscape isn’t just exciting; it’s a testament to human creativity and ingenuity, all packed into the world of gaming.

The Nostalgia Factor

Nostalgia in gaming is like comfort food for the soul. It’s revisiting those cherished memories of blowing into cartridges, battling 8-bit bosses, or hearing that iconic game startup sound. Retro gaming isn’t just about replaying old games; it’s about recapturing moments in time. It’s a bridge between past and present, reminding us of our gaming roots while appreciating how far we’ve come. And the beauty is, these games have a timeless charm; they’re as much fun today as they were back then. They remind us that, at its core, gaming is about joy, wonder, and a touch of whimsy.

So there you have it, 10 reasons why gaming is the go-to pastime for millions. Whether it’s the thrill of the adventure, the joy of collecting, or just the need to escape reality for a bit, games offer something for everyone. If you’ve never tried it, give it a go. You’d be surprised at how amazing the world of gaming can be.

Eels Share New Single ‘Christmas, Why You Gotta Do Me Like This’

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Eels have released a new holiday track, ‘Christmas, Why You Gotta Do Me Like This’. It’s set to appear on their upcoming compilation EELS So Good: Essential EELS, Vol.2, which is out December 15, and follows the band’s previous festive songs, ‘Everything’s Gonna Be Cool This Christmas’ and ‘Christmas is Going to the Dogs’. Listen below.

Eeels’ new compilation follows Meet the EELS: Essential EELS 1996-2006 Vol. 1, which came out in 2008. It spans 20 songs, including three previously unreleased tracks.

Bolis Pupul Announces New Album ‘Letter to Yu’, Shares New Single

Bolis Pupul has announced his debut solo album, Letter to Yu. Following the producer and singer-songwriter’s 2022 album with Charlotte Adigéry, Topical Dancer, the 11-track LP comes out March 8 via their label DEEWEE. Lead single ‘Completely Half’ arrives with a music video filmed in Hong Kong and directed by Bieke Depoorter. Check it out and find Letter to Yu‘s details below.

Made with Soulwax, Letter to Yu is a love letter to Pupul’s late mother, who passed away in 2008 in a traffic accident. “When I started to think about my roots, I started to embrace them,” Pupul, who was born to a Belgian father and a Chinese mother, said in press materials. “And it became more and more important for me to get in touch with them. I went to evening school and began learning Chinese. I did that for four years. That was the first step.”

In 2018, Pupul made his first visit to Hong Kong with the intention of locating where his mother, Yu Wei Wun, was born. He began writing a letter to her, which eventually became “the centerpiece of this album.” Pupul added, “Even though this trip was very emotional and at times sad, I also had some great times that just made me really happy. This resulted in a very uplifting melody where I felt like I could handle my life.”

Letter to Yu Cover Artwork: 

Letter to Yu Tracklist: 

1. Letter To Yu
2. Completely Half
3. Goodnight Mr Yi
4. Frogs
5. Doctor Says
6. Spicy Crab
7. Ma Tau Wei Road (feat. Salah Pupul)
8. Causeway Bae
9. Cantonese
10. Kowloon
11. Cosmic Rendez-Vous1. Letter To Yu
2. Completely Half
3. Goodnight Mr Yi
4. Frogs
5. Doctor Says
6. Spicy Crab
7. Ma Tau Wei Road (feat. Salah Pupul)
8. Causeway Bae
9. Cantonese
10. Kowloon
11. Cosmic Rendez-Vous

Review: 21 (2008)

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Running a fast one on Las Vegas Casinos, has been a dream that has captivated countless people. With many blockbuster Hollywood films and documentaries about cheating Vegas celebrating this dream, even with hackers taking down Vegas casinos. But what if one group actually made this a reality without cyber attacks, but with sheer ingenuity and probability? Such is the premise of the 2008 movie, “21.”

Plot Overview

“21” revolves around the true story of the MIT Blackjack Team, focusing on the character Ben Campbell and his involvement in a group of students using their mathematical skills to beat the casinos in Las Vegas. Ben Campbell, needs a $300,000 scholarship for Harvard medical school. He is recruited by Professor Rosa to join a group of card-counters planning to make a fortune in Vegas on weekends.

