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weaselle · 5 months

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let's talk racist algorithms

i have a weird relationship with music for reasons i won't get into, but as an example, despite loving music, i have not been able to make myself listen to music on purpose in about 6 months. Music is weird for me. BUT I DO LOVE IT

I'm a poet, if i'm really feeling myself i'd even say i'm a word-smith, so rap has a really special place in my heart

The first rap artists i heard and bought an album from them on tape cassette and would listen to all the time were Snoop Dogg, McHammer, DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince (that's Will Smith for you young ones) De La Soul, and Vanilla Ice

This was 7th and 8th grade. Rap was the new rock, the kids were going wild for it, and because my school let students select the lunchtime PA music, Vanilla Ice was played at lunch almost every day at school.

We had zero black students at that school.

(I still remember the exact day Vanilla Ice stopped being popular at school, but that's about the severe homophobia of the time and a different story)

Now let's come back to today. When I listen to music it's often on Youtube, or Pandora. And i noticed a problem with these platforms pretty early on.

See, I had taken a big break from rap. Like i said, i have a weird relationship to music i don't have time to get into, but i didn't pay much attention to what was happening in rap for a long time. I'd had a friend who was excited to get me to geek out over Eminem with her a few times, and i went through a phase where i was in love with Digable Planets (high key recommend if you like an indie feel with a smooth jazz sound and east coast vibes)... I had a secret love for that one verse by Left Eye in Don't Go Chasing Waterfalls, could sing every word of Shoop, and i adored every Missy Elliot song that i heard on the radio. And that was about it. As a lyricist myself, the one that stuck in my head the most from this time was eminem, because lyricism is his whole thing.

I don't go to concerts. I don't buy albums. I tend to like specific songs more than specific artists. I know, i know, but that's not the point. When i can listen to music without it fucking me up mentally, I listen to music on Youtube and Pandora

And lyricism is my main attraction to rap, so when i came back to it on Youtube I put in Eminem first.

And right away, Youtube started recommending other rappers to me. And very quickly, i discovered that i was being recommended mostly white rappers.

I really like Hopsin, I went through a Dumbfounddead phase, i was into Dax for a minute, i like Domo Wilson, the J. Cole songs i like I REALLY like, I'm obsessed with Snow tha Product, I love the first Janelle Monae album i heard, i still fangirl over Missy Elliot, it's no surprise i like Joyner Lucas...

All of these i discovered and listened to via Youtube.

But because i like eminem, because I had a phase where i enjoyed a couple indie artists like Watsky, Wax, and Dan Bull, and because my depressed ass was drawn to NF and now a little Ren, when Youtube recommends rap artists to me, 90% of the algorithm recommendations are white artists. White men, specifically.

I had a similar problem with Pandora.

I actually had to create a special Pandora station that i seeded with three black artists and then ONLY liked non-white artists AND disliked every white artists that came up, just to get a station that wouldn't turn itself into a white rap channel.

It makes me furious, because i don' want to care about who is a white artist and who is a black artist!!!! I just want to listen to music that i like!!! But these bullshit music platforms make me have to care a lot about who is white and who is black just to not be pushed into racist music tastes and i fucking hate it.

And, if i'm being super honest, one reason i really hate it is because i know i probably really do have some internal racist tendencies when it comes to music, because i was raised white in america, and i really resent having to fight these fucking algorithms instead of, idk, being helped by them. I need to be able to look at my feed and assess it for my own unacknowledged racism... like, if there was no algorithm, and i looked at my music history and saw all white artists, i could be like, OH. I need to look in the mirror about this. But instead i have to play this weird tug-a-war with the platform about it and i can't tell what's my own deficiency and what is being forced on me. But SOME of it is being forced on me.

I mean for fucks sake, Snow tha Product does half her lyrics in spanish and the algorithm sees me love her and STILL recommends mostly white men. Hundreds of hours of listening to her, and zero spanish artist recommendations. Its infuriating.

Anyway, if you're curating your music tastes mostly online, and you start with white artists at all, then you really really gotta work to not fall deep into the bias.

And if that's what's happening with the music, how much more insidious must the social commentary content bias be

#my life #racism #music #rap #hip hop #sexism #algorithms #social media

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smolwritingchick · 10 months

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She Is The Cause Of My Euphoria

Author's Note: Old but cute one shot from my documents as I'm going through it all. I saved so much info on brainstorms and ideas, it's overwhelming lol. This is to hold you as I edit Bangtan Gal! :) also did they get rid of line break? Jeesh things changed on here. I'm readjusting.

Oneshot Summary: Jennie (OC) gets a surprise while watching her boyfriend on stage performing Euphoria. (Jungkook x OC fluff)

Words: 600+

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The Love Yourself tour has been a success so far as they were now here in the States, where Jen was the most excited. The concert was underway in Fort Worth and she chose this day to DJ for the concert.

She sat at the booth, getting a front-row seat to the members performing unless she had to perform or go change. Currently, she was seated, watching Jungkook perform Euphoria. She couldn’t figure out why but he just looked happier than usual tonight as he danced in that white outfit of his. He looked like a prince tonight.

Her prince.

Every time she watched him perform, she was in awe at how stable his vocals were while dancing.

‘I love this man, so much…’ she happily thought.

The fancams were surely enjoying Jen’s bright smile as she watched him, being the proud girlfriend that she was. ARMY gushed over how cute she looked tonight as they found her adorable reactions to his performance very relatable.

Being in a playful mood, she decided to use Snapchat and film him performing with a funny filter around him to get back at him for pranking her earlier.

With Jungkook, since the song started, he had begun to constantly glance over to where she was seated. Every time he sang this song, he thought of her. All that they have been through and how happy she made him. Despite everything that happened with the dating scandal during their last comeback, things were going to be all right. With her on his mind, he decided to switch up the lyrics for the chorus.

Take my hands now

Jen is the cause of my euphoria

It took nearly seconds for ARMY to confirm what he had just said to begin screaming as a smile came across his face. Meanwhile, Jen’s stomach dropped as soon as she heard her name and she quickly looked up to make sure she heard him correctly.

Take my hands now

She is the cause of my euphoria

Her heart skipped a beat as she looked down, struggling to keep that smile off her face.

Was this planned? Got her over here all in her feelings. Fansites were having a field day filming her looking a bit shy and giddy at his lyrics.

Close the door now

When I’m with her, I’m in utopia

‘This guy…’ she thought as she let out a giggle.

As the song went on, she looked down at her phone to check out the photos she had taken of him so far. But then she heard the crowd’s screams get louder than usual for his performance. Confused, she sets her phone down and looks up to see what the commotion is. And then she saw that Jungkook was walking towards her.

Wide-eyed, she was curious and a bit nervous about what he was about to do. First, it was the lyrics change, now what did he have planned?

As soon as he approached her, he smiled lovingly and gently held her hands as she stood up. He then began to sing to her instead and her face was on fire from his sudden actions.

jeogi meolliseo badaga deullyeo

kkumeul geonneoseo supul neomeoro

“Jungkook…” she laughed softly as tears developed in her eyes. “Oh my gosh…”

Take my hands now

You are the cause of my euphoria

Once he hit his angelic high note while gazing right at her, it brought her to tears. A chorus of awwwws was heard from ARMY when they noticed that she was crying. After wiping her tears with his thumb, he placed one of her hands over his heart while he resumed serenading her.

And I love you

You are the cause of my euphoria

He never ceased to make her feel so special, even in front of ARMY after they went public.

When I’m with you, I’m in utopia

After singing the last note, he couldn’t help himself as he gently lifted her chin, leaning down to kiss her softly. Drowning out those thunderous screams from the crowd, all that he focused on was her as the lights went out.

#jungkook #jungkook fluff #jungkook x oc #BTS #Euphoria #jungkook oneshot #bts fluff #bts fanfic #jungkook fanfic #bts 8th member #smol oneshot #bangtan boys

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aliorsboxostuff · 1 year

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Hi Alex I hope you're doing alright:) can you do platonic headcanons for Kurt Wagner X genderfluid mutant reader who can bend metal. . ( reader is friendly, smart & introverted ) , I'd appreciate if you include the coming out part

That's it, thank you:)<3

A/N Ahhh platonic headcanons. I always end up writing fics instead of the headcanons but I hope you like this anon! I always love writing for Kurt, that boy has a special place in my heart <3

Trinkets

Tags: Kurt Wagner and Reader, Platonic relationship, Betfriends, XMCU fanfic, Pietro Maximoff, Scott Summers, Jean Grey, Jubilation Lee, Mention of Cherik, Introverted reader, Kurt our fav blue boy, Everyone is gay, probably, definitely, growing relationship, headcanons, coming out

A little Headcanon and story of how you and Kurt became best friends.

Kurt was your tour guide when you first arrived

When Kurt heard about your mutation, he becomes very interested to learn about you (because the only other mutant who can bend metal is the Professors husband and he’s arguably scarier)

Definitely fascinated by Kurt's power and physique in general, gushing about his sharp tail and sharp nails

Both you and Kurt were a bit of a stuttering mess with each other's fascination, but eventually laughed it off as you got closer

Once comfortable in the university, you gravitate towards Kurt most of the time, hanging out with him and his group, mostly with Jubilee, Pietro, Jean, and Scott.

