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Atsuko Okatsuka Announces ‘Full Grown Tour’

Today, comedian Atsuko Okatsuka announced her 2024 ‘Full Grown Tour’ across North America. Produced by Live Nation, the 15-date run kicks off on Friday, September 13 in Edmonton, AB at Myer Horowitz Theatre, with additional stops in Calgary, Chicago, Miami, Atlanta, San Diego, Nashville, and more before wrapping up on Saturday, November 16 in Indianapolis, IN at the Egyptian Room @ Old National Center.

Atsuko Okatsuka is a stand-up comedian, actor, and writer based in LA. Atsuko was born in Taiwan and spent her childhood in Japan. She currently has two films debuting at the Tribeca film festival: ALL THAT WE LOVE directed by Yen Tan and GROUP THERAPY directed with Hartbeat. She is currently working on OUTCOME, a dark comedy starring Jonah Hill. Her debut standup special, THE INTRUDER – directed by Tig Notaro premiered on HBO, December 2022 and was named the “Best Debut Special of 2022” by the New York Times and one of the “Best Specials of 2022” by Vulture and Variety. She won the 2023 Gracie Award for “Best Special” and Atsuko was nominated for “Best Comedian” by the Wowie Awards. She was named one of Variety’s 10 Comics to Watch for 2022, and when she made her late-night stand-up debut on THE LATE LATE SHOW WITH JAMES CORDEN, Vulture proclaimed she “won late-night.” She has performed to sold-out crowds all over North America on her 2023 theater tour, FULL GROWN, which she will be taking to Europe, Asia and Australia/NZ in 2024.

Her on-screen credits include HISTORY OF THE WORLD PT. II (Hulu), ROOM 104 (HBO), and THE SHOW NEXT DOOR WITH RANDALL PARK (ROKU+). Atsuko was recently featured on THIS AMERICAN LIFE with Ira Glass and told the story of how she got to the USA. She was raised by her grandmother, and they created the #DropChallenge together which has amassed more than 10 million views. Her unique upbringing brings an artfully-offbeat resilient persona which is perfectly embodied in her blunt bangs and bowl cut.

ATSUKO OKATSUKA: FULL GROWN TOUR 2024 DATES:
Fri Sep 13 – Edmonton, AB – Myer Horowitz Theatre
Sat Sep 14 – Calgary, AB – Bella Concert Hall
Fri Sep 20 – Phoenix, AZ – Orpheum Theatre
Sat Sep 21 – Salt Lake City, UT – Capitol Theatre
Thu Sep 26 – Madison, WI – Barrymore Theatre
Fri Sep 27 – La Crosse, Wi – Fine Arts Center at Viterbo University
Sat Sep 28 – Chicago, IL – The Chicago Theatre
Thu Oct 03 – Miami, FL – The Fillmore Miami Beach
Fri Oct 04 – New Orleans, LA – The Civic Theatre
Sat Oct 05 – Tampa, FL – Tampa Theatre
Thu Oct 10 – Charlotte, NC – The Fillmore Charlotte
Fri Oct 11 – Atlanta, GA – Center Stage
Sat Oct 12 – Atlantic City, NJ – Borgata
Fri Oct 18 – San Diego, CA – Balboa Theatre
Fri Nov 01 – Nashville, TN – James K Polk Theatre
Sat Nov 02 – Pittsburgh, PA – Byham Theatre
Fri Nov 15 – Columbus, OH – Davidson Theatre
Sat Nov 16 – Indianapolis, IN – Egyptian Room @ Old National Center
Thu Jan 30 – College Park, MD – The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at University of Maryland

What are USB AAA Rechargeable Batteries?

By Mitch Rice

The standard AAA batteries we’ve been using in a variety of small electronic devices for years have been innovatively evolved into USB AAA rechargeable batteries. USB AAA rechargeable batteries have the advantage of being reusable, which minimizes waste and its negative effects on the environment. Disposable batteries must be thrown away after only one usage. These batteries are incredibly useful in our increasingly digital and connected world since they feature cutting-edge technology that enables them to be recharged via a USB port.

The affordability of USB AAA rechargeable batteries is one of its main advantages. In comparison to purchasing disposable batteries, the initial cost may be larger, but there will be significant long-term savings. It will save you money because you can recharge and use them hundreds of times instead of having to buy new batteries all the time. In addition to saving money, this repeated use reduces the quantity of batteries that wind up in landfills, helping to preserve the environment.

