30 years ago, Roxette released their fifth album “Crash! Boom! Bang!”, including a stream of hit singles like “Sleeping In My Car”, the title track, “Fireworks”, “Run To You” and “Vulnerable”.
The album would sell more than five million copies and was followed by their second World Tour, which saw them perform for over a million people, including the second performance ever by an international act in China.
The band is celebrating this classic album’s 30-year anniversary with a unique special edition: a double album in black and white vinyl with 18 tracks and an 8-page booklet, as well as a an 18-track CD version that also includes a bonus CD with 23 demo recordings of songs considered for the album.
“Roxette were among the three most played artists on American radio during 1989, 1990 and 1991, and we were on top of the charts all over the world. So, it’s no wonder we felt pretty confident when it was time to record the new album,” Per Gessle says.
“Having had that kind of success made us feel that we had a perfect opportunity to stretch out into new directions. To show slightly different sides of what Roxette could be. And I still think “Crash! Boom! Bang” is our best album.”
The 30-year anniversary versions of “Crash! Boom! Bang” will be released on December 6. Watch out for the fireworks.
First Lady of Children’s Music Ella Jenkins (born August 6, 1924) passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at the Harbors at the Admiral at the Lake in Chicago. She was 100 years old.
Known for her deceptively simple “call and response” chants and songs, Jenkins revolutionized children’s music in the United States. For nearly 70 years she was a prolific performer, composer, and recording artist, producing 39 albums on the Folkways Records and Smithsonian Folkways Recordings labels that have charmed, educated, and empowered generations of listeners. Drawing on her own history of civil rights activism in the 1940s and 1950s, Jenkins used music as a tool of social activism. Through songs and rhythms that extolled values of antiracism, cultural pluralism, and environmentalism, she drew people together, challenging them to listen deeply to one another.
Jenkins’ notable albums include Call-and-Response Rhythmic Group Singing (1957), African American Folk Rhythms (aka Negro Folk Rhythms, from 1960), You’ll Sing a Song and I’ll Sing a Song (1966), A Long Time to Freedom (1970), Multicultural Children’s Songs (1995), and Ella Jenkins: A Life in Song (2011). Her well-known songs include “You’ll Sing a Song and I’ll Sing a Song,” “Did You Feed My Cow?” and “Miss Mary Mack.”
For her creative work and service to children, Jenkins received dozens of accolades, including a 2004 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award and a 1999 lifetime achievement award from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers (ASCAP). In 2007, the title song of her 1966 album You’ll Sing a Song and I’ll Sing a Song was inducted into the Library of Congress’s National Recording Registry. Her version of “Wade in the Water” (from the 1960 LP African American Folk Rhythms) was incorporated into Alvin Ailey’s modern dance classic Revelations. In 2017, she was named a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts.
Jenkins had a worldwide audience but was particularly beloved in Chicago, where she got her start in the early 1950s as a “rhythm specialist” and Teen Program Director for the South Parkway YWCA. For decades she performed and taught at Old Town School of Folk Music and, beginning in 1968, the annual Ravinia Music Festival. She was a favorite of Fred Rogers, appearing on Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood eight times between 1974 and 1992.
Born in 1924 in Saint Louis, Missouri, Jenkins grew up on the South Side of Chicago. She attended Herman Felsenthal Elementary School and DuSable High School. She earned a BA in sociology from San Francisco State College, after doing coursework at Chicago’s Woodrow Wilson Junior College and Roosevelt College. She was predeceased by her brother Thomas Jenkins, a pioneering African American urban planner, and survived by Bernadelle Richter, her longtime companion and manager of more than 60 years.
Online casinos have become a popular form of entertainment, offering the thrill of gambling from the comfort of your home. However, enjoying these platforms responsibly is crucial to ensure a positive experience. This article delves into insider strategies for enjoying online casinos responsibly, providing expert advice to help you navigate this digital landscape safely and enjoyably.
Understanding the Online Casino Landscape
Before diving into strategies, it’s essential to understand the online casino landscape. The industry has grown exponentially, with thousands of platforms available, each offering a variety of games such as slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global online gambling market size was valued at USD 66.7 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.5% from 2021 to 2028.
