#aside from the song itself everything in this video was done by yours truly; including the translation and the song cover

[awholelotofsad]

normally this is the part where i make some kind of caption that's funny or related to the video, but honestly i'm just so glad i got this done in time

anyway happy valvert week part 2. the song is 命の食べ方 by eve

@valvertweek

[puck--off]

Unpacking some of Dave Portnoy’s statements from his video about the NWHL.

I also watched Dave Portnoy’s video and was thoroughly disgusted with just about everything he had to say. I felt like certain things from his video are a little hard to understand if you're not familiar with the context of them. So, I’ve compiled a list of quotes from the interview, as well as my own thoughts on each of the quotes. If you are so inclined, the video can be found on his Twitter. Here we go:

“I didn’t wanna do this and I was thinking I wasn’t gonna do it because most people probably don’t even know what I’m about to talk about is going on. I’ll only draw more attention to it and the people who don’t like us will drag us.” 

He’s right, in a sense. Since he’s Dave, and cishet white men love Dave, a bunch of people who don’t know what’s going on are suddenly going to be invested in what’s happening with the NWHL. However, people who don’t know about the league or the league’s goals are now going to be attempting to occupy and criticize a space that was not made for them, with no knowledge of the contexts of the league culture or values, etc. Dave backhandedly presents this “attention” as a good thing (no surprises there), but it really is not. 

“Three of the top four executives outside of me are female. But we’re sexist. We’re just doing it for looks, just having basically an entire female executive board take us from a small company to one of the most successful media companies in the world, but we’re just doing it for show. Whatever.” 

This, my friends, is called tokenizing. Dave is using powerful women within a company to promote a non-sexist image. What Dave is failing to acknowledge is that part of his own image as a hardcore, blunt personality was built around bashing much younger women. What Dave is also failing to acknowledge is that Barstool, as a whole, promotes the objectification of women! Again, no surprises here. It even has a whole section called “Smokeshow of the day,” which is essentially pictures of attractive women. 

“[Erika is]…probably the number one supporter of a league called the National Women’s Hockey League. You probably didn’t know it existed. The only reason I know it existed—don’t let the headlines fool you—is because 2013, a girl, Denna Laing, got a spinal cord injury playing in the Winter Classic in Boston, and guess what company drew attention to it, raised 100 grand, and brought more attention and more money to the cause? We did. Whatever. I digress. I’m just showing we’ve supported this league before and women’s hockey before.” 

Oh boy. Lots to unpack here. First of all, as a little background, Denna Laing was a forward for the Boston Pride in 2015 when she crashed into the boards during the Winter Classic Game, leaving her paralyzed from the chest down. She’s been working incredibly hard since and regularly updates her Instagram page @/dlaing24, showing her progress. So. Dave got the year wrong. Simple mistake, I guess, but if he really wanted to make it seem like he cared about her or bringing her into the conversation, he would have mentioned the correct year. He also uses her accident as a supposed show of support for both the NWHL and women’s hockey itself, which is yet another example of tokenization. I obviously can’t speak for Denna, but I personally am not happy that he is using Barstool support of one woman’s journey as a claim of support for an entire league and an entire sport. Two asides: Portnoy also called Denna a “girl”—correcting himself after beginning to say “lady”—despite the fact that she is currently 29 years old and was in her mid 20s in 2015. Barstool also has not posted anything about her progress on their website since 2016. Also, downplaying interest in the NWHL is a classic Dave move—pandering to his audience of cishet white men. 

“A player in the league, in the NWHL, said Barstool is ‘white supremacist’ and doesn’t want to associate with us. …You should be in jail for that. Like, to call a company ‘white supremacist’ without a shred of proof because I sang a Ja Rule song five years ago, is that it?” 

No Dave. This is it. Note: The linked article is a very brief summary of racism within Barstool and does include full spelling of the N-word within the context that Barstool used it. Please be warned. Knowing the context of (some of) Barstool’s history of racism, I think Saroya Tinker’s tweet speaks for itself. I will leave things at her words here. 

Also, Dave cannot pronounce “supremacist.” 

After this, Dave makes a lot of petty, immature statements that I won’t bother transcribing, including calling NWHL league management “no-fun-club losers.” 

He also says that he told Erika, “If you want to start your own league and put these fucking clowns out of business, I’m in…all you people who kept your mouth shut can come play in our league. But the white supremacist crap girl and everyone else who talked shit about it, you’re done.” 

Dave Portnoy and Barstool want to start a women’s hockey league that diminishes issues and values that are important to current NWHL players. I hope the NWHL continues to handle this situation and support their players who may be coming under fire for criticizing a truly problematic organization.

[youshouldbemanic]

MANIC TRACK CLAIM

It’s been a week since Manic and I wanted to get this up a few days ago so I’m just going to post the track claims I have received 

Reviews and reactions of Manic ✨

ASHLEY: ok so I really liked ashley especially as an opening track because it deals with a subject that's tricky for both halsey and fans; when fame becomes too tough or if halsey falls out of love with it, what will happen? i really liked the lyrics, especially the line about bursting into flames, because a lot of people can identify with that feeling. I loved the sound of the song, the production was so good!! it's one of my top favs from the album :) - @halseylockscreens

CLEMENTINE: "Clementine" exemplifies so much of what makes Manic interesting - the lyrics are sad and introspective, while the tone is playful and almost whimsical. It's inspires nostalgia and hope all at once. The way Halsey embraces the contradictions in herself - not needing anyone, but also needing everyone - is something that so many people, myself included, can relate to. It's sweet, sharp, and cathartic - especially the final "and then some" she belts in the background. It's in my top five for Manic! - @manic-nightmare

GRAVEYARD: I’ve said it before but Graveyard was the song that I heard and knew that this would be my favorite album. I think the use of guitars in the album is really pretty and really sells that it’s Ashley. Halsey singles are usually fast past and flashy but Graveyard feel so personal. Even the upbeat parts remind me of a heart beat after running for a while and you’re trying to catch your breath. The first time I heard it I thought that it was about G-eazy and abusive relationships but the more I listen to it and the music video makes me think it’s also about her relationship with herself. Ashely and Halsey are two different people Halsey represents all the bad and good of mental illness she’s loud,speaks her mind,gets angry, she feels everything so intensely and Ashley is in the background trying to keep up. The gasp is one of my favorite parts of the whole song, one thing she’s always done and has perfected on this album is whispers/talking in songs that makes it feel like she’s talking to you. I think I love Halsey so much because a lot of her songs feel like a friend telling you all their secrets and thoughts.- @leocaitelin 

YOU SHOULD BE SAD: You Should Be Sad is a very strong fourth track on Manic with a country influence to what is an angry pop song. Lyrically, the song has a nice flow to it that is complimented by the upbeat guitar. As Halsey stated in a tweet this is the “after he cheats” song; as she looks back at her relationship with an ex. Sure, this is not the poppunk song we all expected from the original snippet of the bridge that is “hey hey hey hey” and not “yeah yeah yeah yeah” but the anger soaks through her lyrics and into her words that it coats how you feel. By the end the song becomes sad, almost remorseful and finishes with a soft harmony. All in all, not a bad song.- @hunterthewriterworld

FOREVER...(IS A LONG TIME): Let me tell you right now that even though this isn’t in my top tracks of the album, I was destined to claim it as my track simply because of the rain sounds in the background... rain is my favourite thing and the second I heard it I knew it was a sign. I love how it starts sounding all cute and then at the ‘just right’ part it sounds like doubt is starting to creep into her mind and then the song takes a complete turn. I think Forever... is one of the most interesting songs on the album and I love how it goes into Dominic’s interlude! - @youshouldbemanic 

I HATE EVERYBODY: Alright “I Hate Everybody” is so fucking good musically and lyrically speaking. This one blew our minds because halsey is so fucking honest about how she let someone elses opinion about her have a bigger impact or effect on her than just being enough on her own. She´s so self reflective on her behavior in this song it´s almost as if she´s discussing it to get a clear pattern or picture about it for herself - she´s analyzing her previous behavior to state the point that SHE is important - not anyone else in this context. There seems to be a shift in her self perception. We immediately fell in love with this song because it is so relatable in our opinion. We immediately understood that feeling and could relate to it in some way or another. This song kinda feels like sitting down with halsey to talk about what is going on superficially speaking and then internally speaking because both those aspects often differ a lot from each other (e.g. how your friends, your partner etc. sees you or thinks you´re feeling vs. what is going on inside your head). We also loooove how the music is pretty tender and it seems as if the persona halsey is kind of telling a story very calmly and then when it comes to the chorus it seems as if ashley is coming through - this is when the music and the lyrics become more dynamic in a way. And we don´t know if it´s just our perception but we love how the music is giving the song a kind of sarcastic tone that adds to halsey´s criticism of herself. -@twinzmoon

WITHOUT ME: I've seen a lot of people say that they are tired of this song. That it came out too long ago. That it doesn't belong on Manic, etc. I get it, but I don't agree. I will say that I love the live performances of this song better than the album version. I think more emotion and more pain come out in her vocals when she sings this live. Most of the lyrics are talking about helping and supporting the other person and only a little about the hurt and anger of being betrayed. It's what goes along with that, what goes on in your head after being cheated on that gives this song a place on Manic. Having been cheated on myself in a previous relationship, I feel all of that extra, unstated in the lyrics turmoil everytime I hear this song. The why wasn't I enough? What did I do or not do that they needed someone else? Am I lacking something that they needed? Is it something about the way I look? The way I act? The way I talk? The self doubt, self loathing and distrust when you start a new relationship. I got lucky and I have a wonderful, amazing girlfriend now, but it's taken me a while to be able to trust in this relationship after being cheated on in the previous one. I both love and hate this song. I love it because maybe not in the exact way, but I've had this happen to me. I got through it and I'm in a better place now. I hate it because I feel all of the confusion, anger, doubt and self loathing everytime I hear it. Either way, it's a powerful, emotional song. - @anf-stuff 

KILLING BOYS: I had to listen to this song a few times through before I was truly able to appreciate it, mostly because it wasn't really what I was expecting. With the title "killing boys," and the obvious allusion to the movie Jennifer's Body, I guess I was expecting something angrier, more violent and aggressive, maybe more "Nightmare"-esque. And there's definitely a lot of anger in there, but it's not so loud and hostile and combative; it's all tempered by this kind of reflective, retrospective, "over it" attitude that you see throughout the album. She describes these bitter and vengeful actions like kicking in doors and keying cars and breaking windows in the verses, but they're all followed by a lot of "not anymores" and "never agains" in the chorus. And even the music itself gives the same effect; the whole song has that kickass percussion running under it, but the melodies aren't very harsh, and her voice is soft and almost somber. I love this song because I feel like this is the song on the album that fully embodies, both lyrically and musically, what Ashley said about setting out to write "dark and angry" music and realizing she simply wasn't angry anymore. -@gaygirlslove1d

SUGA’S INTERLUDE: I have to admit that I kinda put this song aside for a little while. I only listened to this song once when it was first released. It was released the same day as Finally // Beautiful Stranger and I was a little obsessed with that song.  Obsessed enough to change the words a little so I could sing it to my girlfriend. But enough about that, on to my review. After listening to Suga's Interlude more, I like the song a lot. It's not one of my top favorites from Manic, but it's really good. Halsey's voice is interesting on her part. Sweet with a hint of sadness. Suga has a very nice flow in this song. I had to look up the English translation for his part. I have seen several interpretations about the meaning of the song, but to me it's finding out that just because you reach your goal or are living out your dream, it doesn't mean it'll bring you happiness. The song fits really well on Manic in my opinion. So maybe not the best song that Manic has to offer, but still a very good song.- @anf-stuff

MORE: This is a deeply personal song. I had mentioned this yesterday, I feel personally attacked for having picked this song. As a mother of two boys, I feel like I can say that. “Wooden floors, little feet.” “Little screen, photograph.” “When you decide it’s your time to arrive, I’ve loved you for all of my life.” It’s a known fact that Ashley has endometriosis. It makes it hard to get pregnant. It’s also been mentioned that she suffered  miscarriages—not only that, she was performing on stage while going through at least one of them. Ashley has always been open about reproductive health and her story with it. It hits hard at special place—whether you want to be a mother or not. The lullaby, like off a mobile over a crib. The end that sounds like a sonogram, before you were to hear a baby’s heartbeat. How the audio is muffled as if you were listening from inside the womb. I was crying by the end of it, let me tell you. It is one of my favorite tracks, by far. The soft ones always are. It is a song of hope and heartache. Anger and longing. It is filled with truth that is Ashley’s, but so many can relate to. - @stopitchris

STILL LEARNING: I loved it, it’s not one of my favourites but it was fun and has a really good message!!!!And it’s also something I’m still working on myself; learning to love myself. It’s a hard journey but its achievable. The beat and lyrics were moving and deep and overall enjoyable!!!! -@pinklemongay

929: First impressions- cool strumming, OH NO HOSPITAL BEEP I AM GONNA CRY, OK GOOD ITS HER TALKING HER KITGLE LAUGH I LOVF JER SO MHCJ FUCKKKK SHES SO CUTE 🥺🥺, can’t remember half the time i’ve been alive, don’t meet ur heroes 🥺, THE FEATURE FUCKING LINE!!!! okgbn!!!!!, I wANT TO THORW UO, I HACE NEVER CRIED HARDER, AHHH, I CANT EVEN PROCESS IT SORRY, no lyrics to say bc i cant breathe properly, I KNOW DONT KEEP THEM TO YOURSELF 🥺🥺🥺🥺, sorry i need to listen to this again, MY MORAL COMPASS IS ON A VACATION, big coming of age movie vibes, this will be my Special Song i can feel it 🥺, i have felt every emotion. -@wreckageofmylife

WIPE YOUR TEARS: Wipe your tears is a very airy song that is almost reminiscent of the room 93 era. It has a twinkly aspect and deals with much darker themes. Yet it is also reminiscent of nightmare in the sense that it sounds more like a poem put to music. This song is also one of what the fans would call a “bi-anthem” as Halsey is talking about a girl which is very nice to hear. Personally I’m glad that this is only a bonus track as it is really short and does not fit the theme of the album. Yet it is still a bop and the better of the two bonus tracks. -@hunterthewriterworld

[eldritchsurveys]

752.

Does your best friend bother you more than anyone else? >> --- Who is your best friend? >> --- Do you like someone right now? >> No. Do you even think you stand a chance with this person? >> --- Do you consider yourself truly happy? >> I don’t think of “happiness” as a constant state of being. It’s an emotion like any other -- you feel happy for a period of time, and then you return to baseline or you have a different emotion. So, yeah, sometimes I am happy. A lot of the time I’m something else (or nothing). Feeling one emotion all the time at the expense of others would be awful no matter what the emotion is.

How often do you cry? >> Relatively often, lately. It’s like once you decide to stop berating yourself for having feelings, you start just having them randomly and shit. I teared up watching a youtube video yesterday and it took me a couple of minutes to figure out that it was probably the effect of the music used in the video (he used a lot of that kind of “dramatic emotional moment” music that they use in movies to cue to your brain that you’re supposed to have An Emotion right now). Are you emotional? >> I mean, yes, I experience emotions... What is the worst thing you would do for 10 million dollars? >> No. Have you ever had/do you have an eating disorder? >> No. Have you ever cut/burned yourself intentionally? >> Yep. What do you think of people that do? >> I don’t have an opinion about other self-injurers? We all just tryna survive. What’s your opinion on drugs? Have you ever done any? >> I don’t have an opinion on drugs. Like, in general, I don’t have sweeping opinions on any broad subject like this! It doesn’t make sense to me and I am constantly frustrated at being asked what I think about a general concept as if my thoughts shouldn’t be based on contextual information and a basic understanding of nuance. Anyway. Yes, I’ve done drugs. Have you ever noticed the hidden adult jokes inside of kid shows/movies? >> Sure. Do you want to be famous? Why? >> Not at all. Because included amongst my highest values are my privacy and my ability to live my life on my own terms as much as possible. Also, it just flat-out doesn’t seem like a healthy way to live.

Do you sin often? >> Dude. What are your views on God? >> I don’t have any sweeping views on the concept of divinity. My opinion about the Abrahamic God specifically varies based upon what we’re talking about -- what holy text, what cultural interpretation, what sort of human-divine relationship, etc. What do you think happens after you die? >> My working interpretation is that the specific network that I think of as my consciousness will dissipate and that energy will rejoin the general concept of “consciousness”, from which every specific instance of consciousness arises. So to speak. Also, my body will decay (provided I’m not chemically processed and shut up in a metal box), worms will eat me, etc etc. Are you afraid to die? >> Yeah. But my feelings about death are more aptly described as, like, “holy dread”, or the kind of fear that is part-and-parcel with a strong feeling of awe and wonder. If you had the chance, would you want to know the date of your death? >> Fuck no, dude. Have you ever felt that you weren’t good enough? >> Yep. Do you have any siblings? If so, are you jealous of them? >> --- Do you have a good relationship with your parents? Why or why not? >> I don’t have any relationship with them. Because one abandoned me at birth and the other one flat-out doesn’t like who I am as a person.

