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boygenius Share Video for New Single ‘Not Strong Enough’

boygenius have shared another single from their forthcoming debut album, the record. ‘Not Strong Enough’ comes with an accompanying video shot by the band – composed of Phoebe Bridgers, Lucy Dacus, and Julien Baker – and edited by Bridgers’ brother Jackson. Watch and listen below.

the record is set for release on March 31 via Interscope/Polydor. Upon its announcement, the trio unveiled three songs from it: ‘$20’, ‘Emily I’m Sorry’, and ‘True Blue’.

Fontaines D.C. Cover Nick Drake’s ‘Cello Song’ for New Tribute Compilation

Fontaines D.C. have offered their take on Nick Drake’s ‘Cello Song’. The cover appears on the upcoming tribute album The Endless Coloured Ways: The Songs of Nick Drake, which comes out July 7 (via Chrysalis) and also features Liz Phair, Feist, Radiohead’s Philip Selway, Let’s Eat Grandma, Bombay Bicycle Club & The Staves, Ben Harper, John Parish & Aldous Harding, Christian Lee Hutson, Skullcrusher & Gia Margaret, Mike Lindsay & Guy Garvey, Aurora, and more. Check out the tracklist below.

The compilation was put together Cally Callomon, manager of the Nick Drake Estate, and Jeremy Lascelles, co-founder of Blue Raincoat Music and CEO of Chrysalis Records. “Cally and I embarked on this venture with one simple brief to each of the artists – that they ignore the original recording of Nick’s, and reinvent the song in their own unique style,” Lascelles said in a statement. “It was really humbling to hear so many similar responses, with everyone saying how important Nick’s music was to them, and how much they wanted to be part of this project. As the results came in one by one, we were thrilled by the brilliance and invention that each artist had shown. They had done exactly what we hoped for – they had made the song their own.”

Callomon added: “Nick Drake was not that concerned with promoting himself as an artist but I think he would have been overjoyed to hear his art revisited and newly promoted by so many vibrant and talented artists. Jeremy and I also felt it crucial that the album should flow, as a cohesive listening experience, as opposed to a gallery of separate exhibits. Whether we have succeeded in these two ambitions, only the listener can tell. We are honoured and so grateful to all our friends, old and new, who took part in the making of this beautiful set.”

The Endless Coloured Ways: The Songs of Nick Drake Cover Artwork:

The Endless Coloured Ways: The Songs of Nick Drake Tracklist:

1. The Wandering Hearts – Voice From A Mountain
2. Fontaines DC – Cello Song
3. Camille – Hazey Jane II
4. Mike Lindsay [feat. Guy Garvey] – Saturday Sun
5. Bombay Bicycle Club and The Staves – Road
6. Let’s Eat Grandma – From The Morning
7. David Gray – Place To Be
8. John Parish and Aldous Harding – Three Hours
9. Stick in the Wheel – Parasite
10. Ben Harper – Time Has Told Me
11. Emeli Sandé – One Of These Things First
12. Karine Polwart and Kris Drever – Northern Sky
13. Craig Armstrong [feat. Self Esteem] – Black Eyed Dog
13. Bombay Bicycle Club and The Staves – Road (reprise.
14. Nadia Reid – Poor Boy
15. Christian Lee Hutson feat. Elanor Moss – Which Will
16. Skullcrusher and Gia Margaret – Harvest Breed
17. Katherine Priddy – I Think They’re Leaving Me Behind
18. AURORA – Pink Moon
19. Joe Henry and Meshell Ndegeocello – Time Of No Reply
20. Feist – River Man
21. Liz Phair – Free Ride
22. Philip Selway – Fly
23. John Grant – Day Is Done
24. The Wandering Hearts – Voice From A Mountain

 

Metallica Release New Song ‘If Darkness Had a Son’

Metallica have offered another preview of their first studio album in seven years, 72 Seasons. Following earlier singles ‘Lux Æterna’ and ‘Screaming Suicide’, ‘If Darkness Had a Son’ comes with an accompanying music video directed by Tim Saccenti. Check it out below.