Card counting is a strategy used in certain casino card games, particularly in blackjack, to gain an advantage over the house by keeping track of the ratio of high-value to low-value cards remaining in the deck or shoe. While not illegal, casinos generally frown upon and may ban individuals found to be card counting.

Ben initially resists but eventually joins the team and learns the blackjack system through montage sequences and passes the test. The team goes to Vegas, and they start winning. Casino security begins to notice their activities, and that’s where the thrill of the chase, the ultimate cat and mouse game begins.

Character Portrayals

The lead character, Ben Campbell, portrayed by Jim Sturgess, is central to the narrative. Other notable characters include Kevin Spacey as Mickey Rosa, Laurence Fishburne as Cole Williams, and Kate Bosworth as Jill. Each character contributes to the dynamics of the story.

Behind-the-Scenes Talent

The success of the film is attributed to the direction of Robert Luketic, the screenplay by Peter Steinfeld and Allan Loeb, and the dedication of producers Dana Brunetti and Kevin Spacey.

Critical Reception and Awards

Jim Sturgess’s Hollywood debut was an exciting journey, and the cast embraced the Vegas experience, immersing themselves in the world of MIT students turned gamblers. Kevin Spacey faced challenges during the film’s production but ultimately found success in bringing the story to the screen.

Despite receiving only average ratings on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes and IMDb, the movie gained popularity and was nominated for awards, winning the ‘Best Ensemble’ category at the 2008 ShoWest Convention USA.

Other Notable Casino Movies

There are many iconic casino movies that have captivated audiences with their thrilling plots, high-stakes games, and glamorous settings. Here are some famous casino movies like 21 that romanticize the casino industry:

  1. Casino (1995):
    • Directed by Martin Scorsese, “Casino” is a classic film set in the world of Las Vegas casinos. Starring Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Sharon Stone, the movie explores the rise and fall of a casino empire and the intricate relationships within.
  2. Ocean’s Eleven (2001):
    • Directed by Steven Soderbergh, “Ocean’s Eleven” is a heist film featuring an ensemble cast led by George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and Julia Roberts. The story revolves around a plan to rob three Las Vegas casinos simultaneously.
  3. Rounders (1998):
    • Starring Matt Damon and Edward Norton, “Rounders” is a drama about high-stakes poker. Damon plays a reformed gambler drawn back into the world of underground poker to help his friend pay off a debt.
  4. The Sting (1973):
    • Directed by George Roy Hill and starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford, “The Sting” is a classic film set in the 1930s about two con men who plan an elaborate scheme to con a mob boss.

21’s Influence on the iGaming Industry

While many have mixed opinions about 21, its impact on casino culture, especially for blackjack players, continues to be felt. Unlike land-based casinos, the upper-echelon of online casinos, which today are worth hundreds of billion dollars, have extensive and detailed guides about poker and Blackjack games, with success tips on how to win. No doubt some players were inspired by 21 to sharpen their blackjack skills, so they can win lucrative blackjack tournaments, that can top hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Spending Your Spare Time The Right Way

Are you fed up with spending your spare time scrolling your phone? When we have spare time and don’t use it to our advantage, it is a waste.

It doesn’t matter if you want to start an arts and crafts hobby or a new sport, it is good to spend your spare time wisely. 

Using this guide, you can find the best ways to make the most of your spare time.

Play a game

When you have spare time and want some fun, you can play the likes of spider solitaire online. Passing the time by playing games is a lot of fun and will guarantee to make the time go quicker.

You can play these alone or with friends. Either way, you can enhance your gaming skills and have a lot of fun. You don’t need to scroll your phone. Instead, you can play a computer or app game and have lots of fun. Who knows, you might even find a new hobby.

Coffee with friends

What better way to spend spare time than having coffee with friends? You can catch up with an old friend or take a colleague for tea at the local coffee shop. 

It is good to socialize when you have spare time. It helps your mind stay connected and your mental health stay good. You can go for a walk to get your steps in. Or, stay cozy inside and enjoy some time gossiping and sharing news.

Learn a new skill

Whether or not you are a skillful person, it can be a great idea to spend your spare time learning a new skill. Whether you have an idea to learn a new language or how to paint, do it. There are so many new skills you can pick up.