Are you always wanting more? >> Sure. Hunger is one of my defining concepts. Do you make good first impressions? >> I don’t think I do, no, because I’m not interested in following certain social conventions that people expect me to. That’s not to say I’m rude, but when you refuse to shake hands, you don’t stare in people’s eyeballs, and you don’t smile at literally everything, people get tetchy. Do you feel bad for obese people, or do you just laugh? I am so unimpressed with this question. <-- like.... what the actual fuck. What would you do if you were obese? >> What do you mean, what would I do? Am I supposed to be doing something specific just because I’m fat? Like, you know, hate myself for existing in a way that isn’t acceptable to the society I live in? Bloody hell. Are you ashamed of your past? >> No. Do you miss your past? >> “My past” isn’t a real thing, it’s a story that my brain tells itself. There’s nothing to miss. Do you have a song lyric that describes where you are in life right now? >> If I did, there’s no way I’d be able to think of it right now. Who are you closest to in your family? >> --- Do you ever open up to people? >> Ever? Maybe. It’s always a possibility, if not a probability. Do you consider yourself guarded? Why or why not? >> Absolutely. Because I’m post-traumatic, that’s why. Are you an honest person? >> Sure. Do you like animals? >> I mean, I don’t actively hate animals or anything. I don’t have any specific feelings about the existence of other creatures on the planet.

Do you think doctors prescribe medicine too often? >> I wouldn’t know. I think that’s an opinion people assert when they are following an anti-meds agenda, but it’s not necessarily grounded in provable fact. Are you a control freak? >> I have tendencies. Do you enjoy getting drunk, or do you feel like you’re losing all control? >> No. I enjoy the buzz from a certain amount of alcohol, but anything beyond that is uninteresting and often annoying. I don’t feel like I’m losing control, exactly, I just feel logy and tired and irritable. Also, headaches. What do you think happens when you go into a coma? >> I assume it varies. Do you think the internet is dangerous? >> The potential for danger is always present when interacting with other people in any context, including digital.

Name all the social networking sites you use: >> Tumblr and Facebook are the only ones I use. Do you think anyone truly knows who you really are? >> “Who I really am” isn’t a concept that I find useful. People learn different things about me, are exposed to different personality traits and idiosyncrasies at different times, and filter all that knowledge through their own perceptions and biases and understandings. There is a different version of me for every person that perceives me, including myself, and all those versions are part of the intersocial network that forms the concept of “me”. (I’m sure if I lived completely alone in the middle of nowhere and had no contact with any other humans, my concept of myself would grow into something completely different -- it might grow even more fluid and less anthropomorphic, because the concept of the self is reinforced by our interactions with others.) Have you ever given anyone the chance to really get to know you? >> Sigh. Do you block people out of your life when they start to get too close? >> I don’t know, people getting close isn’t a situation I’m too familiar with these days. Who do you think has the most pressure to be good-looking; guys or girls? I think both experience a lot of pressure in very different ways. It’s not a contest. <-- Do you care what impression you make on people? >> Sometimes, depending on the person. Most of the time I understand that a lot of it is out of my control, unless I’m willing to do some things I really don’t want to do. Do you think TV is too much of an influence on today’s youth? >> I think That’s Complicated(tm). What do you think people would do if all the computers crashed? >> Like, if all computers stopped working at the same time? How... would that even happen, is my question. Unless something happened to the grid in general, or something. Any wide-scale breakdown of digital infrastructure would have immediate negative repercussions in this part of the world, though, I can wager that much. Honestly, do you say racist things? >> I can’t think of anything racist I’ve said in recent memory. Aside from your general “white people” jokes, I guess. I try to keep those to a minimum, though, because most of the time it’s just... unnecessary. Do your parents put way too much pressure on you? >> --- Has anyone you loved ever died? >> Sure. Do you think people overreact when their pets die? >> I don’t think people overreact at all. I think it’s the appropriate reaction, to be upset and to grieve. I think my disconnection to pets is stranger than normal people’s connection to them, which is why I’m always self-conscious about my detachment. People don’t like it when you don’t have feelings. Do you know who you are, or what you want to become? >> *gestures in frustration at my earlier ramble about selfhood* Do you have your future mapped out? Or are you just taking it day by day? >> I find the concept of planning out one’s future to be a little silly, although I understand it’s a perfectly reasonable and healthy thing for a human to do. It just... doesn’t work for me. The only stretch of time I can be confident of is the present, and even that’s questionable sometimes. What are you going to do now? >> I think I might go out for a short walk now, the temperature’s at a good place. I wish I could go somewhere specific -- a park would be incredible right now -- but I can’t be getting on public transportation for non-essential purposes. And I can’t go to the convenience store... Guess I’ll just... walk down the sidewalk and then back *shrug* (This would be a great time to have a dog to walk.)

[sophieakatz]

Thursday Thoughts: The Right Medium For The Right Story

I’m a bit obsessed with the topic of adaptation – and by “a bit obsessed” I mean “I wrote my undergrad thesis about it.” Adaptation is a kind of re-telling; you take a story that was told before, and you change some things when you tell it again.

For example, West Side Story is an adaptation of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. It’s the same basic story, but it’s set in 1950s New York instead of 1300s Verona, and the warring “families” are rival gangs instead of members of the nobility.

But there’s another kind of adaptation here that’s perhaps even more important than the change of setting – the medium. While Romeo and Juliet was originally a stage play, West Side Story was a musical, and later adapted again into a film. Adapting a story across mediums changes the work just as much, if not more, than anything else – or, at least, it ought to.

Minor spoilers for The Hunger Games books and movies as well as Disney’s Aladdin and The Lion King ahead.

[Image: The Hunger Games movie poster]

A Rose By Any Other Name Is Different

As a writer, I firmly believe that you must find the right medium to tell a story in. If you later change the medium, then something about the story is going to need to change as well. As much as a reader might want the film of a book to be completely loyal to the original text, a story originally designed as a novel is not going to work if you simply transfer it page-for-page onto the screen. This is because there are fundamental differences between books, a textual medium, and films, a visual medium.

My favorite example of a book-to-film adaptation that shows a clear understanding of the necessity of change is the Hunger Games franchise. Suzanne Collins’s books are told from a first-person perspective, giving the reader insight into Katniss’s thoughts the whole way through. Because we are hitchhiking along in Katniss’s mind, we get a lot of exposition about the world through her memories, and we know exactly what she thinks and feels about everything that’s going on. Importantly, this includes her confusion about how much of her affection for Peeta is real or just for the Capitol audience.

The Hunger Games film, on the other hand, is shot in a traditional third-person manner. Consequently, in the adaptation process, we lose Katniss’s point of view. We don’t get so many of her memories, aside from a brief dream sequence. We also lose her inner conflict about the performed romance (though the sequel, Catching Fire, plays catch-up on that point).

The filmmakers could have tried to make the film more like the book by adding a voiceover to explain what Katniss is thinking throughout the film, to sidestep the limitation of not actually being inside Katniss’s head anymore. Plenty of films do that. But The Hunger Games does not.

Instead, the film leans into the differences between the two mediums, seizing the opportunity to explore things that the book could not. While we lose Katniss’s inner voice, we gain everything that Katniss could not see. We get scenes of President Snow talking politics with Seneca Crane, making the viewer aware of the greater stakes of Katniss’s behavior in the Games much earlier than Katniss herself is. We also see the riots in District Eleven as they happen, instead of learning about them much later. In the third film, Mockingjay, scenes of Katniss’s work creating promotional videos with the rebellion are paired with the actual acts of rebellion that her words have inspired (I particularly love the “hanging tree” sequence at the hydroelectric dam). The effect is haunting, and it all truly drives home the magnitude of what’s going on.

As a result, the Hunger Games films remain true to the heart of the story without trying to shove a square peg into a round hole. A rose you read about in a novel might smell just as sweet as one seen on film, but only if you acknowledge that you can’t depict the rose in the exact same way in a book as you would in a movie.

[Image: The 2019 Aladdin movie poster]

Anything Is Possible… But Not Always

The current trend of live-action Disney film adaptations provides us with a fascinating case study in the power of adaptation, and of how well the adaptors succeed in transitioning a story from one medium to another. The original animated films (which themselves are mostly adaptations of oral fairy tales – but that’s a whole other blog post) and the new live-action and/or photorealistic CGI films are, of course, both films. But the kind of story you can tell in traditional animation is different than the story you can tell in a more realistic “live action” style.

(Not to mention that the kind of story you can tell in a mainstream media production today is different than the stories told twenty-plus years ago, representation-wise… but again, that’s a whole other blog post.)

Animation is a medium of imagination. That’s why animated fairy tale movies have always done so well. The un-reality of the medium lends itself to depicting the kinds of fantastical transformations typically told of in fairy tales. The viewer can suspend their disbelief and forget about the rules of the real world while watching an animated film. It’s much harder to forget those rules when the people on the screen are human actors.

The live-action Aladdin hits all the same story beats as the animated Aladdin, but it makes several brief but notable changes along the way. There are just some things that the animated film could get away with that the live-action film could not.

For example, the Genie spends a lot more time in a “human” disguise than he does in his natural blue form. If you were on the internet at all when the first images of Will Smith as the Genie were released, then you likely saw the backlash – for a lot of people, it just felt weird. A blue character with cartoony proportions who is constantly shifting into different shapes and sizes works very well in traditional animation, but less well when it’s an otherwise normal-looking human guy who is just… blue. You can smush and stretch the 2-D animated Genie and nobody will bat an eye, but if you tried to do the same to Will Smith – ouch! It conflicts with our idea of what is possible in the real world, and a live-action film is always going to feel more like the real world than a 2-D animated film.

This is likely why Jafar does not transform into a snake in this movie. Jafar-as-snake is arguably one of the best parts of the original Aladdin film – it’s certainly one of the best parts of the Fantasmic show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. It’s awesome, it’s terrifying, and it does not happen in the live-action adaptation of Aladdin. Jafar does a lot of other magic – mostly levitation, paralysis, and creating a storm – but he does not turn into a giant snake. The world of Agrabah established in this film is many things, but it is not established that this is a world where people can turn into animals. We do see some animals turning into other animals – Abu becomes an elephant, and Iago a monstrously huge bird – but neither of them remain transformed for very long. The audience’s suspension of disbelief will only go so far in a live-action film, and the filmmakers probably guessed, and I think correctly, that Jafar turning into a snake would not have gone over well in this medium.

Another thing that would not have gone over so well in live-action is the scene in the marketplace where a shopkeeper threatens to chop off Jasmine’s arm for stealing an apple. Just picture it – a man grabbing a young woman and threatening her with a sword, and they are both real people with real-people proportions, and it is a real sword instead of a cartoony dinged-up scimitar. In the animated film, the moment is quickly played off as funny, but here it would have been scary, much too scary for the first act of an otherwise cheerful film.

A savvy adapter sees and accepts what won’t work as well in their chosen medium, and so makes the appropriate changes.

[Image: The 2019 The Lion King movie poster]

Rules? What Rules?

Which brings me to the new “live-action” Lion King. Now, if you enjoyed this film, then I’m happy for you, and I neither expect nor want to change your mind.

However, this film does not successfully adapt its story from one medium to another. It keeps almost everything about the story, the music, and the dialogue exactly the same as before – but now, the world and animals are photorealistic. Throughout the film, I kept wanting to close my eyes and just listen to it, because the film that I was hearing and the film that I was seeing just plain did not match up with each other.

When Mufasa dies, Simba’s voice actor is obviously crying – you can hear the tears in his voice. But Simba himself is not crying, because real lions do not cry. The disconnect between what the viewer hears and what the viewer sees reminds us that what we are watching is not real, consequently breaking the suspension of disbelief and robbing the scene of vital emotion.

A musical and a nature documentary are two very different things which we watch for very different reasons. Put bluntly, this new Lion King imposes the rules of a nature documentary onto a musical. In a nature documentary, the animals must look and move a certain way which does not line up with human emotional behavior, and the world must look and behave in a certain way which features muted colors and subtle movements. A musical, on the other hand, is all about heightened human emotion – that’s why characters sing, because their emotions are so big that they can only be expressed in song! Musicals are also about visual spectacle over strict realism (with some exceptions – compare the elaborate stage effects of The Phantom of the Opera or the intensive choreography of Hamilton with the much more subdued The Spitfire Grill).

There are a few moments where the rules of the animal world line up with the rules of the Lion King story, to wonderful effect. For example, when Nala is telling Simba to return to Pride Rock and confront Scar, Simba paces back and forth in a real form of lion body language which reads to a human eye as frustration. The slouched-to-the-side way that lions sit looks a lot like the casual lean of a confident villain, giving Scar a marvelous aura of attitude. Also, the frantic, bouncy, here-and-there movement of a meerkat lines up well with Timon’s jumpy, shifty personality and dialogue, adding humor at key moments.

But for most of the film, there is little to no bridge between the story that they are trying to tell and the medium that they have shoved this story into. The Lion King is not a realistic story. Audiences did not go see The Lion King in theatres in 1996 because they wanted to see a realistic story. They went to see a colorful, fantastical musical about talking animals with human emotions. Photorealistic CGI is simply not the right medium for that kind of story, and the story was not changed nearly enough to fit the new medium.

[Image: Cinderella’s Castle at Walt Disney World]

What Comes Next?

I see nothing wrong with telling a story again. As I said before, I love adaptation. It’s clear that today’s filmmakers, especially the filmmakers at Disney, are eager to try their hand at recreating the stories that they watched and loved when they were younger. There’s nothing inherently wrong with that, but there is a wrong way to do it, and I hope that future adaption films move away from that way.

One of the biggest things that Walt Disney loved about Disneyland was that, unlike the films, he could change things in the theme park if they no longer worked for the audience or if they could now be done better than before. I think he would be intrigued by the current culture of adaptation, and curious why today’s filmmakers aren’t doing more to explore the differences between mediums and the different kinds of stories that you can tell in different mediums.

Adaptation does not have to mean being stuck saying the same thing over and over. It could, and should, lead to us telling more stories, different stories, and better stories, because when it comes to adaptation, change is a good thing.

[sneakycomedy2-blog]

Do you really need Background Music for Display Movies?

sneaky comedy background music I always such as to have a great choice of background music with regard to display videos, especially whenever I'm performing slideshow delivering presentations. Having a totally free songs library to go in order to as well as download some fine a key component music makes the movie production a great deal easier.

sneaky comedy background music

A nice critical piece in the history just creates a much more professional video, for me.

Exactly what Type of Music Documents Inside event you Use?

It truly depends on the kind of video clip presentation you're making. In case you're doing a actually brief video, less compared to two moments for instance, you can download a few royalty free music videos that are just the few seconds each, splice them together and replace the music every couple associated with slideshow.

Or you may download longer audio documents and edit these to your own preferred length.

What Design or Genre Music is better?

Again, it depends upon the kind of video if you're creating. Listed below are a few of examples:

I do a few videos about funerals and also memorial services, therefore I discovered a pair of Easy Listening music selections for those. We did not want the tunes to be thus slower and droning it might make people cry, however I didn't want this to become really upbeat or even pleased either.

When I actually produced our slideshow movies about wedding ceremonies, I utilized pieces which were upbeat yet not funny-type fasteners.

Exactly how to Know What's Greatest?

The best thing to be able to do is test. When you're using software just like Windows Live Movie Machine or an equivalent, include your current slides and record music towards the program along with see how the materials and music fit with each other.

Occasionally you may require a couple of various movies depending on the actual length and topic regarding your presentations.

Here's any suggestion: Watch some advertisements or perhaps videos on Youtube . com that use background new music to obtain an idea involving how the music the actual presentation better. Once might obtained a feel regarding how to use songs to improve your videos, a person should be capable of finding some thing that fits perfectly together with your video.

When to Utilize Music for Presentation Video clips

Individually, I rarely place audio to instructional video clips, as though I'm doing some sort of screencast guide. And My spouse and i rarely add tunes for you to videos where it can simply me on the digital camera talking about a subject matter.

PowerPoint summary videos tend to be the best types connected with demonstrations to add a key player background music to help. As well as you should stay aside from pieces which include oral because voices performing within the background may get in the way or maybe disrupt the online video itself.

However pure instrumentals enhance your sales pitches in addition to give them a a lot more professional grade.