Common Uses for AAA Batteries

In the world of tiny electronics, AAA batteries are widely used because of their small size and sufficient power output. Essential devices like digital cameras, MP3 players, TV remote controls, and other handheld electronics are frequently powered by AAA batteries. The voltage required to run these gadgets effectively is supplied by these batteries.

It’s crucial to remember that, despite their widespread use and versatility, AAA batteries might not be able to withstand significant current draws when compared to larger battery types like AA. Larger batteries are usually needed to suit the operational needs of devices that require more power for longer periods of time or have higher energy requirements. By making this difference, performance and endurance are maximized and each device is given the proper power supply that is suited to its unique energy requirements.

Charging Your USB AAA Rechargeable Batteries

It’s important to adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions when charging USB AAA rechargeable batteries. Always charge these batteries using the charger that came with them, the device for which they are intended, or one that the manufacturer suggests. By doing this, you can guarantee that the batteries charge effectively and safely, avoiding overcharging or overheating.

Are There Two Types of AAA Batteries?

Indeed, there are two primary varieties of AAA batteries: rechargeable and disposable. Alkaline batteries, sometimes referred to as disposable AAA batteries, are meant to be used just once and must be changed when empty. Because they may be recharged more than once, rechargeable AAA batteries—including USB AA rechargeable batteries—are more cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

Are USB Rechargeable Batteries Safe to Use?

As long as you use USB rechargeable batteries properly, they are usually safe to use. Make careful to only use the suggested charger and refrain from overcharging. To improve their safety profile, many USB rechargeable batteries include protective circuits built in to guard against problems like overheating and short circuiting.

Advantages of USB AAA Rechargeable Batteries

Cost-Effectiveness

Over time, usb aaa rechargeable batteries prove to be cost-effective despite their initial greater cost. The frequency of battery replacements can be decreased by using them repeatedly as they can be recharged.

Environmental Benefits

Rechargeable battery use contributes to waste reduction. Choosing these batteries helps protect the environment by reducing the quantity of throwaway batteries that wind up in landfills.

Convenience

The convenience of these batteries is immense. Any USB port, including those on laptops, power banks, and wall adapters, can be used to recharge them. Because of their adaptability, they are ideal for daily use and travel.

Disadvantages of USB AAA Rechargeable Batteries

Initial Cost

Disposable batteries are less expensive initially than USB AAA rechargeable batteries and their chargers. There are users who may be discouraged by this first expense.

Limited Lifespan

Rechargeable batteries have a limited number of charge cycles even if they can be used repeatedly. Their ability to retain a charge eventually runs out, necessitating replacement.

Charging Time

The charging time of rechargeable batteries is longer than that of disposable batteries. This could be a hassle if you need batteries that are ready to go.

Conclusion

Reusable USB AAA batteries are a wise and environmentally responsible option for powering your tiny electronic gadgets. They provide convenience, cost savings, and environmental advantages. You may extend their life and efficiency by using correct charging procedures and being aware of both their benefits and drawbacks.

 

Ms. Lauryn Hill And The Fugees Announce ‘The Miseducation Anniversary Tour’

5x Grammy winner and one of the most notable hip hop, R&B, and fashion/style icons of all time, Ms. Lauryn Hill is continuing where she left off – once again reuniting with The Fugees, to co-headline an extension of The Miseducation Anniversary Tour in honor of the landmark album that was just named the best album of all time by Apple Music. The tour will feature music from The Miseducation of Ms. Lauryn Hill, The Score and more.

Kicking off August 9th in Tampa, the 21-date tour will include US shows in Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles and more along with international dates in London, Manchester, Paris and Amsterdam. The Fugees will co-headline all dates and YG Marley will be joining as support.

$2 from each ticket sold will go to the MLH Fund to benefit a list of local and worldwide organizations benefiting initiatives concerning Mental Health, Women’s Wellness, Community Small Business Development, Education and more throughout the diaspora.

The impact that The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill had on music, fashion, and American and world culture is immeasurable and continues to influence the world’s biggest artists. Entered into the Library of Congress in 2015, Ms. Hill and her Diamond-certified album achieved numerous firsts including being the first ever Hip Hop album to receive an Album Of The Year Grammy Award, being the first woman to be nominated for 10 Grammy awards in one year and being the first woman to win 5 Grammys in one night.