With such growth, it’s vital to distinguish between reputable and dubious platforms. Safe online casinos are licensed and regulated by recognized authorities like the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority. These platforms ensure fair play and protect your personal and financial information. [Source: International Online Casinos That Are Safe For UK Players]
Setting a Budget and Sticking to It
One of the most critical strategies for enjoying online casinos responsibly is setting a budget. Determine how much money you can afford to lose without affecting your financial stability. This amount should be considered entertainment expenses, similar to going to a movie or dining out.
Decide on a daily, weekly, or monthly budget.
Use tools provided by casinos to set deposit limits.
Never chase losses by exceeding your budget.
Sticking to your budget helps prevent the negative consequences of gambling, such as debt and financial stress. Remember, the primary goal is entertainment, not profit.
Key Strategies for Responsible Gambling
Strategy
Details
Set a Budget
Allocate an amount you can afford to lose; use casino tools to set limits.
Choose Games Wisely
Opt for games with better odds (e.g., blackjack, poker); practice with free versions first.
Avoid Chasing Losses
Stick to your budget and avoid trying to recover losses by overspending.
Recognize Problem Gambling
Watch for warning signs such as neglecting responsibilities or financial stress.
Use Casino Tools
Leverage deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and reality checks offered by platforms.
Choosing the Right Games
Not all casino games are created equal. Some offer better odds than others, and understanding these can enhance your experience. For instance, blackjack and poker require skill and strategy, potentially increasing your chances of winning. In contrast, games like slots are purely luck-based.
Research the games you are interested in and understand their rules and odds. Many online casinos offer free versions of their games, allowing you to practice without risking real money. This practice can help you develop strategies and improve your skills before playing for real money.
Avoiding Deceptive Practices
While the allure of “guaranteed wins” can be tempting, it’s essential to recognize that such promises are often deceptive. No legitimate online casino can guarantee wins, as gambling inherently involves risk. Be wary of platforms or individuals offering systems or strategies that promise consistent wins.
Instead, focus on playing games with favorable odds and using strategies that enhance your chances. For example, in blackjack, learning basic strategy can significantly reduce the house edge. However, always remember that no strategy can eliminate the risk entirely.
Recognizing the Signs of Problem Gambling
Responsible gambling involves recognizing when it might be becoming a problem. Signs of problem gambling include:
Spending more money than intended.
Neglecting responsibilities or relationships due to gambling.
Feeling anxious or stressed about gambling losses.
If you notice these signs, it’s crucial to seek help. Many organizations, such as Gamblers Anonymous and the National Council on Problem Gambling, offer resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
FAQs
How can I ensure an online casino is safe? Look for licensing information from recognized authorities such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority. Additionally, read reviews from other players and ensure the site uses secure payment methods.
Can I win at online casinos every time? No, winning is not guaranteed, as gambling involves risk. Focus on games with better odds and play responsibly to maximize enjoyment.
What should I do if I suspect I have a gambling problem? Seek help from professional organizations like Gamblers Anonymous or the National Council on Problem Gambling. These groups offer resources and support for managing gambling addiction.
Are there tools to help manage my gambling habits? Yes, many casinos offer tools like deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and reality checks to help you manage your gambling responsibly.
Quick Tips for Responsible Gambling 🎯
If you’re short on time, here are some quick tips to enjoy online casinos responsibly:
Play for Fun, Not Profit: Keep your expectations realistic and focus on entertainment.
Set a Budget: Decide how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it.
Use Casino Tools: Take advantage of features like deposit limits and self-exclusion.
Take Regular Breaks: Step away from the game to maintain perspective.
Avoid Chasing Losses: Accept losses as part of the game and don’t overspend to recover them.
Conclusion
Enjoying online casinos responsibly involves understanding the landscape, setting a budget, choosing the right games, avoiding deceptive practices, and recognizing the signs of problem gambling. By following these expert strategies, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember, the goal is entertainment, and maintaining control over your gambling habits is key to a positive experience.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
In recent years, the wellness industry has seen a significant shift towards natural and holistic remedies, with CBD products leading the charge. Among these, CBD vape oil has emerged as a popular choice for those seeking to elevate their mind and body.