Be Careful Along with Background Music Volume level

In the event that you're using voice lien, or voiceovers, in your own personal demonstration, you don't would like the music in order to overwhelm the vocals. You may use resources like Audacity to reduce the particular volume of the instrumentals and so they're behind typically the expressive narration and not really drowning it.

I've viewed several video where often the music almost drowned away the person who had been talking, and believe me personally, is actually pretty annoying. Within fact, several visitors remaining comments under the video stating the music has been as well loud.

Where to Discover Royals Free Background Songs

My all-time favorite trusted site is actually Kevin MacLeod's site in incompetech. com. I've been able to be able to find everything I will need right here, from any type, any kind of mood, any device to suit every video introduction I have done.

If an individual use Kevin's royals free of charge background music, be certain to credit score the item either within the video explanation box as well as preferably, inside a closing slip consequently it's visible regardless associated with who else else may down load that or embed the idea to their own blogs.

[my-id-eas]

How do your paras define love?

In my AWOL cosm, which focuses on (fictional) K-pop record label AWOL Entertainment, girl group WonderMod did a project right after their hiatus officially ended. Each one made a video where they gave their personal answers to the following questions:

What is love?

What is true love?

What is fake love?

How do you know when you’re in love?

(Their answers ended up fueling the lyrics to a song on their 10-year anniversary album.)

Daydreaming those videos, and each member’s answers to the questions, has given me a lot of insight into who they are. And trying to come up with 7 definitions of love was a very fun exercise. I’ll share WonderMod’s answers (roughly speaking) below, and I think it’d be cool to hear from you guys as well about how your paras define love.

Hanbyeol: Love is about connection. There’s that idea, that myth, that there’s a red thread connecting all the people who are supposed to meet. I think love is like that. It’s something you just know when it happens, and there’s not much else like it to compare it to. It starts out as something hard to explain, but you just intuitively know that you’re connected to the person... not just in an interest way, like your emotions and who you are, now there’s another person in the mix. That’s how it starts, at least. But threads can break easily, and if you want love to last, you have to put in some kind of intentional effort to strengthen that connection, on a different level than where it started. That’s true love to me. I guess fake love would be trying to deny that fact. Things like “we’re meant to be, the stars aligned for us,” when you haven’t known each other for more than a month or two, that sort of thing.

Gyuri: To me, I know I love something when I invest time in it. I love dance. So I set time aside just for dance, even when it’s not the most convenient. I guess with people, it’s more like wanting to spend time with them not to do some other thing, but just to be with them. It’s a drive towards the person or thing, that doesn’t have some other motive. That’s why love doesn’t make sense half the time. It’s its own separate logic, I think, that nobody gets yet. And that’s probably a good thing. True love... well, fake love is just wanting to be with someone or something, but for another reason. Like if I went on a date with someone because I liked the restaurant we were going to. That’s a bad example, but you get the idea. True love is just not that. Although... I think it’s important that you’re not the only one giving their time. True love is when both people love each other. Like with dance, I spend so much of my time on it, and in turn I get better and I feel happier and more accomplished, and I just enjoy it for what it is. That’s true love.

Hyerin: I don’t think love is a feeling... there are lots of feelings that come with love, and feelings that motivate love, but love itself is more of an action. To me it’s about gratitude. The ways that you show somebody that you’re glad they’re there in your life. I guess that’s the core of love, then, is being grateful for something. Being happy that it’s a part of your life. And then that gratitude is what motivates you to do all the other things that love is. I don’t think you can have true love without both. You have to have the feeling, and you have to have the action. Action with no heart in it is fake love. And feeling love but not acting in a way that shows that, I guess that’s a different kind of fake love. I don’t know how you could really love somebody and not feel moved to do something that shows it.

Won: Love is kind of a matter of priority. If I love somebody, or I love doing a certain thing, I make that a priority in my life. If I have a ton of boring work to do that I hate but I still make it a priority, it’s because I love having a job, ya know? Although there’s no joy in that. Doesn’t seem fair to call that love. That‘s what fake love is, “love” without any joy. So priority, that’s more of a side effect of love. Love is when you’re invested in something just because of what it is, not because you have to be. It’s not an easy thing to pin down. I don’t even really like that definition. I need to work on that. But what I know is... when someone I love and I are in danger, or in trouble, and I think of them first, that’s when I know. That’s true love. It’s when you care about something that much. That you’ll put it before yourself. True love changes you. It changes the way you think. It’s like extending the boundaries that define you to include someone else, and now their life is just as or more important that your own. Seems like a strange thing for people to do... and yet it’s our biggest strength, in a way. It’s what’s kept us around, is being loved.

Soomi: Love is simpler than people make it out to be. I’m not trying to be a killjoy, but love isn’t some crazy complicated inexplicable thing. It just means you want something to keep existing. To love something is want it to exist. The only trouble with that, of course, is that means love isn’t always a good thing. And people don’t like to admit that. But hate for one thing is just love for something else. War is motivated by love. Everything anyone’s done to hurt you was motivated by love. It’s a dangerous thing. But see, I don’t think there’s really “fake love.” You either care about something’s existence or you don’t. But there’s fake love in the sense of not understanding who’s really loving what. Maybe someone doesn’t love their girlfriend, they just love having control over someone or some bs like that. “Bad love” is a dangerous idea, not because it isn’t real but because people get afraid of someone loving them because they think it’ll hurt them. I do think... there’s a difference between wanting something to exist and wanting something to thrive. To exist at its best. I guess that’s why true love is so rare, because how can anyone know for sure what’s best for someone else? You can’t. You have to let that person be who they are. That’s what true love is.

Areum: For me, a lot of it is about trust. I know I love somebody not in this big emotional moment, but when I feel like I can count on them. That I don’t have to be worried, because they’re around. I don’t know if that’s what love is, but that’s how I know I love somebody or something. With fake love, it’s not really its own thing, so much as it’s like thinking you love someone or someone telling you they love you when it isn’t true. The feeling has to be there or it’s just hollow. I guess if I had to define what love itself is... I think it can be a lot of different things. There’s not just one kind of love. Weren’t there 7 or 8 words for love in ancient Greece? They’re all different things, but they kinda lead to similar feelings. It’s a feeling of being at home, really, is what it is. What am I missing? Right, true love... the people I love, I feel like I can trust them. But the people I truly love are the ones that make me feel like I can trust myself. That’s the best way I can put it.

Jinju: Love’s kind of a weird feeling, if you think about it... it’s like when psychologists talk about the zone. You know, this state of mind where you’re focused but not stressed, and you’re not thinking but your head’s clear, like that. Love is like being in the zone. It is being in the zone, even. When you just have a crush on somebody, you might get all anxious about what you’re going to say to them and how they’ll respond and are they a good kisser, and all that stuff. I guess if I had to define fake love, it’d be that, but that feels too strong. It’s infatuation, which is fine, it’s just something different. But when there’s true love, all that nervousness goes out the window and it’s just you and them. You lose track of time, and you’re just there in that moment, and it’s because of someone else being there with you. Which I think is pretty cool. And it’s not just people, of course, but most people talk about being in the zone with activities they love. I think it’s true with people too. It’s not something you can make happen, or see coming. It just is. I dunno. I tend to overthink things, so those moments when I don’t are when I feel best. Naturally, that’s how I would think about love.

[surveys-at-your-service]

Survey #205

forget picking song lyrics, i’m going the hell to bed now.

