#miley's basically been around for the beginning of my even having a music taste... my first favorite singer i could buy new albums from

[britneyshakespeare]

not to start shit but... that cover miley cyrus did in 2014 of why’d you only call me when you’re high... she absolutely smashed it... she didn’t need to do that... that was so out of her style during that era too... she just went on mtv unplugged, with this full band behind her, put on alex turner’s mannerisms for one damn song, while also enhancing it with her own personal twang, i just. never got over it. every time i think of that song i think of her cover of it. me, an absolute arctic monkeys fan, since before that era. her RUNS at the end of it though. i can completely understand why alex said she did a better job at it, uhhhm she did.

[queenmendes]

new life chapter || pt. 3 ||

Summary: Y/N is a young actress; already one of the most known in the industry, She started out on Marvel, playing Feuer (Foi yer) Stark, the adopted daughter of Tony Stark; now with that coming to an end, she is ready to start a new chapter in her life. Who knew it would all begin with a livestream?

Word Count: 3,840 

Masterlist 

A/N: Sooo, I have no idea what the hell “camp” means for the Met Gala so I am stealing the Zac Posen dress (big one that lit up)  from the 2016 one as Y/N and we are just going to act like Zendaya isn't there so they don't clash (love her to death tho, she’s queen) and I wanted to do a Social Media part for this chapter so please go with it ;) thanksssss, enjoy xxxx

“Whatcha mean you have never had Joe’s Pizza?” Your eyes wide as you stare at the tall Canadian in front of you. “You’ve been to Manhattan how many times? This is unacceptable.” Shawn laughed but let you drag him into the pizza joint. Shawn had just arrived in New York last night; he called earlier today to take you up on your offer of showing him New York. With him, was his best friend Brain and a few of his other team members, including Cez and Josiah. You also decided that your team deserved a day out and they joined as well.

The day was spent running around the city like wild teenagers. Going to all the basic places, like Time Square and the Empire State Building. You also stopped by the World Trade Center memorial, as no one has seen the masterpiece created. You showed them the small, hole-in-a-wall shops that you loved as well as the hidden park that barely anyone knew about. The group even walked along the Brooklyn Bridge, but that was photo aesthetic purposes mainly. However, it was almost 10 o’clock and everyone was hungry, so it was time to hit up your favorite pizza place.

“This better be the best pizza of my life.” Shawn said as the group filed into the small restaurant. You scoffed.

“Trust me. It’s amazing. Classic pizza.” You replied as you waited in line. Shawn stood behind you, his chest lightly brushing against your back. Each of you have been a bit touchier; the reuniting hug lasting long and random ones throughout the day also, with hands brushing against each other’s constantly.

“Oh my! Y/N!” Joe, the owner, exclaimed as you came into his sight. He rushed around the counter and gave you a friendly hug. You smiled at the middle-aged Italian man.

“Joe! You are a sight for sore eyes.” You said as you pulled away from the man. He rolled his eyes at your compliments but still smiled. He turned his attention to Shawn, who stepped to the side to give you some space.

“And who are these lovely people?” Joe asked, his thick accent more noticeable, as he scanned the small group.

“This is Shawn.” You introduced before continuing for the rest of the group. “They are also here for the Met.” You explained. Joe shook hands and introduced him. Joe returned behind the counter, placing an apron around his waist. Everyone placed their orders and went at sat more towards the back as you waited.

“I take it you come here a lot?” Brian asked, referring to the reunion that seemed like two old friends reuniting after years apart. Chris laughed, almost mockingly.

“Oh, you have no idea. Anytime we are in the city. And I mean, every. single. time.” Chris explained dramatically.

“Hey, is not that bad.” You defended yourself and all of your team stopped to give you a deadpanned look. You pouted but nodded your head. This was an addiction for you. You thought. The next few minutes was filled with random chatter across the group. Everyone having their own small conversations.

“So, Mendes.” You started and he turned to you, a look of amusement in his eyes at the use of his last name. “Any new music coming?”

“Wouldn’t you like to know?” He teased.

“There is then! No one is suspicious unless something is happening.” You observed. Shawn laughed.

“How many investigating shows do you watch?” He mocked.

“Many.” You proudly smiled. The two of you laughed as pizza was set in front of each person at the table. You rubbed your hands together, grabbing the slice and biting into it. The taste of heaven filled your taste buds. You looked at Shawn as he bit into his own slice, waiting for his reaction. He looked at you from the corner of his eyes and chewed slowly to mock you.

“Alright, that’s pretty amazing.” He said finally, and the rest of the group nodded in agreement as everyone chowed down.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++

Everyone decided to come back to the penthouse your team was staying at. The small group was formed around the living room, deciding on what movie to watch. Since you were picky about what movie is picked, you were in the kitchen making popcorn for everyone and gathering other snacks.

