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My Next Read: “High Bias: The Distorted History of the Cassette Tape” by Marc Masters

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The cassette tape was revolutionary. Cheap, portable, and reusable, this small plastic rectangle changed music history. Make your own tapes! Trade them with friends! Tape over the ones you don’t like! The cassette tape upended pop culture, creating movements and uniting communities.

This entertaining book charts the journey of the cassette from its invention in the early 1960s to its Walkman-led domination in the 1980s to decline at the birth of compact discs to resurgence among independent music makers. Scorned by the record industry for “killing music,” the cassette tape rippled through scenes corporations couldn’t control. For so many, tapes meant freedom-to create, to invent, to connect.

Marc Masters introduces readers to the tape artists who thrive underground; concert tapers who trade bootlegs; mixtape makers who send messages with cassettes; tape hunters who rescue forgotten sounds; and today’s labels, which reject streaming and sell music on cassette. Their stories celebrate the cassette tape as dangerous, vital, and radical.

My Next Read: “The Life and Writings of Ralph J. Gleason: Dispatches from the Front” by Don Armstrong

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Discover the enthralling world of Ralph J. Gleason, a pioneering music journalist who expanded the possibilities of the newspaper music column, sparked the San Francisco jazz and rock scenes, and co-founded Rolling Stone magazine. Gleason not only reported on but influenced the trajectory of popular music. He alone chronicled the unparalleled evolution of popular music from the 1930s into the 1970s, and while doing so, interviewed and befriended many trailblazers such as Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Bob Dylan, and the Beatles. A true iconoclast, he dismantled the barriers between popular and highbrow music, and barriers separating the musical genres. He played a crucial role in shaping postwar music criticism by covering all genres and analyzing music’s social, political, and historical meanings. This book uncovers never-before-seen letters, anecdotes, family accounts, and exclusive interviews to reveal one of the most intriguing personalities of the 20th century.

Bob Weir on How The Grateful Dead Got Its Start

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Bob Weir talks about how he met enigmatic musician Jerry Garcia and formed the legendary Grateful Dead on The Big Interview.

The Beatles’ “Let It Be” Meticulously Restored by Peter Jackson’s Team To Launch Exclusively on Disney+ May 8

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Today, Disney+ announced that “Let It Be,” director Michael Lindsay-Hogg’s original 1970 film about The Beatles, will launch exclusively on Disney+ May 8, 2024. This is the first time the film is available in over 50 years.

First released in May 1970 amidst the swirl of The Beatles’ breakup, “Let It Be” now takes its rightful place in the band’s history. Once viewed through a darker lens, the film is now brought to light through its restoration and in the context of revelations brought forth in Peter Jackson’s multiple Emmy Award-winning docuseries, “The Beatles: Get Back.” Released on Disney+ in 2021, the docuseries showcases the iconic foursome’s warmth and camaraderie, capturing a pivotal moment in music history.

“Let It Be” contains footage not featured in the “Get Back” docuseries, bringing viewers into the studio and onto Apple Corps’ London rooftop in January 1969 as The Beatles, joined by Billy Preston, write and record their GRAMMY Award-winning album Let It Be, with its Academy Award-winning title song, and perform live for the final time as a group. With the release of “The Beatles: Get Back,” fan clamour for the original “Let It Be” film reached a fever pitch. With Lindsay-Hogg’s full support, Apple Corps asked Peter Jackson’s Park Road Post Production to dive into a meticulous restoration of the film from the original 16mm negative, which included lovingly remastering the sound using the same MAL de-mix technology that was applied to the “Get Back” docuseries.

Michael Lindsay-Hogg says, “’Let It Be’ was ready to go in October/November 1969, but it didn’t come out until April 1970. One month before its release, The Beatles officially broke up. And so the people went to see ‘Let It Be’ with sadness in their hearts, thinking, ‘I’ll never see The Beatles together again. I will never have that joy again,’ and it very much darkened the perception of the film. But, in fact, how often do you get to see artists of this stature working together to make what they hear in their heads into songs? And then you get to the roof, and you see their excitement, camaraderie, and sheer joy in playing together again as a group and know, as we do now, that it was the final time, and we view it with the full understanding of who they were and still are and a little poignancy. I was knocked out by what Peter was able to do with ‘Get Back,’ using all the footage I’d shot 50 years previously.”