Do you live by yourself? I live with my mom. Do you like cleaning? Does anyone???? Who is your favorite character from Harry Potter? I've never watched the series; not even a single movie, actually. So I don't have an opinion. Do you watch PewDiePie? Extremely rarely. He's funny, but I'm not interested in his channel's content anymore. Do you like "Despacito?" My sister showed it to me once when she learned I'd never heard it, and I found zero appeal in it whatsoever. Do you play Pokemon Go? It's a brilliant idea, and I really do wish I could play it, but here where I live, there are like ZERO PokeStops (where you get Pokeballs), even in cities, so it's pretty much impossible. Did you ever color your hair pink? No. Do you like Dr. Phil? I don't watch the show and don't know him as a person. Do you prefer to be inside or outside? Inside. Do you eat meat? Sadly. I'm HOPEFULLY quitting when I get to the weight I want; I wasn't getting the nutrients I needed when I was vegetarian to where my body was desperately clinging to what it had or something like that (basically, my weight wouldn't budge in a couple of months), but even still, I don't know if I could do it without depriving myself again. I'm just such a picky eater. Do you need to do the dishes? Yeah. Not desperately, but. Are you scared of clowns? No. Do you have any subscribers on YouTube? *checks* A very impressive 66. Do you believe in ghosts? Yes. Do you salt your popcorn? Yes. Do you like McDonald's? Don't even lie to me, you'll eat there. I don't mind it at all. Do you have a Steam account? Yes. Do you like gaming? Not as much as I used to, but yes. Have you ever played Five Nights at Freddy’s? No. I don't consider jumpscares to be genuinely "scary," but rather a natural reaction to surprise, but FNAF's are intense, and I know they'd have me jumping like crazy. That aside, the games aren't of my personal appeal to actually play (though it's a fun game to watch). Do you like horror movies? Yes. Do you like chicken nuggets? I love me my chicken nuggies hunty. Have you ever tried Akinator? Yes. Can you twerk? I don't know and don't care to. Do you like dabbing? It looks stupid to me. The meme of it makes me laugh, though. What was the last country you visited? I've never left the country. Do you know your phone number? No, actually. It is incredibly difficult for me to memorize sequences, and besides, it's not like I give out my number almost ever. Do you swear in front of children? No. What’s your opinion on Brexit? Shit, I don't even remember what it's about. So obviously I can't have an opinion. It doesn't affect me, anyway. If you want children, what are some of your reasons for wanting them? N/A When you cook a dish that has beans in it, do you prefer to use canned or dry beans? I don't cook, and you'll never see me willingly eat a bean. What were some fun experiments you did in science class as a kid? The two that sharply stand out to me are dissecting an owl pellet in elementary and a frog in middle school. Both were SO cool. What was the last strong emotion you felt? Excitement. After finishing a bowl of cereal, do you drink the leftover milk? Only ever if it's Cinnamon Toast Crunch that I ate. And even then, only sometimes. Do you use dry shampoo between washes? No. What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? Overdosing. What’s the most severe allergic reaction you’ve ever had to something? Nothing severe, besides pollen allergies flaring up. What’s your favorite sub-genre of rock? Hard. Who was the last person to get frustrated with you, and why? Mom, but she was more than frustrated. We were having a serious fight about her attitude towards Dad and his wife. What’s something that makes absolutely zero sense to you? Anti-vax shitlords. What’s your phone background? Lock screen is Darkiplier, home screen is Sara kissing my forehead. :'> Have you ever lived with someone you didn’t get along with? No. Do you have a fitness tracker? No. What types of animals have you had as pets? A billion cats, dogs, snakes, lizards, rats, gerbils, guinea pigs, rabbits, fish, box turtles, hermit crabs... and probably more. How well do you understand economics? Have you ever taken an econ class? Not well at ALL. I had one my senior year. What was the last fruit you ate? I had two bites out of a watermelon 'cuz I was really hungry, but we didn't really have anything as a snack. (I fast daily, so I have to watch when my meals are.) I'm not a big watermelon fan, but I hadn't tried these cubes before, and at least it was something. Can you remember your first day of school? I believe I can very faintly... very faintly. I think I had a complete breakdown because of my insane separation anxiety regarding my mom, or it was the complete opposite... alskdfjaweiajr it's like I can kinda see it in the back of my head, but it's super blurry. What’s your favorite movie? The Lion King. It was my favorite as a kid and became so again as an adult just truly acknowledging how damn good and meaningful it is. Plus the soundtrack was a banger. Would you rather jump out of an airplane or go scuba diving? Scuba diving. Do you get bored looking at other peoples’ holiday pictures? Eh. If it's a whole lot, yes, but as a photographer, I enjoy noting which ones I like and why I favor them. Do you give money to charity? Not currently, no. I have no money to give. When I do have a paying job, I plan on definitely donating any time Mark does a charity stream. Are you more into music or movies? Music, easily. When was the last time you went to a swimming pool? WOW. It's been years. Either when I still lived in the apartment or once at Colleen's in-laws', I can't remember which was last. Would you rather have a pet snake or a pet turtle? I have a snake, and I'll take another for sure. Have you ever seen a band live? Who was the last you saw? Just Alice Cooper. Ma and I are seeing Ozzy next year (if the poor man ain't dead), tho!!!! And he's gonna be with Judas Priest and Megadeth. We are NOT going to survive. Do people who use massive amounts of emoticons annoy you? Yes. Emojis, more specifically. If you're writing a sentence and you use an emoji after each and every goddamn word, it drives me up a wall. What was the last clothing item you bought? Underwear, I believe? Or a bra? What does your washing powder smell like? Idk. Normal? Do you have a dishwasher or do you do dishes by hand? By hand, which I cannot explain how much I loathe. It feels disgusting. Are there any cobwebs in your room? I don't believe so, no. Have you ever used a pick-up line and had it work? Ew, I'd never use one to begin with. Have you ever entered a modelling competition? Would you? No to both. The current modelling industry is so, so harmful. Did you keep any drawings/stories from when you were younger? Like around two years ago, I remember going on a mass destruction episode of those super old things, as they embarrassed me horribly, even though I know it had no real reason. Just everything I create embarrasses me. My mom has old school stuff, though. Who did you last have an argument with? Mom today. When was the last time you cooked for yourself? If you include putting things in the microwave with few steps... not that long ago. Maybe two days back. Do you have a safe? Mom does. When was the last time you saw a relative? Mooonths ago when Grammy and her husband were driving through. My brother and his son are visiting real soon, though!! Do you shout out the answers at quiz shows? Yes, lol. Have you ever been in a TV audience? I've been to like three-four hockey games, so yeah. Have you ever entered the lottery? Won anything? No. Well, Mom or Dad would rarely get those scratch-off tickets at random, but the most we've ever got was just like five bucks or so. Do you prefer crosswords or word searches? Word searches. Have you ever drawn on a wall in your house? No. Do you like making collages? No. Have you ever kept a scrapbook? Yeah. What’s your favorite video-game? Silent Hill 2 and Shadow of the Colossus. Sigh, I want a PS4 SO bad to get the SotC remaster. I actually teared up when I saw the opening cutscene for the first time, and I just marveled through the EEEEEEENNNNtire playthrough I watched. It's unbelievable. Do you remember any inside jokes from childhood? Not off the top of my head. I'm tired, don't make me think. Have you ever made up a word? Well, as a writer, I've made up names and places. A word itself, I don't think so. Do you get nervous speaking to people you don’t know on the phone? VERY!!!!!!!! Are you scared of anything irrational? You mean like, half my fears? Do you have a passport? What’s the picture like? No. Have you ever had a full fringe? (bangs) As a kid I did. Is there anything you would never admit to liking? Don't think so. What’s the weirdest craze you can remember? Fidget spinners. Do you use bug spray or fly swatters? Fly swatters. Then we also have this hanging cylindrical sticky... thing that flies and gnats are apparently attracted to with the smell, I guess. Works like magic, though I agree it's pretty cruel. Just stuck there until you die. Are you a clumsy person? Boy, am I. Do you have tiled floors in your house? In three rooms. Do you listen to any movie soundtracks regularly? No. Do you bruise easily? Way too easily. Like normally something simple won't leave behind an obvious one, but even a normal poke in the arm hurts a lot and leaves the spot sore for a good while. I was tested for anemia, but apparently, I don't have it. What would you love to learn to do? Play the electric guitar. Do you prefer monkeys or lemurs? Ehhh... lemurs as far as cute goes, monkeys overall. Do you watch movies based on the actors or the movie plot? The plot. Do you have any phone charms on your mobile? No. What is your opinion on sex without emotional commitment? That's a big 'ole honkin' nope. Last time you puked from drinking? Never. Have you ever gotten drunk and danced on a bar? No. What is your favorite simple ice-cream flavor? Vanilla. Though sometimes I prefer chocolate. Do you pay attention to calories on the back of packages? Only for dinner. I forgot the science behind it, but one of my meds for bipolarity only works to its full effect after ingesting at least 350 calories; I only get about a 20% effectiveness of the medicine when eating less. I know it sounds weird, but my psychiatrist is a goddamn genius, and I trust every word that comes out of his mouth. When was the last time you slept on the floor? Two years ago when I was living with Colleen and I didn't have a blow-up mattress yet. Are you currently wanting any piercings or tattoos? When???????????????? do I?????????????? not???????????????????????????????????? Do you wear flip-flops? That's pretty much all I wear just about year-round... I remember in 7th grade, one of my teachers asked me about it a lot and I just told her I didn't mind the cold, which was true. Pretty sure she thought I was lying and was too poor to buy new clothes or something, as she gifted me socks one day, which I thought was incredibly sweet. I miss my 7th grade teachers. Best school year. Who was the last person to kiss you on the cheek? Pretty sure my niece Aubree when saying bye. What is your favorite sauce to eat with spaghetti? Normal Prego sauce, I think. Have you ever seen a magic show? A little one as a kid. When was the last time you vomited and why? Months and months ago when I was testing a medication. Quit that shit real fast, as it made me sick so many times. Where do you usually sit when you eat dinner? Uhhh I eat in my bed usually, lmao. We almost never sit at the table. I normally do if Mom's there, though. How often do you get headaches? Ugh, often. Why did you call the last person you called? I was calling back about my job application that I was supposed to hear about yesterday. How many windows are in the room you’re in? Two. Do you have Facebook friends that you’ve never actually met? Yes. When was the last time you had your photo taken professionally? Not since senior pictures, pretty sure. I hated how it came out. I have a lazy eye when I smile, gah. How long does it take you to get to school or work? Currently N/A. Let’s say you had a baby with the last person you kissed? We're both female, so. And neither of us want kids anyway. When was the last time you completely broke down? A couple weeks ago in a totally random and severe panic attack. Do you have someone you can spill your heart out to? Yeah. Is there a person that you would do absolutely anything and everything for? No. I'm not gonna, say, murder someone just because they want me to. What’s something you really want right now? To go and get my tattoo cleaned up by a more professional artist alsdkjfalwei. I got the approximate cost, I just have to wait until I can afford it. This tattoo is so so so important to me and it needs to be perfect. What is your relationship status? Taken. What was the longest time you’ve wasted on a certain person? Not even two weeks lmao. I said yes to dating mostly out of fear of hurting his feelings, and he QUICKLY proved he was NOT for me. Are you listening to music right now? Yeah, my iTunes is on shuffle. Anyone you would like to get things straight with? I wouldn't want to be friends I don't think, but I REALLY want to see Jason one final time to tell him how sorry I am. I recently acknowledged just how fucked up I treated him after the breakup; he wasn't the only one who made mistakes. I sure as hell did. He deserves to hear it badly. I do believe our last talk was a good ending, but I feel me finally admitting that I fucked up would be the perfect one. What was the best thing that happened to you today? Seeing Dad for his birthday. When was the last time you did something for the first time? I talk-talked to some WoW friends a couple days ago, though very very briefly. I couldn't figure Discord push-to-talk out and I ended up panicking lmao. What color are the last new pair of pants that you bought? Black. Is your room clean? I should dust and vacuum, but the latter doesn't currently work. List all the countries you’ve visited.  I've never left America. At what age would you allow your kids to dye their hair? Shit, whenever they wanted tbh. So long they sounded serious about it and it wasn't just a brief episode of "oh this would be cool." Which fast food place do you eat at the most? Hm. Wendy's or Sonic. When was the last time you weren’t lonely? Jesus fucking Christ, who knows. What kind of movies do you like? Horror, fantasy, Disney/kids' films, comedies, rom coms, and emotionally moving ones. Bats are not spooky or are they? They're adorable, omg. Do you think blue is a gay color? Fuck off. What's your opinion on gays? Fuck off harder. Do you like the song "Womanizer"? Don't even talk to me if you don't. Where is your favorite place to get fries? You can't live your fullest life without having Bojangle's fries at least once. Do you know anyone who was raised by their grandparents? Idk. Have you ever made your own pie from scratch? No. Who was the last person you had an in-depth conversation with? Sara. What was the last fast food item you ate? A hot dog. What is your favorite gaming console? You know PS2 was the best, you know it. What was the last major city you visited? Raleigh, if that even counts. Do you always have a stock of alcohol in your house? No. Have you ever had a pumpkin latte and if so, did you like it? I hate everything pumpkin-flavored. Is there an antique store in your town or city? I think so... Have you ever been to a baby shower? My sister's. Maybe others', but idr. Do you know anyone who has been to rehab? Pretty sure yes. How many romantic relationships have you been in so far? Genuinely "romantic" ones, two. Would you consider yourself to be a picky eater? I am 99% sure I am the pickiest human being to ever live. Have you ever lived in a house with a pool in the yard? Not a built-in one. What color is your toothbrush? Blue. Do you have gluten intolerance or know anyone who does? I know a few people. Have you ever slept in a car overnight? No. Have you ever fainted? Yes. Do you avoid conflict as much as possible? YUP. Do you like ice cream cake? I'm not a big fan. Have you ever made out with someone of the same sex? Yes. Where is your second home!? The place I'm second-most comfortable is probably Sara's. What song always makes you sad? I avoid listening to "The Mortician's Daughter" by Black Veil Brides unless I just really, really want to hear it. I always tear up due to memories. Have you ever played a game that required removing your clothes? No. Where is your favorite place to be kissed? Breasts and neck. Were you mean as a little kid? No. Who was the last person you hung out with? Dad. What is your mother’s name? Donna. What is your favorite song at the moment? I've been in true love with a heavy metal cover of "Invincible" from the WoW soundtrack for like a full month. What day will you never forget? The breakup night. Suicide attempt. My niece and nephew being born. Meeting Sara. Getting Teddy. First time hanging out at Jason's. 16th birthday. Alice Cooper concert. Putting Dale and Cali down. There's a lot. What was the last thing you took a picture of? Some crazy shit on FB to show Sara. Something you're looking forward to? Getting a goddamn job. What is God teaching you right now? Lul. What does Notre Dame Cathedral mean to you, and how has its fire affected you? I was devastated to hear about it; it was the one event that actually got me paying attention to the news. It is a monument of incredible art and history, and for Catholics, a house of their god. I am so thankful the damage wasn't too tremendous. What’s the last dumb decision you made that you beat yourself up over? I dunno. Surprisingly. What’s your favorite version of the Bible to read? N/A If applicable, do you underline verses in your Bible? N/A When was the last time you went to church? Not since Colleen had her extreme Christian phase two years ago. What’s the last song you listened to on repeat? "Radio" by Rammstein. That new album's gonna be bangin'. Does your town’s hospital have a good reputation? NOPE. It sure does not. I have no issue with the psychiatric care unit there, though. Every time I went to the ER for suicidal thoughts or the attempt, they were sweethearts to me. But as far as physical health, they do NOT have a good rep. I know someone's grandfather that nearly fucking died thanks to them, and I can't recall what it was exactly, but Mom had some complaints during her kidney cancer treatment. What is your hometown known for? Crime. Are you longing for and missing a toxic person? I honestly miss Colleen sometimes, but I can't go back to her. I can't. I'm done giving her more chances than she deserves. It was nice to actually have someone to hang out with, but she is just overall not a pleasant person. What’s your greatest longing? Financial stability, probably. Have you ever read a Bible verse and thought, “this isn’t true”? BOY HOWDY- What are you behind on? Being an adult. I am 23 and a SOOOOOORRYYYYYY excuse for one. Is there someone who’s stolen from you and never got caught? Yes. Someone stole our basketball hoop from my childhood home. Have you been lonely for most of your life? Most of my life, no. What color is your sleeping bag? I don’t have one. When was the last time you used a sleeping bag, and what for? When I lived with Colleen and slept on the floor for a bit. Do you live near the woods? Yeah, there's woods across the road. What do you want to be for Halloween this year? List 1-3 ideas. I wanna be the dumb blonde witch from Hocus Pocus, lmao. A pastel vampire would be pretty cool. And Rhett from the "Sleep Tight" video has instilled in me the great desire to be a steampunk toothfairy at least once. List five things people have been jealous of you for. Idk. List five things you have felt jealous of other people for. More than anyone, a friend of many friends' photography success when I can genuinely and modestly say I really think I'm better than her. That is easily the worst envy situation I've dealt with (and still do), as this is the one that is actually almost spiteful, wrong as that is. Then I have another friend who is a FANTASTIC photographer as well and is now a professional one in the fashion industry, I believe. Then there was a girl I went to school with called Cailin whose drawing skills were naturally INCREDIBLE since elementary school, and I remember back then, me and her would always get the most attention for our work, but she did moreso, but I wanted to be the "best" artist. Once I hit high school I just had great respect for her talent. Next, one of my former best friends Hannia was a natural GENIUS that got perfect scores on LITERALLY almost anything; she had the highest GPA in the entire school, while I was right behind her. And uhhhh five... I have been and still am jealous of my sisters for being proper, successful adults. What is your favorite shade of brown? Like a caramel tone, I guess? What color is your toilet seat? White. Would you rather live in an apartment or a house? Definitely a house. What’s one thing you had growing up that you miss now? Energy. Do you prefer kale, lettuce, or spinach? Lettuce. Do you listen to instrumental bands such as Hammock, Trentemoller, etc.? No. Have you ever gotten a manicure or pedicure? Just because my sisters went and Mom wanted me to hang out with them. I may have with my old friend, too. Have you ever self-harmed? Yeah. Never the answer. Do you have any eating disorders? No. I'm afraid of developing one once I (hopefully) get to the weight I want, though. Have you ever met a celebrity? No. Do you like Monster Energy or do you prefer other energy drinks? I hate energy drinks. They taste like poison. Do you plan on getting married? Yeah. Do you want kids? That's a big fat nope. What’s your sexual orientation? I don’t judge. Bisexual. At what time of day do you normally feel the best? The morning. Name one reason why someone should not commit suicide. YOU. CAN. GET. BETTER. Seek professional help if you feel suicidal, and after what I understand is a serious struggle, you truly can go into the light at the end of the tunnel. You've got, to our understanding, one shot at this. Don't end it when there is a possibility for a beautiful future. If you’re unhappy, what would it take to make you fulfilled? Have a job and be in school. Name someone you know who is a cancer survivor. My mom. Are you friends with any cancer survivors? I don't think so. Do you wish the sunrise and sunset lasted longer? Hm. Sunset, maybe. Idk. Name a country whose history you know nothing about. Lmao most. What is your favorite store at the mall? Hot Topic. Do you have a bed or do you sleep on a mattress on the floor? I have a bed. When was the last time you went for a run? Shit, not since high school gym. Do you keep Christmas lights up year-round? No. What did you win a scholarship for? Nowhere. What type of bug do you see the most often in your home? Flies. Do you put off things until the last minute? I tend to. Is your mom the same size as you? No, I'm smaller. Do you know any Christians who aren’t judgmental? No shit. Do you still think of that Gwen Stefani song when you spell bananas? Ha ha yup. Do you like the way your hair naturally is, or do you change it? It's fine. But I want it dyed badly. Do you know anyone who died accidentally by doing something stupid? Yes. How many different languages have you taken in school? Latin and German. How tall is your father? (Estimate?) Idk. Over six feet. Would you meet Miley Cyrus if you had the chance? No. What is your favorite slow song? Oh yeesh. Idk. Maybe "See You On The Other Side" by Ozzy. Do you believe in karma? No. Do you constantly check your cell phone? No. Only Sara or Mom ever text me, and I pick it up just if the green light is blinking (means I have a message). If there were aliens on earth, would you be afraid? Well yeah. If you could spend 1 hour 20 years in the future, would you? Yes. I want to see where I am, so long as I can change my behavior to improve that future if needed. Otherwise, I don't wanna know. Are your pets asleep? Teddy probably is, Bentley might be, idk where Roman is, but he likely is, I can't see Mitsu from where I am currently, Venus may be (no eyelids, so you never know) as she's in her rock, and Kaiju is awake. Have you ever wished you were an only child? Never. Have you ever hurt someone on purpose? Yes. Have you ever gotten hurt while sledding? No. Do you enjoy going through old pictures? It depends on the subject of them and my mental state. Kid pictures I'm always up for, high school ones are okay, though they can make me really upset with how healthy and skinny I was, and I deleted all photos I had on Facebook of Jason and me last year so I couldn't even risk looking at them ever again, as there's a good chance some would trigger my PTSD. Of all your exes, who do you think you had the deepest feelings for? Jason, obviously. Do you tend to have a lot of drama in your life? I have the most uneventful, bland life. No. When’s the last time someone was disappointed in you? Idk. What song are you listening to right now? Is this one of your favorite songs? "Alone I Break" by Korn. No, but I love it. What is something you have to explain a lot? My sweating issue. Gross to talk about, but I sweat seriously excessively, like you would not believe. It can be 70 degrees and I'll be sweating in seconds. People worry about it, and in VR, I've had to explain it so many times due to it affecting suitable jobs (I think we can all agree being drenched in sweat at work looks extremely bad). Hopefully I won't have to anymore when my doctor decides what to do about it. It's most likely a thyroid issue, which I have no clue about how to subdue symptoms of. There's really a shitload I have to explain lately between doctors and VR... Which compliment do you receive the most? From those that know me/see me, that I'm losing weight. From people in general, "I love your hair" or something like that. Who were you last on the phone with? My sister. What is one thing you have always wondered? Uh. Idk. I'm sure there's a lot, just nothing's coming to me atm... What do your friends think about the music you listen to? Your family? My friends and I like similar stuff, as do my parents, especially Mom. My sisters are the total opposite of me and don't enjoy metal and the like at all. Has anyone ever told you to grow up? Essentially. Do you believe people when they say they don’t judge people? Hell no. How many true friends do you have? Excluding family and my girlfriend as they're more than that, like... one or two, it feels like most of the time. Can you honestly say you’re happy right now? No. What is something you are exceptionally bad at? Doing math in my head or spelling up there. AND READING LIPS. Do you have a house phone? No. Who do you love more than anyone right now? Don't make me choose between Mom and Sara. How much money do you have saved up? I literally have $11. Do you like bright/neon colors? Yes, but I prefer pastel. What is your favorite wild animal? Meerkats. Do you ever eat breakfast? I almost always do. Do you remember who your first grade teacher was? Yes. Have you ever won any trophies? What for? Yeah, for A honor roll all through elementary school (save for 5th grade; I got one B and was so upset, lmao), then in all kid sports I played, everyone got lil ones, some from dance I believe, and I think there's one or two others I'm not thinking of...

[hightechdad]

