#florence and the machine was also unforgettable

[charlesleclerctv]

what has been your favourite concert?

so many options but it's always gonna be taylor in 2018 :)

[fearsmagazine]

Florence + the Machine cover No Doubt's "Just A Girl" for "YELLOWJACKETS"

SHOWTIME has released the official trailer for season two of the Emmy-nominated drama “YELLOWJACKETS.” The season two trailer also marks the release of Florence + The Machine’s exclusive new single “Just A Girl,” a cover of No Doubt’s iconic song from 1995. The single is produced by Florence Welch and Mark Bowen of IDLES.

Season two of “YELLOWJACKETS” will debut on demand and on streaming Friday, March 24 for all SHOWTIME subscribers, before making its on-air debut on Sunday, March 26 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. Season one, which has a rare 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes and received seven Emmy nominations, averaged over 5 million weekly viewers across platforms and was the second-most streamed series in SHOWTIME history. “YELLOWJACKETS” is produced for SHOWTIME by studio Entertainment One (eOne).

“I’m such a huge fan of ‘YELLOWJACKETS’ and this era of music, and this song especially had a huge impact on me growing up, so I was thrilled to be asked to interpret it in a ‘deeply unsettling’ way for the show,” says Florence Welch. “We tried to really add some horror elements to this iconic song to fit the tone of the show. And as someone whose first musical love was pop punk and Gwen Stefani it was a dream job.”

Listen to Florence + The Machine’s “Just A Girl” HERE

Click on link below to hear the full version.

Created by Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson (Narcos), “YELLOWJACKETS” is the saga of a team of wildly talented high school girls soccer players who become the (un)lucky survivors of a plane crash deep in the remote northern wilderness. The series chronicles their descent from a complicated but thriving team to savage clans, while also tracking the lives they’ve attempted to piece back together nearly 25 years later, proving that the past is never really past and what began out in the wilderness is far from over. In season two, two months have passed since Shauna gave Jackie the cold shoulder— to disastrous results. In the face of their deepening hunger and fear, the tension among our Yellowjackets has only grown worse. The harsh conditions of winter are intensifying by the day, and the psyches of our survivors are deteriorating just as fast. Threatened by the darkness of the wilderness— and the haunting memories of it in the present— our former state champs will be forced to make impossible decisions. As they confront the horrible truth of what survival entails, the real nightmare for each of them will be to figure out who they are— and what they are willing to sacrifice in order to stay alive.

Equal parts survival epic, psychological horror story and coming-of-age drama, “YELLOWJACKETS” stars Emmy nominee and Critics Choice Award winner Melanie Lynskey (Castle Rock), Oscar® and Emmy nominee Juliette Lewis (Camping), Emmy nominee Christina Ricci (Z: The Beginning of Everything) and Tawny Cypress (Unforgettable). Lauren Ambrose (Six Feet Under, Servant) and Simone Kessell (Obi-Wan Kenobi) have also joined the second season as series regulars, along with Elijah Wood (The Lord of the Rings trilogy) in a season-long guest arc. Season two also stars Sophie Nélisse (The Book Thief), Jasmin Savoy Brown (The Leftovers), Sophie Thatcher (Prospect),  Samantha Hanratty (SHAMELESS), Courtney Eaton (Mad Max: Fury Road), Liv Hewson (Santa Clarita Diet), Steven Krueger (The Originals), Warren Kole (Shades of Blue) and Kevin Alves. “YELLOWJACKETS” is executive produced by Lyle, Nickerson and fellow showrunner Jonathan Lisco. Drew Comins of Creative Engine serves as executive producer along with Ameni Rozsa, Sarah L. Thompson and Karyn Kusama who directed the pilot.

[bouncepartyky]

Bounce Party Connection

Address: 306 W. 34th St. Covington, KY 41015

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Bounce Party Connection, proudly based in Northern Kentucky, is your premier source for exceptional party entertainment solutions. As a distinguished service provider in the industry, we specialize in enhancing your event with an assortment of amusement options designed to create memorable experiences for all involved. Our dedication to customer satisfaction, coupled with a drive to exceed expectations, distinguishes us as a trusted choice for both private and public events. Our coverage area encompasses numerous locations throughout Northern Kentucky. With Florence, Union, Hebron, Fort Thomas, Fort Wright, Fort Mitchell, Edgewood, Independence, Alexandria, Covington, Newport, and various other surrounding areas within our service radius, we ensure your party entertainment needs are catered to, regardless of your location. Our well-structured and responsive team is committed to delivering excitement, joy, and memorable moments right at your doorstep. At Bounce Party Connection, we offer an extensive range of services to ensure your event is as lively and engaging as possible. Our offerings include top-of-the-line bounce houses that are sure to keep the young ones thrilled, exciting water slides for those sweltering summer days, and challenging obstacle courses to bring out the adventurous spirit in your guests. We also have an assortment of carnival games designed to keep the fun rolling, and a variety of concession machines to cater to the taste buds of your guests. Whether you're hosting a kids' birthday party, a family reunion, a school fair, or a neighborhood barbecue, our comprehensive range of entertainment options ensures there's something for everyone. Our primary concern is the safety of our clients. We maintain all our equipment meticulously, ensuring that every bounce house, water slide, and game station we offer is in prime condition. We employ stringent cleaning procedures for all our items, providing a safe, hygienic environment for your guests to enjoy without worry. Customer satisfaction is more than just a phrase for us; it's the core of our business ethos. From the moment you choose Bounce Party Connection, our friendly and helpful staff are on hand to guide you through the entire event planning process. We listen to your needs, work within your budget, and deliver a tailored solution that fits perfectly with your party theme. Our team is devoted to alleviating your stress and making your party planning experience smooth and enjoyable. When you opt for Bounce Party Connection, you are choosing an unforgettable event filled with laughter, fun, and excitement. We bring the party to you, transforming your chosen venue into a vibrant funfair that mesmerizes children and adults alike. With a promise of impeccable service, unrivaled fun, and an event that resonates with joy long after it's over, Bounce Party Connection is the partner you need to turn your party dreams into reality. Whether it's a small gathering or a grand event, trust us to inject it with an unrivaled sense of enjoyment and unforgettable moments. Choose Bounce Party Connection for your next event and create a party that's talked about for years to come.

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[beautiful-world-travel]

Prague

Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the stunning gothic churches to the charming cobblestone streets, Prague offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. If you are planning a trip to Prague, here is everything you need to know to make the most of your visit.

Getting to Prague

Prague is easily accessible by plane, train, and bus. The city is served by Vaclav Havel Airport, which is located about 20 km from the city center. The airport is well-connected to major cities in Europe, and there are several airlines that offer direct flights to Prague.

If you are coming from other parts of the Czech Republic or neighboring countries, you can take the train or bus to Prague. The city has two main train stations, Praha hlavní nádraží and Praha Holesovice, which are both located in the city center. The bus station, Florenc, is also located in the city center and offers connections to major cities in the region.

Getting around Prague

Prague is a very walkable city, and many of the major attractions are located within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer not to walk, there are several transportation options available. The city has an extensive public transportation network that includes trams, buses, and a metro system. The transportation system is easy to use, and tickets can be purchased at metro stations, tourist information centers, and vending machines.

If you plan to do a lot of sightseeing, it’s a good idea to purchase a Prague Card. This card gives you free entry to over 50 popular attractions and unlimited use of public transportation for one, two, or three days. It’s a great way to save money and make the most of your time in Prague.

