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Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation Helping Hands Concert & Auction Raises $3,000,000

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 8, 2023

Metallica’s All Within My Hands Foundation Helping Hands Concert & Auction Raises $3,000,000

Metallica and its All Within My Hands foundation ended 2022 on a deafening high note, as its third Helping Hands Concert & Auction raised approximately $3,000,000—100% of which will go directly to All Within My Hands’ efforts supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, disaster relief and other critical local services.

Taking place December 16, 2022 at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles, the Helping Hands benefit event was hosted by Jimmy Kimmel and streamed live on Paramount+. Leaders from six non-profit organizations took the stage between sets from Greta Van Fleet, a guest appearance from St. Vincent, and the hosts of the evening, Metallica, who were introduced by none other than Robert Downey Jr.

“The funds raised from the Helping Hands Concert & Auction will have a lasting impact on All Within My Hands’ ability to grow our Metallica Scholars Initiative, combat hunger, and aid in response to natural disasters,” said Peter Delgrosso, Executive Director, All Within My Hands. “The Los Angeles event was the largest fundraiser in our history, and we profoundly appreciate the generosity of everyone involved. We could not have achieved these results otherwise.”

As part of the Helping Hands Concert & Auction, All Within My Hands honored several mission-aligned organizations and provided grants to each to donate additional resources, including: Baby2Baby, First Star, Feeding America, World Central Kitchen, mikeroweWorks Foundation, and The Skatepark Project.

Additionally, the first donations generated by 2021’s The Metallica Blacklist compilation have been made—totaling over $1,000,000.

Hailed upon its release as “easily the most ambitious release of its kind” (Pitchfork), The Metallica Blacklist marked the 30th anniversary of the band’s landmark self-titled fifth album a/k/a The Black Album with a staggering array of passion and talent: 50+ artists contributing unique interpretations of their favorite tracks from the album, spanning a vast range of genres, generations, cultures, continents and more. The Metallica Blacklist’s 53 tracks found singer/songwriters, country artists, electronic and hip hop artists sharing their love of these songs alongside punk rockers, indie darlings, icons of rock, metal, world music and many, many more…

All profits from The Metallica Blacklist are being divided evenly between All Within My Hands and charities chosen by the participating artists—including Happy Hippie Foundation (Miley Cyrus), Outlaw State of Kind (Chris Stapleton), RAINN (Phoebe Bridgers), Dhamma Mahavana (Weezer), Borne Cancer Fonden Denmark (Volbeat), St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (J Balvin), The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation For Autism (Jon Pardi), The Special Olympics (Cage The Elephant), Save The Children (Alessia Cara + The Warning, Ha*Ash), Camp Aranutiq (Ghost), and literally dozens more.

All Within My Hands is a 501(c)3 non-profit foundation formed in 2017 as a way for the entire Metallica family to give back to communities that have supported the band by supporting workforce education, the fight against hunger, and other critical local services. Metallica and All Within My Hands are committed to running an organization of the highest integrity where expenses are kept to a minimum and are paid for entirely by the band, the board, and friends who have worked with the band over many years and are excited to help in this mission. 100% of proceeds from The Metallica Blacklist and the Helping Hands shows and auctions go directly to help those in need, with Metallica covering all expenses.

Peter Gabriel Releases “The Court (Dark-Side Mix)”

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 8, 2023

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Peter Gabriel Releases “The Court (Dark-Side Mix)”

On Sunday, 5 February, Peter Gabriel releases the Dark-Side Mix of The Court, the second song from his forthcoming album i/o. The Sunday release coincides with this month’s full moon.

The track is accompanied by a cover image featuring the work of artist and sculptor Tim Shaw.

Written and produced by Peter Gabriel, The Court was recorded at Real World Studios in Wiltshire and The Beehive in London, and features contributions from Brian Eno alongside Tony Levin, David Rhodes and Manu Katché, as well as backing vocals from Peter’s daughter Melanie Gabriel. The orchestral arrangement is by John Metcalfe with Peter Gabriel and was recorded at British Grove Studios in London with a number of players who previously featured in the New Blood Orchestra.

‘I had this idea for ‘the court will rise’ chorus, so it became a free-form, impressionistic lyric that connected to justice, but there’s a sense of urgency there. A lot of life is a struggle between order and chaos and in some senses the justice or legal system is something that we impose to try and bring some element of order to the chaos. That’s often abused, it’s often unfair and discriminatory but at the same time it’s probably an essential part of a civilised society. But we do need to think sometimes about how that is actually realised and employed.’