As we look towards 2025, the landscape of CBD vape oil continues to evolve with exciting new trends. From terpene-infused vape oils, which enhance the flavor and therapeutic effects, to the growing popularity of disposable CBD vape pens for convenience and portability, consumers have more options than ever to enhance their well-being. This guide delves into these innovations while providing insights into the benefits, usage, and best practices for choosing high-quality CBD products. Vape pens, widely available through online shops, provide a reliable and versatile way to enjoy CBD vape oil.
Understanding CBD Vape Oil
CBD vape oil, also known as CBD e-liquid or vape juice, is a specially formulated liquid used in vape pens and e-cigarettes. It is designed to be inhaled, allowing for quick absorption into the bloodstream. Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD is non-intoxicating, making it an appealing option for those seeking the therapeutic benefits of cannabis without the high.
One of the trending brands in the market today is WonderLeaf CBD, known for its commitment to quality and transparency. Their products are derived from organically grown hemp and undergo rigorous third-party testing to ensure purity and potency. For more information on their offerings, visit https://wonderleafcbd.net.
The Benefits of CBD Vape Oil
CBD vape oil offers a range of potential benefits, making it a versatile addition to any wellness routine. In particular, terpene-rich formulations are gaining attention for their ability to provide targeted effects, such as relaxation or focus, while enhancing the vaping experience with natural flavors. Additionally, disposable CBD vape pens are becoming a favorite among users seeking a hassle-free, single-use option for on-the-go relief.
Some of the most notable advantages include:
Fast-Acting Relief: Inhalation allows CBD to enter the bloodstream quickly, providing rapid relief. Whether you’re managing anxiety before a big meeting or alleviating workout-related muscle soreness, CBD vape oil offers near-instant results.
Customizable Dosage: Vaping offers precise control over dosage. Start with a small puff and gradually increase to find your perfect balance—ideal for both beginners and experienced users.
Discreet and Convenient: Vape pens are sleek, portable, and easy to carry, making them perfect for discreet use at home, work, or while traveling. Many users appreciate disposable pens for their simplicity and zero-maintenance design.
Enhanced Flavors (Trending): Many CBD vape oils now incorporate terpene profiles, offering natural flavors like citrus, pine, or lavender while delivering targeted effects for relaxation or energy.
Choosing the Right CBD Vape Oil
With the growing popularity of CBD vape oil, the market is flooded with products, making it crucial to choose wisely. Here are some tips to ensure you select a high-quality product:
Check for Third-Party Testing: Reputable brands will provide lab results verifying the purity and potency of their products.
Look for Natural Ingredients: Opt for products that use natural flavorings and avoid harmful additives.
Consider the Source: Choose products made from organically grown hemp to ensure they are free from pesticides and other contaminants.
Price and Quality: What to Expect
The price of CBD vape oil can vary significantly based on factors such as concentration, brand reputation, and production methods. Here’s a general overview of what you might expect to pay:
Concentration (mg)
Price Range (€)
250 mg
€18 – €35
500 mg
€35 – €60
1000 mg
€60 – €100
1500 mg
€100 – €180
All products listed above are from WonderLeaf CBD, renowned for their high-quality and lab-tested CBD vape oils.
Ensuring Safety and Avoiding Scams
As with any popular product, the CBD market is not immune to scams and low-quality offerings. To protect yourself, consider the following:
Research the Brand: Look for brands with positive reviews and a strong reputation in the industry.
Verify Product Claims: Be wary of products that make unrealistic claims about their effects.
Check for Legal Compliance: Ensure the product complies with local laws and regulations regarding CBD content.
In summary, CBD vape oil offers a promising avenue for those seeking natural relief from various ailments. By choosing high-quality products and staying informed about the latest developments in the industry, consumers can enjoy the benefits of CBD with confidence.
For those interested in exploring premium CBD vape oil options, WonderLeaf CBD stands out as a trusted brand committed to quality and transparency. Visit their website to learn more about their products and discover how they can enhance your wellness journey.
