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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.

Ed Sheeran Announces New Album ‘Subtract’

Ed Sheeran has announced a new album, Subtract (stylized as ). It will mark his final mathematical-themed LP, following 2011’s +, 2014’s x, and 2017’s ÷. Produced by Aaron Dessner, to whom Sheeran was introduced by mutual friend Taylor Swift, Subtract comes out May 5 via Atlantic. Check out its cover artwork and tracklist below.

“I had been working on Subtract for a decade, trying to sculpt the perfect acoustic album, writing and recording hundreds of songs with a clear vision of what I thought it should be,” Sheeran wrote in a statement. “Then at the start of 2022, a series of events changed my life, my mental health, and ultimately the way I viewed music and art.” He continued:

Writing songs is my therapy. It helps me make sense of my feelings. I wrote without thought of what the songs would be, I just wrote whatever tumbled out. And in just over a week, I replaced a decade’s worth of work with my deepest darkest thoughts.

Within the space of a month, my pregnant wife got told she had a tumour, with no route to treatment until after the birth. My best friend Jamal, a brother to me, died suddenly and I found myself standing in court defending my integrity and career as a songwriter. I was spiralling through fear, depression and anxiety.

I felt like I was drowning, head below the surface, looking up but not being able to break through for air.

As an artist I didn’t feel like I could credibly put a body of work into the world that didn’t accurately represent where I am and how I need to express myself at this point in my life. This album is purely that. It’s opening the trapdoor into my soul. For the first time I’m not trying to craft an album people will like, I’m merely putting something out that’s honest and true to where I am in my adult life.

This is last February’s diary entry and my way of making sense of it. This is Subtract.

Subtract Cover Artwork: 

Subtract Tracklist:

1. Boat
2. Salt Water
3. Eyes Closed
4. Life Goes On
5. Dusty
6. End Of Youth
7. Colourblind
8. Curtains
9. Borderline
10. Spark
11. Vega
12. Sycamore
13. No Strings
14. The Hills of Aberfeldy

Evan Rachel Wood Denies Pressuring Marilyn Manson Accuser Who Recanted Claim

Evan Rachel Wood is refuting Ashley Morgan Smithline’s claim that Wood “manipulated” her into making allegations of rape against Marilyn Manson. According to new court documents obtained by Rolling Stone, Wood submitted text messages, DMs, screenshots of Instagram comments, and voicemails dating back to 2019 that, she says, serve as evidence that Smithline was lying when she claimed Wood pressured her into accusing Manson.

“I never pressured or manipulated Ashley Morgan Smithline to make any accusations against Plaintiff Brian Warner, and I certainly never pressured or manipulated her to make accusations that were not true,” Wood said in a statement filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court on Monday. “It was Ms. Smithline who first contacted me in March 2019.”

Wood referred to a comment Smithline made on Wood’s Instagram on March 11, 2019, at which time Wood had not publicly named Manson as the alleged perpetrator, nor had she ever met or talked to Smithline. “When he had me captive in the stupid ballet studio, I cringed hearing him brag about replaying that scene from rules of attraction to you,” the comment said, according to the court filing. “I thought no one would ever talk about this.”

Furthermore, Wood submitted an Instagram DM from 2021, just after People published a cover story detailing the alleged abuse Smithiline suffered while in a relationship with Manson. It read, “I can’t breathe. I have no reason to make this up.” To which Wood replied, “Don’t let anybody get to you. Just sit in your truth.”

The filing also includes two June 2022 voicemails from Smithline to a friend in which she reports being contacted by Manson’s attorney, Howard King, who she believed wanted her to retract her allegations. “Don’t repeat this to anyone. I swear to God, don’t say this to anyone … but I did get a private message on my cellular telephone from Marilyn Manson’s lawyer saying, ‘I was wondering if we could just talk,’” Smithline said in the voicemail. “The only reason he’d be calling me… is that he thinks I’m the weak link and he might want to settle with me to turn on the other girls and say that it was all a ruse.”