72 Seasons is slated for release on April 14 via Metallica’s own Blackened Recordings.

Arlo Parks Shares Video for New Single ‘Impurities’

Arlo Parks has released a new single, ‘Impurities’, lifted from her forthcoming album My Soft Machine. Following lead track ‘Weightless’, the song is a collaboration with BROCKHAMPTON’s Romil Hemnani and producer Carter Lang. Check out its Jak Payne-directed video below.

“It’s about being around people who make you feel like your inner ugliness and failures and mistakes don’t matter, who lift you up and make you laugh, who make you feel good and clean,” Parks said of ‘Impurtities in a statement. She added, “With this visualiser I really wanted to convey this atmospheric oscillation between solitude and companionship – I wanted to show how being around your people really does feel like coming home. When I was writing this song I had been thinking about Gus Van Sant a lot and how he captures people in all their fragility and beauty and ugliness – Jak was instrumental in creating/protecting that sense of softness.”

My Soft Machine is out May 26 via Transgressive.

Mandy, Indiana Announce Debut Album ‘I’ve Seen a Way’, Share New Single ‘Pinking Shears’

The Manchester quartet Mandy, Indiana have announced their debut full-length: I’ve Seen a Way lands on May 19 via Fire Talk. The follow-up to the band’s 2021 EP includes the previously shared single ‘Injury Detail’, as well as a new track called ‘Pinking Shears’. Check out its accompanying video, filmed in Manchester, along with the album artwork and tracklist below.

Commenting on the new album, the band’s Scott Fair said in a statement: “We wanted to alter textures, create clashes, and craft those moments when what you’re expecting to happen never comes.”

I’ve Seen a Way Cover Artwork:

I’ve Seen a Way Tracklist:

1. Love Theme (4K VHS)
2. Drag [Crashed]
3. Pinking Shears
4. Injury Detail
5. Mosaick
6. The Driving Rain (18)
7. 2 Stripe
8. Iron Maiden
9. Peach Fuzz
10. (ノ>ω<)ノ :。・:*:・゚’★,。・:*:♪・゚’☆ (Crystal Aura Redux)
11. Sensitivity Training

Momma Return With New Song ‘Bang Bang’

Momma have shared a new track called ‘Bang Bang’, their first material since the release of Household Name last year. Etta Friedman and Allegra Weingarten teamed up with producer/bassist Aron Kobayashi Ritch to write and record the song following an extended American tour. Give it a listen below.

“Allegra and I ended up getting COVID at the same time, so we decided to isolate, get drunk, and write together,” Friedman explained in a statement. “Within a night we had demoed a hot sounding song about great sex.” Weingarten added: “We wanted to write something lyrically different than anything else we’d done – just super literal and crude. We shared it with Aron and he sent us back a new version with a lot of added extra production: drums, bass, synths, acoustic guitar etc. It felt totally different and fresh. The finished song has a lot of classic Momma – heavy guitars and catchy melodies – but packaged in a different form. It feels immediate, like a whole new sound for the band.”

Momma are set to embark on a tour of Europe and the UK this month in support of Alex G. In the summer, they’ll opening for Weezer and Modest Mouse on the just-announced Indie Rock Roadtrip! Revisit our Artist Spotlight interview with Momma.

Momma 2023 UK/EU Tour Dates:

Mar 16 – Vicar Street, Dublin, Ireland
Mar 17 – SWG3, Glasgow, UK
Mar 18 – O2 Ritz, Manchester, UK
Mar 20 – Leeds University Stylus, Leeds, UK
Mar 21 – Rescue Rooms, Nottingham, UK
Mar 22 – SWX Bristol, UK
Mar 23 – Roundhouse London, UK
Mar 25 – Tolhuistuin, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Mar 26 – Paradiso, Amsterdam, Netherlands
Mar 28 – Trix, Antwerp, Belgium
Mar 30 – Knust, Hamburg, Germany
Mar 31 – Vega, Copenhagen, Denmark
Apr 1 – Festsaal Kreuzberg, Berlin, Germany
Apr 3 – Ampere, Munich, Germany
Apr 4 – Gebäude 9, Cologne, Germany
Apr 5 – Le Grand Mix, Tourcoing, France
Apr 6 – Le Trabendo, Paris, France

Watch Big Thief Perform Unreleased Song ‘Vampire Empire’ on ‘Colbert’

Big Thief stopped by The Late Show With Stephen Colbert last night (February 28), where they performed an unreleased track called ‘Vampire Empire’. Watch it below.