“Need any help?” Shawn asked from behind you.

“You can get some drinks.” You laugh as he salutes before making his way to the fridge. He grabs a variety of drinks and places them on the counter.

“Thank you for today.” Shawn said after a moment of silence. “It meant a lot that you let my team come with us.”

“Of course. They work their ass off for you, I know mine does. They deserve fun, random days in the city.” You waved you hand in dismissal. “Besides, you friends are awesome. I had a lot of fun with them today too.”

“Just them?” He asked, stepping closer to you until he was inches away.

“Well, I guess you played a part in it too.” You whispered. A small, soft smile appeared on his face. The two of you just stood there, chest to chest now, in your own little bubble. His eyes going back and forth between your lips and eyes. One of his hands gently grabbed your hip, pulling you as close as possible while the other made its way to cup your cheek. His thumb gently brushing it. Finally, Shawn begins to lean into you.

“What is taking so long?” Chris yelled from the living room, causing the peaceful bubble to burst. You sighed in annoyance.

“Coming.” You softly yelled back. Shawn’s hand dropped from your cheek, but before he stepped away, you kissed his cheek. “Soon, Rockstar.” You promised before stepping away and gathering the popcorn and other snacks, making your way into the living room. Shawn stood there in a daze for a moment, before smiling big. Soon.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

The next afternoon could be described as one thing and one thing only. Hell. Everyone was in a frantic frenzy, running all over the penthouse. It didn’t help that you were exhausted from the all-day outing yesterday and late-night movie marathon that took place after. Apparently, you could not just watch one Harry Potter movie. Nope, it had to be three.

Now here you were, sitting on the couch, slowly drinking your second cup of coffee. Already knowing you would be needing another one. Everyone else in the background, setting up everything needed to make you pretty. And judging by the reflection you saw in the mirror; it was going to be a challenge. There was even a camera from Vogue here filming the entire process.

“Uh, what are you doing?” Stacy all but screamed. She didn’t even let you breathe before continuing. “We have 5 hours until you have to be walking across that carpet, and it is going to take an hour to get you in the dress and out the door and you are just sitting there, drinking coffee? Ass, shower, now”

“She took my coffee.” You whispered to Angie. Angie patted your shoulder.

“I’ll make you another. Go shower before she comes back.” You did what you were told because no one wants to face Stacy’s rage. Once you were out of the shower and into a robe, Chris led you to the makeup chair. It was like a swarm of people immediately getting to work. Simultaneously, Chris started drying your hair, Stacy start doing a skin mask to prep your face and your hands was pulled as your nails started getting painted.

“Do not touch your face.” Stacy instructed as she finished applying the mask. You nodded and began scrolling through social media to pass the time. A minute later, however, you phone started ringing.

Curly-Haired God is requesting to face time. Those words sent you into a slight panic since the two of you almost kissed last night; since you promised him it would happen soon enough. Oh, and your face looked like a monkey splatter mud all over it.

“Hey.” You finally answered. Shawn paused, trying not to laugh. “Don’t laugh at me. Stacy pretty much threatened me to do what she says.”

“I’m not laughing at you.” Shawn said, but you see his mouth twitching. However, he didn’t even try to hold it in, and his laughs filled your ears. You rolled your eyes but smiled. He had such a cute laugh.

“Was there are reason you called, Mendes?” He finally stopped laughing but his smile was still there.

“Yeah, did you know we are sitting at the same table?” You got excited.

“Wait, really? Oh my god, sweet! Who else is sitting with us?” You asked.

“I only know Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth.”

“We are going to have a dope ass table.” You concluded. Shawn nods in agreement. However, the moment was ruined by non-other than Stacy.

“Say goodbye.” Stacy said. You looked at her and pouted. “No, no, no. Put those eyes away and say goodbye, we have to get you ready.” You nodded.

“I’ll see you later?” You asked.

“How will I find you?” Shawn teased.

“Oh, trust me, you won’t be able to miss my dress.” You smirked before waving goodbye and hanging up. Stacy began taking off the mask as Crystal got all the makeup ready. You other hand started to get painted as well. Now, you simply leaned back and let yourself get pampered.

++++++++++++++

“Is it too late to eat something?” You were ignored by every single person as the small army was getting you into the dress. It was truly beautiful. It was a Zac Posen design; it was a light, sky blue gown that flared out passed the waistline. It was your own Cinderella dress. The best part was that it completely lit up, but it also made it a struggle to get in, so nothing shifted.