As we all work remotely now or are using online video apps like Webex, Zoom, or Teams, having a good headset for hours upon hours of talk and listen time is critical. If your headset is heavy, extended wearing time weighs down on you, literally. Or if you need to hear your surroundings, like while being at home or while driving, having earbuds can severely restrict your hearing. That’s why, when I got the opportunity to review the AfterShokz OpenComm bone conduction Bluetooth headset, I was intrigued by many of its innovative features. It’s truly not like any other headset you may have used in the past! (*Disclosure below.) I have tested many different types of headsets and earbuds in the past. Some are fantastic for commuting, where they fully block out all of the ambient noise. Others have had ANC (Active Noise Cancelling), which drowns out other types of background noise. Others are great for gaming, and while they are light-weight (and actually quite good for extended video conference calls), they are big and bulky and don’t really look “professional.” Then I tried the AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth headset, and I suddenly have a new favorite headset for all of my video conferencing needs. The AfterShokz OpenComm’s have a truly unique design and solve similarly unique use cases. Do note, these might not be perfect for you. You need to understand that using the OpenComm headset, your ears are NOT obstructed in any way. There is nothing that physically covers your ear or goes into your ear. Sound is transmitted by something called “bone conduction,” which I will go into later. So this headset might not be good for just jamming out to music (personally, I would prefer using earbuds or a headset). But for video conferencing or phone calls, I’m sold! What is Bone Conduction? The AfterShokz OpenComm uses a technology called Bone Conduction to transmit sounds. It is not a new technology. It’s been around for quite a while and is used by other types of headsets or earbuds. AfterShockz seems to have done a fairly good job incorporating it into their product line as other headsets use it as well. According to AfterShokz, they are using 7-generation bone conduction technology, which, in my mind, means it is fairly mature. And, I should state, there are plenty of people who love as well as dislike this technology. So how does it work? Essentially, these types of headsets have their “speakers” that rest on the wearer’s cheekbones. While traditional headsets transmit sound waves that cause the eardrum to vibrate, with bone conduction, those sound waves are instead transmitted through the cheekbone, effectively bypassing the eardrum and going directly to the cochlea. The cochlea is “the spiral cavity of the inner ear containing the organ of Corti, which produces nerve impulses in response to sound vibrations.“ Here is where you can decide whether you love or don’t love bone conduction. As I mentioned before, it truly depends on your use case. After testing out the AfterShokz OpenComm headset, I can strongly say that I would NOT use it for listening to music. You do lose fidelity, and the lows (like the bass) are almost non-existent. That being said, for spoken words, like listening to a podcast or participating in an audio or video conference call, I feel that the AfterShokz OpenComm are ideal, and not just because the bone conduction technique works great for that use case. It’s because of the other features and design of the OpenComm headset. When you first use the AfterShokz OpenComm and experience the bone conduction in action, it may be a bit surprising. It actually does work, and, even though this is essentially an “open ear” headset, those around you cannot really hear the audio coming from the headset (unless you crank up the volume all the way to 11). And a funny side note about high volume and bone conduction. To get high volume, the headset has to vibrate more intensely. When you put it at high volume, the “speakers” actually vibrate so much on the OpenComm, that they actually tickled my cheekbones where they rested. You will feel the vibrations (obviously) at lower levels, and sometimes it takes a little getting used to. A Well Thought Out Design Let’s talk a little bit about the design of the AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth headset. It’s my belief that AfterShokz wanted to create a headset that could be worn for extended periods of time. So that is how I actually tested it. First, there is the USB magnetic charger, which can plug into your USB Type-A port. This (proprietary) cord has two magnets that connect to the headset itself and hold it in place while it charges. Don’t lose this cord as you will have to order one specifically from AfterShokz – they are non-standard. I simply charged the headset over-night. But you can get a full charge quite quickly – about one hour. And how long does a battery charge last? According to AfterShokz, you can have up to 16 hours of talk time or 8 hours of listening time! That’s impressive. So at the beginning of my work-from-home day, I put the headset on. Since it is Bluetooth, it is cord-free. The headset does rest over your ears, but not in them. And the “speaker” (the bone conduction part) presses lightly on your cheekbones. A band connects the two “speakers” behind your head. I left the AfterShokz OpenComm headset on my head and connected to my MacBook Pro via Bluetooth all day. I conducted several video conference calls and left them on my head for the full 10-hour workday. I even wandered around my home to test the range of the Bluetooth. Before I go into the usage and performance results, let me tell you a bit more about the design. For starters, I need to highlight the weight of the AfterShokz OpenComm headset. It weighs only 33 grams! Let me translate that into what that really means. It is so light-weight, after time, you barely notice that you are wearing it. To me, this is an incredibly important spec. If a headset is too heavy, you will take it off. I literally left the OpenComm’s on my head the entire day and have been for several days for work hours. Some other quick, yet important specs: It uses Bluetooth 5.0It has a wireless range of about 33 feet (which I can attest to)It has a water-resistant rating (IPP55)Standby time is about 14 daysCharge time is about 1 hourThe mic is DSP Noise-Cancelling But all specifications aside, how well does the headset work for working at home or in noisy environments? Thoughts on using the AfterShokz OpenComm headset I have now used the AfterShokz for a couple of weeks. I have done several video calls, even ones where I asked the other participants how well I sounded. It’s important to find headsets that both sound good to you (using the speakers) and sound good to those listening to you (because of the Mic). The open-ear design might not be good for people who really want to focus and not be distracted by external sounds. However, I can think of plenty of use cases where hearing your surroundings is critical. As we work from home, that also means that we may have kids or other family members that we need to listen out for. With earbuds or headsets, that can be a tricky thing to do. You might not hear everything that is happening. With the AfterShokz OpenComm’s, you CAN hear everything AND hear what is going on on your calls. A similar use case is for those who drive for a living or frequently have to drive and be on the phone. In many states, it is actually illegal to have earbuds in both ears. And equally illegal is actually holding or using your smartphone. The OpenComm headset is perfect for both of these driving requirements. You physically have nothing in your ears obstructing you from hearing your surroundings, but you can also do hands-free calling. My understanding is that many truck drivers like using these (coupled with the long battery life). But let’s talk about the microphone. There is nothing worse than having a headset that doesn’t have a good mic. Either the audio quality that is transmitted is bad, or it picks up all of the ambient noise around you. The AfterShokz OpenComm has an adjustable Digital Signal Processing (DSP) boom microphone, which actually uses two built-in mics to eliminate background noise. My wife helped me test this out while I was on a video call with a work colleague. She stood about four feet away from me and had a regular (and then louder) conversation with me. My work colleague could not hear anything that she said and only heard my spoken voice. So, overall, very successful test. Lots of Button Actions The one thing that my old brain hasn’t gotten its head around yet are the multiple actions you can take with the three buttons. There are two volume buttons (which serve other purposes) and a multifunction button. To turn the AfterShokz on or off, you simply press and hold the plus volume button. You will get voice prompts when you do this action. To pair on Bluetooth, once the OpenComm headset is turned on, you press and hold the plus button again to enter pairing mode. I was able to successfully pair to both my iPhone and my MacBook Pro (but I primarily use the MBP for all of my calls). The OpenComm’s remember that I last connected with the MBP, so it automatically tries to reconnect with that. The Bluetooth range, as I mentioned, is actually quite good. I can wander around my home and still remain connected to my Mac. If I go out of range, I get a beep indicating the connection has been lost. Normally, when I get back within range, the OpenComm’s reconnect automatically. Sometimes, however, I do have to press the multifunction button to force a reconnect (if I have been disconnected for a long time but the headset is still powered on). The multifunction button serves a variety of purposes, including answering and ending calls, play/pause (single click), next song (double-click), previous song (triple-click), and more. You can also do other standard call functions by holding the button. And, if you are on standby, you can activate the voice assistant by holding the multifunction button for 2 seconds. Your hand simply has to get used to finding the buttons and pressing them appropriately. The Price of Open Listening Hopefully, this review gives you a good understanding of how the AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth headset works and performs. Again, it might not be a solution for everyone. Your ears are NOT covered, so you DO hear all of the sounds around you. But, the audio quality, particularly for spoken words (like conference calls and conversations), is quite good. Again, I probably wouldn’t use the OpenComm headset for pure music listening through. So what will this technology set you back in terms of price? The AfterShokz OpenComm headset retails for $159.95 on the AfterShokz website. And you can pick it up on Amazon currently for the same price of $159.95. You do also get a nice zippered carrying case to protect your investment! Shop on HighTechDad The product shown below (and related products that have been reviewed on HighTechDad) is available within the HighTechDad Shop. This review has all of the details about this particular product and you can order it directly by clicking on the Buy button or clicking on the image/title to view more. Be sure to review other products available in the HighTechDad Shop. AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth Bone Conduction Headset $159.95 Buy on Amazon Overall, I was quite impressed with the comfort of the AfterShokz OpenComm headset. Being that it was extremely lightweight, you can wear them for hours. Also, with an impressive battery life of eight hours of listening time and 16 hours of talk time, this headset is ideal for your work-from-home environment. I often forget that I’m actually wearing the OpenComms. Disclosure: I have a material connection because I received a sample of a product for consideration in preparing to review the product and write this content. I was/am not expected to return this item after my review period. All opinions within this article are my own and are typically not subject to the editorial review from any 3rd party. Also, some of the links in the post above may be “affiliate” or “advertising” links. These may be automatically created or placed by me manually. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item (sometimes but not necessarily the product or service being reviewed), I will receive a small affiliate or advertising commission. More information can be found on my About page. HTD says: If you are looking for a Bluetooth headset for an environment where you must hear your surroundings (like driving), or you want a headset for video or conference calls that is extremely light-weight, the AfterShokz OpenComm Bluetooth Bone Conduction headset should be at the top of your list!

https://www.hightechdad.com/2021/02/08/headset-works-around-your-ears-not-in-them-aftershokz-opencomm-bluetooth-headset-review/

[diss0nant-a]

WHO: Amelie Holt and The Twelve* WHAT: Music Therapy: Session Four WHERE: Unknown Location - One of The Twelve’s HQs WHEN: December 18th, 2017

CW / TWs: hypnosis?, blood, death, murder, manipulation, etc NOTES: okay, so after talking about it in this post, i can’t stop imagining this song being one the twelve used on amelie (like this post but a lot less subtle) so here’s this self para of what keeps playing in my head when this song comes on shuffle :)

* amelie doesn’t know the name ‘the twelve’ yet, so i’m going to refrain from using it.

During her eleven months with the organisation; Amelie had learnt many things. Some things she already knew, others not so much. It was the kind of stuff her father would hide from her, the dirtier side to his job. Not that guns, knifes and beatings are clean, but when it was only the two of them; the bloodshed was minimal, if not entirely absent. These lessons were as polar opposite as they could get. Each physical and weapons training leaving her needing a three hour shower afterwards.

She was sure the blood wasn’t real. Or at least if it was, it usually wouldn't be from her targets during practice. After all, she would see them again next time. It was always the same people for combat, yet that never stopped the voice in the back of her head from panicking ‘what if?’. Amelie assumed it was that voice that was keeping her “not fit for work” yet.

Having faced the barrel of a gun far too many times during therapy; she had also learnt to never lie to her unknown co-workers. Meaning they knew about her every doubt and worry. Each time she’s felt annoyed, angry, alone or just shit in general; they knew.

They knew everything.

Amelie wasn’t sure what was more terrifying. The fact she had no control over her life anymore. Or the fact the people now in control, knew everything there was to know about the life she’d left behind. Dwelling on it would get her nowhere. That was Maeve’s weakness, not hers. Not anymore.

At least that was the plan.

Different kinds of therapy had been used sporadically in Amelie’s months with them. So many variants that she had simply learnt to accept whatever faced her behind the clinical looking doors. Usually, it was just her therapist, her handler and a couch. Today it was a woman, her handler, a chair and some tech sat atop of it.

“ Please, sit down. Riley will assist you with the sensors. ”     Her handler spoke calmly. Before Amelie could ask further he continued.     “ They are merely for the heart monitors, there is no need to fear. ”

Despite the reassurance, the young blonde didn’t feel any calmer. Picking the gear off the chair before sitting, Riley approached and took it all from her swiftly. The suggestion of assisting was never an actual option. Just a way to compel Amelie to go ahead with the organisations plan.     “ So what is this? I get the headphones. Music therapy, right? But... Why the TV? And this stuff? ”     She held out her arm for Riley to place one of the sensors.

“ I can't answer your questions. All you need to do is sit still. Feel free to close your eyes. ”

She scoffed as the unfamiliar woman brought the headphones over her crown and sat them snug on her ears. Riley then gently placed Amelie’s hands on their respectful arm rests. It was the softest physical interaction she had received since coming to the organisation — aside from drunken one night stands but that never did truly satisfy her want to simply be held — it made her feel safe, just for a moment.

As music slowly began to fade through the speakers of the headphones, the lights dimmed until they were entirely out. Sitting in the dark, she continued to ponder over why she was here. She'd only had a few sessions of music therapy but normally, it was played out loud as they spoke about what was playing and how it made her feel. Not like this.

Time went on and multiple songs came and passed. Amelie had almost settled on this being some sort of way to figure out her music tastes perhaps? But, with what was playing it seemed they already knew that, for the most part. Maybe to make future sessions better? Honestly, she had no clue what any of their plans were. She had given up on actually finding out only a couple of months in. There are only so many times you can knowingly walk yourself into being beat up.

Just as her thoughts began to wander, her ears were filled with sounds best described as sparkles. Auditory sparkles. It was the first song to actually get her attention. After so long of sitting in the dark her eyes fluttered closed, allowing herself to actually enjoy the song. If she had to be there, she may as well let herself have fun if it was possible.

When the lyrics began, she instantly recognised the language. Her fragmented Japanese, finally showing itself to be somewhat handy. Understanding parts of what was being sang, Amelie let herself get lost in the beat, her head bopping to the tempo without her realising. Eyes slipping slightly open every now and then; she caught the lights flicker as the upbeat track began to slow.

Confused since they had been sat in darkness for so long, Amelie’s eyes opened. Hurting from the sudden brightness flooding from the screen in front of her. The television she had forgotten about now playing scenes from movies. Spliced together with her own home videos and news coverage on her father’s gang crimes, including her own.

Movie scenes re-enacting events of her life she had told her therapist. Her dad’s gang, her parent’s absence, her drug and alcohol issues... Her first love. Bittersweet memories mixed with those most foul, her emotions like a yo-yo they were playing with.

I         REMEMBER         YOUR         SCENT     .

Footage of her parent’s interviews with police began playing, translated lyrics placed over them. Amelie’s parents begging for the man, they believe had taken her, to bring her home. The fictional man they believe committed the murder she had done.

BANG !     B-BANG !     BANG !

Heavy beats in the song, amplified by the sound of gun fire. Paired with flashing images of crime scenes. Of the three men that she had killed. The song continued its slowed melody, the television’s Amelie special still playing. The knot in her throat getting larger and tighter around her oesophagus. The tears pooling in her eyes, crashing over the border at footage of her mother crying out for her.     “ Stop!     Please! ”

As Amelie began to cave, the music’s pace picked up once more.     “ Please... ”     She begged. The lights flashing along with the television’s images. It was as if they had gathered as many crime scene photos as possible. Dead body after the next, showing on the screen.

SOMETHING IS OVERFLOWING !     HOW NICE !     HOW NICE !

The mix of horrific visual stimulation and only partial understanding of the language used, was overwhelming her. She attempted moving her head into her chest, but it was no use, the sensors attached to the side of her head stopping her from getting far. Her hands began reaching for the headphones when —

“ Sit still! ”

Having heard nothing but music, her handler’s voice managing to overcome the blasts coming from the headphones shocked her. A jumped causing her to snap back into the position Riley had placed her in at the start. Her head facing straight ahead, forcing her to watch the images.

She never knew so much blood could come from one person. Or the sheer mass of it with more than one. Precisely as her stomach was about to flip, the chaotic beats normalised once again; a sense of familiarity soothed her slightly.

The screen turned black for a moment, only showing the lyrics. WHAT WILL YOU DO WITH YOUR LIFE ? It filled Amelie’s drying eyes with tears once more. She couldn’t do anything with it. It wasn’t her own anymore. WHAT WILL YOU DO FOR A LIVING ? Oh.

Yet another raise in tempo had distracted Amelie from figuring out that this was all about moulding her. To break her down enough so that her captors could reshape her, to make her commit the horrific crimes still painting the screen red with blood.

ENVY , ENVY ,     SEEMS FUN !

At this point, the song felt like it would never end. BY YOUR SIDE , BY YOUR SIDE . So as she felt the wind down of it all, and the woman Riley’s arms wrapping around her; Amelie curled towards herself, as much as the sensors allowed. I WAS WAITING FOR YOU . I LOVED YOU . The screen faded black again, lyrics left to play in the dark. The woman’s arms tightened and remained around Amelie for the rest of the song. 

When it finally finished, no more music played. The lights were flicked on and Riley removed herself, the headphones and sensors. Amelie felt frozen stiff. She was like a statue as the woman worked around her to detach her from the monitors.

With no time to waste, her handler cleared his throat.     “ You can go now. ”     His customary, dismissive tone returning.     “ They need you in weapons. ”

Floating on a cloud, she got off the chair and made it through the doors. Her body felt like it was swimming through the air, like her feet weren’t genuinely touching solid ground. Not entirely sure how she could manage to hold a weapon right now, let alone train, she stopped for a moment. The swimming feeling making it to her head, drenching her in the images she had only just seen.

Unable to shift her body further, an attempt to move her legs caused them to cave. Securing her on the floor. It required all she had for her arms to support her. It was needless to say, she was going to be late to training.

[arts4ndcrafts2-blog]

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[steelframers]

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[noiseartists]

OUTWARD, introverted Shoegaze from Kentucky

Outward is the one man music project from Corey Philpot. It includes influences from Shoegaze, Indie, Dream Pop, Synth Pop and other similar genres that Corey grew up loving.

His last Album, ‘That’s life’, will be released on 15th February 2019 by our friends of Somewherecold records. Corey and Noise Artists collaborated to introduce you to his music and understand his motivations and persona thanks to a really good and detailed interview.

The music and feelings are vastly drawn from the topic of depression and isolation as you will discover. We are delighted that Corey speaks freely of this mental state that many people experience, without always seeking the support that would make their life better. The more we talk about it, the better.

Without further ado, discover Outward’s music and Corey Philpot.

Musical Work

Outward’s musical work to date is:

That's Life, Album, February 2019

Reverie Remedy, Album, May 2017

Hypnagogic Calibrations, EP, April 13, 2015

Inside the Tremble, EP, October 2014

The King's Ascension, EP, August 5, 2013

The best introduction to the coming album is to ask the artist the story behind the music. And this is a great one.

“My name is Corey Philpot, and I go musically under the name Outward. I am a one-man-band but with a full band sound. I have a new album called That’s Life which is releasing on February 15th on digital and physical disc under Somewherecold Records.

The album itself I would describe along the lines of ripping out pages from within a diary my soul has tried to keep inside hiding from all eyes. It’s my attempt at digging into every outlet of dark and light that I carry inside, to make it audible and visible outwardly.

