For two decades, Scott Fisher has crafted musical fusions of his own design, with works featured in popular TV shows such as Shameless, Parks & Recreation, and Gossip Girl. His groovy rhythms are infectiously catchy and are right at home in these comedies and dramas. If his new single “Still the Same” were in a show, it would accompany a protagonist returning to their old hometown, expecting friends and family to have changed—only, they find that everything has stayed the same.
Funky jazz chords and a guitar riff hook the listener from the start, evoking 1970s production styles. Fisher’s voice echoes with reverb, infusing the song with a contemporary indie-pop spin. The lyrics are contemplative, as the speaker observes the inherent constancy of people despite ever-changing surroundings. Fisher observes that “the same old thoughts” are “in different brains” and “the gray in your beard is all that changed.” It’s a timeless feeling, as we move from one place in life to the next and realize that human emotions are, at their core, changeless.
“Still the Same” is the third single from Fisher’s upcoming album, Kingdom of Ego. Fisher is currently based in Los Angeles, where he has worked on acclaimed television shows (Shameless, Parks and Recreation, Better Call Saul, The Good Doctor, etc.). He has opened for Brandi Carlile, Augustana, and Pink Martini, in line with their genre-crossing musical styles.
The lastest from corner club, “Whenever You’re Ready,” evokes a storm of bitterness and resentment, painted vividly with the brushstrokes of raw emotions. The singer pours out her heart with a mix of biting sarcasm and unapologetic candor. Each line is laden with a weighty wish, a fervent longing for those nights when tears will mingle with the silence, a secret hope that her ex will remember them in their darkest hours.
Amid the verses, a bitter cocktail of sentiments bubbles forth. The singer yearns for the ex to tread a path fraught with misadventures and pitfalls. And then comes the chorus, an anthem of unwavering resolve. A pledge not to stand idly by, waiting for forgiveness or reconciliation. Instead, a fierce determination to move forward, leaving the past in the rearview mirror. Yet, there’s a twist to this declaration—a desire for the new lover to be so captivating, so flawlessly enchanting, that the ex-lover finds himself drowning in a sea of insecurities.
The refrain “I hope she’s ready” reverberates like a spell cast in anger. It’s a wish that the new partner faces the same storms and hurricanes that once ravaged the singer’s heart. A vindictive chant that paints a picture of the ex’s world shaken to its core by a cascade of emotions they can’t control. In the bridge, a crescendo of empowerment resonates. The singer stands tall, defiant and resolute. She refuses to be a refuge, a solace, for a wandering soul who only seeks shelter when the world grows harsh. She boldly proclaims that a pretty face won’t be a lifeline, now that the debris of her past has settled.
As the ending hits like a thunderclap, the singer of corner club makes it known—there’s no return, no rekindling of the flame. The ex-lover is urged not to come back, not to utter empty apologies or attempt to undo the unraveling that’s occurred. The words drip with a finality, the bitter taste of resentment hanging heavy in the air.
Step into the enchanting realm of Luna Aura, where cosmic melodies and electrifying beats collide. With her ethereal voice and magnetic energy, Luna defies expectations and creates a sound uniquely her own. Brace yourself for a sonic journey like no other, as Luna Aura’s latest single, “Candy Colored Daydream,” paints vivid musical landscapes that transport you to a world of vibrant imagination.
In “Candy Colored Daydream,” Luna Aura delves into a realm of self-discovery and empowerment, navigating the highs and lows of life’s journey. The lyrics “The highs, the lows, the fast, the slow. It’s plucking at my feathers, I just wanna let it go” poetically express the emotional turbulence experienced, symbolized by the metaphorical plucking of feathers, as Luna longs to release and find inner peace.
Musically, the song is a masterful fusion of genres, blending elements of pop, electronic, and alternative sounds. Luna’s innovative approach to production and arrangement infuses the track with an infectious energy, making it impossible to resist moving to the rhythm.
The song reflects Luna Aura’s quest for liberation and confidence in a world that can be overwhelming and filled with challenges. It serves as a call to embrace one’s vulnerabilities, allowing for personal growth and the pursuit of authenticity. Through “Candy Colored Daydream,” Luna Aura invites listeners to join her in letting go of burdens and embracing the freedom to be true to oneself.