UPCOMING LIVE DATES
Fri Aug 09 – Tampa, FL – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre
Sun Aug 11 – West Palm Beach, FL – iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
Fri Aug 16 – Atlanta, GA – Lakewood Amphitheatre
Sun Aug 18 – Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion
Wed Aug 21 – Philadelphia, PA – TD Pavilion at The Mann
Fri Aug 23 – Bristow, VA – Jiffy Lube Live
Sun Aug 25 – Mansfield, MA – Xfinity Center
Wed Aug 28 – Cincinnati, OH – Riverbend Music Center
Fri Aug 30 – Milwaukee, WI – American Family Insurance Amphitheater
Sat Aug 31 – Tinley Park, IL – Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre
Wed Sep 04 – Huntsville, AL – The Orion Amphitheater
Fri Sep 06 – Dallas, TX – Dos Equis Pavilion
Sat Sep 07 – Houston, TX – The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion presented by Huntsman
Fri Sep 13 – Mountain View, CA – Shoreline Amphitheatre
Sun Sep 15 – Chula Vista, CA – North Island Credit Union Amphitheatre
Tue Sep 17 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Bowl
Fri Sep 20 – Wantagh, NY – Northwell at Jones Beach Theater
Sat Sep 21 – Holmdel, NJ – PNC Bank Arts Center
Sat Oct 12 – Manchester, UK – Co-op Live
Mon Oct 14 – London, UK – The O2
Fri Oct 18 – Paris, France – Accor Arena
Tue Oct 22 – Amsterdam, Holland – Ziggo Dome

Jenny Slate Announces ‘Lifeform’ Book Tour

Today actor, comedian, producer, and New York Times bestselling author, Jenny Slate has announced an eight city book tour in support of ‘LIFEFORM’, her brand new collection of personal pieces. Produced by Live Nation, the tour launches on October 22, coinciding with the book’s release, at The Town Hall in NYC. It will include stops in Boston*, Seattle, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, and Madison before concluding in Washington, DC on October 30.

Slate shared, “It’s hard to decide what is my favorite part about writing books, but one unexpected pleasure is the chance to continue to engage with my thoughts and feelings with a live audience, to be in conversation with other people about what I’ve written down. I know that these evenings will be so incredibly joyful for me, and I hope that anyone who joins me will feel that as well!”

Fans can expect an evening of nearly impossible-to-describe strangeness, whimsy, and hilarity with the one and only, Jenny Slate. She will read pieces from ‘LIFEFORM’ taking audiences through all of the relatable phases of life from heartbreak to true love to pregnancy, parenthood, not to mention all of the tiny, odd details that make up a life via a moderated conversation, and an audience Q&A. Tickets to this event will also include a signed copy of ‘LIFEFORM’.

Critically-acclaimed actress, comedian, and NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author Jenny Slate is one of the most versatile creators working today. Slate is best known for her starring role in A24’s OBVIOUS CHILD and for A24’s Academy nominated MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON.

Slate most recently released her new comedy special, JENNY SLATE: SEASONED PROFESSIONAL on Prime Video. The one hour special proves that being brave for love is worth it—even when it comes to pushing out a baby, stalking your therapist, or trusting your partner to not destroy you. Produced by Amazon MGM Studios and A24, the special premiered worldwide to rave reviews on February 23, 2024.

Slate recently wrapped production on FX’s new miniseries “Dying for Sex” in which she stars opposite Michelle Williams. The series is based on the popular podcast series of the same name by Nikki Boyer in which a woman diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer leaves her unhappy marriage and embarks on a series of sexual adventures to help her feel alive.

In Summer 2022, Slate co-created, co-wrote, co-produced and voiced the titular character of Marcel in A24’s Academy Award nominated film MARCEL THE SHELL WITH SHOES ON. The film was released on June 24, 2022 and has gone on to receive widespread acclaim including the NBR Award for “Best Animated Feature” and a New York Film Critics Circle Award for “Best Animated Feature” in addition to Academy Award, Golden Globe, BAFTA and Critics Choice Award nominations. The film is an extension of the widely popular online short film of the same name, which Slate co-created in 2010 with Dean Fleischer-Camp. The short has been viewed over 30 million times to date. It was then turned into a NEW YORK TIMES best-selling children’s book series.