A year ago, Big Thief issued their double album Dragon New Warm Mountain I Believe In You via 4AD. Following its release, the band appeared on Colbert for a remote performance of ‘Simulation Swarm’. They’ll continue to tour in support of the LP throughout the year, playing a run of dates in the UK and Europe in April before heading to North America for the summer.

What do Bitcoin games even look like nowadays?

Bitcoin games have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s important for players to understand what they are and how they work. These games use cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and btc cad as a form of payment offering players the chance to win more of these digital currencies. As Bitcoin gains more mainstream acceptance, it’s likely that more people will be interested in playing these games. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the pros and cons of Bitcoin games and to know what to expect when playing them.

What are Bitcoin Games?

Bitcoin games are online games that allow players to gamble with Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies as the betting currency. These games can take various forms, such as traditional casino games like slots and table games, sports betting, lotteries, and other games that are unique to the cryptocurrency world. Some Bitcoin games are also designed to be provably fair, which means that players can verify the fairness of the games by checking the algorithms and random number generators used to determine the outcomes. The use of cryptocurrency in these games provides a level of anonymity and security that traditional online gambling sites may not be able to match.

Bitcoin games have been around since the early days of Bitcoin in 2009, but they gained significant popularity in 2013 with the introduction of Satoshi Dice, a Bitcoin-based gambling game. Since then, Bitcoin games have continued to evolve and expand, with more and more game developers and online casinos adding them to their offerings. The development of the blockchain technology has made it easier and safer to play Bitcoin games, which has further contributed to their growth and popularity. Today, Bitcoin games continue to attract players from around the world and are an increasingly important part of the online gambling industry.

Bitcoin offers several advantages for online gaming. Firstly, it is decentralized, which means that no central authority or government has control over the currency. This allows for faster and more secure transactions without any third-party involvement. Additionally, Bitcoin can be used globally, which means that players can use the currency to play games from anywhere in the world. This makes it an attractive option for players who want to access games that may not be available in their region.

Benefits of Playing Bitcoin Games

One of the significant benefits of Bitcoin games is the anonymity and security it offers. Unlike traditional gaming sites, Bitcoin games do not require users to share their personal information, such as their name, address, or bank account details, to play. This not only protects the privacy of the player, but it also reduces the risk of identity theft and fraud. Furthermore, Bitcoin transactions are encrypted and secured through a decentralized system, making it nearly impossible for hackers to breach the system and steal personal or financial data.

Bitcoin games utilize a decentralized blockchain-based system, which offers several advantages over traditional online games. One of the most significant advantages is the transparency and fairness that is provided by the blockchain. All top Bitcoin games developed by good companies use a blockchain-based system, which allows for the recording of all transactions and game results on the blockchain. The feature allows players to verify the fairness and randomness of the games. This ensures that players can trust the system and eliminates the possibility of cheating or manipulating the results of a game. Moreover, blockchain technology ensures that the transactions are secure, transparent, and cannot be altered, providing an extra layer of security to both players and online gaming platforms. As a result, Bitcoin games are becoming increasingly popular, and more players are turning to these games for a secure and fair gaming experience.

Bitcoin games generally offer higher payout percentages than traditional gaming sites. This is because Bitcoin casinos have lower overhead costs and can offer better odds to their players. Additionally, Bitcoin casinos often offer bonuses and promotions, such as cashback or deposit bonuses, that can increase a player’s chances of winning and help them get more value for their money.

How to Play Bitcoin Games

The first step to playing Bitcoin games is to acquire some Bitcoins. This can be done by purchasing them from a Bitcoin exchange or earning them through Bitcoin mining. Once you have the necessary amount of Bitcoins, you can then proceed to choose a Bitcoin game to play.

There are various types of Bitcoin games available to play, including online casinos, sports betting, lotteries, and skill-based games. When choosing a Bitcoin game, consider the game’s reputation, user reviews, and fairness. It’s also important to check if the game is provably fair, which means that the game’s algorithm can be audited for fairness.