Upcoming Tour Dates: 9/15 – Wallingford, CT @ The Dome at Oakdale 9/16 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount 9/18 – North Myrtle Beach, SC @ House of Blues 9/19 – Orlando, FL @ House of Blues 9/21 – Huntsville, AL @ Mars Music Hall 9/22 – Louisville, KY @ Louder Than Life Festival 9/24 – Houston, TX @ House of Blues 9/25 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues 9/27 – Albuquerque, NM @ Marquee Theatre 10/1 – San Diego, CA @ House of Blues 10/3 – Riverside, CA @ Riverside Municipal Auditorium 10/5 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern 10/8 – Sacramento, CA @ Aftershock Festival
If you hadn’t heard, Thee Oh Sees are spending a massive amount of time on the road in 2023. They kick off the UK & Ireland leg of their tour this month, with Canada in June and apparently the rest of the world through September. Thank goodness, too, as we had been missing their energy, their sound perfectly executed by band members John Dwyer, Tim Hellman, Dan Rincon, Paul Quattrone, and Tomas Dolas.
Along with their live shows comes a re-examination of some of Thee Oh Sees’ former work. In 2012, the band performed at Emo’s East in Austin, marking their first appearance at Austin Psych Fest. This particular show is included in new vinyl releases titled Live at LEVITATION. Mixed by John Dwyer and mastered by JJ Golden, the music is being released on 12″ colored wax.
“Block of Ice” live from Emo’s East in 2012 is a remarkable example of the showmanship this incredible rock outfit has. Check out its premiere (to a mass audience) below.
Storied indie trio Bandits On The Run was passing through Kansas City last weekend, with a flurry of notable performances scheduled for Folk Alliance. But that wasn’t all they had up their sleeves. On Friday, February 3rd, they brought their instruments to the effing candle co. storefront in Midtown for a night that cute crowd would not forget.
Though capacity was limited inside the storefront, the energy was palpable from outside on the chilly streets of the city. effing candle co. owner Byrdie Hanson donated proceeds of period products and monetary donations to a local women’s shelter, for which she put together goodie bags as well. The candle company’s commitment to humor is matched only by its commitments to both sustainability and civil rights.
In front of a rainbow-tinged front window, this folk group garnered smiles all around. Plus the Bandits made time to hang out with their fans afterward, identifying their favorite candle scents and enjoying time with new friends. It was a night of pure magic, where everyone was lifted up, and we were honored to be in attendance.
Did we ever think we would address a Jennifer Lopez romantic comedy as an “adventure rom-com?” The answer is, indeed, no. But after watching her latest – an incredibly ludicrous but equally entertaining wedding comedy set in the Phillippines – it seems like that is the best way to describe this action-packed film.
While the idea of a JLo rom-com feels frilly and predictable, the only frills you will find in the new Amazon Prime film Shotgun Wedding would be in the layers of her dress. And only after she rips it into shreds to escape and defeat pirates.
Yup. It’s kind of like that.
So, what makes this film more entertaining than other new releases? Why should you give it the time of day at all? Here are three reasons to indulge in the ridiculousness that is Shotgun Wedding.
Cheech Marin is a Zaddy
Yup. You read that right. The storied Cheech Marin plays Robert, Darcy’s (Lopez) wealthy father. He shows up to her wedding, not only as the lost one true love of her mourning mother Renata (Sōnia Braga) but arm-in-arm with his yoga instructor girlfriend Harriet (D’Arcy Carden), who is decades younger and hiding a few surprises up her sleeves.
Lenny Kravitz Wears Pearls
Lenny Kravitz makes his way into the fold as Sean Hawkins, Darcy’s sexy, alluring ex who works for her father. The kicker? The man shows up in a helicopter after a pity invite, blindsiding the happy couple having never RSVP’d to the wedding. His presence throws more than a wrench into things, but his endless pearl necklace and unbuttoned shirt at the ceremony almost make up for it.
Jennifer Coolidge is a Badass Moonlighting as an Overbearing Mother
Jennifer Coolidge has been on a magnificent acting streak as of late. It seems as though she appears in everything, and you won’t hear us complaining. The woman who made the “bend and snap” a reality now stars as the mother of the groom (Josh Duhamel), whose unappreciated, rusted cake knife gift to the couple may just come in handy when battling pirates on international soil. Her overbearingness is made up for in time, especially when it comes to her surprise ability to handle weaponry.