In Spring 2022, Slate was seen in A24’s Academy Award winning EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE, a science fiction film written and directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert. Slate appears in the film opposite Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan, Stephanie Hsu, Harry Shum Jr., James Hong, and Jamie Lee Curtis. She won a 2023 SAG Award in the category of “Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture” for her role in the film. The film was released in theaters on March 25, 2022 and received an Academy Award for “Best Picture.”

Slate made her feature film debut in 2014 in A24’s critically acclaimed OBVIOUS CHILD. Slate starred in the film as Donna opposite Jake Lacy, Gaby Hoffman, Gabe Hoffman, and David Cross. Slate won a Critics’ Choice Award for “Best Actress in a Comedy” and was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for “Best Female Lead Actor” and a Gotham Award for “Breakthrough Actor” for her role in the film.

Slate’s other major starring film credits include a starring turn in Amazon Prime’s hit romantic comedy I WANT YOU BACK as Emma, the aimless but lovable partner in crime and love interest of Charlie Day’s Peter. Along with Day, Slate starred opposite an incredible cast including Gina Rodriguez, Scott Eastwood, Manny Jacinto, and Clark Backo. I WANT YOU BACK premiered on Amazon Prime on February 11th, 2022. Other films include Sony’s VENOM with Tom Hardy, A24 and AppleTV+’s ON THE ROCKS with Bill Murray and Rashida Jones, Amazon’s comedy LANDLINE with John Turturo and Edie Falco, FOX Searchlight’s GIFTED, Netflix’s THE POLKA KING.

In November 2019, Slate published her latest book LITTLE WEIRDS. LITTLE WEIRDS, released by the Hachette Book Group and excerpted in The New Yorker twice, is a critically acclaimed collection of non-fiction, personal pieces, which became an instant New York Times best-seller.

In October 2019, Slate’s comedy special JENNY SLATE: STAGE FRIGHT was released on Netflix. The special was nominated for a Critics’ Choice Award for “Best Comedy Special.” Slate’s first stand-up special, JENNY SLATE: STAGE FRIGHT is a mix of stage time, funny stories about adulthood and conversations with family in her childhood home.

Slate is also well known for much of her animation work. Her major voice credits in television includeFOX’s “Bob’s Burgers,” Fox’s “The Great North,” and Disney’s “Muppet Babies.”

In film, Slate’s major voice credits include Illumination Entertainment’s THE LORAX, THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS and THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS 2 as Gidget, DESPICABLE ME 3, and Disney’s ZOOTOPIA as Assistant Mayor Bellwether.

Slate is known for her roles on NBC’s “Parks and Recreation” as Mona Lisa-Saperstein, ViacomCBS’s “Kroll Show” as Liz B., as Tally Shifrin on HBO’s “Girls”. Her comedic talent made her a beloved guest star on of these shows. From 2009-2010, Slate was a featured cast member on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live.”

TOUR DATES:
Tue Oct 22 | New York, NY | The Town Hall with special guest TBA
Wed Oct 23 | Boston, MA | The Wilbur* with Emiko Tamagawa
Thu Oct 24 | Seattle, WA | Neptune with Jennifer Berney
Fri Oct 25 | Los Angeles, CA | Palace Theatre with George Saunders
Sun Oct 27 | San Francisco, CA | Palace of Fine Arts with Casey Newton
Mon Oct 28 | Chicago, IL | Athenaeum Center with Greta Johnsen
Tue Oct 29 | Madison, WI | Orpheum Theater with Dr. Ramzi Fawaz
Wed Oct 30 | Washington, DC | Warner Theatre with Rachel Martin

Rick Wakeman Announces Final Solo Tour Featuring YES and His Solo Work

The ultimate keyboard wizard, Rick Wakeman CBE, will be embarking on a tour of the US with a series of solo piano concerts for the last time in 2024. Rick, who has become almost as well-known for his intimate piano shows as his prog rock extravaganzas, has decided that after a career spanning over 50 years, he is calling a halt to lengthy American one-man show tours, in order to concentrate on composing, recording and collaborating with other musicians.

As an exclusive gift for fans, on these shows Rick will be premiering a brand new piece of music: Yessonata, a 30-minute instrumental work featuring YES themes and melodies, woven into sonata form. For the first time, Yessonata will also be available to purchase in vinyl format on the fall tour.