The song is partly inspired by the work of NAMATI whose mission is to provide people around the world access to justice they may not otherwise be able to afford. “I recommend you check them out,” says Gabriel. “They do a brilliant job assembling teams around the world to help with different issues.”

Just like the previous song Panopticom, The Court will come with differing mix approaches from Tchad Blake (Dark-Side Mix), Mark ‘Spike’ Stent (Bright-Side Mix) and Hans-Martin Buff’s Atmos In-Side Mix.

“I quite like this idea of the multiple mix approach because for most artists it’s the process, not the product, that is most important. In some ways, I’m trying to open up the process a little more for those that are interested.”

Each new release of music comes with a specific piece of art and the cover for The Court depicts the ritual installation Lifting the Curse by Tim Shaw. The work was originally created to literally lift the curse the was issued to the Royal Academy and its members by the artists Gilbert & George, but is also addresses a wider gathering of dark forces with particular reference to the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The ritual burning was Royal Academy member Shaw’s visceral and robust response to them both.

‘”Tim Shaw is a great artist whose work is powerful, political and shamanistic. He has often dealt with tough themes such as war and torture. He grew up in Belfast so experienced the fear and reality of seeing violence around him, which I am sure must have made a deep impression.

This particular image has an unusual story attached, but I just responded to the photograph of this very strange figure that was being ritualistically burnt. The story behind it, I only discovered afterwards.”

“I don’t know why that particular image was chosen for this track,’ says Tim Shaw ‘but thinking about it, it could be that when you look at the figure perhaps it stands there to be accused, judged and in this case it’s burnt as a punishment process that takes place.”

As well as new music, Peter Gabriel will embark on a tour later this year. Dates in the UK and Europe are already on sale, with shows in North America to be announced soon.

i/o The Tour – Europe 2023

Thursday 18 May        Krakow, Poland                         TAURON Arena
Saturday 20 May         Verona, Italy                              Verona Arena
Sunday 21 May            Milan, Italy                                Mediolanum Arena
Tuesday 23 May          Paris, France                              AccorHotels Arena
Wednesday 24 May    Lille, France                               Stade Pierre-Mauroy
Friday 26 May              Berlin, Germany                       Waldbuehne
Sunday 28 May            Munich, Germany                    Koenigsplatz
Tuesday 30 May          Copenhagen, Denmark           Royal Arena
Wednesday 31 May    Stockholm, Sweden                 Avicii Arena
Friday 2 June                Bergen, Norway                        Koengen
Monday 5 June            Amsterdam, Netherlands       Ziggo Dome
Tuesday 6 June            Antwerp, Belgium                    Sportpaleis
Thursday 8 June          Zurich, Switzerland                  Hallenstadion
Saturday 10 June         Cologne, Germany                   Lanxess Arena
Monday 12 June          Hamburg, Germany                 Barclays Arena
Tuesday 13 June          Frankfurt, Germany                 Festhalle
Thursday 15 June        Bordeaux, France                     Arkea Arena
Saturday 17 June         Birmingham, UK                       Utilita Arena
Monday 19 June          London, UK                                The O2
Thursday 22 June        Glasgow, UK                              OVO Hydro
Friday 23 June              Manchester, UK                        AO Arena
Sunday 25 June           Dublin, Ireland                          3Arena

Songwriting And Life Advice From Kid Harpoon

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 8, 2023

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Songwriting And Life Advice From Kid Harpoon

Songwriter and Producer, Kid Harpoon has worked on hits with artists like Harry Styles, Florence & the Machine and Maggie Rogers.

In this episode of #SongwriterSaturday with Noteable, we spoke with Kid Harpoon about collaboration, having a good work ethic and not chasing the money.

And Now, Here’s Depeche Mode’s ‘Enjoy the Silence’ Sung As David Bowie

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 8, 2023

0

And Now, Here’s Depeche Mode’s ‘Enjoy the Silence’ Sung As David Bowie

Bowie (really musician Joshua Woo) sings Enjoy The Silence by Depeche Mode.

Top 5 Benefits of Eating Dark Chocolate for Your Skin

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 8, 2023

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By NELSON TUFFOUR JOSEPH

Dark chocolate is a beloved treat for many people all over the world. This is common knowledge, isn’t it?

Its rich, smooth and indulgent taste is enough to make anyone feel satisfied.