Things to do in Prague

Prague has a rich history and culture, and there are plenty of things to do and see in the city. Here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

Prague Castle

Prague Castle is one of the most popular attractions in the city and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Prague. The castle dates back to the 9th century and is one of the largest castles in the world. It is home to several palaces, museums, and galleries, as well as the famous St. Vitus Cathedral.

Old Town Square

Old Town Square is the heart of Prague and is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of the city. The square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the famous Astronomical Clock, the Tyn Church, and the Old Town Hall. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the square, making it a great place to stop for a bite to eat.

Charles Bridge

The Charles Bridge is a beautiful pedestrian bridge that spans the Vltava River and connects the Old Town with the Lesser Town. The bridge is lined with statues of saints and is a popular spot for taking photos. It’s also a great place to watch the sunset over the city.

Jewish Quarter

The Jewish Quarter is a historic neighborhood in Prague that is home to several synagogues, museums, and the Jewish Cemetery. The neighborhood has a rich history, and a visit to the Jewish Quarter is a great way to learn about the Jewish culture and heritage in Prague.

Prague Beer Culture Prague has a long and proud tradition of brewing beer, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample the local brews. There are several breweries and beer gardens in the city that serve delicious beer and traditional Czech food.

[daily-coloring]

Best of 2022 - Songs

This year sampling came back and I’m grateful it did. More and more artists are using it in a clever way, which is great. Latino music also got a big part in 2022′s favorites and I’m happy for them. I’m still not really into many rap music, I think I just adore the old-school ‘90s style of rapping. Less anger, more melody, more instruments. 

01. Tove Lo - 2 Die 4 - “You don't look like in your photo. You're prettier than that. Now I kinda wish that you said so. Would've put in more effort ...” Oh, I feel her pain. I hate online dating apps so much.

02. Rosalia + The Weeknd - La Fama

03. Marlon Williams - Don’t Go Back

04. Royksopp + Jamie Irrepressible - Sorry - This song always makes me cry no matter what. 

05. Josef Salvat - The Drum

06. The Smile - Speech Bubbles

07. Tove Lo - No One Dies From Love - “ We were so magical, why end this way? I know you're furious, yeah, just like me. You got good reasons, but I do too. What really happened here? I wish I knew...” Exactly what happened this year with me. 

08. The Weeknd - Sacrifice

09. Walt Disco - Macilent

10. Tamino - The First Disciple

11. Thomas Azier - Pelechian

12. Beyonce - COZY

13. The Wombats - If You Ever Leave, I’m Coming With You - Somewhere I came across a review where they said, it’s the most toxic lyrics this year. Which part? I couldn’t find it. 

14. Belle and Sebastian - Unnecessary Drama

15. Blaue Blume - Country- “Wanna be a part of the hype, But I’m loosing balance. Fuck it I’m done trying to hide. Faking that smile. I just wanna go for a ride, Out of this city, When you put on “Wuthering Heights”. I can’t help flying...”

16. Charlotte Adigery + Boris Pupul - Ceci n’est pas un cliche - Best gig I have been in this year. Unforgettable. 

17. Daniel Avery - Ultra Truth

18. Fontaines D.C. - I Love You

19. Harry Styles - As It Was

20. Marian Hill - Visions of You

21. Empress Of - Save Me

22. Rosalia - Candy

23. MO - Kindness

24. New Kids On The Block + Rick Astley + Salt’n’Pepa + En Vogue - Bring Back The Time

25. Rina Sawayama - Frankenstein

26. Skunk Anansie - Can’t Take You Anywhere - “Can't take you anywhere, 'Cause you'll just do it again. I can't take you anywhere, 'Cause you'll get messy with all my friends....”  Second best gig this year. Loved every minute of it. 

27. Tove Lo - How Long - She did brake my heart so many different ways this year. Fuck you!

28. Tamino - You Don’t Own Me

29. Working Men’s Club - Ploys

30. Yves Tumor - Secrecy is Incredibly Important to The Both of Them

31. Sondre Lerche - Cut

32. Pabllo Vittar + Rina Sawayama - Follow Me

33. Nilufer Yanya - Chase Me

34. Moderat - Easy Prey

35. Mitski - Love Me More

36. Lyndsey Lawlor - Pretty - “My Job Is To Be Pretty”

37. Leila - Who We Be

38. Get Well Soon - One For Your Workout

39. Florence + The Machine - My Love

40. Elefánt - Tó

41. Everything Everyting - Leviathan

42. Spoon - The Devil & Mister Jones

43. Submerge + Virgil Enzinger - It’s Almost Like it Never

44. Beyonce - Break My Soul

45. Archive - We Are The Same

46. The Fear Ratio + Ella Fleur - Lacovset

47. Honey Dijon + Annette Bowen + Nikki-O - Downtown

48. Lake Haze - Xyleac

49. Madrugada - Nobody Loves You Like I Do

50. Marian Hill - Little Bit

51. The Smile - Pana-Vision

52. Men I Trust - Billie Toppy

53. Stabbing Westward - Cold

54. The Wombats - Worry 

55. Walt Disco - My Dear - “ I've learnt not to pretend, But I am sad that some things weren't said. I believe time was good for us And how we felt helped us love around here. My dear...”

56. Benjamin Clementine - Copening

57. The Weeknd - Gasoline

58. Belle and Sebastian - Talk To Me, Talk To Me

59. Polica - Alive

60. Romy + Fred Again.. - Strong

61. Pátkai Rozina + Benkő Dávid - Partokon

62. Shea Coulee - Let Go

63. Off Night - Young

64. Purity Ring - Neverend

65. Alice Boman + Perfume Genius - Feels Like A Dream 

66. Caterina Barbieri - At Your Gamut

67. Drool - Misery

68. Elefánt - Kardhal

69. Fontaines D.C. - Roman Holiday

70. Tove Lo + SG Lewis - Call On Me

71. Rosalia - Saoko

72. Orson Hentschel - Antenna Window

73. Oliver Sim - Never Here

74. Mykki Blanco + Diana Gordon - Your Love was A Gift

75. Marlon Williams - Promises

76. Local Suicide - Moustache

77. Billie Nomates - Balance is Gone

78. Caroline Polachek - Sunset

79. Cheat Codes + Space Primates + GASHI - Memory

80. Hot Chip - Hard To Be Funky

81. Kathryn Joseph - What is Keeping You Alive Makes Want To Kill Them For

82. Hercules & Love Affair - Grace

83. Jockstrap - Jennifer B

84. Florence + The Machine - King

85. Dillon - <3core

86. XVOTO - Catacumbas

87. Trentemoller - Glow

88. Tanya Tagaq - Teeth Agape - “ Touch my children And my teeth welcome your windpipe...”

89. TAAHLIAH + Tsatsamis - Fall Into Place

90. Sharon Needles - Flamin’ Hot

91. Royksopp + Astrid S - Breathe

92. Q - Stereo Driver

93. Orbital + Sleaford Mods - Dirty Rat

94. Ola Szmidt - C Tactile Afferent

95. Nerina Pallot - Alice At The Beach

96. MO - Live To Survive - “ Watch me, I'm back on my feet. Ready for the century...”

97. Maggie Koerner - Wasted

98. Kilo Kish - SUPER KO LOVE

99. Bodi Bill - Self Improvements

100. Beach House - Superstar

[kickmag]

Throwback: Amy Winehouse-Rehab

Amy Winehouse's rebellious "Rehab" single was a blunt and honest reflection on her issues with addiction. Winehouse's father and management told her to enter treatment for alcohol addiction and she discussed their plea with producer Mark Ronson. She wrote her response to the request which was "No, No, No," in her notebook and this became the basis of "Rehab" along with her conversation with Ronson. They worked together and created an unforgettable song rooted in soul music that made turmoil sound carefree. The video left an indelible impression too with Winehouse and her band performing in a bathroom.  Her Donny Hathaway reference mentioned in the song was enacted by one of her band members who dressed like him for the video. Back To Black was recorded with The Dap-Kings but it was Winehouse's group in the visual. Winehouse had quickly become the face of English pop music and was also enchanting American audiences with her throwback jazz and soul styles combined into her own idiomatic style.