While we certainly don’t want to provide too many spoilers, we can say that this film took a drastically different course than we initially imagined. Plus, the behind-the-scenes experience for this all-star cast seems to have been an extremely fun and memorable time.
If you’re looking for a movie with romance, golf cart crashes, live grenades, giant diamond rings, and maybe an insane yoga instructor or scorned ex, Shotgun Wedding should be your next movie night go-to.
In case you have been living under a rock or in a hollow tree, Tim Burton’s latest addition to the Disney universe – the series reimagination of The Addams Family, aptly titled Wednesday – has been making waves since its Netflix release on November 23rd. While purists might not be immediately ready to dive in, I binged the series (3 times) and heavily encourage you to do so as well. Here’s why.
“Wednesday” Is A Welcome Departure From Reality
Reality has been dark. But Wednesday? She’s darker. A teen nightmare who is obsessed with all things evil is absolutely entertaining. The closest we can get to having friends like Wednesday is if we unironically hang out with gothic peers or take a time machine back to the aughts emo scene. Existing in the orbit of someone this maniacal isn’t usually a pleasure we all have.
Watching someone use piranhas for their high school revenge schemes is laughable and unrealistic (for the most part), but so out of left field that it’s funny to watch. Having a detached hand named Thing scurrying around and supporting your educational efforts isn’t something you see every day.
Wednesday Is More Relatable This Time Around
Wednesday – now depicted by the indelible Jenna Ortega – seems even more relatable post-pandemic. The disdain for other humans? Check. The quirky ways she moves through life, particularly on the dancefloor? Check. The constant desire to be alone? Check, check, check.
Wednesday’s Humor Is Elevated
Sure, all former portrayals of the character of Wednesday include some heavy dry humor and sarcasm. But the bits in this revival – and Ortega’s delivery of said bits – are absolute gold. Some of our favorite quotable Wednesday moments?
“I don’t bury hatchets. I sharpen them.”
“But drip [coffee] is for people who hate themselves and know their lives have no real purpose or meaning.”
“I don’t need your help or your pity. I already have a mother and a therapist. That’s enough torture, even for me.”
“It’s not my fault I can’t interpret your emotional Morse code.”
“I find social media to be a soul-sucking void of meaningless affirmation.”
The Easter Eggs Are Amazing
What does everyone want out of a follow-up, sequel, or remake? They want callbacks. Give me all the new material you want, but if you can slide props, quotes, cameos, or similar storylines in for nostalgia, you’ve captured my attention. For example, there is a secret society housed in the walls at Wednesday’s outcast school – where her parents met and fell in love – Nevermore. The “passcode” to enter is a quick two-finger snaps. Where have we heard that before?
How about the archery scenes at Nevermore that harken to scenes of Pugsley and Wednesday practicing archery in Addams Family Values? Plus, Wednesday hates pilgrims… if ever there were a nod to Christina Ricci’s portrayal of the character, this is it. You’ll notice this – plus many more references to previous storylines and even Tim Burton’s work – sprinkled throughout.
Wednesday’s Rendition Of “Paint it Black”
I had never heard anything so painfully beautiful until the first episode of this series when Wednesday plays the cello. Her own siren song, it seems, “Paint it Black” by The Rolling Stones was performed by Ortega herself, who learned to play cello for the role. If you tune in for nothing else, this moment will change you.
Have you ever heard of recipe-free cooking? I mean, as someone who has always experimented in the kitchen, this concept hardly seemed foreign at first glance. However, before indulging in the new series La Pitchoune: Cooking in France(presented by the Magnolia Network and HBO Max), I didn’t have a leg up in my cooking. I didn’t take the time to understand the ingredients, the textures, and the flavors.
The show took an educational dive into a real-life experience led by a no-recipe pact. Here’s what I loved about it.
1. The Story is Inspiring
In 2015, Makenna Held, the Lead Creative & Executive Director of La Pitchoune and the Courageous Cooking School, took a leap of faith and purchased La Pitchoune — or “Little One”, affectionately referred to as “La Peetch” — the Provencal vacation home of Paul and Julia Child. (Yes, THAT Julia Child.) She had a strong, inexplicable pull to the listing. Trusting her intuition paid off.