Once you’ve chosen a game, you can start playing and place bets using your Bitcoins. If you win, you can cash out your winnings in Bitcoins or exchange them for fiat currency. It’s important to note that the process of cashing out may vary depending on the Bitcoin game and the platform used to play the game. Always read the terms and conditions of the game carefully to ensure you are following the correct procedures.

Popular Bitcoin Games

Bitcoin slots are one of the most popular types of Bitcoin games. They offer the same experience as traditional slots, but with the added benefit of using Bitcoins. Players can enjoy a variety of slot games with different themes, bonus features, and payout structures. Bitcoin slots are available in different formats, including classic 3-reel slots, video slots, and progressive jackpot slots. With the increasing popularity of Bitcoin, many online casinos now offer Bitcoin slots as part of their game selection.

Bitcoin blackjack is another popular Bitcoin game. It offers the same gameplay as traditional blackjack, but with the added benefit of using Bitcoins. Players can choose from a variety of blackjack games, including single-hand and multi-hand variations. The objective of the game is to beat the dealer by having a higher hand value without going over 21. Bitcoin blackjack offers players the advantage of quick and easy deposits and withdrawals, as well as increased security and anonymity.

Bitcoin roulette is a popular Bitcoin game that is played in the same way as traditional roulette. Players bet on where they think the ball will land on the spinning wheel. The payouts for each bet vary based on the probability of that bet winning. Bitcoin roulette offers players the advantage of quick and easy deposits and withdrawals, as well as increased security and anonymity. It is available in different variations, including American, European, and French roulette. With the increasing popularity of Bitcoin, many online casinos now offer Bitcoin roulette as part of their game selection.

What We Learned

Bitcoin games offer a unique gaming experience, providing players with anonymity, security, transparency, and higher payout percentages. While some people view cryptocurrencies as a means of generating passive income, others engage in online activities to earn money. There are different types of Bitcoin games, including Bitcoin slots, blackjack, and roulette, which allow players to use their digital currency to win real money. In addition to the advantages of using Bitcoin, Bitcoin games also offer fair gaming options and fast, hassle-free withdrawals.

As cryptocurrencies continue to grow in popularity, it is likely that Bitcoin games will continue to be a part of the online gaming industry. As the technology behind Bitcoin continues to advance, so too will the technology behind Bitcoin games, providing even more exciting and innovative gaming options for players. It is important to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the world of Bitcoin gaming to take advantage of all that this emerging market has to offer.

Thoughts on Film: 21 (2008)

The 2008 film “21” tells the story of a group of students from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) who used their math skills to win big at the blackjack tables of Las Vegas casinos. This article is an exploration of the themes and ideas presented in the film, as well as a discussion of the accuracy of the story and the portrayal of gambling and the casino industry. Additionally, we will examine the impact that the film has had on popular culture and its legacy in the years since its release.

The Storyline

The film 21 is based on the true story of a group of MIT students who form a blackjack team and use their math skills to win millions of dollars in Las Vegas casinos. The story follows Ben Campbell, a brilliant student at MIT, who joins the team led by his math professor and begins to experience the thrill of living a double life as a successful gambler in Sin City. As the team’s success grows, so do the risks and tensions, leading to a dramatic finale. Filming took place at Harvard Medical School, Chinatown, in Cambridge, and the Christian Science Center in Boston, Massachusetts.

 

One of the central themes in the film is the struggle between morality and greed. The main characters are torn between their academic and ethical values and their desire for wealth and success. The film also explores the allure of gambling and the danger of addiction. Another recurring motif is the contrast between the glitz and glamor of Las Vegas and the mundane reality of academic life.

 

The film features a diverse cast of characters, each with their unique motivations and personalities. Ben Campbell is the protagonist, a talented student struggling to pay for his education. His mentor, professor Micky Rosa, is a charismatic and manipulative figure who leads the blackjack team. The team itself is made up of a diverse group of students, each with their specialties, including card counting, acting, and finance. Other notable characters include Jill, a love interest for Ben, and Cole Williams, a casino security chief determined to catch the team.

Portrayal of Blackjack

The film 21 portrays blackjack in an entertaining and thrilling manner, with high-stakes games and elaborate card-counting strategies. The accuracy of the portrayal, however, has been debated by some critics and blackjack experts. While the film’s depiction of card counting is generally accurate, some have pointed out that the techniques used by the characters are not always realistic. Nonetheless, the film’s portrayal of blackjack has helped to popularize the game and its strategies among a wider audience.