Winehouse's "Rehab" was praised in her native England, the United States, and around the world. She acquired several accolades for "Rehab" including the Ivor Novello Award, three Grammy Awards, and enough sales in the UK to make it the best-selling record of 2007. The song was a Top Ten hit in several European countries and the United States. The remix with Jay-Z also helped "Rehab" gain traction on the charts.

"Rehab" was recognized as Winehouse's signature song and Back To Black became one of the most revered albums in the history of recorded music. As of 2021, Winehouse's sophomore album is the second best-selling record in the UK. The success and artistic choices of Back To Black paved the way for future artists like Adele, Sam Smith, Florence and the Machine and Duffy

Winehouse died in 2011 at the age of 27 after succumbing to alcohol poisoning. In 2014, a statue of her was unveiled in  Camden Town, London. The documentary Amy came out in 2015 and received Grammy, Academy, BAFTA and MTV Movie Awards. In 2021, Reclaiming Amy was aired by the BBC and offered corrected information about Winehouse's life that was said in the first documentary. Amy Winehouse At The BBC was reissued on May 7, 2021, with additional music.

[glenngaylord]

HOW SWEDE IT IS - My Review of MIDSOMMAR (4 Stars)

[Excerpted from https://thequeerreview.com/]

Getting dumped sucks.  Sometimes you feel it coming on like a slow moving train, unable to stop it, and when it hits you, you experience a long, drawn out kick to the gut.  The world feels incomprehensible, nothing makes sense, and you feel like it never will again.  You can’t avoid the pain, and you may not even want to anyhow.  It’s like watching a horror movie where you don’t want the protagonist to go in that basement, but you have a stronger urge to see what’s down there. Ari Aster, who made his startling debut last year with Hereditary, understands that the best horror plays with real human fears, be it disease, abandonment, or loss of control.  Reportedly based on a painful breakup of his own, his MIDSOMMAR uses folk horror as the spine on which to lay down his thoughts on a dying relationship, and it’s a delicious, morbidly funny, gore-filled, visually stunning, gorgeously designed, perfectly indulgent 2 hours and 20 minutes of sun-dappled, rainbow colored dread.  

Dani (the captivating Florence Pugh) experiences a tragic loss at the outset of the film, and her paralyzing grief wears down her emotionally incapable boyfriend Christian (Jack Raynor, whose schlubby stoner look from Sing Street has morphed into an almost Chris Pratt level of matinee idol looks).  Encouraged to cut ties with his needy girlfriend by his fellow grad students, Christian and his friends plan a summer getaway to Sweden to attend a once in a lifetime cultural festival.  His friends include Mark, a quip machine played to deadpan perfection by Will Poulter (Detroit), Josh (William Jackson Harper of The Good Place), an anthropological scholar intent on writing his thesis about European folk culture, and the gentle, soft spoken Pele (Vilhelm Blomgren), who invites everyone to his village commune for their once-every-ninety-years activities.  Unable to cut ties with Dani because of her trauma, he half-heartedly invites her along, and to his surprise, she says yes.  

This first act perfectly captures a pair in their death throes, where questions seem like accusations, and pauses reveal underlying truths.  Aster borrows heavily from Roman Polanski, as he did with his debut film, by allowing negative and offscreen space and holding onto shots longer than normal, to create elastic tensions.  It’s so refreshing to watch a filmmaker, who creates strong, classic frames with his cinematographer Pawel Pogorzelski, take his time, avoiding the rushed cutting style of his contemporaries.  He also really thinks through his transitions, creating an unforgettable one where Dani, in an overhead shot, rushes into an apartment bathroom, only to reveal that she’s now on an airplane headed for Scandinavia.  I also savored the delightfully disorienting upside-down shots of the road as the group drives toward their destiny.  

Now most filmmakers, at this point would want to get to the gore and bloodletting, but Aster wants us to live with that sinking feeling for as along as possible.  So before our doomed Americans arrive at the proper camp, they stop just outside of it for an extended interlude where they imbibe hallucinogenic mushrooms.  This allows Dani, a bundle of uptight, frayed nerves to perhaps chill out, but it has the opposite effect. She has scars, and Pugh takes us on a master class of expressions.  Is she crazy or is she simply with a guy incapable of giving her what she needs?  Ahh, relationships can suck, even in a seemingly perfect environment where the sun barely sets and the villagers offer up the perfect embodiment of an ABBA tune.  Most horror films take place in the dark and freak us out with their jump scares.  This film operates in bright sunlight and terrifies with very few shock tactics.  Sometimes a misunderstanding can haunt your dreams more than someone shouting, “Boo!” Here we get a Swedish death cult that looks like a lot of ridiculous fun.  

Obviously this experience has far more to offer than maypole dances and giant feasts.  Henrik Svensson, making his feature debut as a Production Designer, has created the weirdest, most ominous storybook environment with an endless array of folk paintings lining the walls of his interiors.  They look cute until you take a harder look at the terrifying and carnal tales they depict.  Same goes for everything going on in the background of most shots.  The pleasant folk dress in white, classically Swedish garb, almost sprinkling fairy dust wherever they go, but look off in the distance and you’ll spy couples doing inexplicable things.  The genius of these scenes is that these people, called the Hårga, always appear to be kind and caring.  From their point of view, they never do anything wrong.  Bobby Krlic, who goes by the name The Haxan Clock, adds immeasurably to the tone of this film with his rich, evocative score.  

Aster mines most of this folk horror from the fact that we have a clash of cultures who don’t understand each other and often nod their heads to pretend that they do.  When something unexpected, something insanely disturbing and gory, happens, it had me questioning our American norms versus those in other parts of the world.  

At this point, many may feel the film stretches credibility, that our protagonists would get the hell out of this place right away.  But due to Pele’s sweet persuasiveness and maybe in small part to those drugs they keep imbibing in every cup of that mysterious tea, they stay.  Besides, we get an audience surrogate of sorts with an English couple who go crazy when the pagan rituals start to have a body count.  While many characters meet their doom, we’re on Dani’s journey, who travels from grief towards her own method of coping.  Aster may have a great time staging the bizarre rites of this cult, but he’s more interested in finding a catharsis for his heroine.  Where he ends up, in that perfect final second, proved thrilling and strangely real.  The violence, the crazy shots of throbbing, undulating meats, the Hannibal level of murder dioramas, however, will also stick in your head.  