“I’m absolutely thrilled that Michael’s movie, ‘Let It Be,’ has been restored and is finally being re-released after being unavailable for decades,” says Peter Jackson. “I was so lucky to have access to Michael’s outtakes for ‘Get Back,’ and I’ve always thought that ‘Let It Be’ is needed to complete the ‘Get Back’ story. Over three parts, we showed Michael and The Beatles filming a groundbreaking new documentary, and ‘Let It Be’ is that documentary – the movie they released in 1970. I now think of it all as one epic story, finally completed after five decades. The two projects support and enhance each other: ‘Let It Be’ is the climax of ‘Get Back,’ while ‘Get Back’ provides a vital missing context for ‘Let It Be.’ Michael Lindsay-Hogg was unfailingly helpful and gracious while I made ‘Get Back,’ and it’s only right that his original movie has the last word…looking and sounding far better than it did in 1970.”

“Let It Be,” directed by Michael Lindsay-Hogg, stars John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, with a special appearance by Billy Preston. The film was produced by Neil Aspinall with The Beatles acting as executive producers. The director of photography was Anthony B Richmond.

“Let It Be” will debut exclusively on Disney+ May 8, 2024.

Apple Corps Ltd. was founded by The Beatles in 1968 to oversee the band’s own creative and business interests. As part of its management of The Beatles’ entire intellectual property canon, the London-based company administers the legendary band’s recorded catalog along with film, theatrical, and book publishing rights. Apple Corps has piloted innovative, award-winning Beatles projects which have become benchmarks for pioneering accomplishment, including The Beatles Anthology TV series, book and music collections; The Beatles 1; Special Edition releases for Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band, The Beatles (‘White Album’), Abbey Road, Let It Be, and Revolver; 2023’s chart-topping “Now And Then” single; The Beatles LOVE by Cirque du Soleil; SiriusXM’s The Beatles Channel; The Beatles: Eight Days A Week – The Touring Years, directed by Ron Howard; “The Beatles: Get Back” docuseries, directed by Peter Jackson; and the ‘Get Back’ book.

Park Road Post Production is an internationally renowned post-production house offering full Picture, Sound and VFX services – built for filmmakers, by filmmakers. Located in Wellington, New Zealand, its all-inclusive post-production facilities include world-class re-recording theatres equipped with Avid S6 consoles and Dolby Atmos, state-of-the-art 4K Dolby Vision 6P laser projectors, and the latest Lasergraphics Director 10K film scanner. Benefitting from working relationships with some of the industry’s best post-production creatives, Park Road offers the talent and technology to bring any request to reality. Park Road Post prides itself on creating an environment that fosters the creative process. The award-winning team brings a wealth of experience and a quality of service second to none. Park Road Post Production’s recent restoration and remastering credits include “The Beatles: Get Back,” “The Abyss,” “Avatar,” “Titanic,” “The Lord of The Rings” Trilogy, “The Hobbit” Trilogy, and “They Shall Not Grow Old.”

Straight No Chaser Kicks Summer Off With “The Yacht Rock Tour”

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A cappella group Straight No Chaser followed Punxsutawny Phil’s lead and called for the return of warm weather today. The beloved nine-member group will re-awaken your summer spirits with “The Yacht Rock Tour” this May. The tour marks their second yacht rock-themed run and follows their album Yacht On The Rocks released last year.

Produced by Nicholas Niespodziani, singer, guitarist, and spiritual leader of Yacht Rock Revue, Yacht On The Rocks also includes classics like “Escape (The Piña Colada Song),” “Sailing,” and “After The Love Has Gone.”

Initially formed at Indiana University, a cappella group Straight No Chaser emerged at the forefront of the modern day a cappella movement, and has since sold more than three million albums worldwide, garnered more than a billion streams on Pandora alone, and sold more than 1.5 million concert tickets worldwide. In the fall of 2023, the group performed in more than 50 cities across the US with multiple sold-out shows, including a record-breaking run in Indianapolis.