These skills can be for fun. Or, you could use them in your career or a side hustle. It is great to challenge yourself and learn new things. Your brain will remain healthy and you can feel fulfilled in your free time.

Relax in the bath

Ooh, what sounds better than spending an hour or so relaxing in a bath? We must make time for self-care. If you don’t often find enough time to relax and indulge in yourself, try to spend your spare moments doing things like this.

A long relaxing soak in the bath will do your mind and body wonders. It is good for your muscles to de-stress and your mind to get lost in the essence of silence.

Read a new book

If you are someone who enjoys reading or knows they want to read more, it is a smart move to read more books when you have time. 

You can find something to challenge yourself. You can use these challenging books to learn new things. Or, you can pick up stories from your favorite author and get lost for 30 minutes or so. Find somewhere comfortable to read as this will make the experience much nicer. Plus, it might encourage you to spend a little longer relaxing. This is great for your mind and body.

Create something fun

Do you like the sound of making new things? If so, it is a great idea to spend your spare time creating things. You could learn a new skill and learn how to make furniture from leftover wood. 

There are so many things you can create in your spare time. Whatever comes to mind, do it and have fun with it. You might pick up a new hobby and continue spending your spare time doing things that bring you joy.

Get that body moving

Why not boost your fitness when you have a bit of free time? If you have a spare hour, you could use it to go for a run and have a hot shower.

It is wise to fit exercise into your weekly routine. If you don’t often find the time to exercise, it makes sense to do it when you get spare time. If exercise isn’t something you enjoy, you might be able to think of other ways to spend your spare time. But, you need to know it is good for you and you will feel amazing afterward.

Did you know that having a nap can be productive?

A nap is actually a productive way to spend your leisure time. If you are feeling tired, your body will benefit from the extra rest. 

It is good to get 20 to 30 minutes. This gives your body and brain enough time to unwind and reset itself. You should wake up feeling like new!

Get that to-do list finished

If you have an evergrowing to-do list, try to use your spare time to run errands. Sounds terrific, right?

You will find yourself feeling satisfied when it comes to the end of your spare time and you have a lot fewer things on your mind. If you have been meaning to go to the post office, you can do this. You might even have time to return the clothes you bought two weeks ago. Whatever you need to do, try and get it done in your spare time.

See more of the fantastic world

If you enjoy travel, it is a great idea to spend your spare time exploring new places. You could explore local places and see more of where you live. 

Or, your spare time might look like a few days due to the annual holiday. Either way, use this time to explore more of the world. Adventuring is great for the soul and it will leave you feeling fulfilled. Even if you don’t have anyone to go with, you will feel rewarded. Don’t let a lack of people put you off from seeing the world. You can have so much fun on your own.

Using this guide, you can find the best ways to use your spare time. You don’t need to lie around being bored. There is so much you can do to feel satisfied.

Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo Announced as Final ‘SNL’ Musical Guests of 2023

Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo have been announced as the musical guests for the last two Saturday Night Live episodes of 2023. On December 9, Rodrigo will return for a second time as the musical guest with host Adam Driver, while Eilish is set to perform on the December 16 edition of the show, hosted by SNL alum and Barbie star Kate McKinnon. This week’s episode is hosted by Emma Stone, with Noah Kahan making his SNL debut as musical guest.

Future Islands Release New Single ‘The Fight’

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Future Islands have dropped a new single, ‘The Fight’, taken from their upcoming album People Who Aren’t There Anymore. It follows previous singles ‘The Tower’, ‘Peach’, ‘King of Sweden’, and ‘Deep in the Night’. Check it out below.

People Who Aren’t There Anymore is set to arrive on January 26 via 4AD.

Watch Keanu Reeves’ Dogstar Perform ‘Breach’ on ‘Kimmel’

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Dogstar were the musical guests on last night’s episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live. The band – which features Keanu Reeves on bass, guitarist/vocalist Bret Domrose, and drummer Robert Mailhouse – performed ‘Breach’, a single from their latest album Somewhere Between the Palm Trees and Power Lines. Watch it below.

Somewhere Between The Palm Trees and Power Lines, Dogstar’s third studio album and first since 2000’s Happy Ending, came out in June.