Your makeup was done amazing perfectly. Y/E/C standing out at the dark, navy blue eyeshadow that surrounded it. “I want to be a Targaryen” was all you told Chris about your hair and he did not fail. It was loosely curled into waves and had a complex braid wrapped the back. Stacy came over with the famous baby blue jewelry boxes.

“These are beautiful.” You gasped as Stacy started placed the three-layered choker around your neck before placed another one, that was thicker and almost looked braided, right above the other. A series of diamond, ring bands were wrapped around your fingers; all random widths. You decided to do simple, small studs for earrings. The last piece was a bracelet that resembled the three-layered necklace. All the pieces were very elegant but simple, so the attention isn’t away from the dress. Angie held onto you as the see-through high heels were placed on your feet.

“Are you nervous?” The Hailey, from Vogue asked from the side.

“A little. These kinds of things are a really big deal. I’m always more nervous for the publics comments because I don’t ever want to be like out of theme or anything. The critics and even just general people are really judgement if you don’t fit the theme.” You explained “But I completely trust Zac and I am in love with this dress.”  

“Who are you most excited to see tonight?” Hailey asked.

“Kim Kardashian West. I love her and she is a really good friend of mine. She actually called me like a week ago because she found out that Zac was my designer, so she was really excited to see what I was wearing. I’m excited to see her because she is the cover girl and she’s wearing Mugler, who is amazing.” You answered as you gather some things you would need for the night.

“Alright, we need to be out the door now people.” Angie said.

“Let’s go to the Met.” You smiled at the camera before carefully walking out the door.

+++++++++++

The flashes were constant. Shouting was coming from every direction as you made you way down the pink carpet. You’ve been on the pink carpet for about ten minutes now and so far, everything was going great. You weren’t going to light the dress up until you got closer to the end of the carpet. Thankfully, the photo portion doesn’t last long.

“Y/N! Oh my god. Hi” Liza waved from her spot mid-way up the stairs.

“Hi.” You greeted once you were in front of her

“Wow. Okay, look at you. So, tell me about what you are wearing.” She said after a moment of fangirling.

“It by Zac Posen. It really is just incredible. I told him, jokingly, that I wanted to feel like a princess, but he made that his inspiration and added his own twist to it. Look.” You said, before pressing the small button on the side of your waist. The entire dress lit up softly from the blue lights embedded inside it. The crowd from behind instantly gasped in shock at the new feature of the dress. More people trying to get more pictures.

“WOW.” Liza gasped. “Now, Endgame has premiered, we won’t spoil anything, but what is next in your career?”

“I really don’t know.” You honestly answered. “I’ve been acting since I was 10 years old and I am forever grateful for everything that has happened to me and how amazing the whole MCU has been and what we created. I am looking forward to a break where I get to just travel where I want and be with my family and friends; if I find a project along the way, then that’s great.” Liza nodded.

“Well that sounds like a great plan. You really have made a great name for yourself and anyone would be lucky to have in their movie or show.”

“Thank you so much.” Her attention went behind you and before you could turn to see what she was looking at, a hand gently laid on your back.

“You weren’t wrong when you said I couldn’t miss your dress.” Shawn said as he came into your line of vision. You smiled as you looked him over. Damn, he looked good. Like really good.

“You look great. Your hair! Let me see.” You said, grabbing his head to turn his head to the side so you could see it better. “I love it.”

“Thanks.” He blushed. “You are absolutely stunning.” The two of you completely forgot about Liza and the camera, simply staring at each other with soft smiles.

“It’s great to see you again, Shawn.” Liza said, breaking the silence. You stepped away slightly.

“Sorry I should keep moving, it was nice talking to you Liza.” You bided goodbye to her before turning to Shawn. “I’ll see you inside.” With that, you walked away, heart beating uncontrollably. Unknown to you, Shawn’s eyes didn’t leave your retreating figure until it was out of sight. Damn, she looked breathtaking.

Inside was even crazier than the carpet. Everyone’s attention turned to you as you walked in. It was quite nerve-racking but what else would you expect when you were literally glowing. As you made the way to your table, you stopped and mingled. About every 30 seconds, someone approached you, designer and celebrity.

“This is fabulous.” Kim said as she approached you. You smiled as you looked over her outfit. It was gorgeous. The silicon dress fitting her like a glove, the jewels representing water droplets.

“Me? Look at you.” You gestured. “This is amazing. How can you even breathe?”

“Oh, I can’t. And I am praying that I don’t have to pee because this corset isn’t coming off for a while.” She laughed and you with her. “I can’t help but wonder, what is going on with you and Shawn Mendes?”

“I don’t know what you are talking about.” She just gave you a look. “Ugh, I don’t know. He’s so sweet and funny, and god, have you seen him? Don’t get me started and when he performs?”

“What are you waiting for then?”