Straight No Chaser / The Yacht Rock Tour 2024

May
1 – Sarnia, ON, Canada – Imperial Theatre
2 – Niagara Falls, ON, Canada – Fallsview Casino
3 – Ottawa, ON, Canada – Algonquin Commons Theatre
4 – Portland, ME – Merrill Auditorium
5 – Concord, NH – Capitol Theatre
7 – Montreal, PQ, Canada – MTELUS
9 – Moncton, NB, Canada – Casino New Brunswick
10 – Halifax, NS, Canada – Casino Nova Scotia
11 – Orono, ME – Collins Center
12 – Burlington, VT – Flynn Center

SiriusXM Canada Announces New Agreement With “Suits” Stars Patrick J. Adams And Sarah Rafferty For New Original Podcast Series

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SiriusXM today announced a new agreement with actors Patrick J. Adams and Sarah Rafferty, bringing the duo back together for the launch of a new original podcast dedicated to re-watching and breaking down “Suits,” the record-breaking television series on which they co-starred.

Each week, Patrick and Sarah will go deep on an episode of “Suits,” sharing exclusive, behind-the-scenes stories about the making of the series. They’ll be frequently joined by special guests who played a part, both in-front of and behind the camera, in the series’ nine season run, as well as friends and fans of the show.

“Suits” is a captivating legal drama that follows the exploits of a top Manhattan law firm as they navigate the complexities of corporate law while balancing personal and professional challenges. Originally released from 2011-2019, the series found renewed popularity last year after being released on streaming platforms, becoming the most watched title ever acquired by a streaming service, according to Nielsen.

“On the heels of the record breaking ‘Suits’ resurgence, it feels like the perfect time to rewatch the show that changed our lives,” said Patrick J. Adams and Sarah Rafferty. “We are thrilled to collaborate with the incredible team at SiriusXM and look forward to connecting with our friends from the cast and crew, as well as the Suits fans who made it all possible.”

The as-yet-untitled project, which will be produced by SiriusXM’s Stitcher Studios, joins other acclaimed rewatch podcasts at SiriusXM, including Earwolf’s “Office Ladies” and Team Coco’s “Parks & Recollection.”

“As we continue SiriusXM’s mission to bring listeners closer to the stars they love, we are excited to team up with Patrick and Sarah to launch this new podcast dedicated to diving deep on a TV show with a passionate, record-setting audience,” said Adam Sachs, Senior Vice President of Podcast Content at SiriusXM. “Through their work on the series, the beloved co-stars have developed an off-camera friendship that we know will be a treat for ‘Suits’ fans, new and old. We can’t wait for you to listen.”

The show is co-created and co-hosted by Patrick J. Adams and Sarah Rafferty. Producers are Kimmie Gregory, Cassi Jerkins and Kristin Shrader. Executive Producers are Patrick J. Adams and Sarah Rafferty; as well as Adam Sachs, Codi Fischer and Colin Anderson for SiriusXM.

More details will be announced soon.

Eligible customers can get their first three months of SiriusXM for free. Go to siriusxm.ca/GetSiriusXM3mos to sign up and experience all that SiriusXM has to offer. See Offer Details.

Shredding Through Time: Matthias Jabs and the Iconic Gibson Explorer

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By Mitch Rice

Whether it’s Scorpions’ legendary guitar solos that burn like wildfire or riffs that resound through the ages, Matthias Jabs is a name that will never be forgotten in rock ‘n’ roll.  At the core of this musical journey is the Gibson Explorer — an instrument that has become synonymous with Jabs’ flaming playing style and the Scorpions’ unrivalled reputation. The Gibson Explorer is a crucial weapon in Jabs’ musical arsenal that helped the band create their unique sound on their rise to fame. The band’s incredible sound and Jabs’ mastery of the Gibson Explorer played a large role in changing the way rock sounds and how guitarists played.

A Developing Partnership

For Matthias Jabs, a Gibson Explorer was not only a mere instrument but also a portal of limitless creative and sonic exploration. Whether it is the gorgeous melodies of “Rock You Like A Hurricane”, “Wind of Change”, or others, Jabs used his Explorer like a true professional, creating a variety of sounds that cannot be pigeonholed into any one music genre. As every note was played, he was expanding the boundaries of what was feasible and laying a foundation for a new era of guitar virtuoso.