Rick first started establishing a reputation as one of rock’s most original and proficient keyboard players in the late Sixties, when he worked with the likes of David Bowie, Cat Stevens, Marc Bolan, Lou Reed, Al Stewart, Elton John and other artists too numerous to mention, as a much-in-demand session player. He stepped out of the recording studio and into the limelight when he first joined the Strawbs and then YES, helping to make the latter the most successful progressive rock band in the world by contributing to seminal albums such as Fragile and Close To The Edge.

But outside of YES, Rick was really able to unleash his creativity with a series of groundbreaking concept albums: The Six Wives of Henry VIII, Journey to the Centre of the Earth, and The Myths and Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, which have been performed in large-scale shows featuring bands, orchestras and choirs.

However, he is equally at home as a solo artist in the upclose environment of concert halls, performing music on a piano – both his own and tunes that have a special resonance for him – and recounting wickedly funny stories taken from the length of his career. In recent years, he has added a rack of electric keyboards to ring the changes and enable him to enlarge his live solo repertoire.

Now, for the last time in 2024, Rick will be taking to the road in the US with an all-new solo piano and keyboard show, featuring the premiere of a stunning new work. Don’t miss this final opportunity to enjoy an evening of great music and hilarious stories, delivered by one of the truly legendary figures of rock music.

Rick Wakeman says, “I always planned to stop touring by my 77th birthday – for those of you who wish to send me a card, it’s 18th May! – but there is so much to fit in before then that I’m having to make plans now and so my final one-man shows will have to cease by that date. I have thoroughly enjoyed performing the various one-man shows, but it’s time to call it a day. I intend to throw in the best of what I have done in the past, plus a few new surprises on the way, and possibly even the odd guest joining me on the odd occasion. The plan is not to perform at the same venue twice throughout this period, so whatever venue you are hopefully thinking of coming to, it will be the last performance there – and I am taking this opportunity of thanking everyone and anyone who has supported me over the last 53 years!”

RICK WAKEMAN 2024
Additional U.S. Tour Dates

•Oct. 3 Tarrytown, NY Tarrytown Music Hall
• Oct. 4 Fairfield, CT SHU Community Theater
• Oct. 5 Rahway, NJ Union County Perf. Arts Center
• Oct. 6 Troy, NY Troy Savings Bank Music Hall
• Oct. 8 Falls River, MA Narrows Center
• Oct. 10 Rochester, NY The Theater at Innovation Square
• Oct. 11 Buffalo, NY Electric City
• Oct. 13 Kent, OH The Kent Stage
• Oct. 15 St. Charles, IL Arcada Theater
• Oct. 17 St. Paul, MN Fitzgerald Theatre
• Oct. 19 Milwaukee, WI South Milwaukee Performing Arts Center
• Oct. 20 St. Louis, MO The Sheldon
• Oct. 22 Phoenix, AZ Music Instrument Museum
• Oct. 24 Dallas, TX Longhorn Ballroom
• Oct. 26 Houston, TX The Heights Theater
• Oct. 28 Atlanta, GA Variety Playhouse
• Oct. 31 Durham, NC Carolina Theatre of Durham – Fletcher Hill Auditorium
• Nov. 2 Landsdowne, PA Landowne Theater

Watch This Fantastic Bluegrass Rendition of Tears for Fears’ ‘Everybody Wants to Rule the World’

Greenwood Rye delivered an unforgettable live performance of Tears for Fears’ classic hit, “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” at Jane’s Hideaway in Nashville, TN. Their candid rendition captivated the audience, blending soulful vocals with the distinctive twang of bluegrass instruments. The intimate setting of Jane’s Hideaway provided the perfect backdrop for Greenwood Rye’s heartfelt interpretation, creating a memorable evening filled with musical resonance and genuine emotion.

Prime Video Sets August 1 Premiere for Creator-Driven ‘Influenced’ Talk Show from Candle Media’s Hello Sunshine and Amazon MGM

Today,  Prime Video announced it is releasing a ten-episode, content creator-led talk show, Influenced, from Candle Media’s Hello Sunshine and Amazon MGM Studios. The thirty-minute episodes will be co-hosted by popular social media personalities, Achieng Agutu, Eyal Booker, Tefi Pessoa, Taryn Delanie Smith, and Cyrus Veyssi. Influenced will premiere Thursday, August 1 exclusively on Prime Video in select territories.