The group calls you the ‘Less Scary Magneto’ and has adopted you into the extroverted group, their 2nd introvert.

Joined Pietro on pulling a prank on Logan, ended up failing, Kurt saved you but couldn’t save Pietro

Never joining Pietro on a prank again unless Kurt joins too

Was so happy when your room is across the half from Kurts, and just a couple of rooms from the others

Saturday nights at Jubilee’s room, hanging out and just unwinding from the busy study week

Paints Kurt's nails with any colors he wants (Kurt does the same for you)

Makes the group little metal jewelry, bracelets, and rings

Sometimes leaves little metal trinkets around Kurt's room

If Kurt comes over to you and asks if you intentionally left something in his room, you’ll just give it to Kurt as a gift

Kurt has a jar full of said trinkets

Definitely do study sessions with Kurt and Jean, sometimes the other three would join.

You once mended a metal seat into the ground to keep Pietro in place because he needed to study for finals. The others laughed when obviously didn't work. You gave up since you can't waste metal chairs.

Spends most of the afternoon in the library with Kurt, reading a lot of books and helping Kurt with any English words he might not be familiar with

Has a favorite part of the library where anyone can guarantee you and Kurt could be found there

Could be found with Kurt in the training ground below the school

Secretly really happy the group doesn't see you as your physical body

When the first Pride Month rolled around in the Xaviers Institute, you were very excited to see how many queer students were.

The students threw a party that first week of Pride, filling the school's gym with snacks and colorful balloons, rainbow decorations, and someone was a Dj there too

Kurt and you were surprised that the Professor and Magneto showed up, but regardless very happy to see them together

You escaped the crowded place when Kurt decided to teleport both of you to the school's roof, the party downstairs still loud

Up with the cold breeze of the evening's air, you came out to Kurt as Genderfluid

Patient Kurt Wagner, Always accepting Kurt Wagner, he pulled you into a hug and was very glad you're comfortable enough to come out to him

Spent the rest of the night with your best friend and pointing out stars

#kurt wagner and reader #kurt wagner x gn!reader #kurt wagner x male reader #kurt wagner #xmcu fanfic #xmen kurt wagner #kurt wagner x reader #kurt wagner famfoc #xmen fanfiction

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sweetestofchaos · 1 year

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BTS and Their Wedding Songs

paring: bts x reader

rating: pg16

genre: fluff, marriage au

warnings: none. one of my safer works lol

a/n: I went to a wedding yesterday and I had such a fun time. After I left, I couldn't stop thinking about different situation with the guys. So here is my little list on what song I think the members of BTS would play at their wedding.

masterlist

Seokjin - All My Tomorrows by Kenny Lattimore / Love U 4 Life by Jodeci bonus Finesse by Bruno Mars

Seokjin wants the songs to speak for themselves. You know how he feels, he has no issues with telling you he loves you. The two songs hold a special place in his heart 'cause they say everything he feels. The bonus song is what he would dance to without a second thought. After a few drinks he would really enjoy himself with all your family and friends.

Yoongi - Forever Ain’t Enough by J. Holiday / Beautiful by Tweet bonus Back That Thang Up by Juvenile

Let's be real. Yoongi is the silent lover. His actions speak louder than words, so the songs he picked helped get his feelings across to the other people in your lives. Beautiful was his first choice hands down and he was excited to share it with you. His bonus song was something that had everyone on the dance floor and if you were throwing it back in front of your more older family members, well who was Yoongi to stop you?

Namjoon - The Matrimony (ft. Usher) by Wale / For You by Kenny Lattimore bonus Ribbon in the Sky by Intro

Namjoon is all about following his heart. He's gonna let the songs speak and work their magic as the two of you dance together. He'll be rapping and singing along, holding you close to his chest. His bonus song is a little bit of a joke but he sings softly in your ear as the two of you sway back and forth on the dance floor.

Hoseok - Happy by Ashanti / So High by John Legend bonus sobeautiful by Musiq Soulchild AND Cha Cha Slide by DJ Casper

Hoseok is happy and you are the reason for his nonstop smiling. The songs his picked were songs that played during important milestones in your relationship that you personally never paid much attention to. Once Hoseok pointed out the why behind his songs, you were in tears as you danced with him. His first bonus song was the song that your late father had loved, so he had to honor the man. As for his second bonus song, Hobi was gonna get down with the get down. He would be cutting up on the dance floor, keeping up with the older folk and teaching them a lil somethin, somethin.

Taehyung - Love Ballad by L.T.D. / Sweet Love by Anita Baker bonus Get Me Bodied by Beyonce

Tae spent so much time picking his songs. They fit his heart and soul since he loved so deeply. The words were meaningful and the beats were soulful, everything your love was. Taehyung picked his bonus song because he knew you loved it. He just wanted to see dancing with your friends and he couldn't stop the smile that slipped on his face when you pulled him into the middle of the circle with you.

Jimin - Flaws by Beyonce / Best Part (ft. H.E.R) by Daniel Caesar bonus One Dance by Drake

Jimin wasn't one to hold back is feelings when it came to you and with the songs he picked, it was clear that you were each others safe place. The love that shinned in your eyes as you danced had some of the wedding party crying. Jimin's bonus song was picked by him simply because he wanted people to dance and enjoy themselves.

Jungkook - Love On Top by Beyonce / I Want You by Luke James bonus Right Here by SWV

He refused to have a boring wedding. It was you and him and that equaled a fucking good time. His songs were picked because they were upbeat and lively, much like your love. He picked the song by Luke James 'cause it was the song he sung for you on your fifth date before he asked you to make your relationship official. His bonus song was a nod to your parents loved that song.

#soc bts #bts senarios #bts x reader #bts x gn reader #bts fluff #bts wedding au #seokjin x reader #yoongi x reader #namjoon x reader #hoseok x reader #jimin x reader #taehyung x reader #jungkook x reader

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shesthespinstersimmer · 6 months

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OC question of the day!

If you could make a character real, which of your OCs would be:

your bestie

your spouse/partner

your secret lover!

your friendly rival

your enemy!

BONUS: do this for other people’s OCs too!

Pass the game along (anonymously or not)

Hi friend! Thanks for the tag 🖤🤘🏾 *cracks knuckles* let’s see…

Out of all of my characters, I think Sugar would be the bestie. she’s fine, she keeps secrets, has all the good connections, and hosts the best parties. Not to mention she’d probably let me borrow some of her clothes 🥰

Anyone who has read any of WEIRD& WONDERFUL knows that Jude is wifey. Period. her face alone screams peace to me. She’s loyal, supportive, talented and hot. The defense rests.

(Also, I know her hair is so soft and smells amazing)

I’ve said it before… Thalli is just stunning. I feel like she would feed me, then feed me - if you know what I mean. (no disrespect to the homey Carmen)

I’ll give her her props – she’s hard-working, smart, and a go-getter. I feel like she would push me to reach my goals. She’s fun to hang out with and hilarious to boot. Would I leave her alone with my partner? Absolutely not .

Society’s waste. Still in a coma, from what I hear. Someone pull the plug already.

BONUS:

INDYA @cinamun : I’d be terrified to meet her in person; my social anxiety would not do well. But I would think she’s a goddess; and I picked us going out to brunch and talking shit.

SPOUSE: Chalk it up to the fact that you all are talented writers; I feel weird imagining myself committing to a lifelong relationship with one of your OCs (also, the ones that do pass my mind all have partners, so that makes me feel even more guilty lol )

TINKA @budgie2budgie : I’ve said it before, so it’s not really much of a secret – Tinka was the first OC I ever got a crush on here on Tumblr - she was dynamic, beautiful, and a DJ?? Come on. But she also signifies me falling in love with this world and this community. So she will always have a special place in my heart 🖤

LEAH @aniraklova : My goth goddess, alt goals. She was the first OC who flipped it upside down for me; who showed me it was OK to show my sims that didn’t look like the other ones I saw. She still inspires me to do that 🖤

BISHOP @therichantsim (& @cinamun ) It’s not easy feat to create someone who can create such a visceral effect on the reader. The best villains are the ones who make you conflicted for hating them. These two writers have created an awful duet with this OC that continues to horrify and dazzle us collectively.

This was super fun and took a long time, but it was worth it. Anyone else want to jump in? Consider this your invite 🖤🤘🏾

#shesthespinstersimmer #oc ask game

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demifiendrsa · 1 year

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Adult Swim has greenlit “Lazarus,” a new Toonami series from renowned anime director Shinichirō Watanabe, known for his work helming episodes of “Cowboy Bebop,” “Samurai Champloo” and “Kids on the Slope.”

Produced by anime studio MAPPA, “Lazarus” also recruits the contributions of “John Wick” series director Chad Stahelski, who designed several action sequences for the series, along with the musical talents of saxophonist Kamasi Washington; producer, DJ and musician Floating Points; and producer, DJ and musician Bonobo. The trio will provide a jazz and electronic score for the project.

Watanabe will pull the curtain back on the series at the Adult Swim Festival in San Diego on July 22, 2023 at 5:15 p.m., as part of the Comic-Con event Toonami on the Green.