While this film pings on the may themes found in Rosemary’s Baby, such as not really knowing your partner, suspecting an evil undercurrent lies beneath the people around you, and, yes, even drinking strange liquids, Aster reverses the roles at times and has a more avenging spirit.  This film would make a great triple bill with that film along with the recent remake of Suspiria.  The latter really felt similar when things go absolutely bonkers in the third act.  With copious amounts of nudity, sex, and bloodshed, both films use giggle-inducing absurdity to create its own form of horror.  You won’t soon forget what one character does to another’s butt, and I’ll just leave it at that.  

Many will lose their patience with this film, or find it more silly than scary.  I, however, loved every drawn-out minute of it  It challenges how we view death.  It allows for the possibility that it’s sometimes ok to be alone.  It makes you wonder if our own customs make any sense, and it may make you think twice about judging the basket case who seems to suck all the energy out of a relationship.  In the end, that person may be the only sane person in the room.  And isn’t that terrifying?

[herectic]

Film Ask Game

I was tagged by @myglorydayswon. Thank you very much.

What’s the most depressing film you’ve ever watched? Melancholia dir. Lars Von Trier

What’s the most disturbing film you’ve ever watched? Antichrist dir. Lars Von Trier

An actor/actress you’ve seen in more than 8 films? Jennifer Lawrence and Sigourney Weaver

A film you could watch on repeat for the rest of your life? Frida dir. Julie Taymor

What’s the very first film you remember watching? Marvin's Room dir. Jerry Zaks

A film you wish you hadn’t watched? The Human Centipede (First Sequence) dir. Tom Six

A film you wish had a sequel? It Follows dir. David Robert Mitchell

Which book would you like to see adapted into a film? I am still hoping for great adaptation of His Dark Materials (ignoring that one from 2007)

The most aesthetically pleasing film you’ve ever watched? Red Sparrow dir. Francis Lawrence

What’s your favourite film director? David Lynch

Your favourite film genre? Can't choose between thriller or sci-fi 

A film that holds a special place in your heart? Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me dir. David Lynch

Your favourite comedy film? The Grand Budapest Hotel dir. Wes Anderson

A music video you would love to see developed into a film? Florence + The Machine - Queen of Peace & Long and Lost

A film everyone loves but you hate? La La Land (I was so boreeed)

A film you love but everyone else hates? The Witch dir. Robert Eggers

Which cinematic universe would you like to live in? Twin Peaks

What’s your favourite biopic? Frida dir. Julie Taymor

Mainstream films or indie films? Both

Old films or contemporary films? Also both

A film with an amazing soundtrack? Sycamore Trees (Twin Peaks) by Jimmy Scott (unforgettable)

Bonus seasonal question, your favourite Christmas film? Carol dir. Todd Haynes

Thanks Carol again for tagging. I would like to tag  @petemartell @moonrays @thevoidsenter @theresebelivett @danakatherinescullymd. 

Happy Christmas and New Year everyone! :)

[bookaddict24-7]

MUSIC MONDAYS:

A series where I recommend a book, review it, and create a short playlist to give a sense of what the book is about.

This review may contain spoilers.

This is a long text post.

This week’s featured book is Now A Major Motion Picture by Cori McCarthy, a surprisingly lesser known contemporary young adult novel that explores complex family relationships, and the surprises that life sometimes has in store. 

Imagine my surprise when I head over to Goodreads and see that this book has a (well-deserved) high rating, but a low number of ratings. It’s almost tragic to know that so few have encountered this book! 

In a similar vein as Geekerella by Ashley Poston, McCarthy’s novel tells the story of a family touched by the power of adaptations and fandoms. Unlike Poston’s novel, which features a main character who’s lost her father, the father in McCarthy’s novel is alive but is in no way the father of the year. 

Iris is born into a family touched by success, thanks to her grandmother’s feminist series, Elementia. Unlike many of the fans, however, Iris despises the story that ensured that her family would never have privacy. Things are about to change, however, when she sets off for Ireland with her little brother. Ryder is a hyper-active little boy that inspired the song choice “Boss of Me”. He and Iris are in Ireland so they can witness the filming of Elementia’s movie adaptation. She has been a sister, friend, saviour, and mother-substitute for her brother--neither have had normal childhoods. While in Ireland, Iris is forced to confront the unspoken anger and resentment in her heart, as well as the mysterious grandmother she never truly knew. 

Now a Major Motion Picture is an adventure of a read. Not because it has magic or whimsical quests, but because of Iris’s growth. She makes mistakes and is sometimes quick to speak before thinking, but she isn’t one of those annoying protagonists who absolutely refuses to change, or acknowledge that she’s being a jerk. Her growth is also more realistic because it takes a while for her to appreciate her situation. 

Somewhere in the novel, it is alluded that this is a trip to help Iris’s brother, Ryder, heal from a past incident. But I believe that this novel is just as much about Iris’s healing as well as her brother’s. The complexity of family is handled wonderfully as we see that her troublesome relationship with her dad is more than just a one-sided, “he’s the strict parent” theme. Much like Iris, her father, though not actually physically with them for much of the novel, is a character who is engulfed in his emotions. He is made an honorary frequent character by the mere power that he holds over his children. He isn’t a one-dimensional plot device--he is a gale force that is a constant for Iris, always mentally there to remind her of who she was raised to be.

This book is a collection of relationships that take root and shape the story in an unforgettable way. There are strong female characters that give this a powerful feminist feel--a constant reminder to girls and women that even though there is a struggle to succeed, it doesn’t mean you have to stop trying. There is Iris’s budding romance with a surprising young man and how he helps to empower her by reminding her of the talents she refuses to acknowledge. And there are the family connections that act as the bones of McCarthy’s story: Ryder’s strong, but excitable personality; the troubled, but very layered story behind Iris’s father’s view of the world; and the grandmother that seems to lead Iris to new discovery’s despite her having passed years before. 

I really enjoyed Now a Major Motion Picture and I wish more people knew about this hidden gem. I loved reading more about the fantastical side of Ireland. I don’t think I’ve ever actually read an in-depth experience of a character being on a film set. Even The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo didn’t go extremely in-depth with the filming process. 

I recommend this to anyone who’s a part of a fandom and who want to read a story about women helping each other be the best they can be. If you love books about protagonists who travel and fall in love, but also have more going for them than just a love story (personal growth, difficult family situations, etc), then McCarthy’s novel is definitely for you!

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Age Recommendation: 13+

Genres: Contemporary, Romance, Family, Travel, Coming-of-Age, LGBTQ+

Add it to your Goodreads here.

See the playlist on Spotify here.

The Playlist & Why I Chose this Music: 

1. Mad at the World by Heffron Drive

This song choice is pretty self-explanatory: Iris is mad at her situation and is completely jaded when the novel first begins.

2. The Living Years by Mike & the Mechanics

I first heard this song a couple of weeks ago. While her father is still alive, this song is reminiscent of Iris’s situation with her dad. Warning: This song may make you cry. 

3. No Light, No Light by Florence + The Machine

This song speaks to Iris and I find that it does reflect her fear of allowing herself to accept that it’s okay to change your mentality on things you were once so determined to believe. It also mirrors the hectic emotions coursing through her. 

4. One Thing by One Direction

If you read this novel, you’ll guess why I chose this song. 

5. The Parting Glass by Celtic Woman

I asked one of my best friends, whose partner is Irish, if she could ask him for any recommendations for songs that made him think of Ireland. This was the very first one he recommended and I found the lilting tones and imagery beautiful. In fact, as I listened to it, there’s one particular scene that comes to mind. 