“The right moment, I guess.” You shrugged. Kim smiled.

“Trust me, the right moment doesn’t happen unless you make it.” You were silent for a moment. She was right.

“When the fuck did you get so wise?” You laugh.

“Law school changes you.” She joked. The two of you got some photos taken by one of the photographers before parting ways. Finally, you made you way to the table you were assigned too. Miley and Liam were already standing near it.

“Thank god, I haven’t sat down in like 2 hours.” You said after greeting them. The three of you sat down and began talking about random things as you waited for everyone to settle and the event to get started. A few more people joined the table, most your recognized. Shawn took his seat next to you, his hand brushing against your back once again. He greets everyone at the table before turning slightly to face you.

“You really do look stunning.” He whispered as the event started on the stage. You blushed.

“Thank you.”

The night continued on. Dinner was served and conversation were held. Cher did an iconic performance that sent everyone into a buzz. Now, you were slowly going through the museum gallery, looking at all the pieces. Hailee Steinfeld was walking next to you, taking about random things or what you liked in the gallery.

“A certain tall, Canadian hasn’t stopped looking at you.” She commented.

“You are the second person tonight to mention him.” You comment back. She grinned.

“Well, I’m not one to believe social media but you two look like you’ve got some chemistry going on.” Hailee explained. You didn’t say anything back, just smiling as you continued to walk the gallery.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If you thought earlier was hell getting ready, then you were wrong. Everyone rushed around you once again to get you ready for the afterparty. Finally, though, the dress was off, and you could breathe; mostly in relief that you didn’t ruin the dress. As everyone got what they needed, you went into your room to have a minute alone. It didn’t last long before you phone rang though. You answered without looking to see who it was.

“Hello?” You answered as you laid back.

“Hey.” Shawn’s voice softly came through. Immediately, you could tell something was wrong by his tone.

“Are you okay?” You asked softly. Shawn let out a shaky breath.

“Actually, I know it’s a lot to ask but is there any way you wouldn’t want to go to the afterparty and maybe just hang out? It’s just my anxiety is kind of getting to me and-“  

“Shawn, of course we can just hang out.” You interrupted. “It’s not at all a lot to ask.”

“Thanks. I’m really happy you said that because I’m in the lobby” He shyly said. You laugh.

“Come on up. I’ll tell everyone.” You make you way back into the living room after throwing on leggings and a big hoodie. “Hey, I’m not going to the afterparty.” You said loudly, making everyone freeze.

“Uh, what?” Angie asked.

“I’m not going to the afterparty. Shawn is coming over to hang out.” You said as a knock sounded through the room. You quickly answered it, seeing Shawn standing there in a hoodie and sweats. You opened the door wider, gesturing for him to come in.

“Thank you, again.” Shawn whispered. You grab his hand, hoping to give some comfort.

“You don’t have to thank me Shawn.” You led him towards the living room. Everyone was still standing where you left them.

“You’re really serious?” Chris asked. You nodded. “Okay, less work for us.” Chris shrugged before placing the comb down and threw himself on the couch. You laughed before leading Shawn down the hall, into your room.  He sat on the bed as you stood in front of him, still holding his hand. Despite the size, it fit nicely around your own.

“Are you okay?” You asked. He nodded.

“Just a lot of people at the Gala, lots of questions.” He explained. You stayed quiet. “Actually, there was a lot of questions about you.” He confessed. Your eyes widen.

“You too, huh?” You laughed lightly. “This can wait. How about we order some food and maybe finish that Harry Potter marathon?” You suggest. Shawn smiles and nods. You call in the food as Shawn gets the movie started. While he was distracted, you rush and grab all the blankets you can find.

“Let’s get the movie night started.” You throw the blankets on top of the soft giant that laid across the bed. You lay down next to him and pressing play on Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Grabbing the blankets, you lay them all across the bed, snuggle under them. No words were said, both entranced by the movie you’ve seen many times but it’s a work of art.

“Here’s the food.” Chris quietly said, placing the two pizza boxes, an order of wings, and a cookie down on the bed. He even brought plates and water for you. You smile in thanks before he walks out. Shawn laughs when sees pizza.

“You really are always down for pizza, huh?” Shawn asked, as he sits up and grabs one of the boxes.

“Always.” You reply before grabbing a slice of your own and a few wings. The two of you ate and watched the movie. There was no pressure to talk; you were just enjoying each other’s presence.

You lay back down after eating as much of the food as you both could handle. This time, closers than before. The next movie began playing when Shawn shifted closer to you. You smile lightly before making a bold move and placing your head on his chest, snuggling into his side. Shawn sighed in content.

“What did you mean when you said, “You too” early?” Shawn asked. You tilted your head to look up at him.