Exploring Musical Limits

At the core of the Scorpion sound is the undeniable Explorer tone by the Gibson, which is distinguished by its sheer raw power and palpable intensity. By the combination of Jabs’ dynamism with the Explorer’s tonal range, the band created a unique sound that won the hearts of the audiences the world over. Whether it was igniting the stadiums with anthemic rockers or serenading the listeners with heartfelt ballads, the Scorpions’ music was strongly associated with Gibson Explorer.

Iconic Moments

The Gibson Explorer has seen all the greatest moments in the multi-faceted history of the Scorpions. Carrying a unique signature sound, full of soul and roaring power, the Explorer has been Jabs’ faithful companion from the tiniest acoustic shows to the largest stadium performances. Jabs’ connection with the Explorer has lasted through the years and has become a symbol of his musical legacy, whether he is dominating the stage with ferocity or making his fans swoon with emotional authenticity.

Sound Symphony 

Matthias Jabs and the Gibson Explorer are essential pieces of the huge tapestry of rock music, their collaboration demonstrating the magic of music. The Explorer is a force that Jabs meets head-on, whether in the blisteringly fast solos of the 1980s or the reflective ballads of the current era. By co-creating a symphony of sound and soul that draws audiences from all over the world, they have shown that creativeness is ever-powerful and the eternal charm of rock ‘n’ roll.

A Testament to Timelessness

The Scorpions are still enchaining the world with their fantastic concerts and therefore, the history of Matthias Jabs and his Gibson Explorer keeps on happening. It speaks of the survival of music, the evidence of some marriages that are tied in the furnace of creativity and weather the greatest storms. However, it is in the skilled hands of Jabs that the Explorer carves a way into the rocks of the history of rock, thereby making a deep impression on the minds and hearts of all music lovers.

Everything You Need to Know About Stainless Steel Lunch Box

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By Mitch Rice

Stainless steel lunch boxes have become popular now. This type of lunch box is durable, safe, and is an eco-friendly option for storing and transporting meals.  If you’re planning to buy a stainless steel lunch box and want to learn more about it, then you’re in the right place. This article will teach you everything you need to know about stainless steel lunch boxes.

Advantages of Stainless Steel Lunch Boxes

Stainless steel lunch boxes offer a multitude of advantages compared to other materials; here are some of them:

Exceptional Durability

Stainless steel lunch boxes are renowned for their exceptional durability, thanks to the inherent strength of stainless steel. Unlike plastic containers that can easily warp or crack over time, stainless steel lunch boxes maintain their shape and integrity even after repeated use. This durability ensures that your investment in a stainless steel lunch box pays off in the long run, as it can withstand the rigors of daily use without needing frequent replacement.

Non-Toxic Material

Another significant advantage of stainless steel lunch boxes is that they are made from a non-toxic material. Unlike plastic containers that may contain harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, or lead, stainless steel is free from such substances. This makes stainless steel lunch boxes a safer option for storing food, especially for children and those with health concerns.

Resistance to Corrosion and Rust

Stainless steel lunch boxes are also resistant to corrosion and rust, further enhancing their longevity and safety. Even when exposed to moisture or acidic foods, stainless steel maintains its integrity, ensuring that your lunch box remains in top condition for years to come. This corrosion resistance also prevents the transfer of metallic tastes or odors to your food.

Hygienic Surface

In terms of hygiene, stainless steel lunch boxes excel due to their smooth and non-porous surface. Unlike plastic containers, which can develop scratches and grooves that harbor germs, stainless steel remains sanitary and easy to clean with minimal effort. This smooth surface inhibits the growth of bacteria and prevents food contamination, ensuring that your meals stay fresh and safe to eat.

Contribution to Environmental Sustainability

Stainless steel lunch boxes contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing the reliance on single-use plastics. By investing in a reusable lunch box, individuals can significantly decrease the amount of plastic waste generated from disposable food packaging. This helps mitigate the environmental impact on landfills and oceans, promoting a more eco-friendly approach to meal storage and transportation.