6. Boss of Me by Kids in Motion

As mentioned earlier, this song choice was inspired by Iris’s little brother, Ryder. He is the younger brother trying to find his own shadow beyond his sister’s, so this novel is also about his coming of (very young) age. 

7. Superwoman by Alicia Keys 

This song speaks to the feminism in this book. Despite the negative situations and the attempts to tear down certain people, this story, at its core, is about strong characters and how they overcome the hurdles thrown at them. 

Have you read this book? Would you recommend it?

Happy reading!

[dykerightsmp3]

🎵Hit shuffle on your playlist and list the first 7 songs and memories attached to them. 🎵 Then leave this in the askbox of 7 people you follow. tagged by @lila-bard!

What Baking Can Do from Waitress I originally didn’t think of this as one of my faves from Waitress, but I saw this performed live a couple weeks ago, and it’s too good, one of my favorites. “Tell them all my secrets, but disguise them” is such a sad and gorgeous lyric; Jessie Mueller’s voice slides over the notes with a raw quality that makes the song unforgettably haunting despite the happy tune. 

Fuck With Myself from The Altar, Banks I love this whole album but this is such an anthem. I fully think of this song being performed in a sexy, I-don’t-give-a-fuck manner. the little chords behind are so perfectly dissonant. the way she says “i used to care what you think bout me” sticks in my head 24/7. I vividly remember... seeing the music video for the first time and being still in my vague prude stage? It’s weird how much I’ve changed this year. 

Starring Role from Electra Heart, Marina and the Diamonds I LOVE. THIS SONG. SO MUCH. This song is weirdly connected to a weird secret-dating singers image I have in my mind, and a breakup that occurs within the story, and one of the girls singing it to the other one, and dueting it with another girl who is eventually her love interest. (Related: I had an entire idea of a dance sequence set to Lies. This idea got very elaborate.) 

Boy from Salute, Little Mix This is my og favorite Little Mix album from YEARS ago and I’m honestly shocked I forgot about some of these songs. I just really love the harmonies they sing here. My main memory attached to this is singing it with my mom in the car and trying to harmonize. 

Heavy in Your Arms from Lungs, Florence + the Machine This is probably my favorite song off Lungs, and is so odd that this comes from Lungs because it feels like it should be on Ceremonials? I don’t think I have any memories of this, so let me just mention: my introduction to Florence + the Machine was via Seven Devils in the season two finale of Revenge. 

Dress from reputation, Taylor Swift I’m submitting this song as proof that Taylor Swift is dating a girl, and I mean that as a joke, but also not really? I only put this (and most of reputation) on my playlists when I started listening to it as a Sapphic Piece Of Media. So that’s my memory; listening to reputation for the second time a year later, and realizing 

Last Kiss from Speak Now, Taylor Swift Oh boy. So I listened to this song the night after I broke up with my first serious girlfriend. It was only about a year later that I realized it references 1:58 on July 9th, which is, coincidentally, the exact time I went to bed, on California time. At 10:58 east coast time on July 8th, I was listening to this. So.... this one is actually a very strong memory. 

[freshginandtonic]

I Just Haven't MET You Yet: Thoughts on the Super Bowl of Fashion

The Met Gala is the the Olympics of fashion. As my title suggests, it has been called the Super Bowl of fashion. Athletes train for years - buffed and polished to an inch of their life to go out there and achieve excellence in sport. For the Met it’s excellence in fashion. Once a year, we (or at least my mother and myself) wait with bated breath to see what everyone wears.

As many of us are currently, I am working from home at the minute - today before I started my commute (15 seconds from my bed to my desk), instead of activewear I decided to put on my designated fancy ass velvet dress I bought about four years ago that I now wear to any vaguely formal occasion (with an abundance of tape to deal w how low cut it is) - and a puffer jacket (it’s cold af in my room) to commemorate the gala.

This year’s theme was supposed to be ‘About Time: Fashion and Duration’ I googled this concept and found the following information on the Met’s website: “it will explore how clothes generate temporal associations that conflate past, present, and future. Virginia Woolf will serve as the "ghost narrator" of the exhibition.”

My thoughts on this are as follows: firstly, ‘About Time’ is a great film if you haven’t seen it. Secondly, clothes conflating the past present and future - it’s a big yes from me. Thirdly, can Virginia Woolf serve as the ghost narrator of my entire life? What an idea.

The co-chairs this year were going to be Anna Wintour, Meryl Streep, Emma Stone, Lin-Manuel Miranda and Nicolas Ghesquiere. I mean, that list in itself is like a dream party list because you just know you’ll be getting a Streep-Stone-Miranda musical number in between drinks and dinner. I also don’t really know what being a co-chair of the event MEANS, but I’m guessing its some kind of vague organisational role where but you defer to Anna on everything - basically a school captain and principal set up.

For those of you who want a quick crash course in the, who, the what and the why I’m even talking about this gala thing here’s the tea: The Met Gala is the annual fundraising gala for the benefit of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute in New York City and marks the opening of the Costume Institute's annual fashion exhibit. Vogue have just done a video to explain the history so pls get enlightened.

However if you want more than 6 minutes and 50 seconds of how it all works, look no further than the 2016 documentary ‘The First Monday in May’. The film covers the months leading up to the 2015 Gala and the night itself. The theme that year was ‘China: Through The Looking Glass’, and it was all about the impact of Chinese design on Western fashion over the centuries.

The film is a huge eye opener into the pressure, time constraints, and sheer elbow grease that goes into the event. It’s also the closest thing to The Devil Wears Prada I’ve seen since ‘The September Issue’ . Anna Wintour flits around the museum with her sunnies and her giant cup of Starbucks, and scenes of Anna’s assistant and event organisers excessively vetting people from the guest list (“Josh Hartnett? What has he done lately?”) are amazing but also can you IMAGINE watching it and seeing them bitch about you?! Quelle nightmare.

Also if you’re a nosy Parker like me fun fact you can pause on the shots of the seating charts, and see who’s sitting next to who - I managed to squint and see Baz Luhrmann next to Jennifer Lawrence, Amal Clooney next to Tom Ford, and‘Jared Leto TBC’. How ominous.

As I mentioned earlier the show I work on covers the Met Gala - and yes, thanks to the time difference ‘the First Tuesday in May’ really doesn’t have the same snazzy ring to it. So come last year we were prepared to report on it - in 2020, I recalled it fondly, and also stressfully with my bosses video calling me at 7:30 this morning to remind me it was Met Gala Day and giving me a triple bypass in the process.

From my memory, the Queen of Camp at the 2019 gala was Lady Gaga - I remember watching her pink carpet entrance at work (I was the Met Gala producer that day - definitely not a real thing) and realising that every time I looked up at my screen she had a different outfit on - I believe there were four in total, which gave me palpitations at the time as I had to have three separate slabs of overlay to show the transition between her looks - but now a full year later I can appreciate her sheer artistry.

The 2019 theme was ‘Camp: Notes on Fashion.’ The exhibit was inspired by Susan Sontag's 1964 essay that defines camp as "love of the unnatural: of artifice and exaggeration.” It’s something that Sontag describes as “esoteric - something of a private code, a badge of identity even, among small urban cliques.” It seems to me that’s the best way to describe the Gala itself? Something out of the ordinary, opulent and pretty much unattainable to normal people looking in from the outside that manages to seduce us all every year.