When compared with real-life blackjack, the film’s portrayal is a mix of accuracy and dramatization. The film accurately portrays the basic rules of the game, such as the objective of reaching 21 and the importance of not going over. However, the film’s depiction of the mechanics of card counting is not always entirely accurate. Despite the criticisms of the film’s portrayal of blackjack, it has had a significant impact on the popularity of the game. The film’s popularity has led to a renewed interest in the game and an increased demand for blackjack tables in both land-based and online casinos. People have been inspired to learn more about the game and play blackjack on online gaming portals. The popularity of blackjack has contributed to the growth of the online gaming industry, and there are now many websites you can visit for blackjack. It has also become a cultural touchstone, with references to the film and its characters being made in popular culture.

Blackjack plays a central role in the film’s storyline, with the main characters using their skills in card counting to win millions of dollars from casinos. The portrayal of blackjack in the film is integral to the characters’ development, as they strive to perfect their counting techniques and outsmart the casinos. Additionally, the film uses blackjack as a metaphor for the game of life, with the characters often discussing the odds and risks involved in their choices and actions. Overall, the portrayal of blackjack in the film contributes to its themes of ambition, greed, and risk-taking.

Cinematography and Visuals

The film 21 utilizes a variety of cinematography techniques to create a sense of excitement and tension throughout the story. The use of close-ups and extreme close-ups during pivotal moments of the game, such as when a character decides to hit or stand, helps to create a sense of immediacy and intensity. The camera angles also frequently shift to create a sense of motion and movement, adding to the energy of the film.

The film also makes use of visual elements and special effects to heighten the suspense and drama of the story. For example, during some of the blackjack scenes, the cards are superimposed over the characters’ faces to create a sense of the intense focus on the game. Additionally, there are several scenes where computer-generated graphics are used to show the mathematics behind the game and the counting strategies employed by the characters.

The cinematography and visuals used in 21 are instrumental in building the tension and excitement of the film. The techniques used by the director help to create a sense of immersion in the world of the characters and the game of blackjack. The special effects and visual elements also add to the sense of drama and keep the audience engaged throughout the story. Overall, the cinematography and visuals are an integral part of the film’s success.

Critical Reception

The film received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. Some praised the film’s performances, visual style, and suspenseful plot. However, others criticized it for being too formulaic and predictable. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has a rating of 36% based on 174 reviews, with an average rating of 5.1/10. The site’s consensus reads: “21 could have been a fascinating study had it not supplanted the true story on which it is based with mundane melodrama.”

Despite mixed reviews, 21 was a commercial success, grossing over $157 million worldwide against a budget of $35 million. The film performed well at the box office, debuting at #1 in its opening weekend and staying in the top ten for several weeks. The film’s success can be attributed to its strong cast, compelling story, and the popularity of the blackjack game.

21 was not widely recognized by major awards organizations, but it did receive a few nominations. The film was nominated for a Teen Choice Award for Choice Movie: Drama in 2008. It also received a nomination for Best Sound Editing at the Golden Reel Awards in 2009. While it did not win either of these awards, the nominations are a testament to the film’s overall production quality.

To Sum it all Up

“21” is a film that is both entertaining and informative, as it highlights the world of blackjack and the practice of card counting. The film’s portrayal of blackjack, while not always entirely accurate, is a mix of accuracy and dramatization, making it accessible to a wider audience. The use of cinematography and visual effects adds to the excitement of the film and complements the overall storyline. The film’s critical reception was generally positive, with praise for its strong performances and direction. Personally, I found the film to be a thrilling and captivating watch. While “21” has undoubtedly contributed to the growth of the online gaming industry, with many websites offering blackjack, it has also brought the practice of card counting to the forefront of popular culture. Overall, “21” is a film that provides an entertaining look at the world of blackjack and the thrill of the game.

Drug Church Release New Song ‘Myopic’

Drug Church have returned with a new single called ‘Myopic’. Listen to it below.

Drug Church released their latest album, Hygiene, last year. Today, they’re heading out on a US headline tour with support from Prince Daddy and the Hyena, Anxious, and Webbed Wing.