“It is unsurprising that Evan Rachel Wood is desperately fighting to keep Ashley Smithline’s testimony out of court – because she knows the truth will expose her plot to manipulate the women who trusted her in order to destroy Brian Warner,” King said in a statement. “Brian Warner never abused anyone. Ashley Smithline has told the truth. It’s sadly predictable that Evan Rachel Wood – someone who has already filed a forged FBI letter under oath in other court proceedings – remains committed to not doing the same.”

King also denied that he had improperly reached out to Smithline in a statement to People, saying: “I never discussed Ashley Smithline’s claims against Brian Warner until after she had reached out to me and terminated her counsel. Moreover, when Ms. Smithline recently spoke with me for almost two hours, we taped the conversation in full and that recording proves that every single thing in her declaration was taken from her words, not mine.”

“Evan’s full of shit. That’s my comment,” Smithline told Rolling Stone. “She’s saying anything she can to discredit me.”

At a hearing on Tuesday, Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Teresa A. Beaudet denied Warner’s attorneys’ ex parte application to include Smithline’s declaration as evidence in the case. “There really is no explanation as to why this [declaration] is bubbling up at this time,” the judge said.

Reach Out for Help

If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual assault, we encourage you to reach out for support.
Crisis Text Line
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Maximize Your Workouts for Incredible Health Results

Are you looking for ways to maximize your workout routines in order to achieve better health results? If so, you are on the right track! Working out is an essential part of any healthy lifestyle and can help lead to improved physical fitness and emotional well-being.

That being said, there are many different approaches one can take when it comes to an exercise routine. Here, we will discuss some tips and tricks that you can use to make your workouts more effective for better health results.

Listen to Music:

Music can be a powerful motivator during your workouts. Not only does it keep you entertained, but it also helps to increase your heart rate and keeps you motivated and energized throughout the entire exercise session.

Experiment with Strength Training:

Strength training is a great way to increase your overall strength and build muscle. It involves activities such as lifting weights, doing bodyweight exercises, or using resistance bands. This type of exercise will help you build a strong foundation and ensure you can keep up with any exercise you do in the future.

Stretch Before and After:

Stretching before and after a workout can help improve your flexibility and range of motion and reduce the risk of injury. It is essential to warm up by doing dynamic stretches before you start any type of exercise routine to get your body ready for physical activity. After finishing your workout session, make sure that you take time to stretch out your muscles and cool down properly. This will help avoid post-workout muscle pain and soreness.

Invest in High Compression Leggings:

High compression leggings are a great way to ensure your body is properly supported during workouts. They provide support for your muscles and joints, help reduce fatigue, and can assist in improving circulation. Investing in high compression leggings will not only make you look good but also add an extra layer of protection while you push yourself further into the workout session.

Wear the Right Workout Shoes:

Having the right pair of shoes is essential when it comes to exercise. Choosing the right shoe type for your activity can help support your feet and ankles, reduce the risk of injury, and increase your overall performance. If you’re unsure which type of shoes to get, speak with a professional at a running store or talk to a knowledgeable friend who can advise on what type would best suit your needs.

Make Sure to Eat a Nutritious Meal Afterwards:

Eating a nutritious meal after a workout is just as important as physical activity. Eating healthy food will help replenish your body’s energy stores and provide essential nutrients for muscle recovery and growth. Focus on foods that are high in protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats to get the most out of your post-workout meals.

By following these simple tips and tricks, you can ensure that your workouts are as effective as possible and maximize the health results of each session. In addition, don’t forget to listen to music, experiment with strength training, stretch before and after exercise, invest in high compression leggings, wear the right workout shoes, and make sure to eat a nutritious meal afterward! With a bit of effort on your part, you will be well on your way to achieving better health results.

Shalom Unveils New Single ‘Lighter’

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Shalom has previewed her forthcoming album Sublimation with a new single, ‘Lighter’. Following previous entries ‘Soccer Mommy’ and ‘Happenstance’, the track comes paired with a visual animated by Rory Alene. Check it out below.

“This song is one of my favorite things I’ve ever made,” Shalom said of ‘Lighter’ in a press release. “I wrote it in 45 minutes and sent it to Ryan (Hemsworth), he sent it back with the guitars, and I fell in love with myself by making a song about wanting to be someone else.”

Sublimation is set to arrive on March 10 via Saddle Creek.