There were so many great looks last year I can’t possibly go through them all, so quick honourable mentions to the following: Harry Styles , Ezra Miller, Lily Collins, Irina Shayk, Kim Kardashian, and Hamish Bowles to name far too few. Also some great online stuff came out as well: this movie trailer for the event and this brilliant video showing how the Vogue social media team handled the event.

Despite all this, I have to say that yes, while the ‘Camp’ year was, indeed shit hot, and I lived for every moment of it, my favourite year was in fact 2017.

The theme was ‘Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination’, and after 13 years of Catholic education and living with a deeply religious grandmother who keeps a bunch of icons around our house I can firmly say Alleluia and Thanks Be to God. The main thing I remember from this year was this amazing video that Vogue put up (and apparently took down as I had to find it on Facebook) showing celebrities flouncing around the museum in their finery.

My friend Georgie and I were going through our favourite looks from previous years over Zoom last night, and while she had gone for looks from like 1974 to present day, literally all of mine were from 2017 bc I loved them all so much. Plus looking through I remembered that Shawn Mendes and Hailey (now) Bieber were a couple for about 30 seconds.

I must particularly make mention of Zendaya, Emilia Clarke, Greta Gerwig, Ariana Grande, Bella Hadid, Rihanna, Kate Bosworth, Blake Lively, Lily Collins, Kim Kardashian, Chadwick Boseman, Cardi B and Priyanka Chopra who, although perennially irritating since becoming Priyanka Chopra Jonas, cannot be ignored for her excellent use of red velvet here. As you can probably tell I found it REALLY hard to narrow that all down.

I am someone who decided at least five years ago that they would one day attend the gala (I haven’t quite figured out why I would be invited, but even Kim Kardashian started as a plus one so there’s hope for me yet). Every year I look at red carpet as my altar, the stars the saints and angels (yeesh, can you tell I went to Catholic school - and I actually believe this garbage). I don’t know how a short walk up some stairs to a museum became so fraught with power but there it is. Every time I go out in something approximating a ballgown (bringing it back to the red dress, people) I imagine how I would walk, who I would talk to, what my hair would look like (very important), and who I would have at my table (slightly less important than hair). And of course, addressing Anna (through her all things were made, for us and for our salvation, maker of Heaven and Earth, of all that is seen and unseen etc).

Maybe she would look at me and nod approvingly with a wry smile (please refer to the end scene of the Devil Wears Prada to see exactly how this would happen, but hopefully the smile would be a bit warmer than what you would give an ex-employee) and I would walk on, secure in the knowledge that Anna and I had connected on a deeply spiritual level. Then I imagine I would head straight to the bar to recover.

NOW KEEP READING HUN

A quick note for people who want to read fun stuff/watch fun stuff about the Met Gala to compensate for this trash year, here are some funky links to what Vogue has going on:

Anna Wintour Addresses the Met Gala and Florence + The Machine Performs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HptQEYkMrVQ

Thinking of the Met on a Not-So-Typical First Monday in May https://www.vogue.com/article/moment-with-the-met-vogue-global-conversations

25 Years of Met Gala Themes: A Look Back at Many First Mondays in May https://www.vogue.com/article/met-gala-themes

Only at the Met: An Oral History of the World’s Most Glamorous Gala https://www.vogue.com/article/the-complete-met-gala-oral-history

See the Costume Institute’s New (Though Postponed) Show About Time https://www.vogue.com/article/costume-institute-about-time-preview

The Most Unforgettable Met Gala Beauty Looks—According to the Hair and Makeup Artists Behind Them.                             https://www.vogue.com/article/met-gala-makeup-artists-hair-stylists-instagram

Naomi Campbell Breaks Down 30 Years’ Worth of Met Gala Magic https://www.vogue.com/article/naomi-campbell-life-in-looks-met-gala-video

A Look Back at a Decade of Stunning Met Gala Interiors https://www.vogue.com/slideshow/a-look-back-at-a-decade-of-stunning-met-gala-interiors

Sarah Jessica Parker Shares a Playlist Inspired by the Met Gala Theme ‘About Time: Fashion and Duration’                              https://www.vogue.com/article/sarah-jessica-parker-met-gala-about-time-playlist

[drvinyl]

Sziget Festival Day 6

Wow how did we get to Day 6 already...when planning our 7 day festival we were sure we’d be shells of our former selves by day 3, but now we can’t imagine leaving! You really do become accustomed to the loud nights and boiling tents: sleeping without a mariachi band playing a few feet away is going to be strange.

We kicked off the penultimate day of Sziget with a performance by Tom Odell on the MainStage. First of all, we were stunned by the size of the crowd for yet another UK artist we first saw in tiny venues in comparison. Secondly, we were astounded by the technicality of his performance. As a musician I can confirm how difficult it is to play piano to the standard of Odell whilst also singing and maintaining stage presence: he really is a talented guy.

Next we witnessed an inspiring speech by poet and activist Emi Mahmouddal. It’s clear this young lady has led an amazing life so far and achieved a lot considering her age. As she read her spoken word poetry the (huge) crowd fell practically silent and it’s clear everyone was equally impacted by the power of her message.

Finally it was a moment we had been waiting for the entire festival: one of our all time favourite bands, Catfish and the Bottlemen. Although we’ve seen them almost dozens of times now across various locations, we still never get bored. As they opened with new song Longshot, we were reminded of why we love them so much. Don’t get me wrong, listening to their studio albums is thoroughly enjoyable, but they’re such a talented bunch of live performers seeing them in the flesh does not even compare! Without the polished nature of their officially released tracks, their live shows are filled with even more distortion and impact. Complete with improvised riffs, lyrics, and solos between songs, it was an unforgettable show (as per).

Then came the spectacular Florence and the Machine. Seeing Florence Welch perform is genuinely enchanting. Emerging in a floaty white dress, against the dark sky she honestly looked like an ethereal being as she danced, ran, and pirouetted across the stage and runway, Their performance was entirely immersive whether you were at the barrier or watching from afar, and we were treated to a variety of our favourite tracks, new and old.

Stay tuned tomorrow for updates on the act we’ve all been waiting for - Foo Fighters!!!

Photography courtesy of @rockstarphotographers

[kingofscarrs]

*Tag*

 I was tagged by @budhaven Thanks for tagging me!! I rarely get any tags so it’s really nice when I do. Thanks again <3

Rules: Answer 30 questions and then tag 20 blogs you would like to get to know better. Nicknames: Mostly everyone just calls me Ana but some people call me Aninha or Carol (very few, I think it’s cute)

Gender: Female

Star Sign: Capricorn

Height: 5′2″ 

Time: 11:55 PM  

DOB: January 13th 

Favorite Bands: Florence + The Machine, Coldplay, Imagine Dragons, Twenty one Pilots (I have others but can’t think of any right now)

Favorite Solo Artists: Jaymes Young, Lana Del Rey, AURORA, Alessia Cara, Bruno Mars, Halsey, Olivia O’Brien, Ruth B, Ryn Weaver, Troye Sivan, The Weeknd, Selena Gomez...(too many, I love music)

Song Stuck In My Head:  French Montana - Unforgettable ft. Swae Lee

Last Movie I Watched: Descendants 2 (loved it) 

Last TV Show I Watched: Voltron Legendary Defenders (current obsession)

When Did I Create My Blog?: June, 2016

What Do I Post?: The 100, DC, Voltron + some random stuff 

Last Thing I Googled: “legend of korra ikki” (forgot how to write her name xD)  

Do I Have Other Blogs?: Nope, just this messy one 

Do I Get Asks?: Never :(

Why Did I Choose My URL?: I love this chacter so much, it was stronger then me

Following: 313

Followers: 389 (i’m still surprised by that tbh)

Favorite Colors: Blue, Black and Silver

Average Hours of Sleep: 5-7

Lucky Number: 13 (oh the jokes I have to put up with...)