But do you know that it has numerous benefits for your skin?

Studies show that the flavonoids in cocoa products can reduce inflammation and lower LDL cholesterol levels while increasing HDL cholesterol levels. All of these markers improve cardiovascular health.

In fact, you’ll need lots of physical activity to keep fit. But we’ll all agree that vigorous exercises and sweating it out in the gym may not be enough – you’ll need to have a healthy balanced diet as well.

Eating dark chocolate will satisfy your craving and show much love to your skin as well. From reducing signs of aging to improving skin hydration, texture and even more.

Let’s dive in.

Benefit 1: Antioxidant Properties

Everybody and their mum love dark chocolate. Understandable but it may surprise you to learn that it can also offer some tremendous health benefits. In fact, with its antioxidant properties, dark chocolate has been found to have a positive effect on cardiovascular health and overall wellbeing.

With my experience with cocoa, I would recommend adding dark chocolate into your diet.

First, because it contains flavonoids. These are antioxidants that protect your body from free radicals. Free radicals cause damage to cells and make you age faster.

Dark chocolate is also high in fiber, magnesium and iron. These essential nutrients aid digestion and provide other essential nutrients.

Benefit 2: Improves Skin Hydration

Hydration is essential for maintaining healthy skin, and dark chocolate can help to improve skin hydration.

Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which help to increase skin moisture levels and improve skin elasticity. This leads to more supple, hydrated and youthful looking skin.

This delicious treat is not only known for its incredible flavor, but it also helps improve your skin hydration.

Great live performers such as musicians know that exercise is essential for peak performance. But there are other benefits to regular exercise on top of improved hand-eye coordination and a better sense of rhythm.

During vigorous aerobic exercises, our bodies produce sweat which helps to flush out toxins from the body. This process helps to keep our skin looking healthy and glowing. Additionally, sweating can help to keep skin properly hydrated by allowing moisture to evaporate quickly when it comes in contact with air. By removing excess oil and dirt from the surface of the skin, sweat also helps promote a clearer complexion overall.

Therefore, as a musician, a balanced workout routine consisting of both cardio and strength training is key for improving overall health as well as keeping your skin hydrated and nourished.

Same as eating dark chocolate. Great chocolate producers understand the importance of healthy and balanced hydration for skin. Always opt for dark chocolates that are made with premium cocoa beans that are naturally rich in antioxidants and polyphenols—all essential nutrients to help improve skin hydration.

Dark chocolates also contain a high percentage of cocoa butter, which helps lock in moisture while adding a smooth texture and rich flavor.

Benefit 3: Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is an important part of the body’s response to infection, injury, and other stimuli. Unfortunately, it can also be a major contributing factor to several diseases. Dark chocolate with all its health benefits, may have anti-inflammatory properties as well.

A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that eating dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content can reduce inflammation. This could lead to a healthier skin.

Dark chocolate could help protect your cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals with its antioxidant properties.

Again, eating dark chocolate can help you maintain healthy collagen levels as well which will keep your skin looking elastic, fresh and youthful.

The study concluded that adding dark chocolate into your diet could have a positive effect on overall skin health.

Benefit 4: Promotes Skin Cell Regeneration

The potential for skin cell regeneration and its relationship to dark chocolate has recently emerged as an interesting area of research. And for good reason.

Scientists have been studying the impact that dark chocolate can have on the growth of skin cells and their ability to regenerate after injury or damage.

Recent studies suggest that the antioxidants found in dark chocolate may help protect the body from sun damage and restore aged skin cells. It also promotes collagen production and improves skin elasticity.

As I’ve mentioned earlier, dark chocolate also contains unique compounds that reduce inflammation associated with acne-prone skin. So your favorite chocolate could help you achieve the healthier looking skin you want.

In fact, in some races such as in the black community who have darker skin, skin cell regeneration might even reduce the risk of certain types of skin cancer. Studies show that people who ate large amounts of dark chocolate had a lower risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, a type of non-melanoma skin cancer.

Although more research needs to be done in order to prove these theories, preliminary evidence suggests that a diet including moderate amounts of dark chocolate may benefit those seeking healthy looking skin.

Benefit 5: Reduces Dark Circles

Dark circles are a common skin concern that can make you look tired and older than you really are. Dark chocolate contains compounds that can improve skin circulation and reduce the appearance of dark circles.