“Lazarus,” which is already in production, takes place in 2052. The series follows a Nobel Prize-winning neuroscientist that develops a drug called Hapuna — a cure-all that has the unexpected side-effect of causing death three years later. A special force of agents is assembled to take on the malevolent Skinner.

“As I embark on this creative journey, I can’t help but feel that this project will serve as a culmination of my career so far,” said Watanabe in a statement accompanying the announcement. “I hope you enjoy it.”

“Shinichirō Watanabe is simply one of the greatest living artists, and it’s a dream come true to be able to collaborate with him on a new original series,” said Jason DeMarco, SVP and head of anime and action series at Adult Swim. “Like all of his work, ‘Lazarus’ is packed with big ideas, incredible characters and a ton of heart. We can’t wait for anime fans to see this world.”

#Lazarus #Lazarus anime #Lazaro #Shinichiro Watanabe #Chad Stahelski #MAPPA #Toonami #Adult Swim #anime #TV anime

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marbled-love · 3 days

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Who's you fav mlp character???? Also love the art!!!!!^_^

firstly!!! tysm?!? ur art is also super cute!!!!!!!! NOW.... TO ELABORATE ON MY FAVS 😈😈😈😈😈

🦋FLUTTERSHY... ok so she is such an obvious and well-loved choice for a fav BUT I CANT HELP IT!!!!! ive loved her ever since i was kid like i could always relate to her and she was super cute and like. come on. SHE LIVES IN A COTTAGE. AND CARES FOR ANIMALS. THATS THE FUCKING DREAAMMMMMM RIGHT THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!! of the mane six along side flutters rainbowdash was also a HUGE fav of mine as a kid, as a whole i love them all but fluttershy holds a special place in my heart fr ❤❤❤ 🫧MUFFINS/DERPY... im not sure if its ok to still call her derpy???? BUT EITHER WAY just like w/ fluttershy she was one of those characters that i just latched onto especially w/ all the fanart that people made of her... i loved her crossed eyes n how silly n clumsy she was cuz i was also lowkey a clumsy kid (i still am and im an adult now!!!) and just. how could u not like her look at her face. LOOK AT HER. 🎧DJPON-3/VINYL SCRATCH... ANOTHER BACKGROUND PONY THAT I FELL INLOVE WITH..... again, all the fanart of her is what rlly rlly pulled me in to her character... i LOOOOVE her so freaking MUCH!!!!! i love her energy and that she's a dj she fits her talent so perfectlyyyyy GRAHHH i also LOVE her sunglasses thats one thing design-wise that drew me in too.. characters w/ sunglasses my beloved ❤❤❤ 🌙PRINCESS LUNA... i feel like she's another thats kinda obvious for like why she'd be a fav, like fluttershy, i rlly rlly latched onto her as a kid and that love has never rlly died down!!! i rlly struggled w/ my mental health as a kid and seeing luna's struggles (even if it wasnt anything ground breaking lol) made me feel less alone n i could rlly relate to her for that!! plus pony that can make it night time??? thats fucking awesome i love the moon and stars HELLO??? luna's softer like more introverted personality also just made me rlly connect w/ her so she's always been up there in my favs 🎆TEMPEST SHADOW... WHERE DO I EVEN BEGINNN W/ TEMPEST OH MY GODDD i am SUCH a hardcore fan of hers i absolutely LOVE her characterization, her backstory goes hard, her design goes evener HARDER, like im fr so obsessed w/ her i LOOVE the song she sings in the movie n i just love how they made her go from this pony who felt so badly hurt and betrayed by her friends that it made her lose faith to learning that its ok move on and heal and like let herself form relationships again after so long of dwelling on the past like THAT GOES HARD!!!! I FUCKING LOVE HER 🎶SWEETIE BELLE... ok for sweetie belle im gonna be so fr i dont have a ton of reasons for why i like her... she can be a little annoying at times but shes so freaking silly i love her dynamic w/ apple bloom and scootaloo n watching her quest to get her cutie mark w/ her friends was just too cute ❤❤ i DO feel like the cmc all getting like.. the same cutiemark basically was kinda wild like i do think its rlly cute that they all got the same talent but also. all 3 of them had their own little things that they liked/were GOOD at like for sweetie belle it was singing!!! i wish they had each gotten their own thing but im not mad at what the show ended up doing.. lowkey wish their cutie marks matched each of them as individuals tho cuz the colors dont rlly fit each of them the same 🗻MAUD PIE... i dontttt remember if i ever got to see her in the show when i was younger cuz i. might've stopped watching by the time she was introduced but getting back into mlp now that im older i like. fucking love her man. she SCREAMS autism to me (and like everyone else im sure) i can relate to her a LOT n i love how passionate she is abt rocks its so cute i love rocks too girl u get me ❤ 🍁AUTUMN BLAZE... IM GONNA BE SO FR I DONT THINK IVE PROPERLY WATCHED THE EPISODE(S?) SHES IN BUT IVE READ EVERYTHING I CAN ABT HER AND SHES JUST SOO SILLY i absolutely love kirin as a species in mlp n how theyre so nature centered they bring me so much joy.. i cant say MUCH of why i like her its like indescribable i just rlly rlly love her <3333

I HAVE. MANY MORE FAVS. BUT THESE R CHARS THAT FIRST COME TO MIND IDK I LOVE THEM. i also gotta admit. i havent finished watching mlp. so idk a lot of the later characters and i KNOW i rlly need to get to finishing it BUT THERES SO MUCH.......... ill get to it i promise................... thank u for coming to my yap session

#fav ponies #mlp friendship is magic #mlp fim #txt #yapping #I YAPPED SO MUCH SORRY #I LOVE MLP SOOOO MUCH #i have so many more favs but these are to first to come to mind #if anyone wants more pony yappage my asks are open #also... yall should totally ask abt my pony ocs cuz i have so many #i love mlp

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aspoonofsugar · 1 year

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Wizards Of Waverly Place - Family Business

So, guess what favourite sit-com of my childhood I have rewatched together with @hamliet?

Wizards of Waverly Place has always had a special place in my heart, but by rewatching it I have realized it is better written than I thought...

Of course, it is unapologetically a kids' show + a parody, so there are not overly intricated plotlines nor incredibly deep psychological explorations. It is sometimes silly with no shame. Moreover, I think 1 specific plotline (Stevie's) and some character moments (Justin's) could have been better handled.

That said, it has a great thematic heart which offers many touching moments together with hilarious characterization and honestly brilliant worlbuilding ideas. I really really love the tongue in cheeck worldbuilding of this series. It takes all the most common fantasy tropes and re-frames them in the context of an American family drama. The feeling is that of a discounted fantasy world, which is perfect as the set of very mundane problems like... how can I cheat at school? Or how can I have a guy fall for me?

The result is a series which pokes fun at Harry Potter, Twilight, Monster Hunter, but also at Romeo And Juliet, The Addams Family, The Devil Wears Prada and much more.

Here are some thoughts on the main themes + characters.

FAMILY - THE MAIN THEME

Wizards of Waverly Place is a show about family. In particular:

It tells the story of a family of wizards

It's set in the Waverly Substation - the family sandwich shop

This premise and this set are used to drive home the theme. The Substation itself may be secondary to the main plot, but it is still key in several episodes. Thematically, it is the home of the Russos and it represents the family ideals of sticking together, despite it all.

All being mostly magic, which is both a blessing and a curse for the Russo family. On the one hand it is a secret that binds the 3 siblings, as it lets them go through exciting adventures together. On the other hand only one of them can keep their powers in the end, which makes them all competitors for the same prize.

With the Wizard Competition in the background, we go through several episodes and plotlines, which explore different family dynamics:

DJ who uses magic to mind control his parents and do what he wants

Hugh Normous, who is happily adopted in his family of Giants

Ronald Longcape Jr, who has a legacy of Evil to honor

Stevie who chooses her powers over her beloved brother and ruins their relationship

Felix, a delinquent who turns a new leaf and discovers himself the descendant of the greatest wizard of all times

Up until the family of our protagonists, which itself has been shattered by magic.

Jerry, the father and head of the family, is the winner of his generation's family competition. Still, he gives up magic to stay with his mortal wife Theresa and they have Justin, Alex and Max (the main characters). Jerry also chooses to give his powers to his brother Kelbo, which leaves their sister Meghan with a grudge. Jerry, Kelbo and Meghan are never able to repair their bond and the risk for Justin, Max and Alex is to repeat their story. After all:

Justin is the lawful star student who is expected to inherit the power (Jerry)

Alex is the artsy lazy delinquent who often acts selfishly (Meghan)

Max is the weird airhead, who is difficult to understand (Kelbo)

So, will the Russo siblings repeat the previous generation's mistakes or will they keep their family bond intact throughout the Wizard Competition?