“A few people asked me what was going on between us.” You explain, shrugging.

“And what is going on between us?” Shawn asked, looking down at you.

“All I know is, that I like you too much for it to be a friendship.” You confess. His eyes widen in shock but light up.

“What is I told you it was mutual?” He asked, smiling. You sit up and turn so you are facing him. His had grips your hip slightly, just like the previous night. Unlike last night, no one interrupted you. Your lips met his. Your hands cup his face as both of his move to wrap around your waist. This kiss was soft and sweet, nothing rushing either of you. Only pulling away when you needed to breath. He rested his forehead against yours, softly panting.

“Can I do that again?” He sweetly asked.

“I’d be upset if you didn’t.” He did and it was better than the first. 

Tag List: @yourwonderbelle , @neralondon  ,@bensbuttercup , @andibecamethestars , @feliciaceciliamariajacobsson , @winterin127

[conservativetradlife]

😘 🎁 🎵

😘 Oh man you definitely found something that could have me going for hours haha. Lets start with the basics. My boyfriend’s name is Shawn and we’ve been together for a year. This guy, oh boy. Thinking about him gets me all aflutter. I used to be a cashier in a grocery store and he works in the General Merchandise section of that store, and I gravitated to him really gradually and then all at once (John Green anyone?) We were passing each other on the stairs and I noticed he had his hair cut and I made a comment. He’s got these big brown eyes, and usually looks really stern, but when I complimented him, he looked so surprised. Like no one had ever said something nice to him before. I remember this feeling, like a stone falling in water in my gut. Like ice water up my spine and my head felt kind of fuzzy and I was like “Holy skit, this guy is something special” and kind of walked back to my cash in a daze. This was in the March and it wasn’t until the June that we started seriously talking about being together. Now my boyfriend had a really bad time in his past with girlfriends and was still padding the wounds when we got together. The first few months were really hard. I won’t go into deep details, but my daughters father and I were together for 10 years and sort of grew apart. We amicably decided to break up, still best friends, but continue living together for our daughter, and I found a rebound. That rebound proved to be a total pain in the neck for well over six months (this involved the police and everything, thinking about it makes me cringe) and it was Shawn that put an end to him being in my life, and I will be grateful to him for that for the rest of my life. I was in a bad way, and he absolutely saved me. I didn’t think that I could ever feel so strongly about someone in my life in a romantic sense. You get a kind of hopelessness in your early twenties that if you don’t get married right away you’re going to be alone forever, and that ‘zing’ if it hasn’t happened yet, won’t happen at all. I went from being someone with extremely low self esteem, high anxiety and general crap, to someone who really looks at life entirely differently because of him. I used to think that many relationships made me happy (non-monogamy) that if I found someone, ANYONE who made me feel anything was worth hanging onto (pansexuality) and that no matter how bad the treatment I was willing to put up with anything because it was better than being alone (BDSM.) Shawn has shown me so much love, he’s shown me how beautiful I am, even with all my flaws, he’s proven to be an amazing step-dad to my daughter, and a life partner I can’t picture my future without. I am a red blooded, straight, religious monogamous person now, and I thank god every day for him. I really truly love him. There are so many more, but the physical doesn’t even begin to cover it. He’s just all in all a beautiful person, I can’t believe I am so lucky to have him.

(I want to add really quickly, that my daughters father wasn’t involved in the darker things of my life. He is my best friend, and we all still live together. He and Shawn get along really well, and he’s an amazing Dad to our daughter. It was an all around garbage situation, but we work out better as friends.)

🎁 Good music!! I love a good bop every now and then, and I have an eclectic music taste, so I can pretty much listen to anything and not mind it. Now obviously I made my Traditional Housewives Cleaning Playlist, but that’s only a part of what I love to listen to. No matter what kind of mood I’m in, I can usually find it quickly dissolve into something resembling my normally bubbly personality when I have the opportunity to listen to something that gets me moving. A few examples that get me dancing: 1 / 2 / 3 

🎵  Oof, I hadn’t realized that this question was going to be directly related to the current one, haha. I need to pay more attention. Alright, so current songs that have been on my mind lately. Recently, I’ve been really loving Miley Cyrus’ “On A Roll” which is a remake of “Head Like a Hole” by Nine Inch Nails. My boyfriend loves NIN, so me singing this every now and then doesn’t bother him too much. I really love “Prom Queen” by Beach Bunny and ‘Wait a Minute’ by Willow, I just really love semi-indie sounding music but that’s really what I’ve been in the middle of listening to nowadays, but ask me again later :P

Thank-you for these questions and sorry for the book, haha!! 💕

[glumvillain]

GlumReviews #6

You ever hear those one hit wonder bands and wonder to yourself if they ever had anymore good songs hiding in that album that made them big?  I do.  In fact, it haunts me nightly and I blame it directly on dissolving at least 3 of my relationships.  But after diving kinda deep in the infant stages of goth and emo rock, I decided to take a hard left turn into something a bit lighter.  While the overarching theme of pop is present in alot of the bands I’ve reviewed so far, I’d like to discuss a relic of pop music that may be a little unappreciated in terms of the importance of bands you’ve (probably) never thought twice about.  The Cardigans.