Disclaimer: Please note: CBD vape oil regulations vary by country. Ensure compliance with your local laws before purchasing.
Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.
There’s a classic adage that says those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it. And in a world where past injustices and inequalities continue to be uncovered while current injustices remain, that statement unfortunately still rings true. For the Calgary, Alberta rock group Redhead Mack Band, educating youth about rather recent scandals such as Canada’s residential schools and the tragic price paid by Indigenous children is a difficult challenge. But fortunately, they’ve taken a great step towards creating awareness of universal injustices with the single “Oppression” from their latest album You Know That You Want To.
“Teaching children the history of wars, slavery, genocide, etc. is all impactful, but usually refers to events that feel long ago or far away,” lead singer and guitarist Kevin Phillips, who works as a schoolteacher during the day, says of the inspiration for “Oppression.” “Explaining to elementary kids that residential schools happened here in Canada and were still a thing when their parents were kids was interesting. The song doesn’t refer to specific events in history, but states that, along with trying to not be divided and work together, we need to stop treating anybody as ‘other.'”
“Oppression,” brought to Redhead Mack Band by Phillips during a practice, was fleshed out by the rest of the group consisting of lead guitarist Lee Carlson, bassist and backing vocalist Jared Wiebe and drummer Ian Fraser Love. The result is a tender, Southern rock-tinged piece of perfection, which the band says emerges as “a bit more serious and laid back” than the rest of the material on You Know That You Want To. If you were to think of groups like Drive By-Truckers, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, or Band of Horses at their tender roots rock best, you’d recognize just how strong a single “Oppression” is.
One subtle but interesting turn of phrase in “Oppression” is a reference to the late soul singer Solomon Burke and his rendition of the song “None Of Us Are Free.” The song, perhaps first recognized when Ray Charles recorded it, appeared on Burke’s 2002 album Don’t Give Up On Me. “None Of Us Are Free” also featured a guest appearance by The Blind Boys of Alabama. While some might consider it a throwaway line, the lyric shows the depth, care and tact Redhead Mack Band has towards the issue and its music overall.
“Oppression” is the latest single for Redhead Mack Band, a group who returned to action following the global pandemic. Phillips, who performed primarily folk music before joining the group, went electric. And while it might not have had the musical history gravitas compared to when Bob Dylan went electric, it certainly has paid off for Redhead Mack Band. A string of folk-rock EPs and singles emerged as did the band’s 2013 album Born On A Time Machine.
Having performed across Western Canada, the Redhead Mack Band have had their music featured in publications such as Canadian Beats, Record World International, and Maximum Volume. “Being in a band isn’t just about playing shows — it’s about passion, heart, and a love for the music that drives us every day,” the band recently said in an Instagram post. “Each practice, each performance, and every note we hit reminds us why we do what we do. It’s the connection, the energy, and the thrill of creating something that moves people. We pour our souls into every song, and it’s that love for music that keeps us going, no matter what challenges come our way.”
“Oppression,” the follow-up single to “Once Again,” released earlier in 2024, is a potent song that is both timely and timeless. It’s a message for unity and togetherness in a world that’s weary from divisiveness.
Toronto-based folk/singer-songwriter icon Ken Whiteley has crafted beautiful songs that have piqued the interest of children, gospel fans, and lovers of tasteful, highbrow folk music. Now Whiteley has again added to his rich discography with his latest single “Hole In The Clouds” from his timely, tranquil, and tremendously solid studio album Unseen Hands. For Whiteley, the 12-track effort features Whiteley performing on 12-string guitar for majestic results.
“The recordings all speak to place in one way or another — from the little patch of ground in downtown Toronto where I live, a conversation with the moon, April in Paris, looking at the stars, the soil, the planet, and how we all connect,” Whiteley says. The album, produced by Whiteley and released on Pyramid Records, is a wonderful collection led by the opening track “Hole In The Clouds,” a dreamy lullaby-esque tune that has Whiteley at his best.