ALEX AND JUSTIN - THE BEATING HEART OF THE STORY

Alex and Justin are respectively the protagonist and deuteragonist, with their bond being the most important one of the series. Superficially, they are opposites:

Alex is an underachiever, impulsive and a rule breaker. She often uses magic selfishly and ends up in trouble

Justin is a hard-worker, lawful and a stick in the mud. He studies hard for the wizard competition and likes following rules

And yet, they are deep down the same, as they are both jealous of the other:

Alex is jealous of Justin's academic successes and is tired of being compared to him. Initially, she thinks she can't compete with him and barely tries

Justin is jealous of Alex , who is loved by their parents, despite her flaws. He sees her as the family little girl and believes that if he were not perfect, others would love him less than her

Deep down, they are both unsure of who they are and crave recognition. Still, they really have to learn from the other:

Alex must grow more responsible and put in the effort, like Justin

Justin must try new things and even break the rules for others' sake, like Alex

This is why their relationship becomes key for both of their developments. On the one hand Alex keeps getting into trouble with magic. On the other hand Justin comes to her rescue and helps her out. In this way, Alex learns from her mistakes and Justin gets to gain life experiences. At the same time, they show each other they care. Alex can openly rely on Justin and Justin can step in as the protective big brother. They usually get on each other's nerves and bicker, but in these moments they know the other cares.

This is their initial dynamic, which slowly changes as they both grow. This growth happens also because of important romantic bonds.

Justin and Juliet - Moving on

Justin and Juliet's story is just Romeo and Juliet told in reverse, where Romeo gets the chance to overcome his flaw and Juliet is a vampire (queen).

Justin and Juliet's story starts with their love solving the feud between their 2 families' sandwich shops

It goes on with Juliet's (first) "death". The two lovers end up trapped and Justin (Romeo) convinces Juliet to have herself mind-controlled by an evil mummy to survive the rise of the sun. However, Alex arrives 5 minutes later to free Justin. Just like in the tragedy, if Justin had just waited nothing would have happened

Here it comes Justin and Juliet's reunion, which soon becomes a second and more final separation. Juliet loses her vampire powers and grows old, so she urges Justin to move on from her

Justin takes some time, but finally falls for another girl. He starts dating Rosie. Rosie is a twist on Rosaline, Romeo's first love interest (here she is the second), who is the archetype of the classical angelic woman. Well, Rosie is literally an angel, but an angel of darkness and she influences Justin to join the dark side :P. Eventually, though, Rosie and Justin's love redeems them. Still, Justin chooses to let Rosie go, as she needs to fulfill her role as an angel and to look over mortals

Finally, Justin meets Juliet again, as she is mind controlled by the demon Gorog (basically Satan). Juliet is once again possessed by a malicious creature and Justin is once again asked to join the dark side for love. Still, he is able to resist this time and together with his siblings he defeats Gorog and reunites with Juliet

Metaphorically, Justin's journey is clear. He needs to learn that sometimes no matter how much he tries, bad things happen and he isn't getting what he wants. He tries hard to be a hero, but only ends up losing Juliet. Later on, he is so scared to lose the girl he loves again that he gives up his morals. So, he has to accept sometimes loss can't be helped. That said, if he keeps on trying and is loyal to his principles and to others, life will find a way to reward him. He just has to make the right moral choice in the end.

Alex and Mason - Putting in the effort

Alex and Mason are an inversion of Beauty and Beast. In the Disney Fairy Tale, Beauty changes the Beast in a beautiful Prince. Here, Alex (Beauty) has to accept Mason (Beast) for who he is. A Werewolf.

Alex and Mason meet and fall in love. Still, Alex gets annoyed by Mason's drawings of dogs (an early hint to Mason's werewolf nature). She gets embarassed by them and charms Mason to become his new Muse. Things get awry as Mason can only think about drawing Alex, which results in their relationship getting compromised. Eventually, Alex accepts Mason's strange art and the two move forward in their relationship

Alex discovers Mason is a Werewolf, but the 2 break up over Mason's instinctual declaration of love to Juliet. Mason doesn't love Juliet and his words are once again the result of his werewolf nature Alex struggles to understand. The following confusion leads to Mason turning into a wolf and leaving

Alex finds Mason and saves him in what is a Beauty and Beast call back. Still, Mason is stuck as a half wolf and Alex is embarassed. Before she can have him back as fully human, she has to accept his beast part

Alex drops out from the wizard competition, which means she and Mason can't be together, as it would be too dangerous. Still, they love each other and Alex decides to give the competition another try to stay together with Mason

Alex gets back into the competition, but a beast tamer called Chase keeps flirting with her and symbolically brings out the Beast in Mason (jealousy). Alex dislikes this side of Mason and breaks up with him

Eventually, Alex and Mason meet again and realize they still have feelings for each other, so they choose to get back together despite their respective flaws

The point of Alex and Mason's story is that a perfect Prince Charming does not exist. If Alex wants to be in a real relationship, she should accept the other's flaws, find compromises and finally put in some effort. She can't turn the beast into a prince, but must become herself a wizard to stand beside the werewolf.

In other words, Justin and Alex's developments are opposite. Justin learns he can't always get what he wants through sheer effort and Alex discovers that a little effort is needed to reach a goal.

GIVE ME A MAX

Max's development is less fleshed out than his siblings', but it is still there. If Alex and Justin compete over the role of favourite child, Max is definately the family unfavourite. He is the odd one out. As he himself says, he is not as clever as Justin nor as devious as Alex. Everybody compares him to them and sets up a standard he can't reach.

His journey, then, has him find his own path through two opposite love interests:

The first one is a girl, who is exactly like him. Still, he lies to her and loses her

The second one (Talia) is his complete opposite. Once again, he lies out of fear of losing her.

Eventually, Max comes clean to Talia and they realize their complementarity is something that enriches them, rather than an obstacle.

At the same time, Max shows he can be just as smart as his siblings. He briefly takes the lead in the Wizard Competition and saves Alex and Justin in the final battle against Gorog. Even in the final Wizard Tournament, he performs rather well. He doesn't need to be someone else. He has his own set of talents that make him unique.

HARPER - THE FOUND SISTER

True, there are only 3 Wizards in the Russo family, but Harper clearly steps in as another sister to Alex, Justin and Max.

Harper is Alex's best friend and the first human who is revealed the Russos' secret. With time, she gets more and more involved in the family dynamics until Alex openly calls her a sister and Jerry and Theresa adopt her.

Harper is Alex's moral pet and she is the one who brings out the troublemaker's most selfless and heroic traits. She is also the one who trusts Alex the most among all the characters. Justin represents Alex's bond to the wizard world and her biological family. Harper instead represents Alex's bond to the human world and her found family.

Still, Harper is not a sister to only Alex, but also to Max and Justin. Her relationship with Justin, especially, is nicely fleshed out and developed. She initially crushes on him pretty hard and slowly starts to move on, as she grows close to Zeke (Justin's best friend). Eventually, she becomes Zeke's girlfriend and this development marks a substantial change in her and Justin's dynamic.

This shift is shown in Moving On, one of my favourite episodes. Justin is still fixed on Juliet and refuses to go out with other girls. Harper, then, asks Alex to transform her into Juliet, so that she can convince Justin to let go. The end result is that Harper ends up in a date with Justin, which is her childhood dream come true. Eventually, though, Harper reveals herself and convinces Justin to move on. The whole scene is framed as both Harper letting go of Justin and Justin accepting Harper's advice to meet new girls. By the end of it, their dynamic becomes that of a pair of siblings. There is love, but it is familial.

Finally, Harper's relationship with Zeke is what drives Justin to tell his best friend the family secret. This in itself is an important moment in Alex and Justin's foiling:

Alex reveals the truth to Harper pretty early on. She does so as proof of their friendship, even if it is an important violation of the wizard rules. Alex shows she is determined to do what is morally right pretty early on. No matter if it can be damaging for her

Justin reveals the truth to Zeke towards the end. He is initially strongly opposed to it, as he and Alex have fallen behind in the competition precisely for exposing wizardly. However, by seeing how the family secret is ruining both the relationship between Alex and Harper and that between Zeke and Harper, he chooses to bring Zeke into the loop

In short, Harper is a key character for both Alex and Justin's developments and becomes the second daughter of the Russo family.

GENERATION XEROX - THE BIGGEST TWIST OF THE SERIES

As the series goes on, Alex and Justin's dynamic starts to change:

Alex grows more responsible and becomes better at using magic for which she has a natural disposition. Not only that, but her heroic traits start to surface more and more, especially when her loved ones (Justin, Harper and Mason) are involved

Justin starts showing his jealousy and his selfish side more. He realizes Alex needs him less and that he is not always the best among his siblings. On the contrary, he too messes up and does so royally

So, Alex shows her positive traits, while Justin displays his flaws. The Final Wizard Competition is built on this.

Initially, the viewers are bound to believe the final round focuses on Alex's development. After all, the episode starts with Alex performing a selfless act for the family. Later on, she quickly falls behind in points and then she convinces Justin and Max to leave the competition to help Harper and Zeke, which results in them all losing their powers. So, it is apparently Alex's duty to fix things, so that she can prove she is good enough to be the family wizard. Except this is really not true.

It turns out the disqualification is really a test for Justin (and Max) to forgive Alex. That is because Alex has already finished her development by the end. She has proven she is selfless at heart, when it counts. Not only that but she has saved the world and her family multiple times already. The one falling behind is really Justin. He is the one struggling to accept his siblings may be better than him at magic. He is the one who risks to break the family.