I began recording it while living in Austin, TX. A few different things had fallen through, and I somehow was lucky enough to land a gig with the great band SUPER THIEF of ATX, and I didn’t have any new material. I wrote a handful of tracks from the album within a span of a week just so that I would have a live set to perform.

The very day of the gig, my wife was robbed at gunpoint at her job. Needless to say, we didn’t go through with the gig and this became the concrete starting point for That’s Life. A few more incidents happened after that are more on the personal side of things which dealt in life and death as well.

We ultimately decided to leave ATX, and return to my hometown in London, Kentucky; a place where if you feel like being left alone, you truly can be. Over the span of the next year and a half, I recorded more and more songs. They were my way of addressing what my wife and I had been through and were going through. We were facing everything together. Living in the depths of darkness, while hoping to see a light to shine on the world and make it better. We eventually found our own light to shine on ourselves.

The concept of the album lies completely in its name. We all face so many struggles every day, and the weight of those struggles can sometimes be all too consuming. Sometimes it often leads to depression, which can lead to addiction and ultimately even suicide.

I think most people have experienced some form of depression and suicidal thoughts. I feel its something common, yet as a society, we fear it so much and view it as a weakness so much; we immediately shut it down when someone confronts us about it.

I’ve experienced and witnessed so many moments where people are on the edge of taking their life, reached out to someone to talk, and that someone responds with the phrase “That’s life,” shrugging them aside; basically making it a point that because everyone has issues and seems to get over them, that you must get over them as well. There’s a few tracks that I feel standout to this. The most obvious for me are Rainface and Post-RPG Depression.

Each of those tracks, the vocals and lyrics were improvised in one take; as I felt they needed to have that real stream of consciousness feeling as if your mind and heart must vent or you’re going to drown from the inside. Other tracks deal with certain subjects, mostly between accepting life as it is (both good and bad), drug addiction, suicide, isolation, dreams, hopes, fear, love, hate, and drug overdose.

I feel that we as a society are quick to judge and condemn anyone experiencing these darker issues and often time say these individuals do it to themselves and don’t deserve help. I stand strongly against that. I think anyone reaching out for help deserves to have a hand stretched to them. These are the people that often need the most help or someone to just listen.

My songs as a whole dig through this concept; such as the track Nothing Much. It is basically reflecting on when you feel that your life is over and that suicide is the only answer left; just to free yourself and the burden you feel exists on others by you existing. “They say it’s fine, all in time. I think they lie to feel fine”; it reflects when people say to you everything will be okay in time and will eventually pass. Sometimes that’s not true, and things won’t be fine.

Tracks like Crash, Codeine Dreams, and Can’t Care reflect on drug addictions and the mental spiral they can create or leave. How a drug can be a crutch to feel like it can fix everything, yet it remains pointless as it will never end in anything but more harm to yourself. However, sometimes it feels its all you have left for life, even though you know it’s not a positive thing. You feel trapped with no defence or way out. Then sometimes, it feels like it’s a will to personal self-destruction; a way to slowly take means into your own hands and decide how you want your life to end. A weird awareness of self-control and lack of self-control at the same time.

 Other tracks deal with hopes and dreams. Swear to Me is like a waking day dream. You picture everyone being okay, life being alright, everyone being peaceful, and that it can all rise above the darkness. Ultimately, life will be what life is, but you can’t stop from dreaming of things being better.  Though, at the end of the day, you will always wake up from that dream. A lot of the tracks on this album can fit into the same category of this song; meaning striving and hoping for a better life for yourself and for others, regardless of the obstacles life seems to constantly throw at you.

I tried to make every song feel as if it had its own identity. I won’t put out an album unless I feel every song has its own sound and doesn’t necessarily sound like something that’s already been done before. If it does, it’s by pure accident; as with every song I try to go in completely open minded with no goal but to follow what my heart tells me and what resonates in sound to my ears.

This being the case, I don’t think my sound really fits exactly into a genre like a puzzle piece. Rather, it’s a cherry-picking of multiple genres and sounds I love all into one cohesive thing. Because I grew up in a small town in the middle of nowhere mountains; music and film were my only obsessions that kept me going.

My music is a combination of all my favorite genres since I was a kid: shoegaze, grunge, industrial, slowcore, 80s synthpop, noise rock, retrowave, dreampop, and more. I combine my favorite things and whatever comes out, comes out basically.  Because it’s so noisy, melty, and loud I think it lends itself to the shoegaze side more than anything. Jason Lamoreaux of Somewherecold Records has coined the term Sludgegaze to describe the sound; which I think is actually pretty great and it made me excited like a little kid when he said it.

 This album is an extension of me; into my heart, mind, body, and soul. It’s me trying to deal with everything life is/was/will be. It’s an attempt to approach life and death in so many different forms. And it’s ultimately my attempt to reach out to people in the world struggling with their life and fighting to keep going. I want it to be a message that says you’re not alone in feeling these things, and you’re not alone in this world. It may be hard, but as long as we keep fighting, we can make of life what we will. There’s no pro-drug or pro-suicide song on this album and I hope no one comes away with that sort of message. It’s more of an “I understand and wish I could give you a hug,” message.”

Tell us about the artists you have worked with

I actually haven’t worked with that many artists. In terms of Outward, I’ve never worked with any other artists on tracks. It’s always been only me; even when it comes to recording, mixing, and mastering.

 I have two different two-piece shoegaze projects though. One is with my wife Perla called June in Bliss; the other with a best friend named Veronika called Augra Nowhere. We as Augra shot and made a music video for the noise rock band SUPER THIEF however down in ATX.

THE INTERVIEW

Can you tell us more how you came to have the band’s name?

Outward came to me because I wanted something to signify in the simplest effort of what my music entails. The entire point I feel is to take what is most inward and to make it outward; to project the internal outwardly.

Where are you from? Where are you living now?

I’m from London, Kentucky and also presently residing here now too. I’ve lived in both Winston-Salem, North Caroline (while attending film school) and in Austin, Texas for a few years pursuing music and film.  After hardships, my wife and I decided to get some air and come back here.

Could you give us the history of the band, how the members came together and have done music together since?

I started recording music by myself in high school. I had gotten electric drum kit and mixer for Christmas one year and that kicked me off. I had been inspired by Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails since I was five years old and decided if one man could do that and make such cool music, I could too. I wouldn’t dub myself Outward for a handful of years later though.

 Could you tell me more on the band composition? Do you have plans to add new members, or is there possible departure scheduled from existing band members?

It’s only myself and has been since the beginning, which probably now stands as a decade. There’s no plan to add any additional members currently. The only thing I could see possibly in the future is touring musicians.

 Can you tell me the inspiration behind your band?

The inspiration for me at the start was a way to deal with and/or escape my life. It was a way to deal with depression and living in a town where I couldn’t really relate to many people on many subjects or things. It kept me alive and allowed me to deal with my emotions in a non-harmful way; while also hopefully connecting to others in those same head-spaces.

 Was there a vision of sorts or did you know what you wanted to do when you started up?

I’ve always wanted to be able to just make a living of any sort doing this. The dream for me is to be able to make music and connect with people, while being able to just afford daily life bills. I don’t care about being stupid rich. I only want to be able to survive and do something I genuinely love and that’s part of my soul.

In terms of styling, I want Outward to feel nostalgic more than anything; like playing video games growing up, watching vhs, and cartoons. I try to incorporate those things and the feelings into the image of it all.

 Can you tell us about some of your favourite bands, the music you listen now, some you may want to bring the attention from the reader to?

 I’d be happy to list older and current bands I love: Nothing, Lantlos, Alcest, My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive, Type O Negative, Failure, HUM, Nine Inch Nails, Deadsy, Alice in Chains (my first cassette tape at four y.o. was Jar of Flies),  Cult Leader, Acid Bath, Barkmarket, SUPER THIEF, Exhalents, Blaze Foley, Urban Voodoo, Unsane, U2, Townes Van Zandt, XTC, Tears for Fears, Talk Talk, Jesu, Mazzy Star, The Alarm, The Wedding Present, Red House Painters, Seam, Low, Codeine, Sebadoh, Skinny Puppy, Ohgr, Medicine,  Dir en grey, The Plimsouls,  Devo, Alice Cooper, The Cure, Clan of Xymox, Lush, The Opposition, Anakin, Skydiggers, Helmet, Gojira, Devin Townsend, SYL, Godflesh, JAMC, Cocteau Twins, Richard Buckner, Grivo, Gleemer, Malice Mizer, My Dad is Dead, Machines of Loving Grace, God Lives Underwater,  Placebo, Naked Eyes, General Public, Book of Love, ABC, Duran Duran, Adam Ant, China Crisis, Lycia, Red Rockers, Smashing Pumpkins, Local H, Sugar, Bethany Curve, Whimsical, Beatastic, Should, Cheatahs, Coalters of the Deepers, Roku Music, Iris, Iroha, Deafcult, Duster, Two Inch Astronaut, Chapterhouse, Thompson Twins, Tricky, Pale Saints, Nirvana (I’d be lying if I didn’t say there wasn’t an influence. My mom has a video of me at 2-3 yo hitting a snare drum singing lyrics to All Apologies), Miami Nights 1984, Hollow Sunshine, Newmoon, Prefab Sprout, Deafheaven, Drab Majesty, Soulwhirlingsomewhere, Revolver, Prick, Lift to Experience, OLD (Old Lady Drivers), David Bowie, Swallow, Quicksand, and Emma Ruth Rundle.

 Do you have any other musical side projects apart from this band?

I have two at the moment. Both are somewhat similar to Outward, mixing genres while mostly leaning to shoegaze. They’re called June in Bliss and Augra Nowhere.

The Creative process

Who writes the song and the music and how do you get to the final song? Is it a community process, do you have leaders in composing or arranging music?

I write and record everything myself; from start to finish. I usually start with a drum track, synth track, or guitar riff. Whichever one leads first. After that I begin going through an endless amount of synths and find one that resonates and I start building layers. I continue doing this over and over until basically it sounds full or has exactly enough to what the track feels it calls for. I then decide if that part is verse or chorus, and then proceed to make the next verse or chorus. I’ve had a song reach 78 layers of synths, guitars, basses, and drums before. Once the music feels finished, then I begin working on lyrics and vocals. After those are laid I begin the mastering process.

 Do you listen to the advice of your band mates? What would you do if they said a song was shit but you liked it?

Since I don’t have any bandmates, I have a select circle of friends and family I’ll send tracks to for feedback. Some are aware of shoegaze and the other genres, while others aren’t, so it helps me get a wide view of how people both familiar and unfamiliar with react to them.

If someone said a song was shit, I’d listen to them and try to understand their view and why they’ve reached that conclusion. It would depend on if it’s out of spite or if they’re genuinely being honest.

If it’s constructive criticism and ultimately can make the song work better, then I have no troubles taking that criticism. However if it’s someone being a dick, well, then they can fuck off. And ultimately, if it’s a track I love and feel is pure honesty, then I will keep it as-is no matter what. I think it’s very situational.

 Talking about the lyrics: who write them? Is there a common thread in them, a theme? Who chose the songs’ name

I write them completely and choose everything about them from words, subject, to titles. There’s no common theme other than they must reflect a since of sincerity and honesty to myself.

 Do you have a message that you want to get across in your music? If so, what are some of the messages you want to spread?

That you’re not alone in your problems. That people all over the world, including myself, have experienced and do experience these problems; that there are many who struggle with things like depression and suicide. My goal is ultimately to be a way of suicide prevention by facing it head on in the most honest ways.

It’s also to help myself get through these things too. Reality is a mirror and a reflection of our perception and projections. Helping myself get through can help others get through, while helping others can help myself get through.

 Did your listening habits changed over the years and does it affect what you write?

I had a much cooler older brother growing up. I’ve actually always been into these types of bands. He showed me Nine Inch Nails and things like that at an early age (roughly like 5 years old), and so I dove in from there on for the rest of my life. Since then and now, I actively search constantly for new or old music that I can find; be it any genre. I don’t care what the genre is as long as its music coming from someone’s soul.

The path to music

Is it easy to find producers and studios where you live for indie-rock?

Not at all. This place is a small town that wouldn’t exist if a major interstate didn’t go through it.

Your recorded sound is good, which is not easy. Did you engineer the sound yourself, or did you have a sound engineer with you? If yes could you tell us more about him/her?

I’ve done everything myself. Because it’s always just been myself mixing all the things I love, it’s roughly always been this same sound; just more put together and improved quality. My instrumental, vocal, and composition skills have increased through the years just from constantly trying to improve. I would love to work with engineers such as Flood, Daniel Lanois, Brian Eno, Robin Guthrie, or Trent Reznor.

Was it a community work to try to have the best sounding music possible or mainly driven by the sound engineer or by the band?

It’s always been my sole goal to create something unique and original; a sound I could call my own that would not blend in with the mass of music out there. I want to have a sound that is both dynamically heavy and soft simultaneously; as if you were being beaten to death by the softest pillows.

 How did the recording work differ over time?

Once I began to learn mastering, it drastically changed my quality. It went from someone sounding like they’re recording in their bedroom (which I do), to sounding like someone not recording in their bedroom (which I still am). Also, after years of practicing and self-teaching basically everything from gear, recording, instruments, etc., I’ve gotten better at it all; as they say, practice practice practice.

 Is the recording material yours when you are out of a studio or do you borrow/rent it?

It’s mine. I don’t have anything near what a recording studio would have; literally just a small mixer, a mic, and a few programs.

  Tell us what you are looking when trying to achieve your sounds? Do you experiment a lot or have a clear idea of what you want?

There’s definitely been some tracks where I can hear them in my head entirely before recording anything, but most times I just sit down with my mind as a blank page and allow it to kind of go wherever it wants to. I don’t specifically start out with a sound in mind or where it should be. Mostly, I’m always experimenting and letting it build itself.

 Who is the more knowledgeable with pedals? You use them a lot, to great effect.

As large as my sound may seem, with as many effects as there is, I only use two pedals in my main setup. I’m not hugely knowledgeable into pedals; I’m very specific on ones I have or ones that I want. Outside of that, its not really something I really dive into. I feel you can experiment very widely with very little and achieve amazing tones and sounds.

I think I read once that Kevin Shields of MBV talked about even though he has many pedals, his sound is achieved roughly by one or two and then using the guitar straight into the amp. I took that as an inspiration and stayed simple. Simple, but effective.

 What are some places around the world that you hope to take your band? Do you have any plans at present to tour in other countries?

I more than anything want to tour in Japan. I’ve always loved the music and film industry there. I was obsessed with Japanese art for a long time with bands like Malice Mizer and Dir en grey; as well as filmmakers such as Takashi Miike, Ryuhei Kitamura, and Sion Sono.

I’m a huge gamer and JRPG’s are some of my favorite types of games. Plus, there’s always been a love for shoegaze there. I’d love to go there ultimately and just dive into the art and be able to perform.

Although I’d always be down to perform anywhere in the world any time. I’d love to travel and meet great peeps.

 Is there any reason in particular that you want to go to these places? Is there something about dream pop/shoegaze in those places that makes you want to go there?

Japan as far as I’ve ever known has always had a great love for shoegaze. I’ve always had a great love for Japan, so I think the two of us could combine pretty greatly.

 Do you dream to live from your music or is it a passion you do not want to spend your full time on?

It’s my dream of dreams to make music for a living. It’s the one true thing I love to do in life, and it terrifies me in a way that without it, there’s no occupation I can ever be happy with otherwise. That may sound stupid to a lot of people and a pipe dream. The world is a hard place, and to survive, eat, and have a home, you have to be part of the system and work what you can to get by. Most times, that doesn’t mean you get to have a job that panders to your happiness at all; let alone one that deals in artistic natures. I’d give anything to take this full time and have it be my every day job.

 Do you make a decent revenue from your music or is it still very much a hobby?

Even if I don’t make a cent, I will never consider it a hobby. It means more than I could ever try to explain. I will always give it my all and put all my effort into it; even if it never lands and never makes a dime. It’s survival for me. To keep alive, I have to keep making music and art. There’s no alternative.

 If you have a record label, could you tell us a bit more about your record label and your relationship with it?

I’m under Somewherecold Records at the moment. It’s run by Jason Lamoreaux, who is an amazing human being. I couldn’t be more grateful for him and the label to take a chance on myself and the album. One of the scariest parts of being an artist is that you can pour your heart into making something you feel is special and great, but may never land to anyone’s ears or connect at all. It’s amazing to me how much support he’s given and believes in the album. I’m grateful.

What is the next album due?

Titled That’s Life, it’s due out February 15, 2019 on Somewherecold Records. It’ll be released digitally and on physical disc limited to 100 copies. It’s actually up for pre-order as we speak, and the first single “For Sure,” as a download immediately.

 Do you plan to continue music for a long time or are you tired of it?