“It is an invitation to open wide,” Whiteley says of “Hole In The Clouds.” “It is musically anchored in Ken’s 12-string guitar, Ben Whiteley’s upbeat bass lines, Georgia Harmer’s expanding background vocals, and Bucky Berger’s bongos and drumming.” The fact that such a simple yet stellar piece of music was derived from simply recognizing the sun breaking through clouds is a testament to Whiteley’s wonderful way with words and his almost instinctive, incredible approach to the craft of songwriting.
Unseen Hands, recorded and mixed by Whiteley and Nik Tjelios at Toronto’s Casa Wroxton Studio and mastered by Harris Newman at Montreal’s Grey Market Mastering, is a lovely, serene 12-track affair. It speaks to simple truths of love, nature, and life in these somewhat trying times with political turmoil, the climate crisis, and people seemingly wrapped up in technology around every corner. From the folksy “Here I Stand,” which celebrates where he resides in downtown Toronto and its Indigenous history before Toronto existed, to the soulful cover of Bobby Womack’s “That’s The Way I Feel About You,” Whiteley is masterful regardless of the song, the topic, or in some cases the choice of covers.
Although Whiteley wrote nine of the 12 songs from Unseen Hands himself, including a co-write with Berger on “Fast Freight Train,” another cover included is a magical, dreamy rendition of “Stars” originally found on The Weather Station’s 2022 album How Is It That I Should Look at the Stars. Here, Whiteley has a sparse amount of instrumentation for a dreamy effect while addressing the issue of climate change.
Meanwhile, other spectacular nuggets include Whiteley’s intricate finger-picking during the chugging “Fast Freight Train” and the blues-tinged “Mixed Up World.” Not to be outdone, Whiteley oozes French flair during the American Songbook standard “April In Paris,” and “New Growth,” which seems to meld world music influences for a song Whiteley penned as a birthday gift to his wife Ellen Manney (who sings on “So We Sing”). In short, fans of any great folk musician or singer-songwriter from Bruce Cockburn to Ron Sexsmith, Bob Dylan to James Taylor would be wise to seek Unseen Hands.
Additional musicians on Unseen Hands include Sundar Vishwanathan on bansouri flute and soprano sax, harmony vocalists Ciceal Levy and Adrienne Mackenzie, accordion player Tom Szczesniak, harmonica player Roly Platt, and string bassist Gord Mowat. As well, Whiteley has a bevy of backing vocalists for the closing “So We Sing,” including Anna Pappas, Keith Kemps, Lia Pappas Kemps, Nastasia Pappas Kemps, Joel Archimbeault, Catherine Stockhausen, Daisy Archimbeault.
Unseen Hands, the follow-up to 2023’s So Glad I’m Here, is another fine addition to Whiteley’s rich history. Having shared the stage with Pete Seeger, Tom Paxton and John Hammond Jr., among countless others, Whiteley has seven JUNO Award nominations in Blues, Roots and Traditional and Children’s genres. He has also earned two GRAMMY Award nominations and 22 JUNO Award nominations in various collaborations and was part of the dynamic trio Scarlett, Washington, and Whiteley alongside the late Mose Scarlett and Jackie Washington. Having received a Genie Award, 18 Maple Blues nominations and Lifetime Achievement Awards from various organizations including the Mariposa Folk Festival and with over 400 songs written, Ken Whiteley is a Canadian folk institution.
Now with a lovely lead single “Hole In The Clouds” and an equally inviting studio album in Unseen Hands, Ken Whiteley continues to both inspire and question like all great artists should.
Ken Whiteley Tour Dates:
November 24, 2024 — Hugh’s Room Live (2 p.m. start) — Toronto, ON (CD Release show with special guests Garnetta Cromwell, Georgia Harmer, Ciceal Levy and Bucky Berger)
December 7, 2024 — Metropolitan Community Church (two shows, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.) — Toronto, ON (with the Metropolitan Community Church Choir, Kim Doolittle, Jason Jestadt music director)
December 12, 2024 — Shenkman Hall — Ottawa, ON (with Sultans of String Christmas Caravan)
December 19, 2024 — Victoria Hall — Cobourg, ON (with Sultans of String Christmas Caravan)
December 20, 2024 — Nineteen on the Park — Stouffville, ON (with Sultans of String Christmas Caravan)
December 21, 2024 — Hugh’s Room Live — Toronto, ON (with Sultans of String Christmas Caravan)
Sometimes, what people say to your face and what they say behind your back are more often than not two totally different things. Only true friends or loved ones will be direct. It’s the sentiment that Oshawa, Ontario blues rock guitarist Stefan Palicki used as inspiration for the meaty blues rock diamond and his latest single “Blue Eyed Devil.” Palicki says the song’s title originated from a phrase his late grandfather used to say regarding people being somewhat two-faced.