Instruments: None but If could: piano and guitar

What Am I Wearing?:  Sports bra, blue shorts and a light blue jacket  

How Many Blankets I Sleep With: Usually just one but when it’s very cold I sleep with two or three

Dream Job: I would love to draw comics or work with something similar but since thats not a super stable job I would also love to be an architect.  

Dream Trip: New York, London, San Diego (Comic Con) 

Favorite Food: French fries 

Nationality: Brazilian

Favorite Song As of Now: HONNE & Izzy Bizu - Someone That Loves You Tagging : @alleysrping @planetaryleia @winchdean @wonderwallforme @optimisticynic @calistalupinmoon @skyirates @blizzaurus @queenscullbag @walls-coming-down @chirruts-imwe @geekpuff-skaikru @iswearonmarcuskane @pixxiekabby @shadow-wolfgirl @lookingforrme @the-lone-bounty-hunter @catelynstxrks @starving-of-reading @marcuskanc 

No pressure. Don’t feel like you have to answer the tag if you don’t want to but it would be great to get to know some of the people that follow me :)

[karsljackson]

Some Top Rated Places To Visit in Alabama

When you have to make a plan for Alabama on this vacation, then this is your great choice. Because there are lots of attractions are available and many places to visit. Alabama is the great destination point for the vacation and this is an ideal gateway for the visitor. Thousands of the visitor are come here every year and enjoy there all attractions, visit there all wonderful places or make millions of unforgettable lifetime memories. Alabama is more famous for its historical and natural beauty. When you see their lots of attractions and enjoy your life there then you want to come here again and again. Here we have a list of some awesome top rated Places To Visit in Alabama that are explained below:

Barber Vintage Motor sports Museum: The Barber Vintage Motor sports Museum is home to a selection of more than the 1,400 motorcycles, from some of the earliest and rarest models to modern machines. Around half of the collection is on display in the museum, and it is automatically rotated, so true enthusiast will want to consider a repeat visit. The selection, assembled by former race car driver George Barber, gained notoriety quickly after the museum's opening in 1995 when many bikes were loaned to the Guggenheim Museum in New York for their display, "Art of the Motorcycle." W.C. Handy Home and Museum: This Museum is placed in the Florence,  Museum is housed in the log cabin where this iconic musician was born and lived. Known as the "father of the blues," Handy lived here when he wrote many of his most famous songs, in which including the “Be-ale Street Blues and Memphis Blues”.  Also, the visitors are able to see the original sheet music hand-written by the artist, as well as other personal papers and artifacts. These all collections on display also include many musical instruments, in which including his trumpet and piano, which were used while writing these songs. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park: Memorial Park in Mobile is the 1942 USS Alabama Battleship docked along the waterfront. This BB-60 battleship is nicknamed "the Mighty A," and was deactivated after the end of WWII. Also, visitors can tour several parts of the ship, including the captain's cabin, bridge, mess hall, and turrets. The park is a home to the USS Drum, a submarine also used in the second World War, which can be toured as well. Also on-site are many varieties of aircraft, in which including the B-52 bomber and an A-12 Black Bird spy plane, as well as military apparatus from many conflicts, including the tanks and weapons. This park is a memorial to all those who served in WWII, as well as more operations. If you want to know more knowledge or information about the Alabama Attractions or places to visit then you have to visit the Visit Montgomery Site. On the website there described the all information about the places with the location all are mentioned there.

[chickenparmaham]

I was tagged by @fairieswithoutwings thanks for tagging me ! I love doing the music stuff. 

rules: you can tell a lot about a person by the music they listen to. put your music on shuffle & list the first ten songs & then tag ten people 

(Also this is going to be difficult because I separate my music into playlists based on what I feel like listening to/genre. I don't have them all in one place so I'm just gonna go in 10 of my most listened to playlists and shuffle to the first one that comes on lol) 

1. What The Water Gave Me - Florence + The Machine 

2. Falling Slowly - Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova

3. Mundian To Bach Ke ( Beware of The Boys -Jay Z Remix ) - Panjabi MC ((sidenote: yoooooo this song is such a bop)) 

4. Dawn - Froya ((sidenote: Malaysian music repppinnnn)) 

5. Just Like A Woman - Bob Dylan 

6. Where Do Broken Hearts Go - One Direction  ((sidenote: I linked the live performance of this because it was just so fucking good alright))

7. I Say A Little Prayer - Aretha Franklin 

8. Unforgettable- Nat King Cole 

9. Goodies - Ciara ((sidenote: bittttttchhhhh yassss)) 

10. Another One Bites The Dust - Queen 

I tag @softnorwegians @isaksbestpillow @isakdeilig @isakneven @isak-sidedish @tarjeiandhenrik @kardemomme-kisses @sanasevaks @tiptopevak annnnndddd @koninginnen anddd anyone else who wants to do it. And if you guys have already done it , send me a link to your posts cos I'm super duper interested to see your music. Also if y'all want rec me some music that would be awesome too!

[rafaelthompson]

La Marzocco Visionary Piero Bambi, 1934–2020

The coffee world loses an icon.

BY SARAH ALLEN BARISTA MAGAZINE

Cover photo by Sarah Allen

There are only a handful of people who have been as universally loved in the specialty-coffee industry as Piero Bambi of La Marzocco, who passed in the early hours of March 22 at the age of 86. The global La Marzocco family, and Piero’s wife, Giovanna, have designated March 23 as a day of mourning for this insurmountable loss. We at Barista Magazine invite you to join us in remembering and honoring this lifelong specialty-coffee industry legend.

The son and nephew of the company founders, Piero ran the Florence, Italy-based boutique espresso-machine operation almost his entire life, from when he was a boy of 6 polishing parts at his father and uncle’s feet, to just weeks ago in the position of Honorary President. Up until the end, Piero spent most days at the factory.

Piero at the La Marzocco factory. Photo courtesy of La Marzocco.

Crafting exceptional machines that exquisitely marry form and function—which is La Marzocco’s legacy—was in the Bambi blood: Piero’s grandfather, Ettore, was a steel worker, and Piero’s father, Giuseppe, had similar interests, becoming an industrial technician and landing a high-ranking job right out of school. “However, his independent spirit, strength, and inborn urge to be ‘innovative’ soon prompted him to leave the plant and start up his own business,” Piero said in an interview in a company publication.

Piero easily fell into step with the heritage established by his father and uncle, Bruno, for breaking boundaries and rewriting the rules. La Marzocco developed the first espresso machine with a horizontal boiler and the first semi-automatic group machine in 1939. Piero himself conceived of and patented the double boiler in 1970, allowing baristas the option of continuous brewing for the first time, which solved a number of problems. “The enormous advantage of continuous brewing is that water drips from the water pipes directly onto ground coffee—which explains the expression ‘continuous brewing,’” he said. “Such a process, coupled with a good thermal balance at an optimal temperature, avoids the accumulation of heat when the machine is used most. In the past, when a barista needed to prepare several espressos in a very short time, the machine would overheat quite rapidly.”