After the death of Kurt Cobain, and inherently grunge, Americas music industry goes through what I essentially call it’s identity crisis, and if you don’t believe me just go look at what charted from ‘96, the year The Cardigans released their 3rd studio album:

As the Macarena dominated the states, artists remained hard at work to pump out the next big music movement and you could really follow it all from the 90′s. of Ska, Swing music, spanish hits, techno, nu metal.  It was a mad dash to be the next trendsetter.  And the entire country was on the receiving end of the horrid trash that the 90s pumped out post grunge-era.

And then, there’s The Cardigans. A swedish indie-rock band that received acclaimed success, winning several awards for their Disco-Pop romance anthem: “Lovefool”.  This led me to explore a question I had always asked myself, is a one hit wonder’s album worth checking out? And in this case I’d say yes, and allow me the pre-emptive correction of saying The Cardigans are not a one hit wonder.  While their biggest song to this day will be “Lovefool” they have had some chart ranking songs but none ever matched the success of the song that broke them through on their 3rd album.  Which is the album I’ll be reviewing today.

1. Your New Cuckoo

Beginning our journey is a Nu-Disco Pop jam that just leaves you wondering what you’re in store for.  By now you know my affinity for nice, bassy songs and this delivers, with some very smooth guitarwork to boot.  At this point I begin to wonder who calls the shots in determining the hits because the fact that the general public doesn’t know this song is pretty criminal.  Definitely give this one a listen.

2. Been It

Along with amazing bass lines, I also enjoy whenever a track transitions perfectly into the next and this is accomplished perfectly here.  With a bit of a harder edge, juxtaposed with lead singer Nina Persson’s soft vocals as she tells a tale of devoted love, playing the roles of everyone in someone’s life and coming at that crossroads where you realize you can definitely do better than what you currently got.  Driving guitar and drums, its a great pop-rock song that opens doors for this familiar pop-rock in the 90′s.

3.  Heartbreaker

This is a sultry, hypnotizing song that I really love, the bass line, the percussion, Persson’s voice is breathy and seducing, as she lazily sings about the fleeting passions of her heart.  Produced with lush instrumentation and attention to detail.  This is just all around a beautiful song that I had to listen to a couple of times because it really is an interesting choice of musical direction.  The Cardigans are not a one trick pony as this album progresses, they’ve displayed strong roots with pop and guitar led indie rock, and this song just dives into the shallows of psychedelic rock, all respect to where it’s due but I can’t help but get strong Nancy Sinatra vibes from this song.  From as it begins a light pop song, bends with some doom metal guitar vamping to fadeout, a really great song worth checking out

4. Happy Meal II

My first remarks are really about the drums that just stink of Ringo Starr.  Which isn’t a bad thing.  Playing on this psychedelic rock sound they lean into, this is their bubblegum pop entry into the album and I gotta say I’m not annoyed at anything here.  A catchy hook, and Nina Persson’s voice again is just this sugar frosted cherry on top of this beautiful arrangement of percussion and guitar.  This album keeps you interested as it twists and turns through it’s genres. 

5.  Never Recover

I get more Nancy Sinatra vibes here.  Like a pop Bossa Nova, the drummer has times where he really shines and brings this amazing energy to these basic song structures, really makes even the most simplest of songs easy to enjoy.  Nina’s lyrics don’t take themselves too seriously and come off sincere as she questions her own actions in the face of love.  Lyrically competent between being the victim and also realizing one’s faults and the role that plays in the loneliness. 

6.  Step on Me

A tongue in cheek ballad that leans more into a rock genre but providing a genre-bending twist as only I’ve come to expect from the band by now.  Playful and carefree, it’s a nice showcase of guitar work and Persson’s innocent harmless voice.  Laying groundwork for alot of indie music of the 2000′s in my personal opinions, flip flopping between hard pop-rock and indie slow jam, its a testament to their unique use of every genre they touch.  

7.  Lovefool

I mean, we all know this song I’m sure or at least heard it once. Within the context of the album itself, this song gets lost to me, obviously strong enough to launch their career into stardom.  It seems to lack a certain quality that I can’t quite pinpoint.  Perhaps owing to the fact I’ve heard this song about a hundred times more than the rest of the album.  It’s not a bad song, but to me, personally boring as the rest of the album is an absolute treat to the ears, especially if pop music is a guilty pleasure thing for you. Listen at your own discretion. But may I invite you to listen to the absolutely bitchin’ guitar portion that kicks in at 1:01.  Just amazing.