“The lyrics were written drawing upon an expression Stefan’s grandfather had about this common thing that people do and the kind of personal experiences we all have had,” the artist says. “He would say, ‘If they’re talking badly about me, they’re leaving some other poor soul alone.’ “This is paraphrasing as grandpa would use much more colorful language.”
Although Palicki’s grandfather passed in 2021 before “Blue Eyed Devil” was written, the musician says the “song isn’t just a response to negative experiences but it’s also kind of a tribute to him as well.” Palicki, who wrote the song, was given a week by producer Rob Laidlaw to create a riff that would work with the lyrics. Although initially frustrated with not finding that perfect riff, Laidlaw and Palicki worked on tweaking the track resulting in a gem that oozes “very southern rock” while being “bluesy and a bit gritty.”
“Blue Eyed Devil,” written by Stefan Palicki, Kelly Palicki, and Laidlaw, wastes little time delivering a big, robust sound and atmosphere. From the opening 15 seconds, you know this single is going to deliver and deliver in spades thanks to Palicki’s confident but beefy approach on guitar, while the drum steadies the course for a musical path groups like Big Sugar and Big Wreck have made careers from. Palicki hits the chorus perfectly as he describes the “Blue Eyed Devil” which is surrounded by saints. If you’re not moving some limb, nodding your head, or doing your best air guitar listening to this, check your pulse.
Palicki worked with Adam Newcomb at The Chalet, who mixed “Blue Eyed Devil.” But recording was a bit of a challenge during the pandemic as often one of Palicki, Laidlaw, or Newcomb was under the weather, preventing any progress on the song. Fortunately, the song was released, and audiences and fans of beefy, blues-tinged rock are better off for it.
Palicki first became interested in music not from picking up an instrument but from the BBC television series Top Gear and seeing host James May drive a Bugatti Veyron at maximum speed. Although not quite music-related, Palicki discovered May had a degree in piano, which sent Palicki off on his musical odyssey. After six years of the Royal Conservatory of Music’s piano instruction, Palicki earned his seventh level with first class honors. Around the same time, Palicki began guitar lessons, leaving the piano for the love of another instrument. His influences range from the late greats like B.B. King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimi Hendrix and Gary Moore to Jimmy Page and more modern blues guitarists including John Mayer.
After playing in school bands and playing a variety of horns in high school (saxophone, trumpet, trombone) as well as bass and percussion, Palicki graduated high school with honors and received a music award. Performing around the Durham Region of Ontario including spots in Ajax and Oshawa and developing his name as a quality guitarist, Palicki released his debut EP of original material produced by Rob Laidlaw.
Now with the “Blue Eyed Devil” musically resembling a bull in a China shop, Stefan Palicki is intent on taking the bull by the horns with this fantastic, finely tuned track. Saying it straight, “Blue Eyed Devil” is a song that will put Stefan Palicki on the Canadian and international blues rock map.
Stefan Palicki’s Tour Dates:
November 23, 2024 — Two Blokes Cider — Seagrave, ON
November 29, 2024 — Old Flame Brewery — Port Perry, ON
December 6, 2024 — Old Flame Brewery (Distillery District) — Toronto, ON
December 20, 2024 — Old Flame Brewery — Port Perry, ON
December 21, 2024 — Old Flame Brewery — Newmarket, ON
January 24, 2025 — Old Flame Brewery — Port Perry, ON
Sometimes, a great single is only usurped by having two great singles simultaneously, and that’s what New Brunswick/Ontario-based folk roots group Engage have done with its latest double A-side singles “Guitar Strings” and “Mirage.” The songs each stand on their own fantastic merit but when combined make for an enjoyable and alluring one-two punch.