This is the real twist of the series. Initially, viewers are tricked to believe Justin is Jerry and Alex is Meghan. However, it becomes clear by the end that everything is not what it seems:

Alex has her father's big heart. Jerry has to give up magic for Theresa, while Alex has to win the competition for Mason. Moreover, she always prioritizes her family, even if it goes against her interests or the rules

Justin can be selfish, like his aunt. Meghan resents Jerry because he chooses Kelbo over her. In her eyes, this means her hard work is never aknowledged by her siblings. Similarly, Justin is the one who puts in the most effort in magic and wants this investment to pay off

So, Justin is tested to see if he can take a different path from his aunt. He succeeds and after some struggle the competition is resumed. By this point, Alex and Justin's difference becomes clear:

Alex is bad at theory, but she is great at practical magic. Not only that, but she racks up points in the second part of the competition because it focuses on magic used in the second part of the series. By then, Alex has become better at magic and less dependent on Justin

Justin is great at theory, but falls behind Alex when it comes to applying magic. He takes the lead in the first part of the tournament because it covers magic in early episodes, where his help was asked by Alex more

In the end, Alex performs better than Justin, but goes back to help him, which results in Justin's technical win. Once again, the narrative asks Justin which kind of person he is gonna become. Will he choose the wizard power or his bond with his sister? This is the same choice Stevie had to make btw. She chooses the powers and leaves her brother behind. Justin instead chooses what's right. He admits Alex was better than him and gives her the powers, so that she can be with Mason.

Alex proves her talent and shows she has more than enough heart to be the family wizard. Justin recognizes his limits, but sticks to what's right and is rewarded with full wizardly and his dream job at Wiztech. All 3 siblings get what they want:

Alex becomes the family wizard. Still, differently from Kelbo she has gained the title through effort and talent. Moreover, she can be with the love of her life

Justin becomes the principal of Wiztech. He leaves the family, just like Meghan. However, his bonds with his siblings are stronger than ever

Max becomes the owner of the Waverly Substation, just like Jerry. He ends up with the most down to heart approach to life, despite being often considered as the most over the top among his siblings. He shows instead he can be practical and smart

HEART, MIND AND BODY

Alex, Justin and Max's endings mirror their roles as heart, mind and body characters.

Alex is the heart of the family. She fights to keep the family together and when push comes to shove she prioritizes her loved ones. This is why she inherits the family magic. She is the embodyment of the family spirit.

Justin is the mind of the family. His knowledge comes in handy multiple times and he is the one the family goes to when there is some kind of crisis. He becomes a professor, so he can spread his knowledge to other people.

Max is the body of the family. He is often associated with food and fittingly becomes the owner of the Family Business. Not only that, but the sandwich shop is where the Russos' lair is. As it is pointed out several times, the lair is key for wizards. So, Max is entrusted with the physical domain of the Russos' magic. He may not be a wizard, but he is still key for the family.

All together, the 3 siblings make a unit, which is why the most powerful magic in the series is the one they use to defeat Gorog. As professor Crumbs explains, it is a charm, which is possible to perform only by 3 wizards siblings. Given how often wizards families are shattered, it is poignant it is such a rare and powerful spell. The Russos are able to use it because they will always choose each other over magic.

#wizards of waverly place #alex russo #justin russo #max russo #harper finkle #my meta

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jgroffdaily · 7 months

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For a whole generation, this week marks the 25th anniversary of quietly tuning in to Channel 4 with the sound turned right down, in the desperate hope that it didn’t arouse suspicion.

Queer As Folk, Russell T Davies’ series about the lives of three gay friends, debuted in February 1999. It was a bold look at the heart of Manchester’s gay scene that provided something then rare in British television: a joyous exploration of what it meant to be gay.

“I vividly remember thinking: ‘Canal Street, does such a place really exist?’” says the BBC Radio 2 DJ Owain Wyn Evans. “It was a far cry from the head count of absolute zero role models or reference points available for me at the time in Ammanford, south Wales.”

The show has been celebrated as a pivotal moment of LGBTQ+ representation, but it wasn’t the only one. Here, notable LGBTQ+ people, including Joe Lycett, Juno Dawson and Alice Oseman, talk about the television that helped them.

Looking

Before All of Us Strangers, there was Looking. Launched in 2014, the HBO series following three gay friends in San Francisco was cancelled after just 18 episodes (and a feature-length special).

But it has aged like a fine wine. It feels remarkably human and captures beautifully the little things – such as when Patrick (Jonathan Groff) and Richie (Raúl Castillo) catch each other’s eyes on the subway for the first time. Or the heartbreaking way Kevin (Russell Tovey) rubs Patrick’s ears when he knows he is seeing him for the last time.

After years of being “othered” because of my sexuality, Looking was the first time I realised that I could – and should – experience the same highs (and lows) of romantic love as everyone else; that there is a world out there and I should explore it.

#jonathan groff #looking hbo #article

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antisepticcrayon · 1 year

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Posting here too! Just so I can give a longer explanation a bit for the few pieces I've been able to scramble for Sean.

Now I'm not the best at drawing people so it's very rare that I get to try to draw fanart for Sean and the community but I'll share the few I've been able to do!

Starting with the spring banner I made for Sean's server! Has to be one of my favorites becos I loved how it turned out and the fact that I somehow won the banner contest. It's always such a funny shock to go onto the server and see my art there. I've never been so proud of an accomplishment like that.

Next up is the Chase brody youtooz plush concept. Now I did this for kicks and giggles (/hj. Please Sean. We need sad dad plushies.) But it was pretty funny that that reference sheet got way more attention than I thought. And at the time of iris being fairly new was also so funny to me. He looks so sad. I need 17 of them.

King of the daisies portrait! My one piece of fanart that got the most recognition from the community! I spent a grueling 5-6 hours on this piece. It was during a time of art block so I wanted to try drawing realism for a month (didn't go exactly a month but I tried!) And this was my second attempt of the month and it came out so well. I absolutely adore it. And the inspiration came from when Sean announced that white daisies were his favorite flowers. So of course to honor the flow3r king, I did that for him. (Also another reason the banner, he's wearing a daisy crown!)

And finally the anti portrait. This one I made at work actually right before I was contacted for winning a meet and greet ticket to face time Sean through moment house. And to calm my nerves for the next couple days, I worked on this piece. (I referenced an art piece done by turquoise magpie I believe for this one!) But also another part of my month realism challenge!

The 2 realistic portraits hold a special place in my heart. Becos even through the horrendous wifi (and my uncontrollable anxiety) and cutting out during my meet and greet, I had the chance to show him them. I just didn't get to hear or see his reactions properly but the fact I showed him at all for him to see was more than enough.

Annnd then these last art pieces (I'm frankly TERRIFIED of showing. Unsure if it counts as fanart buttt)

These first 2 photos are reference pieces for my "JJ" inspired OC/Fursona. He is considered my comfort character who I tend to draw and doodle whenever I'm feeling down or having a bad day. Jameson (and chase) are my favorite egos and I find comfort in them. Not sure why, but I do. I feel like they just came at times I was struggling the most and brought joy to me though. Just Sean in general has done as such.

And the last photo is a book cover I created for a short story I'm writing with my self insert OC and chase Brody (along with the other egos).

The short story takes part of a community I'm in that surrounds giant/smalls/humans folklore and certain cultures surrounding a time of creatures big and small, Aka G/T! Think of any fairy tales like jack and beanstalk or even japenese animes like the secret world of ariety or movies and books like "The borrowers". (Another comfort for me. I find writing helpful as well for bad days and to also center and express myself again)

Anyways one of my favorite human pieces I've ever completed on my own through lots of practice and failed sketches (my good friend zora rendered and shaded it for me! Actual drawing, linework and coloring done by me!)

Anyways, I hope I'm not overstaying my welcome so I'll cut it off here!

I thank you both for doing this revival! I was never able to participate truely with "septicart" but I'm glad I can right now through this :)

Thanks for reading!

- Dj💜

(I apologize if my wording is wacky! ADHD and dyslexia isn't a fun combination when trying to write and explain things ack)

@turquoisemagpie @rogue-of-broken-time

#SepticartRevival2023 #septicart #jacksepticeye fanart #jacksepticeye

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moodysann · 2 years

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.SOFT WITH RINDOU HAITANI.

Do what you want with me, but I think Rindo would make you sit on his lap while he, in turn, played music at the DJ mixer.

Your head dutifully lies on his shoulder, while your own nose is stuck in the bend of a strong neck, inhaling the sweet aroma of your young man's perfume. Rindou catches a glimpse of your sleepy state before placing a wet kiss on your temple.

Is my baby already asleep?

You smile and shake your head, lifting your whole body. Your relaxed gaze falls on Rindou's torso, which, over elastic muscles, is decorated with a branded tattoo. Male hands move in smooth, teasing motions from the DJ mixer to the soft flesh of your ass as you bite your bottom lip at the touch.

The younger Haitani can't help this indefatigable feeling he has for you. His heart always beats faster when things get too erotic between the two of you.

He squints, his hands still stroking your fragile body, pressing you to his naked body. Only a couple of centimeters remain between your lips, but you don’t notice this at all, because you are completely immersed in the deep pool of your lover’s cornflower blue eyes.

“I love you, little mouse,” the young man whispered, concluding all his love, affection, trust and tenderness in a fiery kiss.

You will always keep in your memory with special trepidation those late evenings that you spend with your most beloved person - Rindo Haitani.