Influenced is an evolution of the talk show format, bridging the gap between social media and TV, led by a panel of top content creators with varying spheres of influence and interest, and featuring subject matter experts whose businesses were built across mediums. Influenced encompasses all things lifestyle from food, fashion, home design, travel, and beauty to entertainment, popular culture, mental health, spirituality, and wellness.

“With our producing partner Hello Sunshine, we’re excited to refresh an enduring TV format,” says Lauren Anderson, head of AVOD originals unscripted and targeted programming, Amazon MGM Studios. “Blending what’s topical and relevant on social with what’s comforting and familiar about television, we can’t thank our partners, creators, and guests enough for joining us in this joyful and enlightening experiment.”

“Influenced is a blast! A show that perfectly combines the fun and relatable vibes of social media with the tips & takeaway of a 2024 version of a talk show,” said Sara Rea, Head of Unscripted Television at Hello Sunshine. “The hosts have so much chemistry – they will make you laugh, cry, and want to curl up on the couch with them, all in the span of a fast-paced half hour. In fact, some of the guests never wanted to leave, which speaks to the absolute joy that they bring to the screen.

54-40 Unveils Electrifying Live Version of “Ocean Pearl” Recorded at the Iconic El Mocambo

Legendary Canadian rock band 54-40 is thrilled to announce the release of their new digital single, a live version of their timeless hit “Ocean Pearl,” recorded at the historic El Mocambo. This release captures the raw energy and electrifying performance that fans have come to expect from 54-40, bringing the unforgettable experience of their live shows directly to listeners worldwide.

Recorded during a special performance at the El Mocambo, a venue known for hosting some of the most iconic names in music history, this live version of “Ocean Pearl” showcases 54-40’s dynamic performance, coupled with the unique ambiance of the El Mocambo, making this release a must-listen for fans and music enthusiasts alike.
“We’re excited to share this live recording of ‘Ocean Pearl’ from our show at the El Mocambo,” said Neil Osborne, lead vocalist of 54-40. “The energy that night was incredible, and we think this track really captures the magic of that room on that evening. We can’t wait for our fans on Canada Day
.”
54-40, known for their string of hit singles and enduring influence on the Canadian music scene, has consistently delivered powerful performances throughout their career. “Ocean Pearl,” one of the band’s most beloved tracks, originally released in 1994, has remained a fan favourite and a staple of their live sets.

This live version originally appeared on a limited vinyl only released on August 18, 2023. It is the first of the 54•40 Live at El Mocambo to be revealed on digital platforms. Now available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music here.

Back Alley Gospel Bid A Punk Farewell To The One That Got Away In “Old Flames”

Everybody remembers their first love. It just takes a streetwise punk outfit like Ontario’s Back Alley Gospel to see it for the exercise in futility it was.

That kind of clear-eyed reflection abounds on the band’s new single, “Old Flames,” which flashes back to the rosy period in a relationship when you can’t get enough of each other, the smiles come easy and everything is going right. You know, before it all gets shot to hell.

We used to hold hands in the heart of the city
And if I went down, you were right there with me
But you had bigger plans, wanted better things
And it took its toll on everything
This old flame was bound to burn out one of these days

“No matter how badly things ended, we all remember our old flame,” the band says. “The person we’d do anything for, who was there for you thick and thin, the spark that lit a fire inside of you. But we all grow up, grow older and our priorities change.”

The song, they explain, is meant to tell “the nostalgic story of reminiscing about that first special someone, from the records that you listened to in your formative years to the trouble you’d get into together. You both knew it would end one day, and while that inevitability doesn’t make the memory less bittersweet, you’ll always have a place for it in your heart.”

That’s the glass half-full version. Lyrics that acknowledge “The secrecy and shame/At the mention of your name/ Makes me feel like shit” point to something a little less centered. And thank God. Because it’s the dichotomy between sadder-but-wiser introspection and good old-fashioned bitterness that makes the track kick so hard. On the one hand, the relentlessly major-keyed melody line and chord pattern that vocalist/guitarist Trent White lays down are pure hand-holding pop-punk; on the other hand, there’s no mistaking the fury in the rhythm being slammed out by drummer Matt Bellissimo and bassist Jen Benton as they connect with the vehemence of the Pistols in their prime. Extra excitement comes from Jose Batista’s guitar leads, which revel in an almost rockabilly twang before exploding in a flurry of shred.