With such a technical mind and an instinctive understanding of not only how espresso machines do work, but how they should work, Piero had a hand in the conception, design, and engineering of almost every La Marzocco machine currently in production. The Linea Classic was the first machine for which Piero led design, and it went on to become the company’s most popular and cherished machine. When the much-anticipated update to this definitive espresso machine was released in 2013—called the Linea PB in Piero’s honor—it was heralded by the Linea Love Campaign, wherein baristas and café owners for whom the Linea Classic played a significant part in their development as professionals shared their fondest memories of the Linea online.

Piero was beloved not only for his exceptional contributions to espresso machine engineering, however. His passion for his work was motivated by a forward-thinking understanding of the challenges and triumphs of the barista. Because of this, La Marzocco was among the first companies to champion the barista as a professional, rather than a transitory service worker. Before it was fashionable, La Marzocco wanted to hear what baristas thought about how coffee equipment could be improved; while today there are many well-known baristas who consult with coffee equipment companies, this was hardly the case 15 years ago—with the exception of Piero and La Marzocco. “The direct contact with baristas when out selling the machines played a fundamental role in developing their passion in light of the suggestions, comments, and constructive criticism provided by the baristas themselves,” Piero explained.

On a spectacular autumn day in 2013 at the La Marzocco factory in Scarperia, just outside of Florence, I was lucky enough to spend the day with Piero for an interview for Barista Magazine. The company’s idyllic setting is no accident; in fact, the famous La Marzocco lion (“Marzocco” comes from Mars, the Roman god of war) acts as a symbol of the people’s power, and was adopted by the Florentines upon the advent of Christianity. “I think the environment you grow up in strongly influences your cultural growth at an unconscious level,” Piero said. “My family was definitely influenced by Florence, the city of art par excellence where they were surrounded by timeless works of unique beauty created by self-made artists and artisans, a tradition that has continued over the centuries and that has very rarely engaged in large-scale production because the terms ‘art’ and ‘craftsmanship’ were inscribed in the artisan genes.”

Days before this, I was with Piero and the La Marzocco family 180 miles southeast of Florence in Milan, for the legendary La Marzocco Out of the Box (OOTB) event, held concurrent with the massive HOST MILAN hospitality show. That OOTB was everything HOST is not: it was intimate and informal, collaborative and innovative. Baristas, café owners, and roasters from around the world came together at OOTB for two days of workshops, lectures, and revelry—and in 2013, for something extra special.

After three years of planning and work kept secret from Piero, the staff unveiled a replica of the original La Marzocco “shop window” van. The first van, built on an Alfa Romeo motor and chassis, was designed by Piero’s father, but was lost in an accident in the 1960s. Created in the exact likeness of the original van, the reproduction—revealed to Piero on the first night of the OOTB event—brought Piero to tears. He spent the duration of the party that followed the van’s presentation behind the wheel inside, talking for hours with the engineers and mechanics who built it.

Piero and his wife, Giovanna, never had any children, which is perhaps part of the reason he insisted on nurturing La Marzocco’s family environment. Most people who work in the factory in Italy work there for the entirety of their careers, not only because the work is rewarding, but also because the atmosphere is so friendly.

Piero and Giovanna on their wedding day. Photo courtesy of La Marzocco.

I’ve been lucky enough to visit the factory a handful of times and tour all of it, from the remarkable showroom packed with vintage Marzoccos, to the humming research and development department, to the floor, where machines are put together by hand, piece by intricate piece. Touring at Piero’s side, however, was totally different. Every contraption has a story, and every person, a special history—he told me them all. It was an unforgettable experience. 

That day, we lingered on the veranda overlooking the Tuscan countryside, and he began to talk about Kent—Kent Bakke, that is, who was Piero’s business partner and for all intents and purposes, his brother.

On my first visit to the La Marzocco factory in 2011, Piero insisted on making espresso for my friends and me. In this photo, a staffer asks him to sign some documents prior to putting on his barista apron. Piero worked at the factory up until the end of his life, serving as Honorary President in his final capacity. Photo by Sarah Allen.

Kent traveled from Seattle to visit La Marzocco’s headquarters for the first time in 1978. “This gave way to a fruitful commercial relationship with the U.S. which was further developed,” Piero said. Their friendship flourished, as well, and the relationship between La Marzocco and Kent resulted in exponential visibility in the United States.

When Piero’s father passed away in 1987, however, Piero’s world changed dramatically. He suffered a heart attack a year later, and his doctor attributed it to Piero’s intense workload and stress level as he assumed responsibility after his father’s death.

“I began reflecting on what I could do to ensure that La Marzocco would continue doing business, especially in light of the fact that the company had been founded by my father, without being affected by [health] problems,” he said. “I initiated negotiations with Kent about the option of selling the company, making it possible to continue doing business in the future. I was not so much interested in the financial gain as in the life of the company itself, in the future of the employees, the continued use of the factory building itself, the brand, etc. In 1994, we reached an agreement, transferring the majority of the company shares to Kent himself.”

Meanwhile, Starbucks was knocking on La Marzocco’s door. Kent had forged a relationship with the famous coffee business already, and it was asking for more and more La Marzocco machines. “At that time, the company produced and sold a limited number of machines per year, and none were in stock,” Piero says. “At the same time, Starbucks was growing very rapidly, making it difficult to maintain our business with them.”

Thankfully, Piero and Kent understood the importance of keeping up with that demand, and they began restructuring La Marzocco. Big things started happening: La Marzocco began sponsoring the World Barista Championship, “which was just being launched and which very few companies had faith in, at least at first,” he says. “This decision, together with the functionality of the Linea series, substantially increased company sales, especially in foreign markets.”

From left, Piero with La Marzocco’s marketing director, Chris Salierno, and CEO Guido Berardinelli, at a gala. Photo courtesy of La Marzocco.

This was a long time coming: “Beginning in 1995, La Marzocco’s corporate structure was deeply reorganized,” he continued. “Its production department, its management, and its assistance services were all improved. The company took on highly qualified technicians and bilingual personnel to further promote its business with foreign markets. … Roberto Bianchi, a mechanical engineer, entered the company, with previous experience in the field. … Through Joe Monaghan, a friend and La Marzocco share holder, Ron Cook [an American who had been working for La Marzocco in a leadership capacity since 1995], met Guido Berardinelli and Lorenzo Carboni, who would eventually open the company’s sales and marketing office in Milan in 2002.”

Since then, Guido and Lorenzo have become tightly woven into the fabric of La Marzocco: Lorenzo opened the company’s London office in October of 2012, and Guido now serves as La Marzocco’s CEO.

Even after Piero’s passing, however, La Marzocco remains a boutique espresso equipment company—a family company. Piero made certain of that.

That autumn day in 2013 when we ambled across the building, I remember how Piero greeted everyone we passed and called them by name. His smile was enormous. “This company belongs to a great many people in spirit,” he told me, straightening in his black La Marzocco fleece vest. “All of us, yes, but to baristas, most importantly.”

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Sarah Allen is the co-founder and editor in chief of Barista Magazine.

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