#rindou fluff #bonten rindou #rindou headcanons #rindou x reader #tokyo revengers #tokrev headcanons #tokrev x reader #tokrev x y/n

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jackiequick · 1 year

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Ok I am a really huge fan of the classic late 80s to 90s sitcom Full House and enjoy the new one as well but the original holds a special place in my heart ♥️

FULL HOUSE OC 🏡

Adrianna “Jordan” Katsopolis ~ She-Hulk 📋

- Uncle Jesse and Pamela younger sister. She moved in with Jesse and Joey after Danny asked for them to come over and help raise his daughters.

- Nicknames —> Jory, Jo, Jodie, Adrian, She-Hulk, Anna, and etc

- Speaking of Joey, she’s is particularly his other half and with Jesse, they are a trio. They get into the craziest things and always doing something hilariously weird that you can’t help but join in. The fact that they haven’t ended up in jail for something stupid while paired up is a surprise to many but that doesn’t mean they’ve haven’t gotten caught in the act before.

- But when Danny is brought into the mix of their daily shenanigans originally, it’s a unstoppable force of 4 friends! They are such caregivers at heart with such different but similar personalities, the funny band of grown ups with humor of 14 year olds sometimes always cracking jokes, wanting the best for each other and so much more.

- Jordan is clever, easygoing, gentle and can be resourceful! However sometimes she will play pranks and jokes, even jokingly manipulate one of the guys into doing something

- Aunt and Mother figure to the girls (DJ, Stephenie and Michelle) they are all her babies. She’s a true caregiver and tends to becomes very soft around her girls. Skipping out on work days, rejecting or leaving her dates, and staying at home a lot in general just to be with her 3 little angels! Especially the years when Michelle was a baby, she spent more time at home.

- Each one the girls had their special person come to for certain things, just having a type of relationship with the guys. But with Jordan, she is like their second mom, the girls coming to her for anything and everything especially if the guys couldn’t handle it.

- Braiding hair, picking out clothing, issues at school, boy trouble, advice on things, passions they have at the moment, hugs and kisses, taking care of them when they’re hurt or sick, just need someone to hear them out and etc, Jordan is there!

- And if asked, which one of those angels are her favorite? She has no favorite. Yeah she’ll joke if something happens and say, “Steph at the moment, you’re my favorite.” Causing the girls to laugh or smile proudly. Or she would’ve coo at toddler Michelle saying, “Who’s my pretty girl? You are!”

~~~~

- A bit of a grumpy Defense Lawyer when she doesn’t get her morning coffee or something sweet in her system by the middle of the day. Since she has a huge sweet tooth, most specifically cupcakes and donuts.

- She is single but goes on plenty of dates over the course of the show. (Ends up with Danny Tanner in the later seasons)

- Jordan is known for her witty comebacks, nerdy about music and movies jokester personality when she’s around loved ones. However she is a bit of a babbler mouth and knows a lot more than she leads on.

- Also has a bit of a temper, that is well under control if i may I add and for being kind hearted woman. But sometimes her She-Hulk tends to come out! The group calls her out on it then they all jokes about it once She-Hulk disappears and she back to calm Jordan.

- But when Jordan temper sent up volumes, you better make sure that your in the clear. Sometimes she will slip and yell out stuff like “I can and will sue you!”, “I oughta-let me at ‘em!”, “Excuse me?! Oh heck no.”, and the list goes on. Usually it’s fine but Kimmy Gibbler can piss her off or someone may just annoy her.

~~~~~

Sometimes there is some to hold her back and other times…

“Joey, grab her!” Jesse yells racing off after the woman into the living room, “Jory come back, I didn’t mean it.”

Joey stood up from the couch and caught her by the waist holding her down yelling, “Woah, woah, woah hold on road runner! What happened here?”

“Jess made me look what you would consider bad in front one of DJs teacher and proceeded to flirt with her in front of everyone.” Jordan explained, trying to get out of his grip.

Joey gave him a pointed look, “Jess.”

“What? I was far more interesting than her and the other teachers were more interested me in anyway.” Jesse tried to explain and even added, “Hey at least, it went well..for me at least!”

“Jess.”

“Joseph you should’ve seen it, I was killing it. And I got to speak with the history guy and-”

Jordan grew upset and Joey smirked at her. He let her go. They didn’t let Jesse finish as Joey shouted, “Get ‘em!” The pair chased Jesse around the house as his screams and yelps could be heard. Until they reached the backyard out of breath.

Jesse put his hands up, “Hey, hey wait! I’m sorry I messed up.”

“And?” Jordan glared as Joey stood behind her, “You made me look like the uninteresting aunt!”

“Again, I’m sorry. I knew she wouldn’t care about us the second she started to talk, so I joked and flirted to lighten the mood. And I got something in return..”

Joey spoke, “Uh Jess, a gift from the school store isn’t gonna fix anything.”

“On the contrary my friend, DJ’s teacher gave me the opportunity to speak with the History teacher…”

“Yeah so?”

“We get to go bowling together next Friday…”

Jordan rolled her eyes having enough of this and about to walk inside when she heard her brother speak again. “And I got his number! He wants to go on a date with a certain someone.” Said Jesse holding up a post-it note causing Jordan to spin back around grinning.

“Really?” Jordan asked with a dazzling grin and raised eyebrows.

Joey chuckled, “Wait you got her a date with Mr Hunter? I’ve been friends with him for months, I could’ve helped!”