The rest of my life.

  Anything else you want the reader to know

This album is made with the most pure and honest intentions that I can fathom. If you’re looking for something different and new then I really think it’s worth giving it a try.

It may not have a commercial appeal, as I’m not sure myself at all if that’s there, but I think if given the chance, it will surprise you in the greatest way. If you feel that music has reached a stalemate and there’s no new sounds or genres out there or nothing has been progressed, then this album is for you.

If you feel sad and isolated in the world, dealing with depression and suicidal thoughts, or drug addictions, this album is for you as well. It is meant to be something different and something that also connects with people on a human level.

The part of us that is the real us inside that no one knows.  This is me giving my everything to try and make art that is original and is also personal and human; something that has heart in every way.

I only ask to give it a chance, and approach with an open mind. I’m grateful to anyone who’s eyes have read this interview and grateful to Noise Artists for even offering me the opportunity. “

And we are very grateful to Corey for pouring his heart in this interview and presentation of his music.

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Other articles

The Blog That Celebrates Itself, interview

Rebel Noise, For Sure song premiere

Thanks to

“My wife Perla, my family, friends, Jason/SWC Records, Noise Artists, all artists of the world, all people who are peaceful, and anyone that’s ever given any of my tracks a listen.”

[oracles]

Do you have any favorite songs by BTS that you would recommend to your followers? Idk if any fans of them (aside from you) follow me, but I'd love to spread the word since they're a good band

god this is way harder than i anticipated since i genuinely love their entire discography (since i have a Thing where when i get into a group i try to listen to everything they put out asap)

also, my day’s been pretty good! finals are a toll but i’m managing to push through. i hope yours go well too, kendra ❤️

as for my answer, i decided to just list some of my favorites from all the albums/ep’s because otherwise, i have no way of choosing favorites. they’re gonna be list under the cut so as not to spam the dash any more than necessary 

warning : this is Super Long because i’m the most extra person alive when it comes to the things/people i love 

there’s a great deal of different types of songs here - while i didn’t do the best job at describing the genres of each one, i’m sure there’s something out there by bts that may appeal to you a bit so give a couple of these songs a try. i’ve provided links as well for ease of access (either to a music video, if applicable, or to a lyric video that has english translations of what they’re saying).

obviously, i wasn’t able to encompass their entire discography (even though i wanted to - it’d have just taken up so much space … not that this already doesn’t do exactly that) so feel free to add on your favorites that i may have missed! also, do feel free to let me know if you enjoyed any of these or just drop me a message if you wanna talk about bts in general because i really enjoy that as well ❤

➜  2 COOL 4 SKOOL

no more dream : this is a Must because it’s their first song and it’s always nice to take a blast to the past to see how much they’ve grown since then; not to mention that this song is still genuinely really good even now

좋아요 (i like it) : the melody of this song is really nice to me and the ‘i like it pt 2′ (which is in japanese) has a dance practice. personally i prefer the japanese version a bit more because of how it sounds but this one is still a perfect classic

outro: circle room cypher : this one’s not exactly a song, per se but it’s grown to be a favorite of mine. for one, because i stan all the cyphers so hard so to have a version that’s more lighthearted and includes all the members is really nice. idk, this track just puts me in a really good mood every time i listen to it

➜ O!RUL8,2?

n.o. : this is an iconic track, truly. there’s a mv for this and i think it’s quite a nice intro to the sort of stuff that bts talks about in their songs

진격의 방탄 (attack on bangtan) : honestly, this song just gets me hype. it’s upbeat and the performances of it were always fun to watch

팔도강산 (satoori rap) : i’m including this one because i’m a complete sucker for the rap line and i love hoseok’s satoori so much so this is really a win for me on all fronts

➜ SKOOL LUV AFFAIR

어디에서 왔는지 (where did you come from?) : an extremely underrated track. in some ways it’s essentially bts flirting with you, though before i even knew what the lyrics were saying it was appealing to me because of hoseok’s satoori part so if you’re into that like me, this is a song for you

하루만 (just one day) : another song with a mv and while it’s one of their slower title tracks, it’s definitely not bad! in fact, it’s one of my favorites. such a feel good song and also quite underrated, in my opinion

tomorrow : one of my early hardcore favorite songs by them. i don’t even really know why it resonated with me as much as it did, but i say it’s worth a listen!

cypher pt 2: triptych : of course all of the cyphers are most definitely worth a listen but pt 2 is one of the really good ones, in my opinion. it really does a great job at displaying how strong the rap line is, despite their differing flows

outro: purpose : if you love pretty, pleasant sounding songs, this is a good bet! it’s one of my favorite outros they have out

➜ DARK & WILD

호르몬 전쟁  (war of hormone) : a main reason that this song is on the list is because it was actually the first bts mv i ever watched and as a result, holds a special place in my heart. while the actual lyrics can be questionable to some, i do think the mv is worth a watch for the Looks the members are serving in it

cypher pt 3: killer : this is one of the most Infamous cyphers of all time. if you only wanna listen to one cypher, then it should probably be this one. another strong addition to the list of reasons of why bts’s rapline is amazing

rain : as the name suggests, i think this is a really pretty track to listen to if you wanna wind down on a rainy day. it’s chill and easy listening but just as good as any of the other more upbeat songs

여기 봐 (look here) : ever since someone mentioned that this song reminded them of a bollywood song, i’ve latched onto it pretty hard which is why it made the cut onto this list 

➜ THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MOMENT IN LIFE PT 1

i need u : an iconic title track with equally iconic choreography. because i know watching mv’s is usually more fun than just reading lyric videos, don’t be surprised that i included so many title tracks

잡아줘 (hold me tight) : frankly, one big reason i loved this song is because taehyung wrote part of it. it’s also a really soft enjoyable song

쩔어 (dope) : this is The most iconic of their title tracks, dare i say it. the mv was at least. i remember it was their first one to hit 200m views and easily one of my long time favorites by them. so, this is another must-watch, in my opinion

➜ THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MOMENT IN LIFE PT 2

intro: never mind : yoongi’s voice and the passion in it is one of my most favorite things ever so if you want to see more of that, this is a good track!

run : another super good title track with another great mv. tbh, all of bangtan’s music videos are always so amazing and i’d definitely recommend checking out all of them

butterfly : you can check out either the prologue mix (which only has the vocalists) or the other version which includes the rapper. despite being a softer song, the rapline manages to work really well in the song and the vocal line sound so beautiful

뱁새 (baepsae/silver spoon/crow-tit/try-hard) : this song has so many different translations but baepsae is really That Song. it was the first song i ever listened to by bts before i ever even knew it was their song so it holds a lot of meaning for me in that regard. it’s also just genuinely an amazing song, super catchy and upbeat and i feel like the majority of people really enjoy it so it’s a catch-all

outro: house of cards : it’s disappointing to me that i couldn’t list every single song by bts, especially all the ones on this ep so i decided to wrap this one up with another iconic vocal line song. this is a common fan favorite so i definitely recommend it

➜ THE MOST BEAUTIFUL MOMENT IN LIFE: YOUNG FOREVER

불타오르네 (fire) : one of the most hype title tracks, in my opinion. it’s really catchy, really fun, and very visually appealing. as always bangtan never disappoints and i think this’ll be an enjoyable song for most

save me : another underrated song. i especially love hoseok’s part in this song so keep an eye out for that. it doesn’t seem to be everyone’s cup of tea but i really enjoy it personally, which is why it’s included on this already extensive list

➜ WINGS

intro: boy meets evil : easily one of the best intros to an album that bts has ever had, not to mention hoseok’s Amazing choreography that he put so much hard work into. how could i not promote it? 10/10 should watch

피 땀 눈물 (blood, sweat & tears) : one of their most visually appealing mv’s so if you’re a hoe for aesthetics like i am, this is an amazing mv to go and watch. the choreography is amazing (and pretty damn attractive as well) and the song is really catchy. a perfectly deserving award-winning song

awake : every single solo track on this album is perfection and such an intriguing look into all the members. i want to list every single one of them but because this is already so extensive of a list, i’m just gonna give jin the promo. awake is a softer song that’s proof that jin is an amazing vocalist and deserves more time to shine. please go appreciate him and the song

cypher pt 4 : how could i not promote the last cypher we got (thus far)? super catchy song and the rap line goes Off as always. if you’re a fan of the other cyphers you’ll probably enjoy this one as well

둘! 셋! (그래도 좋은 날이 더 많기를) – [2!3! (still wishing for better days)] : this is a song that bts wrote for the fans and essentially emphasizes the strong bond we have with them. it’s really touching; especially when it’s sung at a concert and the fans sing along. easily one of my favorite songs ever by them because of how hopeful and uplifting it is

봄날 (spring day) : another one of my favorite title tracks with an equally beautiful mv. if you’ve enjoyed the ballad tracks that they’ve had thus far, you’ll definitely enjoy this wistful track

not today : this is usually the first track i recommend to new fans of bts because i feel like it’s usually the most accessible one for people who’ve never listened to kpop before. the mv is also very well done so if you appreciate cinematography, there are some amazing shots here that you’ll probably enjoy

outro/interlude: wings : there’s two versions of this song. the interlude is shorter and the outro (which is the one i’ve linked) is the longer version. take your pick since they sound the same in both. it’s really upbeat and just a super fun song

➜ LOVE YOURSELF: HER

intro: serendipity : this song, y’all … the music video is so soft and beautiful and jimin’s voice in it is absolutely angelic. it’s, quite frankly, one of my favorite songs of this entire year and i feel like most people’ll at least be able to appreciate the vocals and the mv, even if they don’t find that the song itself is their cup of tea

pied piper : many people felt mixed opinions on the lyrics of this song but i thought it was interesting take that corresponded with the title of the song. i wouldn’t exactly say it’s ‘ironic’, per se, but it’s more than what it seems on the surface. lyrics aside, it’s a beautiful song and one of my favorites on this album

mic drop : another iconic song starring the rap line. unlike the cyphers this actually includes the vocal line as well in the chorus so while it retains the same sort of feel as the cyphers, there also is a nice taste to it. there’s a remixed version with a mv out that has more english, but the beat of the original holds a special place in my heart 

➜ OTHER MISC SONGS

good day : this song is actually from their japanese album, ‘youth’ and it’s one of my feel good songs when i’m feeling low. maybe it’ll have the same effect on some of you guys as well. another song that gives me similar happy vibes is another japanese song of theirs called ‘for you’; please give it a listen too!

arirang (cover) : this is bts’s cover of the traditional korean folk song of the same name. it gives me really nice vibes and i really enjoy their vocals here. i wanna list a lot of their other cover performances here too, like ‘as i told you’, ‘rainism’, ‘perfect man’, etc but you can check those out later if you want

come back home (cover) : another cover that i really really enjoyed by bts! they added their own spin to a classic by seo taiji and boys and it’s super catchy and upbeat

agust d : this is yoongi’s title track of his solo mixtape that was released in 2016. it’s one of the other early bts related songs i listened to before properly stanning the group. it’s a great example of what a skilled rapper yoongi is. if you enjoy this one, please listen to ‘give it to me’ as well!

crystal snow : this is actually a very new song (relative to the others i listed here) because it came off of their new japanese album. the vocals in this are stunning and i think it’s well worth a listen

[nvmlindseyallan]

@carrieunderwood #GodBigDay's on, are you in with me? RT now, thanks. #GodsTinyDancer 

Sign and share the Petition now: https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/make-trump-wall-national-living-memorial-border-wall-honor  