“Old Flames” is the first track to drop from the band’s upcoming four-song EP, their first release since their 2023 debut, Hold Up Your Head. They say the new record will follow the lead of the current single by being an unsparing exploration of defeat and its aftermath—a concept record about the realization that “failure is sometimes inescapable, but necessary for us to grow, change and become better people.”

It’s a philosophy near and dear to heart of this self-effacing people’s band, who admit freely that they only came to exist after a string of doomed projects in their native Toronto and Hamilton. Proudly presenting themselves as “no strangers to failure,” they know it’s their previous flameouts that have allowed them to properly hone their brand of anthemic, hook-driven punk.

But if their past was defined by falling down, their present is a study in standing tall. Come on in and learn how rewarding failure can be.

Singer-Songwriter Meïa Santiago Captivates and Empowers With Juicy New Single “Sexappeal”

Barcelona-born, New York City-based award-winning Spanish singer-songwriter Meïa Santiago draws on imagery of temptation and forbidden fruit in her seductive new single “Sexappeal” – available now.

Meïa teamed up with renowned music producer Morris Hayes, former music director and keyboardist for Prince, and “Sexappeal” offers a head-bopping blend of reggae, pop, and jazzy arrangements. Its hypnotic chorus – “Sex appeal, my sex appeal, I’ll give you something real” – evokes the enchantment of a Goddess Venus casting a spell over her lover.

Meanwhile, the accompanying music video features sultry choreography, as well as plenty of references to ripe apples – the forbidden fruit – for plenty of fun and, of course, a juicy burst of captivating sex appeal.

“The apple appears as the attribute of Venus, symbolizing her tempting tricks,” explains Meïa. “Inspired by the enchanting melody that appears in the lyrics, it is a tribute to the Venusian and erotic spirit of love.”

You can’t resist
This dance is so surreal
Once you’ve been kissed,
Tell me how you feel.

You can’t deny
Thoughts of me get you high
It’s driving you wild
let’s dance into the night

Following her previous single “I Can’t Stay Away From You,” which earned her an award at the Round the Globe Film and Music Festival (OR), Meïa joined forces with Clare Steffen, the festival’s director and founder. Together, they crafted “Sexappeal” to explore the empowering side of sensuality, creating a flirty and liberating vibe that allows anyone and everyone to embrace their seductive side with sass and total confidence.

“My work has always explored femininity and sensuality,” asserts Meïa. “I am eager to write music about love and passion through the lens of the feminine. I have taken many risks in my life, all heightened as a woman-identified artist. I have ventured into new genres, like experimental movement and acting, to strengthen my work and the stories I can relay about womanhood.”

With a prolific career as a music director and keyboardist for music legends like Prince, The Time, Maceo Parker, Mazarati, and Sheila E., Morris Hayes skillfully created a musical backdrop that perfectly complements the message of the song.

“My deep admiration for his work with Prince sparked the initial connection,” recalls Meïa. “Our collaboration kicked off through Zoom calls and email exchanges from a distance. Subsequently, I visited Morris’ studio to record vocals and keyboards. The final phase involved adding the musical elements, with some musicians hailing from Spain and others from the United States, forming an incredibly talented international band for this song.”

Meïa Santiago is an award-winning singer, songwriter, composer, and actor who started making music and a name for herself in Barcelona, Spain. After receiving her degree in Jazz and Modern Music Performance from ESEM Taller de Músics in Barcelona, she toured throughout Spain, building an audience and media buzz through her unique blend of musical genres.
She released several records including the EP Mülzien 25, which was produced by Dani Vega, guitarist of the Spanish pop rock band Mishima, and the album Lighthouse with Spanish record label Picap.

Meïa relocated to New York City in 2018 and has continued to push herself artistically through collaborations with city-based artists and at a wide range of legendary music venues including City Winery, DROM, Nublu, and Joe’s Pub. She has expanded her voice or composition skills by venturing into new genres, like experimental movement and acting, to strengthen her work and the stories she shares about womanhood.

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That Eric Alper
6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week, a 16-time JUNO Award winner overseeing PR campaigns, and have also been truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

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