It turned out fine for everyone!

~~~~

- Becky is her gal! The two became friends quickly and fitted very nicely together, always coming to each other for advice, helping one another out. Girls Day Out on the streets of San Francisco, gossip about anything and everyone, the list goes on.

- AND when Jesse finally dated Becky, Jordan was more excited that her best friends, this girl was over the moon! Of course that meant she was stuck in the middle of their crazy couple shenanigans, having to root for them, and pushing one or the other to make a decision on something. Most of the time it was hilarious seeing the funniest stories take place in front of her, roasting them, Jordan set them up on a few dates and dragged on double dates with them.

—-

And that’s what I got so far! There is so much more Full House lore I could say but I’ll be here all day. I hope you enjoyed it 🖇

Tags: @gaminggirlsstuff @msrochelleromanofffelton @t-nd-rfoot @yetanotherwells @gcthvile @drspencereidhotch @sherloquestea @whitewiccan @morgan108 @topgun-imagines @ohgodnotagainn @rooster-84 @blueboirick and anyone else I might add on

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omegaremix · 10 days

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Cold Waves @ Warsaw; September 15 & 16, 2022.

If I told you that I was feeling shaky going into attending Cold Waves, you’d write me off instantly. Why would I still feel nervous about attending shows? Sure, the event is everything, but every trip to grandiose New York City is still a major thing for me. It’s still feels like uncharted territory and I’m still not over it but it has everything Long Island fails to provide: the venues, the people, the exciting energy, and an allure I still can’t put my finger on. It’s all for the taking, whereas on Long Island I had way more than enough. Also: anxiety. (Film at 5.)

I was only mere days away and I had to get ready for two straight nights of taking trains to and from Brooklyn. Cold Waves would be the third show I’d attend this year - fourth if I cared going to Ministry’s “Industrial” Strength tour which I didn’t go to. I was a frantic wreck anticipating this industrial legends / synthwave festival. The tremors in my black heart would stop only if I finally arrived at Warsaw. It’s my third visit there. The first was for Hospital Productions’ 20th Anniversary and the second was for Black Marble and Cold Cave on a hot June day - before my world, my momentum, and soul were all upended.

I don my black cap, a Clock DVA shirt, blue jeans, black boots and new black leather jacket. It’s sunny out, a hazy blue sky is being invaded by cumuluses all over the place - perfect conditions for an afternoon drive westward on the Long Island Expressway, down on Sagtikos Parkway, through Southern State to Rt. 231, and heading south to Rt. 27A to the Babylon station. I took no chances catching the earlier one-hour train to Penn Station, then hopped on the ‘E’ line to Court Square’s ‘G’ line to Greenpoint Ave. The train ride was bliss as hardly anyone was on it.

It was 6:15 PM when I stepped off the G and went upstairs to Greenpoint, my favorite Brooklyn neighborhood. It only took me 15 minutes to walk a few blocks down to Driggs Av. in Kings County’s Polish neighborhood. It’s only 6:30 PM and already I’m being greeted by a crowd of three at the very front of the line. One of them saw my DVA shirt and gave me two thumbs up. “Great shit, man!”, he said. I smiled and my heart rate went up 20.00% knowing I made the right choice of t-shirt for night #1 of Cold Waves. I found myself standing at the exact same spot on line more than four years ago when I waited to enter the venue for Cold Cave and Black Marble. It was that very corner where Wes Eisold stood with Genesis P. Orridge before that show. Doors open at 7 PM as all of us trudge towards the venue for our security checks before entering paradise where I’m immediately hit with the smell of incense, a special smell distinct to my Brooklyn travels and nowhere else.

The music existed before the beginning of time and it was pumping. No wonder - DJ Andi (Harriman) was behind the wheels of steel. She’s a fixture of the neighborhood where she fit perfectly with the industrialists and synth-wave demographic that populate there. With me being 15th in line, I won a spot up front. As always without fail. I was feeling great about what was about to go down for the next five hours. The first person I thought of was my Roman goth friend Lira* who I wished was there with me. She would’ve blended in with all these vampires, witches, and mistresses attending; many walking around wearing 242, Wax Trax, Pig, Pigface, Hocico, and Twin Tribes shirts.

7:45PM is here. The dee-jay fades out, the overheads turn off and the first act is ready to go. Cold Waves is finally underway.

Spike Hellis was the first of ten on the roster and kicked off the entire festival. The fresh Los Angeles duo have enjoyed a new sizable uptick of exposure. They were active and had lots of energy on stage; a theme that they’d set the tone for the entire program. Their fast-paced EBM, electro, and electronic hybrid was a fine example of the current sound that Los Angeles had to offer. Both Cortland Gibson and Elaine Chang traded instrumental and (screaming) vocal duties with each other while conveying themes of agony, control, rage, emotional despair, and submission that rubber-stamped their own pandemic-era, all accentuated at the end with an annoyed Chang dealing the finger to an audience member as the cherry on top. Who knows what happened there? What I do know was that someone threw an empty beer can at them during their set and security called him out on it; eyes and pointy fingers in his direction with a one-and-final warning not to do it again.

For those wondering why Rein is being highly praised all over, you’ll see why. One of two solo acts, Rein wasted no time taking the stage and it wasn’t long for her to show everyone why she’s one of the most talked-about synthwave acts of recent. It’s not just her razor-sharp EBM delivery and style but also her choreography which made her perfectly groove to the music. She can seriously move it like no other and also delivered plenty of hard-edged sounds of equal measure. It was more than enough to ask who the fuck Shakira was, because she’s got nothing on her. It wasn’t just Rein who was motioning to the music. I look to my right and seen a good number of people getting into it, too; such as the guy three spaces away from me who happened to be wearing a gas mask through her set. After she closed out her set came another intermission. The next three legendary acts have yet to come into play and right behind me are three belligerent drunks (one male and two females) fighting over who bumped into who, not saying ‘excuse me’, who stood where, and lots of name-calling and f-bombs lobbed at each other’s slovenly faces. Not a dull moment so far.

Portion Control was the third and most enduring act of the festival with their debut cassette release A Fair Potion dating all the way back to 1980. I’ve constantly heard of them through new-wave, industrial, and synthwave circles. It’s my first go at them and Wow. They. Nailed. It. They became one of the very few artists I ever discovered to give me a perfect example of everything I was looking for on the very first listen. Perhaps the hungriest, meanest, and venomous act I discovered live or not. I may have caught them at their best ever and it lead me to the three Seed e.p.’s. Onstage, Dean Piavanni was a vocally sinister, persuasive, and direct force who could’ve easily taken on the audience (and would’ve won); as Jon Whybrew was on the controls transmitting ultra-energetic and juiced-up EBM and industrial techno for the small masses. It was the most exciting payout of the night so far.

If there was ‘the’ reason that attending Cold Waves was an absolute must, it was the team of former Wax Trax and Ministry members Paul Barker and Chris Connelly. They are part of the reason why everyone had some of the best moments of their lives and made for some of the greatest industrial releases ever. Billed as The Revolting Cocks Corpse and in conflict with Al Jourgensen’s version of the band, it would be their last-ever appearance. I hate to admit, a scratch off the bucket list was long overdue and years in waiting. Now, here was my chance of seeing both of them live in one shot.

Want real-deal Cocks classics? You got ‘em. Paul Barker handled his iconic bass logo-ed with the Cocks’ Beers, Steers & Queers emblem on it before kicking off with “38” and brought out former Cock (Front 242’s) Richard 23 on vocals. After that comes Connelly onstage in casual wear in a trucker hat, jeans, and a shirt that’s scrawled “Strong And Pretty” on the front, so we’re getting the nutty version of him. Then the rest of the hits came rolling in: “Attack Ships On Fire”, “Cattle Grind”, “Crackin’ Up”. When Connelly asked himself out loud what else to play, the audience yelled “Let’s Get Physical” (rest in peace, Olivia Newton John). “Well, I didn’t ask for your help!” he said coyly to all of us and we couldn’t help but to laugh. They did cap off their monumental set with “Do Ya’ Think I’m Sexy” and it felt like a dream. Connelly leans on the speakers acting all cute and blowing kisses to the crowd with a smile. Before you know it, he’s laying on the floor with arms wide open like he’s just fallen in love as Barker and company call it a night. Nothing but good times and an ultimate culmination of their Wax Trax output as I hoped for.

Finally, it was Front 242’s turn to take the stage; the apex of an already high-flying night. It would be a bittersweet performance at that as this was one of many shows on what was their final U.S. tour. Many fans thought it was because of Jean-Luc De Meyer health issues but thankfully that wasn’t the case. No matter, it was everyone’s last chance in the states to catch them before leaving North America once and for all with no turning back. I considered Front 242 to be a bonus for me as I was heavily into their pioneering Eighties material during my community college years, their later albums, and C-Tec which De Meyer took part in. I had absolutely nothing to lose seeing them live. All throughout the night I’ve seen photographers-for-hire huddle around the space in-between the rail and stage getting their dozens of shots in. For Front 242, the three-song policy got extended to four. It had to be. Warsaw security managed to catch one snap artist who didn’t know better.“No flash! No flash!” they told him as they pointed at and called him out on it. Which also begged the question: where the hell is Brooklyn’s industrial / synthwave fixture-photographer Nikki Sneakers? It’s been at least five years since I’ve seen her shooting at venues.

Front 242 played their most-recognizable and popular classics that established and pioneered EBM with “Don’t Crash”, “Operational Tracks”, “U-Men” and many more. It was all Richard 23, De Meyer, and Patrick Codenys in their unmistakable iconic tactical outfits with a shirtless Tim Kroker on live drums. They took all the power and energy they had and kept it going all the way, delivering nothing short of a rhythmic and beat-heavy experience they were known for. One funny moment to be seen was when De Meyer stood cross-armed wearing his huge shades and had such a scowl on his face, looking all bad-ass as the other three carried on. After eight or nine songs, 242 left the stage - not to lock targets and catch men - but to gear up for their first encore. We all knew there was more to come and what came was “Headhunter”, one of industrial / EBM’s most historic songs ever written. Two more songs later and 242 left the stage again charging up for another encore. As soon as we all heard the soundbyte “Hey, Poor!”, it meant only one thing: “Welcome to Paradise”. Only then was the perfect Front 242 show complete. The team of 23, De Meyer, Codenys, and Kroker took in a lengthy applause and gave a standing ovation as they all thanked New York City and bid farewell. The lights turn on for all of us to head out of Warsaw. I turn around to get going and behind me I see a female fan being consoled by her husband - and she’s in tears. Either she finally fulfilled her life-long dream of seeing Front 242 or saddened that they would say goodbye and farewell to the states, never to return.

The first five acts were amazing. It felt like I did a great service to myself in attending. I already checked off all the boxes I wanted to: take mass transit, visit Greenpoint, see Barker and Connolly play, and be associated with my kind of people. A night out in Brooklyn never fails and the thrills would still continue after the show ended. There’s always the experience of taking the alphabet and number lines - taking the ‘G’ and then the ‘7’ line to walk from 10th St. towards the Empire State Building and then arriving at Penn Station all by one-in-the-morning. Like the ride from Babylon to Penn Station, the reverse ride was quiet and not as crowded as a can of sardines. More exhilarating was the ride from Babylon back home where all the roads were empty and quiet, leading up to driving east on a wide-open Sunrise Highway at three in the morning and getting home all in 25 minutes time.