8.  Losers

Reminiscent of track 3 with its intro, we are led into another pop-rock standard experience. Once again a beautifully done transition from the previous track. Probably the most bleak song of the album as it begins with the lyrics “Close your eyes, look at all these losers/ You find them everywhere, they’re fucked up and annoying”.  A song you could definitely see playing at the end portion of a CW show where the final thoughtful message of the episode is being narrated.  

9.  Iron Man

Black Sabbath cover.  And easily one of the best covers of any song I have ever heard. EVER.  And I mean it.  A band from Sweden, arguably a birthplace for cold dark demonic harmonics and face paint-clad goth bands.  Have absolutely every right to kickass this much.  In their way of course.  Heavy Metal takes a backseat as they turn this into a trippy deconstructed journey of the classic heavy metal anthem.  Smooth and chill, it’s just an amazing cover.  These guys made “Lovefool” for fuck’s sake, and they’re covering Ozzy better than most metal bands could ever hope to.  Please listen to this song.

10. Great Divide

Back to the lush fields of bubblegum sugary sweetness, more symphony led than most of the songs on the album, comes off as a little broadway tune, largely forgettable in the context of the record.  So many good songs in this album and I personally feel this didn’t meet the standards of the rest of the album.  Lyrically strong, I don’t think it takes away from the album if it was skipped.

11. Choke

The send off track is a nice somber closer, reiterating their use of nu-disco, psychedelic sounds, an obvious love for that 60′s retro-rock.  This song implements use of several horned instruments, as well as some flute that can be heard prominently in a few tracks. It’d be really hard to pin down exactly what genre this is as it wavers between alot of genres, as could be said for alot of their songs as they’re able to successfully blend these elements of soul, funk, disco and pop and become their own specific sound. (fans of Tame Impala may find something familiar in the nostalgic guitar and groovy basslines)

I can’t say this album is underrated because it scores fairly decently across the board with some prominent music reviewers, so I’ll say this is definitely an album everybody should check out.  I’ll go out on a limb and say that in an era or chaotic post grunge, this is one band that kinda kept this pure Pop essence strongly in its foundation.  Didn’t go the route of synthesizers and drum machines, but instead utilized a full band to make some of the most unique music you will ever please your ears. 

 Without The Cardigans, I don’t think you get a direct line to later acts like Avril Lavigne, Britney Spears, Hilary Duff and Miley Cyrus respectively.  It’s pop without being too sugary sweet, and it utilizes every single instrument perfectly, every song feels perfectly engineered to hit that sweet spot and from my non-stop gushing I guess it’ll come as no surprise if I rate it.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5

I’ll admit, the album starts strong and burns out towards the end for my taste, only kept alive by the Black Sabbath cover, if you’re curious at all about this album, I highly recommend that song the most and checking out the album at least once. 

[power4us]

Marilyn Manson once stated that music is the strongest form of magic. It does not matter if you love or hate Manson, we must agree that this is a pretty strong quote. Music is something that is present in our lives from a very young age, e.g., for decades children have been learning normal daily tasks from songs. When we arrive to a relatively early stage in life, around twelve or thirteen years of age, we start discovering new things and begin developing a music taste of our own. But behind all the pleasure and leisure that music offers there is a rather dark sense to it.

It is true that the music industry – producers, song writers, big CEOs, label executives, etc – are part of why we can be delighted by new songs, new albums and beautifully made video clips of our favourite artists. But sometimes singers who seen bubbly and happy on tv or on their social medias are suffering by the hands of those who are supposed to protect and help them, sometimes all the abuser needs is to have a tiny little bit more of power than the artist that they feel like they can do whatever they want to that person.

Many cases have seen the light of day with most of those not having a proper closure to them. In 2014, the singer Kesha sued Dr. Luke, a producer with whom she had been working for years, asking to seizure all contacts between the singer and the producer, so that Kesha could work with other labels and publishing units. The reason for the claim? She stated that for almost 10 years she was verbally, physically, mentally and sexually abused by him as a way of controlling her life and career, Kesha almost lost her life during those abusive times. Loads of female singers – such as Lady Gaga, Kelly Clarkson, Taylor Swift and many more – showed support and even voiced other accusations but in the end, people saw Dr. Luke coming out of it safe and sound. On the other side of the ocean, British singer Lily Allen wrote on her memoire “My Thoughts Exactly” about how she got rapped twice by a record industry executive when both times they had met up over dinner to discuss business and work. She did not mention any names because she knows he could easily use his power and money and sue her for defamation, since she does not have any hard evidence of the crime. But she stills tries to vocalize her case on her social medias and to call out people who know and support her attacker.