Engage features singer, keyboardist and guitarist Carla Bonnell, singer/guitarist Rick Bartlett, drummer Greg Mansfield, and, for these two songs, guest bassist Peter Sisk (who played with Bartlett in the ’80s with the Howard Brook Band). The band has made two uniquely intriguing songs, each teeming with standout moments that would satiate the tastes of folk/roots/country listeners. And according to Engage both “Guitar Strings” and “Mirage” were created in far more peaceful circumstances than the 2023 album The Time Has Come, the Bronze winner of at the International Singer Songwriters Association Awards in Atlanta, Georgia. “The first album was recorded in part during the 2022 hurricane,” the band says. “This time, we have avoided driving into one to meet our deadline.”
“Guitar Strings,” written by Bonnell and produced by both Bonnell and Bartlett, lends itself more to a lighter, breezier arrangement complementing Bonnell’s voice. Lyrically, the slightly country-leaning gem addresses heartache and the need to strum your guitar sometimes and write a song about it. It’s a song Bonnell wrote in 2014 but “was revisited and recorded in New Brunswick with a whole new feel thanks to Rick’s guitar work on the lead.”
The new rendition came after Bonnell asked friends and fans which earlier song they’d love to see revisited, and “Guitar Strings” got the thumbs up. “The biggest influence in putting this on the album was my mother, Bonnell says. “It’s her favorite of the songs I have written.” As for the inspiration, Bonnell adds it originated from “a situation where I thought someone had my back and they walked away from me.”
Meanwhile “Mirage,” composed, written and produced by Bartlett and Bonnell, is an earthy, rootsy nugget featuring Bartlett and Bonnell swapping verses for a sweet-sounding result. Chugging along with great guitar works in the bridge from Bartlett, “Mirage” is an endearing, earnest piece of work whose seed of inspiration came from a riff Barlett had in his head for some time.
“One night, while we were hanging out, he mentioned again that he would like me to come up with the melody line and words,” Bonnell says of “Mirage.” “I always had huge anxiety about co-writing, so I had put off previous requests. This night I just said, ‘Well heck, okay!’ I wrote the lyrics and the melody line in five or ten minutes, and ‘Mirage’ was born.”
Using Bartlett’s guitar like a painter’s canvas, Bonnell was able to paint “Mirage” perfectly with her lyrics as the song was culled from finding “a sparkle of hope” in the “middle of darkness” or a trying period Bonnell experienced. Stylistically, the single’s music conjures a mix of the Old West but also some Middle Eastern accents sprinkled in. “We both felt that we leveled up our skills in ‘Mirage’ by combining our styles and the way we see our world,” Bonnell says.
Engage, seen as a “project” band in 2021 by Bartlett and Bonnell, formed in New Brunswick and features a newly added bass player Vernon Daigle alongside Mansfield. Bonnell, inducted in 2014 into the Minto Country Music Hall of Fame, has two solo albums to her credit including 2014’s The Liberator. She has also worked with producer J.P. Cormier. Meanwhile Bartlett played in many bands in and around his hometown of Williamsburg and saw his 2015 album with Colton Craft entitled Brighter Days released “under the production” of Billy Sherwood of prog-rock legends Yes.
Since forming Engage the group earned a bronze for The Time Has Come at the 2024 International Singer Songwriters Association awards in Atlanta. And both Bartlett and Bonnell earned top ten mentions in the 2023 World Song Writing Contest for their songs “So Long,” “This One,” “Raven’s Song” and “Dirty Water” off the 2023 effort.
Engage was named after Star Trek’s character Jean Luc Picard’s command, “Engage!” during many episodes. Now with two solid A-side singles in “Guitar Strings” and “Mirage,” the time has come for Engage to make it so when it comes to growing its international fan base with passionate, pristine songs.
Take a nostalgic dive into Hanna-Barbera’s 1991 home video marketing guide, where the VP of marketing presents a toolkit for video store success! From the Flintstones and Scooby-Doo to Yogi Bear, this guide highlights classic Hanna-Barbera characters and shows off the brand’s creative strategies for promoting beloved animated titles on VHS.