Features and Design

There are different kinds of features on stainless steel lunch boxes to meet the wants and tastes of different people.

Thermal Insulation Properties

One key feature of stainless steel lunch boxes is their thermal insulation properties. This feature allows them to maintain the temperature of your food, keeping it hot or cold for extended periods. Whether you’re commuting to work or enjoying outdoor activities, stainless steel lunch boxes help ensure that your meals remain at the desired temperature until you’re ready to eat.

Leak-Proof and Airtight Seals

Many stainless steel lunch boxes are equipped with leak-proof and airtight seals to prevent spills and leaks. These seals, often made from silicone or other food-grade materials, create a secure closure that keeps your food fresh and contained during transportation. You can be sure that your stainless steel lunch box will keep everything inside safe, whether you’re bringing soup, salad dressing, or fruit juice.

Compartments and Dividers

Stainless steel lunch boxes may feature compartments or dividers to organize and separate different types of food. This design allows for greater versatility and customization in meal preparation, catering to individual preferences and dietary needs.

Whether you prefer to keep your main dish separate from your sides or divide your snacks into different sections, stainless steel lunch boxes offer flexibility and convenience.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are crucial for preserving the quality and longevity of stainless steel lunch boxes. Here are the steps involved in maintaining and caring for these lunch boxes.

Cleaning Process

To clean a stainless steel lunch box, follow these simple steps:

Gentle Washing

Start by washing the lunch box with warm, soapy water using a mild detergent or dish soap. Use a soft sponge or cloth to gently scrub the surface, removing any food residue or buildup.

Avoid Abrasive Cleaners

It’s important to avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they can scratch the surface of the stainless steel. These scratches not only compromise the appearance of the lunch box but also create potential areas for bacteria to thrive.

Tackle Stubborn Stains

For stubborn stains or odors, consider soaking the lunch box in a solution of vinegar and water or baking soda and water. This natural cleaning solution helps loosen and remove residue without damaging the stainless steel. Alternatively, you can use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to gently scrub the affected areas.

Rinse Thoroughly

After cleaning, be sure to rinse the lunch box thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue or cleaning solution. This ensures that no residue is left behind, which could affect the taste or safety of your food.

Drying and Storage

Once the stainless steel lunch box is clean, it’s essential to dry it thoroughly to prevent moisture buildup and potential corrosion. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces, ensuring that no water droplets remain.

After drying, store the stainless steel lunch box in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid storing it in damp or humid environments, as this can promote the growth of mold or mildew.

Level Up Your Melas with Stainless Steel Lunch Box

By understanding their features, advantages, and considerations, you can make an informed choice when selecting a lunch box that suits your needs and preferences. Make the switch to stainless steel today and enjoy fresh, delicious meals on the go while minimizing your environmental impact and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

Irish Band Performs AC/DC’s ‘Thunderstruck’ in Gaelic

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TG Lurgan did a great cover of the famous AC/DC song “Thunderstruck” (“Toirneach!”) in Irish Gaelic, also known as Gaeilge. Even though the language was different, they nailed the music and singing just right.

One-Man Band Recreates The Who’s “Quadrophenia’ and ‘Tommy’ Albums And What Did YOU Do Today?

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FridayNightLullaby, known for previously recreating all 43 tracks of the classic Yes song “Roundabout” solo, took on the challenge of performing every song from The Who’s iconic Quadrophenia album. He played each instrument and handled all vocals for the project. According to FridayNightLullaby, this endeavor has been a long-term commitment.

“This journey began with my cover of ‘Real Me’ in 2010 and concluded with ‘Love Reign O’er Me’ in 2024, reflecting a 14-year transformation in this video. The majority of the recording was completed over the past two years. I aimed to finish by the end of 2023 to coincide with the album’s 50th anniversary, but I needed to ensure it was perfect…”

Similar to his Quadrophenia project, covering ‘Tommy’ was a time-intensive effort.

“Recording this cover consumed nearly a year of deep engagement with the album. This involved listening to individual parts, exploring original demos, finding isolated tracks where possible, watching live performances of The Who, and culminated in my visit to the historic IBC Studios in London, where the album was originally recorded.”