But abuses like those don’t happen only in the occidental side of the music industry. Looking into the recently new word wide sensation, the Korean music industry or K-pop, we effortlessly step upon a variety of incidents that are often look over and left behind. What many people do not know is that this is not a colourful, bright industry like the music videos and idols make it seen to be. On the K-pop industry we have basically two sides of constant abuse: the entertainment industries, the labels where your favourites solo idols and groups are legally bounded to; And the fans, the people whom the idols have to be emotionally bound to.

The entertainment industries are often the first ones brought up when we talk about ill-treatment towards idols. In 2009, Korea saw their most famous boy group be tear down when three out of five members of TVXQ! sued their agency SM Entertainment. After years of legal fights, Korean court ruled that they were under a slave contract, seeing that their contract had an unjust thirteen-year length, unfair revenue distribution and that originated the idols being forced to work for long hours which lead them to be sleep deprived. Also, during the time that the lawsuit was going on, SM, as the biggest Korean entertainment company at the time, used their power to stop the three men from appearing on any sort of variety show on Korean television, something that was only put to an end this year in 2019.

K-pop idols have talked several times about how they were forced to go into extreme diets so that they were allowed to perform. This is still a very common thing with idols, when their “fans” or people inside their company believe the idols are overweight, they are often called ugly, untalented, useless, pigs and many other hurtful adjectives.

Another issue is the constant harassment, on both the “fans” and the companies side, about K-pop idols dating. When idols announce any dating news these are automatically labelled as “scandals”, the “fans” immediately start complaining and bashing the idols and their partner, while the companies forces the couple to break up – some companies even forbit their employees from dating until they have reached a certain level of success and recognition. Back in 2014, when a member of Girls�� Generation, Taeyeon, and a member of EXO, Baekhyun, were announced to be a couple there was extreme backlash, and even though Taeyeon is the most famous member on her celebrated group, people still shamed HER and only her, what caused Taeyeon to develop depression which she stills battle with to this day. Also, another example of idols being harmed by their love lives is the case of Hyuna and Edawn (Hyojong) whom announced their dating news over on Instagram, after being forced to hide their romance for over two years. Although the fans supported their relationship from day one, their company terminated their contracts and announced the decision to the public over the internet before even informing the artists.

Even though, most of the problems on that industry comes from the behind the scenes we can not ignore that some artists are the ones that take advantage of their public image and the power that comes with it. From people like Justin Bieber, that abandoned a concert before it’s finishes and that spitted on fans and disrespected them in other occasions, to R. Kelly, accused of assaulting more than 10 women and girls. And even a shocking scandal, known as “Burning Sun scandal”, that involved several K-pop idols being forced into retirement and whom are still being judge in court against corruption, illicit sex videos, aggravated assault and bribery allegations.

The music industry brings us great entertainment but is undeniable that it has a substantial number of toxic people. But why is that? Why does power go to the head of just some individuals? Is music enough to justify all the shit load things that comes with it? Can we ever fully understand why people still choose to use their influence in the industry to hiddenly hurt others?

A Geisha de Koshigewa, Utagawa Hiroshige II (1854)

O termo “Gueisha”, em japonês, pode ser traduzido como "praticante da arte", tratando-se de mulheres que, desde o século XVIII, possuem a função de entreter reuniões importantes de homens poderosos, visando torná-las agradáveis e relaxantes. Consideradas um marco da cultura tradicional japonesa, elas aprendem desde cedo a tocar vários tipos de instrumentos e sabem cantar com bastante perfeição, além de fazerem performances esplêndidas. 

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A cena, extraída do terceiro episódio da quinta temporada da série Black Mirror, apresenta a personagem Ashley O (Miley Cyrus) à beira da morte, visando a manutenção dos lucros de seus agentes e empresários.

Na fotografia apresentada, a mais cara vendida por um paparazzi na história ($500 mil dólares), mostra a cantora norte-americana Britney Spears em seu estado mais vulnerável, enfrentando problemas como abuso de drogas, depressão e problemas familiares na frente de milhões de pessoas. “Minha vida era controlada por muita gente e isso não me deixar ser eu mesma. Eu estava perdida e não sabia o que fazer comigo mesma. Eu estava tentando agradar todo mundo perto de mim porque esta é quem eu sou por dentro. Tem momento que eu olho para trás e penso ‘onde eu estava com a cabeça?’”, disse a cantora para o jornal israelense Yediot Ahronot. (Fonte: TMZ) (link)