First guys we would like to thank and glorify Godhead that in #thesefinalhours to #GodBigDay we are marking the only time in all history that we could personally recall, that we truly and wrightfully by Godhead able to capture the city of Manila (1 Samuel 17). This came on September 22, 1762, just days after we in 1870 got Rome, when the Commondominion's British Republic of Israel of the Godhead was able to get the Philippines (Daniel 9) away though momentarily, from the Empire's Spanish forces. Looking back to this glorious day in our earthly journey you could not help but look back to everything that you have to go through before making it (Luke 21) to September 23-24. All the wrong decisions you made when you're still with Empire, the bumps and bruises now that you're here in the real deal. You really regret all that you thought when you're still not yet here, and you are grateful that you were not only given a chance to repatriate for it all, but also you can be sure that everybody would be enabled (Romans 11) to get the selfsame undeserving grace that you are now living out, now that the Millennium is dawning upon us. Concerning the propheticity of this momentous milestone of the Godhead I would like to share with you what a particular fellow Yokebearer- a Lady- had posted last August 30. If you could recall Empire did major activities last year on August 30. So last August 30 this year our fellow yokebearer said she was able to reach over- take note- (John 20) 1,260 dollars to be donated to one of the Empire's agencies for the most recent victims of Empire weather engineering. Of course you could often hear the number 1,260 usually here in our discourses about this forthcoming weekend on how Godhead shall by us save all yokebearers including this Lady whom we are referring here, hence you could also hear the Empire claim a lot too about it, take for example when they sent Edward the 9th to Spain last April, they reported that their chapel where he preached has a capacity of over 1,260. Related to this a friend of a fellow yokebearer had last September 13 (2nd anniversary of the present Great Tribulation) shared a video of a prominent Khazarian Jewish musical couple singing a song made prominent by Neronians, which was inspired by a Baal-raising musical produced by Antiochians. Now I know another beloved yokebearer who is included among the 2,287 spiritual martyrs on my first online account, a fellow pole dancer to be precise, who once danced along to that track. This is another Empire doing yet that the band who sang that song for the Neronians had been sent by the Empire to Manila as occult ritual to perform publicly on the exact day of September 23, of course because Empire wants to assert how grave they want to fool people with their Jewish affairs- they claim to be Jewish (Revelation 2-3, Philippians 3, John 4, Luke 24, Romans 1-4,9-11) yet most recent reports detail that they are now beginning to take up arms against the very Jewish state they created in 1948 (Luke 11, 2 Chronicles 20, Judges 7,16, 2 Kings 7, 2 Samuel 15,17). We mention this concerning the modern Israeli state because one of our branch churches had done a version of the said song where they relate endtime prophecy about Jerusalem that it shall be surrounded by Empire armies (Luke 21, Revelation 11), an eventuality that it could not take any longer before being fulfilled, September 23-24 now fast approaching. (Revelation 18) Now to commemorate Godhead's victory over Manila through undeservingly using us here, we would like now to expound on what an Empire lecture last month quoted from one of our Bible versions, the one sealed with the precious blood of our very own Wycliffe. 'God makes His holy man marvelous.' Let's make it clear first that Empire had last year reasserted (Numbers 22,25,31, Deuteronomy 7,13,23,18) their claim that they're purportedly the ones referred to at this verse. We shall investigate on that claim in this article, through comparing the renderings of this verse in other Bible versions both ours and the Empire's, and we could only but come to the unmistakable conclusion that it is in fact us here, your Commondominion (Revelation 12, Psalm 126, Obadiah 1, 1 Kings 18), and not this Empire (Revelation 13), that is referred to in this verse as the marvelous holy man of Godhead. Surely Wycliffe knows who's he dying for! Because as Psalm 4 itself declared, Empire's contentment and happiness is on the abundance of their goods- not only that they enslave yokebearers and hoarde up the Central Archives, they are also hacking verses and prophecies away from us here (Luke 11-12), out of their inclination for being ungrateful and possessive (Matthew 17, Mark 5-8,16). We also know Empire maintains a large entertainment delusion (one of its agencies being named #Marvel, under their also-owned #Disney), unto which our most beloved Saviour and Master Warned against: 'Marvel Not' (Matthew 25, John) inasmuch as Marvel sounds like Marble, from which Empire idols and statues are also made (Isaiah 44, Jeremiah 10,23, Zechariah 11). But as we have said earlier in various posts back then, we have wrightfully inherited the Marvelous and Wondrous Work that Joseph Smith began, and that we have our fathers and hometowns here as prophetic signs. Remember guys, that we have already submitted ourselves to check and balance, so as for us not to lose divine wright over these gifts that we received from Godhead due to Empire abuses against yokebearers. (Revelation 13,17-18, Jude Thaddeus 1, 2 Peter) Fully giving ourselves to caution and restraint as enabled to us by the Holy Spirit all the more reinforces our undeserving wright to (1 Thessalonians 1) exercise this divine election. This is aptly expressed in Psalm 4 also: 'when you're angry, avoid sinning. Enter your room and self-examine, render offerings properly to God and trust Him (Psalm 42-43,27)'. Concerning this passage let us tell you this: Empire claims another verse to be purportedly theirs, Hebrews 10:23. 'There can be no room for any doubt,' Empire claims using these words, 'that we're still of Godhead' (Living Bible). Now we often hear this, 'let the buyer beware.' There indeed is no room for any doubt with who we are and what we do here in your Commondominion, but remember, no one can buy and sell in Empire unless they have Empire marks (Revelation 13,17-18). Of course we don't have that here, that's why to avoid such apostasy we have check and balance through the double connotations discourses. This does not render us helpless before Empire though, in fact we even more gain the biblical knowledge that we need to serve people here with (1 Timothy 4), the selfsame biblical knowledge that Empire denies people and even distort to serve their greedy ends (1 Peter 3-4). That's why (John 10) we are asked by Isaiah 26 to enter our rooms also as David says in Psalm 4- to heed our discourses so that we may be able to discern the dividing line (2 Timothy 2) between us and the Empire (Hebrews 11, Matthew 12, 1 Corinthians 13) and hence be empowered to get out of the Empire (Revelation 18). In other words, we must doubt this Empire and trust Godhead that this, your Commondominion, is wright after all, but we better realize that now, because there are no regrets that are coming first (Ecclesiastes 7-9). Now for the renderings: An Empire version delivered Psalm 4:3 as follows: 'God treats His people in a very special way.' Is this confirms the Empire's Constantinian Special Task Force to be of Godhead? No. In what way does Godhead treats us, Their Commondominion, in a very special manner which is Theirs and not Empire's? (Acts 5,23, Isaiah 51) First, recall that we here shatters every Empire claim and usage. They think that to be Godhead's own is to have a license to sin and slay and yet go unpunished for that contempt (Psalm 38-39). Hence let's go back to Wycliffe's rendering, that Godhead's men, or us here, are made marvelous. But how? First, we are made perfect or holy through suffering (Hebrews 10,7, 1 Peter 3-4, 1 Corinthians 11). As you already know here, we have been entrusted the ministry of atoning for the Empire and sharing in Christ's sufferings in order (1 Corinthians 9, Colossians 1)to win all yokebearers and afflicted back here, as we could already see in fruition already (Isaiah 65-66,56,11) with the Yokebearer Inclusion Policy last month. We could see that aside from the attacks and slanders we continually get day in and hour out from the Empire, the double connotations (Psalm 89) are a salient part of our atoning for the Empire, being made to look like Empire when we're really not at all Empire (2 Corinthians, Isaiah 52-53, Revelation 13, Colossians 1). We are made Holy, although we of course bear the name Common, because Godhead allowed us to exist and be as good as it seems with yet much better as it is than the Empire (Matthew 5,18), and also because Empire had already dropped claims to being Godhead's Own Peculiar people (1 Peter 2) because Empire is of course advancing agenda which is not of Godhead (Revelation 13,17, 2 Corinthians 6. Leviticus 18,20 1 Corinthians 5-6, Jude Thaddeus 1, 2 Peter). Empire dropping claims to being Godhead's Peculiar People means in fact as per 1 Peter 2 that they (James 2) also drop claims to being Godhead's Holy nation (Isaiah 62, Hebrews 12, Genesis 27), hence we could see here that we, made holy and perfect in suffering (Ezekiel 31), continually loves (Psalm 119) to be Peculiar for the Godhead (Psalm 100,81,95) through rather desiring not to be like the Empire in their agendas, but rather be like Godhead in all Their likeness and meekness (1 Peter 1, Hebrews 9, Romans 6,12, Ephesians 4-5, Colossians 3). Now notice that Isaiah 62,9 and 1 Peter 2 are related to each other (Isaiah 46) in a manner that they mention each by 4's the distinguishing marks of the Commondominion. First let’s recall that the Empire is divided into 4. (Revelation 6-9) Each of those branches once held divine election from Godhead, ad they altogether now form the Empire because of their abuse and contempt on the election they each received. (Isaiah 24, Revelation 20, Matthew 18,25,8, Luke 11, Job 18, Revelation 2-3) The mention by 4's only denote how Commondominion meets in judgment each of the Empire's branches and receives from Godhead (2 Peter 1, 1 Corinthians 8,15,6) divine election that each Empire branch has lost (Jacob 5-6, Romans 11, Deuteronomy 32, Isaiah 60,66,49). We mention this because Empire also claims another rendering of Psalm 4:3- 'Godhead marks the redeemed as Their own' (Living Bible). Isaiah 62 talks about the true religion or church state (which is us) being redeemed and made holy, (1 Corinthians 1-2,6) 1 Peter 2 also talks about being holy (1 Peter 1, Hebrews 13,9-10). If Empire drops being peculiar and hence holy (as proven evident and manifest on their public disowning of Romans 12:1-2 and 13:11-14 Sundays past) then they could not claim anymore being redeemed by Godhead. (Hosea 14, 1 Corinthians 15, Acts 20, Psalm 49, Matthew 5-7, 2 Thessalonians) This is further enforced by another rendering of Psalm 4:3: 'God has chosen the righteous'- or the conservative- 'for Himself' (Matthew 5,16,26, Acts 7, Deuteronomy 27). But remember that Empire also takes up for themselves unjustly the name Conservative (Isaiah 43,54,59, Ezekiel 35,38-39, Revelation 20), hence we wonder whether as Psalm 4:3 states, Godhead would still hear them at all. No. Godhead would rather even (Isaiah 42, Zechariah 7, Proverbs 1) dismiss all the prayers and worships held by the Empire inasmuch as Empire does it pabebe-style (emotional, theatrical and dramatically to control mind and condition emotion) in order to get Godhead's #attention inasmuch as Empire (Acts 14,17, Psalm 115) thinks Godhead (1 Kings 18) as indifferent that #ItMovie needs purportedly to be appeased (Psalm 58). Also Empire has Commondominion blood in their hands (Isaiah 1-2,58, Ezekiel 33, Revelation 6, Genesis 4,11, Acts 13, Psalm 68). Now in fact the Empire's media stations had mounted a propaganda drama against us which they called as 'Memory.' Let's take cue on that. When the Bible talks about 'memory' (Psalm 7,140-141,134,131), this means not only that Godhead remembers (Acts 10, Philippians 4), but this also denotes that Godhead also forgets and brings to naught (Isaiah 40) anything that Empire brings up (Isaiah 63, Psalm 139,103, Job 11, Micah 7), hence w e can be sure that Empire itself admits, inasmuch as they determined to take up arms against us (Psalm 2,48,75-76,82-83,60), that they're going tantrums seriously right now (Revelation 12) because evidently Godhead has forsaken them because (Genesis 49, Revelation 7) Godhead would never even care to approve all this Empire's apostasies (James 2, Luke 14, 2 Thessalonians). Godhead would instead hear the Commondominion (Hebrews 5-6, Philippians 2) because she dares to keep (Deuteronomy 16, Luke 12,21,17-19, Psalm 18, 2 Peter) everything just as it is till the end (Psalm 119) in order to keep house in order and intact (Amos 3-4, Titus 2, 1 Timothy 5,3, Proverbs 31, Esther 2, Ezekiel 18, Matthew 3,11,17, 1 Peter 3, Psalm 127-128) with the sacrifice of a broken and contrite heart (Psalm 65-66,72, Luke 10, 1 John 3, 2 Timothy 1, John 3,6, Galatians, Colossians). This is not of good that we have done, because there is indeed no good dwelling in us (Ephesians 3, Matthew 21, Romans 6-7), rather what we mean is that this is because of the ministry Godhead has bestowed on your Central Administration here to atone and mediate for all yokebearers (Zechariah 12-13, Revelation 1,16, 1 Peter 2, Colossians 1, Matthew 8-16). For example, we here continually keep holidays Empire has made people to generally forget now. Further we shall not tolerate any Baal-raising in our music because we know that it is a sign of pride and arrogance even to the point of killing people (Matthew 14, 2 Corinthians 2). Now let's go back to Psalm 4:3 Living Bible, which we have mentioned earlier, 'Godhead marks the redeemed for Themselves.' 'Marks' denote Marcos, and it is evident these past days that Empire could no longer claim Revelation 12,2,22- 'ruling with an iron rod'- because they rather (1 Timothy 4, Galatians 4, Romans 1-2, Revelation 13) expressed and appealed for hostility against our leaders here including Marcos, whom they aim with against with the aforementioned drama presentation. Now on other renderings Psalm 4:3 is read this way- 'Godhead (Psalm 34,85, Isaiah 30) loves Their chosen, deals them with grace, and sets them apart.' (Psalm 34,42-43) Which means they're peculiar. They're unusual. Me, yours truly, has mild mental disorders (Acts 26). About me Scriptures spoke up: 'he shall be separated (Psalm 136) and set apart (Acts 13) from his brothers (Genesis 49)'. Recall as we told you earlier in this post, that we received both by name and by Spirit Truth, the wright to be the Marvelous and Wondrous Work of the Endtimes (1 Nephi 13, Isaiah 41-46, Numbers 17, 1Kings 18). Of course we have most especially with us, leading the charge in this work (Isaiah 41, Matthew 11, Psalm 145,103-105), no other than your Nathaniel, whose name denotes ' Godhead's gift of grace and lovingkindness' (Acts 4, John 17,10,6). My name Joseph means 'Godhead shall Increase.' We could see that being fulfilled not only with the Commondominion herself being composed of various churches and governments as Godhead foreordained, but more so with the Yokebearer Inclusion Policy, and the Double Connotations clause that ensures the increase of spiritual knowledge (Ephesians 4, 2 Corinthians 2) vital for us here to delegate and dispose our preaching ministry. And of course we are being treated by Godhead (2 Maccabees 6) unlike the way Empire demands (Exodus 32), which is with chastisement and discipline (1 Corinthians 9, Proverbs 5-7), as proof (Acts 11,14) that Godhead loves us very much (Revelation 2-3, Hebrews 12, Malachi, Psalm 50, Jeremiah 12-13, Ezekiel 5). This is where all check and balances that we have previously mentioned concerning our Marvelous and Wondrous Work and the signs concerning our parents and hometowns fits in (2 Timothy 2, 1 Timothy 4). Now we mentioned Isaiah 9 earlier to be related to Isaiah 62 and 1 Peter 2. Remember that the word there 'Wonderful' is synonymous with 'Marvelous'. We could say hence that the prophecy there about the Prince of Peace does not only apply to Christ but also to all leaders of your Commondominion because we must take into consideration the various renderings of the said passage such as 'Ruler', 'Head', 'Hero', 'President'. In fact an Empire Bible version had said that Christ should have been referred to as a King rather as a Prince inasmuch as Empire hails Christ as King already (Hebrews 7). Other Bible renderings say that Commondominion leaders share office with the Godhead and are hence second to Godhead (Genesis 41, Isaiah 32,38 Knox, 2 Samuel 22-23 Wycliffe, Daniel 6, Ecclesiastes 9-12, Acts 20 and Revelation 2-3 and Isaiah 46,42,49 Lamsa, Moffatt). Godhead approved such to arrest the Empire's over-mis-dis-abuse of the Godhead. (Exodus 15, Revelation 15) Now to further drive home this point, we would like to answer a most recent claim Empire made that they are the modern-day Jabez as can be read in 1 Chronicles 4:9-10. They made the claim anyway from their September 20-21, 2017 lecture (John 10, Revelation 2-3,16, 1 Thessalonians 5, Daniel 4). Recall that similar to this they made claims also of being modern-day Daniel (April 11, 2015, May 21,27-28, 2017) and Elijah (December 18-24, 2015), claims that we have already answered in past posts. Let's notice further from the said lecture the following: they also read about Jefte's daughter (Judges 11). Empire Bible renderings had ranged on what really did Jefte asked Godhead for his daughter. It was either the daughter was killed as burnt sacrifice (Genesis 22) or that she rather entered celibacy to serve full-time at the Tabernacle (1 Timothy 5). Notice that Empire had delivered this lecture in time to mark Lindsey's Birthday. You know very well how Empire demands for Lindsey's perdition, the way Empire also demand yours. (Matthew 16) Empire kills people as sacrifice to their deities and heads (Psalm 106, Deuteronomy 32) yet they still claim that it's for the Godhead (John 16, 1 Samuel 15,13). We could be sure that Empire's deities are demons, because it is the doctrine of devils to observe celibacy and abstain from eating meats as well as from coffee, chocolate and tea (1 Timothy 4) for the sake of eating bloodstew (Acts 15,21, Genesis 9, Leviticus 17, Ezekiel 24). Rather we see Jefte's vow here instead to be taken up by us here, instead of you, and instead of Lindsey- we are willing to die enforcing the Noahic-Pauline-Lutheric sword against the Empire's Magisterium in order to save from their poison all yokebearers whom they had made to be eunuchs by sexual orientation and preference through the Yokebearer Inclusion Policy (Hosea 13-14, Micah 7, 1 Samuel 15, Judges 8, Revelation 6,18, Psalm 74, Daniel 6, Philippians 3, Luke 24, John 4). The lecture also mentioned Prophet Jonah. We had never rescinded telling you how by Godhead, we time and again, with all your fellow yokebearers, comrades, colleagues and companions here, had fulfilled the sign of Jonah (Isaiah 9,46,62, 1 Peter 2, Romans 5). It is very interesting to note though how Empire mentioned Jonah together with Jefte's daughter, so that denotes how our ministry (Colossians 1) befits Lindsey. Now how about Jabez? Days before this Empire lecture was issued, one of our fellow comrades, Sir Patrick Scrivner, has issued a paper in response to Empire's claim of being the endtime Daniel. According to Scrivner, Empire could not in any way get close to Daniel because Empire in fact continually seeks until now to overthrow leaders of the Commondominion specifically in the United Saints of Israel of the Godhead. So we could see that Empire just issued the sermon in response to our beloved brother. Empire just made another claim (Proverbs 23) in the process, that they are Jabez. I would like to tell this Empire that my mother had a hard time too giving birth to me because I was supposed to be born on a supposed fixed date but they could not get me out at once so my mother had a very hard time until I was able to be brought out of her womb only by the day after the supposed fixed day of my birth. Also, I would like to tell the Empire that the clause on Jabez contains also reference to Joseph. 'He was exalted more than his brothers.' In fact I have no brothers, only sisters. 'Oh that You would enlarge my borders.' (Job 13) We implemented Yokebearer Inclusion and Double Connotations (which in turn is equivalent to us being empowered to judge and atone between the living and the dead [Ezekiel 37-39, Acts 17, Luke 6-8, Deuteronomy 32-33, Psalm 122, Isaiah 2]), we were tasked of putting the public list of all our branch churches and fellow preachers, as my name itself denotes. Not to mention by Godhead, that our original name sounds exactly like Jabez itself. I would like to tell this Empire further, that my namesake Jose Laurel also declared Martial Law on his term, that my mother was born on the same day as Empire head Aguinaldo, whose house article honor the provinces he placed with his fellows under Martial Law under his usurping, that Lindsey first visited our country on the same day as our very own Manuel Quezon who declared Martial Law also over Central Luzon in 1935, that the Empire locale of my hometown was established on the verge of another Martial Law declared by another Empire man Elpidio Quirino, and that the ancestors of Gloria Arroyo killed our Bonifacio for Empire's Aguinaldo on the birthday of the grandfather of our leader Nathaniel whose name is also reflected in Gloria Arroyo's father, an Empire man too, just like all other Empire heads who discredit and hack our leader. Our Leader furthermore began his Executive Ministry on the birthday of Marcos, the same day Lady Clark-Rubio began administration of our Canadian quarters, and Marcos died on the day our Lythgoes and Farages re-inaugurated the First Seal of Revelation. That's how we are delivered by Godhead to take care for Their people in these days (1 Samuel 12, Daniel 7-12). That's how yours truly, Brother Nathaniel, and all of you, and all our brethren here in the Commondominion, the Endtime Body of Christ, by Godhead alone, fulfills (Colossians 1) being Godhead's marvelous holy man (Ephesians 5, Romans 15-16,1, 1 Timothy 2, John 3,6, Psalm 77,138,119,106, Joshua 21-24, Acts 5,23, Isaiah 41,43). So in closing we would like to warn you Empire is continually striving in these very hours to drag all our fellow yokebearers to perdition (Revelation 2-3). Empire social media has been ordering our fellows to post about 'peace and safety' on their profile pictures. You know what happens next after Empire claims peace and safety just like what they did last April (1 Thessalonians 5, Jeremiah 6,8,23). Not to mention how insulting Empire's ignorance could be- saying that nothing could ever happen on September 23-24 just because not everybody follows the same calendar. No different from how Empire demonstrators are fully unaware of what they're doing in the streets against us that they could not (Psalm 119, Proverbs 23) answer fully well when asked why they're attending, they even write all sorts of fully irrelevant phrases on their placards. Seeing all of these you know what to do now- see you at the places of safety wright now. (Genesis 19, Hebrews 10) We're waiting for you, and we mean it. We love you very, very much.  

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