Night One of Cold Waves was now in the record books.

**********

Friday afternoon? Well, what an adventure. I had no idea that traffic was literally paralyzed on Sagtikos Parkway. It was that point where I knew it would be down to the wire getting to the Babylon station. From then on, I was finding every inch I could to cut other drivers off, find detours, and get head-starts while waiting for green lights and cursing out turtle drivers. Traffic was tight and every decision counted. One minute I thought I was going to make it and the next minute I was doubtful. South on Commack Road, down Deer Park Avenue then Route 231, and finally to Route 27A where I was only a few thousand feet away from the station. I arrive at the parking lot across from the station, bolted out of my car, ran across the street and up the stairs like a motherfucker. I finally reach the platform and - it’s taking off. Fucking great.

I had one hour until the next train to figure out how to unfuck myself and get to Warsaw in time. I tried signing up for OMNY (New York City’s wireless transit pay) months ago but was unsuccessful. Now time to try again. I downloaded the Apple Pay app- and then had to call the bank to connect my card. Now that it’s tied to my phone, I tired again to sign up for OMNY. Success! The 4:35 PM Babylon train arrives and I had 55 minutes to map out the quickest path in getting to my destination. The train arrives at Penn Station and I waste no time hauling ass to the ‘E’ line. Here we go. I hover my phone over the turnstile and - GO. Raced up and down the flights of stairs and I catch the ‘E’ train by five seconds before its doors closed. I take another 20 minutes to cool down before the transfer to Court Square / 23rd Street’s ‘G’ line. I hop off, sprint, and find the ‘G’ train that would take me to the Nassau Avenue stop, the closest one to Warsaw. It took me about two minutes and 1,000 feet to get there. I finally arrive out of breath before I go through the security checks and magic wands before entry. All clear. It’s 7:40 PM. Five minutes to go and I’m at the exact same spot I was the night before. All worship to Lucifer that I made it.

And now, night two begins.

If there was any artist to kick off Friday’s festivities that represented his hometown and carried its flag, then Confines was it. The hard-hitting, beat-heavy industrial-techno / EBM project certainly had some punch to it. Like Rein, Confines was a one-person show who did all of his instruments and movements on his own. Not bad at all. At the time of this writing I learned something about him that totally kicked me off of my seat: Confines happened to be David Castillo, co-owner of Brooklyn’s Saint Vitus bar and venue, host of the Age Of Quarantine podcast, and lead singer of Primitive Weapons. Are you fucking kidding me?! I was on the lookout to spot him at my last visit to -Vitus to see Uniform but I was shit out of luck. Now I finally found him performing at Cold Waves and didn’t even know that was him until after the fact! Fucking right. And it doesn’t stop there. I also learned that both Geography Of Nowhere 1 and Work Up The Blood was mixed and mastered by Hospital Productions’ Kris Lapke / Alberich and laid out by Sannhet’s AJ Annunziata. Wow. Talk about getting five-in-a-row on that bingo card.

Fans of Vancouver musicks enjoyed a two-for-one approaching the middle of the night’s bill. We were all treated to Leathers consisting of Shannon Hemmett (vocals), Kendall Wooding (synths), and Adam Fink (drums). For anyone who wanted the 2022’s tense of what an Eighties’ synthpop / new-wave show would look like? Well, now you have it. It was a treat seeing them perform and also seeing the slender Hemmett as an Eighties dream while Wooding and Fink played a smooth mid-tempo set. But with a wardrobe change and Jason Corbett coming into play, Leathers became Actors and Artoffact’s flagship band was the iteration that appeared on everyone’s radar as of late. They traded in their Eighties’ synthpop and new-wave cool for heavier rock. This time Hemmett took over synth duties and Wooding wielded bass as Fink stayed on drums and Corbett helped Actors push more power and electricity into their second set to keep the excitement steady from start to finish. I tried out both Leathers / Actors before and for some reason they’re not my type of heavy-rotation listening. However, there’s no denying that their talent brought them their well-deserved fanfare and exposure.

Not since Merzbow’s personnel bringing out his gear at Output have I been bracing myself with another artist’s set-up. Lighting fixtures attached all over and bulbs placed in front of huge cymbals might’ve told me that the next set would burn my eyes right off my face. Luckily, I was wrong. That was Kite’s visual set-up and a precursor to their performance. The Swedish duo of Niklas Stenemo and Christian Berg were another act I never heard anything of, and afterwards tilted me to give them a shot. Both were skilled in playing two keyboards at once (or keys- and knobs in Berg’s case) as they delivered a lively performance and Stenemo a few kicks, switching between synth-wave and synthpop. Their latest single “Bocelli” was the highlight on the night, showing their dramatics while also providing a soulful, heartfelt, and at times acclaimed power.

While Kite tore down their equipment, I thought of something. It’s been five years since I attended Hospital Production’s 20th Anniversary. I remember one moment near the end of the showcase when Bone Awl was playing their set - where all of a sudden Dominick Fernow (Prurient and Hospital- label-head) runs to the apron, stage-dives over the pit, and into the audience for a crowd-surf. It was a moment that never escaped me since then. Here I am back again at Warsaw for Cold Waves five years later and I’m at the rail for both nights. During one intermission, something dawned on me - I look at the rail, then the edge of the stage, and then the rail once again. I thought to myself: how in the fuck did Dominick have enough clearance to fly in the air, avoid banging into the rail, and land safely on top of the crowd? Good thing he successfully pulled off that spectacular feat.

Asterisk: New York City was supposed to receive Stabbing Westward as the closer to Cold Waves but had to bow out. That’s where Cold Cave gladly stepped in and ultimately sealed the deal for Cold Waves’ entire New York City stop. “Remember when we last played here?” lead singer Wes Eisold asked the audience. Yes I do, Wes. Yes I do. Seeing Cold Cave again for the second time in the same venue was another special bonus to me, and always a welcome one at that. I walk through previously-ventured territory and this time it was just as exciting as the last. All hits and zero misses from Eisold, his lady Amy Lee, and company. “Glory”, “People Are Poison”, “A Little Death To Laugh”, “Confetti”, “Rainbow Girls”, “Godstar”, “Theme From Tomorrowland”. You named it, they played it. For 50 minutes they kept a steady upbeat energy of synthwave and classic goth pedigree; not to mentions tons of smoke and fog fired towards our way to where I’m seriously considering getting myself screened. The only difference between their 2018 appearance and this one at Cold Waves? No sign of Max G. Morton, and Eisold’s heroine Genesis P. Orridge who joined him on guest vocals had sadly passed away since then.

But there was one shining onyx that fit the head jewel of the crown: when Eisold and Amy Lee brought their daughter out on stage. How fucking amazing was that? The audience collectively melted. Imagine being in your single-digits and having an amazing story to tell your friends back in school about how your rock-star dad brought you up on stage to sing for the crowd. Through their entire set, Cold Cave never let up and missed any of their targets as Eisold, Amy, and the rest played through their last encore and that’s all they wrote.

Before I knew it, it’s 12:20AM. Cold Waves in New York City was now history.

**********

I walk out of Warsaw and away from the busy volume of the patrons standing around in front of it. The night skies changed their tune to a purplish overhead. They were nice enough to wait until my moment was over to return. I’m now processing how to put the last 48 hours into words and also my place in the universe after being where I wanted to be. I head west on Driggs Street through McCarren Park weaving through the pedestrians walking towards me and observe a few small groups of people congregating and chilling on park grounds with their portable speakers. It’s only a few more blocks before I enter the ‘L’ line that will connect me to the ‘2’ line.

If only I can tell you the city’s delights that I’ve seen during my travels to Penn Station. I’ve seen female torture artists and double-pigtailed mistresses in their black onesies and shiny knee-high boots. There’s an Asian girl my height in a low-cut purple dress and her thigh is all bloodied and bandaged up; situated below her very visible purple underwear. Across from me was this gay guy who was the stunt double for The Ukiah Drag’s Tommy Conte, kissing his boyfriend on the cheek and sad-gazing in his boyfriend’s eyes who boarded off the ‘L’, but not before he blew Tommy a kiss goodbye. Another couple hopped on our crowded car. His blonde girlfriend’s neck and chest were literally covered red with hickeys and didn’t give a soaring aerial fuck about all the eyes and stares aimed at her. The ‘L’ ends and I transfer to the quick ‘2’ which only took five minutes to get me to Penn Station, leaving me with a half-an-hour wait for the Babylon train to arrive. Lather, rinse, and repeat with a left-hand forward ride to the station and another Sunrise Highway night drive back to my quiet-as-night neighborhood. A return to silent normalcy.

**********

Chicago has been widely known as the industrial capital of the U.S. It’s where Jim Nash and Danny Flescher established Wax Trax as a record store and the label that’s given birth to the careers and legacies of Ministry, KMFDM, My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult, Meat Beat Manifesto, and countless other acts. It’s also where Public Image Ltd.’s Martin Atkins created Pigface and Invisible Records and gave life to Chemlab, Damage Manual, Dead Voices On Air, Murder Inc., Ritalin, Sheep On Drugs, and Test Dept. All these artists made my identity, or part of it. Throughout the years I’ve followed all of my favorite artists and have never given up on them. They were there for me during my difficult times at community college and to this day I’ve never tired of their projects. It wasn’t until recently when I revisited the classics that I realized that these artists and labels were in my heart all along. Millions of industrialists join each other in various online groups to share their stories and live memories and say “hi!” to the many legends who lurk around and keep that cameraderie going. I see the company around me in Greenpoint who share similar interests, qualities, and aesthetics and those are the people I want to be associated with.

I thought attending just one Boy Harsher show was a rite of passage. Yes - more in the synthwave world. I’ve also attended shows for Nine Inch Nails, Ministry, and Killing Joke and that’s more than enough for me to hoist my flag for this genre. (Naysayers will wave their filthy unclean fingers at me and say “not so fast” because I wasn’t able to go to a Skinny Puppy show.) I’ve heard many great things about Cold Waves that I’d be a fool to miss out. Mutuals who went told me it’d be amazing and they were double-right. With Front 242’s final American appearances and with Braker and Connelly having to quit the RevCo name, this year was a non-negotiable. What started out as a one-night benefit and an honor of Jason Novak (Acumen Nation, DJ? Acucrack) and David Schock’s fallen friend Jamie Duffy evolved into an (almost) annual round of the best and legendary industrial, synthpop, and synthwave acts. Like my attendance with the previous Cold Cave and Black Marble shows, attending Cold Waves was a thank-you to the scene that gave me an identity but also to a certain number of acts that helped build it.

It’s been one of the best and most exhilarating moments of the year, ranking as high as Sacred Bones’ 15th anniversary. If the line-up for next year is as good or better (how could it?), then I guarantee you I’ll be returning.

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