After landing in France, she started to create the framework that would soon become the Courageous Cooking School, her recipe-free cooking experience. In 2019, she married the love of her life – and Historian for La Peetch and Curriculum Director of the Courageous Cooking School – Chris Nylund at Bamafam and La Peetch.
2. The Kitchen at La Pitchoune is Magical
“Cooking in La Peetch kitchen is so magical because of the history and because of the past that it has,” Held gushes. “The fact that there are so many original things in the kitchen and there’s so much energy in that space. It’s just such a little snapshot in time and it’s connected to so many people who have been so important to shaping food and food culture. Also, it’s a kitchen with so much history and beauty and such a functional workshop. I think ultimately, that’s what makes cooking in kitchens like that so beautiful.”
3. The La Pitchoune Property History Adds Character
And she isn’t wrong. The kitchen has been maintained almost exactly as it was when Julia resided there. Many of the kitchen utensils belonged to Julia herself. When you take each item off the pegboard, you can see its outline so you know exactly where it goes. It’s a system and a work of art all in one. Even just watching on a television screen, you feel chills watching the camera pan that space. Every. Single. Time.
The overgrowth of the ivy along the side of the building is picturesque, coupled with some of the most gorgeous hillside panorama shots you have ever seen. The property is luscious, the guests seem captivated. Through the historical explanations littered throughout the episodes encouraged by Nylund, the property almost comes alive, both in how it is presented now alongside snapshots and stories of its past.
4. Courageous Cooking School Graduates Stick Around
Those who enjoyed their time at the Courageous Cooking School at La Pitchoune usually stick around. Many people go back for repeat vacations and cooking school experiences and the property gets a lot of referrals from previous guests. During the pandemic, they truly leaned into the idea of digital recipe-free classes. While there was a more in-depth paid experience, they hosted live streams and posted continuing education with recipe-free cooking lessons, posting the recipe in advance so people could procure their ingredients.
One La Peetch remote employee participated in both the digital and in-person experience. “It took participating in the cooking school in person to relly grasp the framework and gain the courage to experiment alongside other guests!” Erin P.S. Zimmerman, Associate Producer on the project admitted.
“I knew that the cooking school needed to be introduced to the world in a broader way,” Zimmerman explained. “With her personality, the framework, the location, and the team she’s gathered – it was the perfect storm for an entertaining, transformation-driven storyline!”
5. The Cooking Lessons Are Simplified and Accessible
In the first episode of the series, Makenna and her cohort Kendall tackle a basic. They approach the perfect omelet with their students. Many viewers learned a specific flipping trick to create the perfect texture and fold that day. This is a fact confirmed by a slew of comments and photos via social media. What a simple, beautiful recipe to ease the viewers into!
Each episode is sure to highlight the greenery that sets the backdrop for well-rounded meals and experiences. There is an educational angle to each episode that is charming. I feel like I am getting the cliffs notes version, but watching this show just makes me want to book the next available experience.
6. Adventure is Encouraged at La Pitchoune
The storyline goes on beautiful tangents to other villages and towns. It follows the owners on side projects, adventures to markets, and gorgeous experiences along the countryside. We get to see inside cheese shop storefronts and flower markets. Not to mention produce stands and fish shops, among so many other places. These sidebars make their true immersion into the culture feel authentic and sincere.
It serves to inspire others that adventure is wildly encouraged to succeed in life.
Canadian psych outfit Mother Sun is back to entertain, with their layered, intricate compositions and upbeat soundscapes. In the lead-up to their third riveting full-length release, today marks the release of their new track “Tangerine Beach” and its entertaining accompanying music video. We’ve got your exclusive first listen — and look!
The enticingly bright video – shot, produced, and edited by Josef Perzon – evokes feelings of giddiness and joy from the start. After all, who isn’t going to immediately be in a good mood after sitting in the sun, brilliant turquoise waters behind them?
‘Tangerine Beach’ and its video tell the story of a optimistic vacationer, played by Nathan, whose trip is thwarted by expectations of paradise. Arriving at at the beach, many margaritas in hand, Nathan loses a lens to the sunglasses shading him from the reality of his surroundings.