By incorporating dark chocolate into your daily routine, you can help to reduce the appearance of dark circles and maintain a bright, youthful complexion.

Now It’s Your Turn..

What has been your personal experience with cocoa products and your favorite chocolate recipes over the years?

Do you use any cocoa products for your skin – cocoa butter, etc..?

Note that the evidence that dark chocolate can be beneficial for your skin is compelling. Eating dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 70% or higher may help to improve skin health, hydration, and complexion.

However, it’s important to remember that the amount of dark chocolate you consume should be moderate. Too much sugar can be counterproductive and lead to other negative health effects.

Love to drink my favorite hot cocoa every morning. Used and sold several cocoa products over the years. As an editor at cocoaness.com and my cocoa farming background, I believe you’re in good hands. Nelson will put some chocolatey smile on your awesome face. My pleasure to serve you – be my guest.

Toronto Rock Trio FAKE MAGIC Explores The Ups and (Mostly) Downs Of Fatherhood In ‘Sad Dad’ Album

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 8, 2023

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Toronto Rock Trio FAKE MAGIC Explores The Ups and (Mostly) Downs Of Fatherhood In ‘Sad Dad’ Album

Toronto reminiscent rock trio, Fake Magic released the album Sad Dad, which reflects on all the intricacies and responsibilities of being a man. Particularly a dad. A sad dad.

However, the group – Greg Markham, Bryan Paccagnella and Cory Williams – didn’t limit their inspiration to forlorn fathers. No. The album pays homage to men they’ve known, heard about, or encountered through media representation.

“Good dads. Flawed dads. Dork dads. Stepdads. Substitute dads. Sad dads. Randy Marsh. Homer Simpson. Hank Hill. On the surface, it’s a thumpin’ good time. Below the surface, it’s about ego and acceptance. It’s fun, dark, funny, sincere, and sometimes all of them at once,” the band said.

Sad Dad’s opening track, “Saturday,” recounts the power of getting out of bed to complete a simple task, even if melancholia overwhelms you. The driving guitar and keys inspire the lead vocalist to reclaim a bit of power he has lost.

“Today is the day
That I put on shoes to mow the lawn.
‘Cause its not gonna mow itself.
No, it’s not gonna go down easy.
There’s not gonna be anybody else.
That takes this maintenance seriously.”

With an established character, the narrative expands with each song, unraveling the life of a sad dad. Each of the 13 chapters expounds upon a different, surface-level, and metaphorical theme.

The first single “Begging to be Lonely” is about how slowly time moves when you feel stuck. It comes from Bryan and Greg’s experience growing up in the suburbs of Richmond Hill in the 1990s, dreaming of a life downtown in the big city. This endless wait can lead to depression, excuses, and self-sabotage,” the band said.

The fifth track, “Funkiest Spot,” dips its toes into a jammy funk fest paced with propulsive electric guitar beats and an inquisitive vocal riff, imploring, “Who are you?” This pleading tune encapsulates a feeling of losing yourself. Honing in that desire to return to what makes you happy. A cry for help from a friend.

Future radio hit “Old Days” compasses every high you’ve had with a massive guitar-lick ending, while Sad Dad comes full circle with the final track, “Sit Down.” “That one is a nod to Glen Campbell’s ‘You Better Sit Down Kids,’ following the story of a father sharing parting wisdom with a child following a divorce.”

Sad Dad captures the essence of being a man and what it means to grow older through music. Whether through subtle references or candid lyrics, Fake Magic utilized their experiences to create an honest album of boundless, magical promise. Just like parenting.

African Women Acting Celebrates Black History Month With Film and New Single at ADA Slaight Hall Feb 18

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 8, 2023

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African Women Acting Celebrates Black History Month With Film and New Single at ADA Slaight Hall Feb 18

On February 18 at Toronto’s ADA Slaight Hall, African Women Acting will be presenting TRACE, the documentary and celebratory project aiming to recognize the work and efforts of seven Black Canadians in diverse sectors including business, entrepreneur, academic, arts and culture, history and philanthropy, as well as front-line workers and more, who have impacted the community with their great accomplishments. Attendance is free and signup is here.

The documentary was Executive Produced by African Women Acting (AWA) & Saimy’s Art, and Produced and Directed by Sonia Aimy, and co-produced by Kennedy Seed Obioha following seven TRACE Honourees:

Rustum Southwell – Nova Scotia – Impactor Of Black Business In Canada. Empowering Black Business Initiatives In Canada
Rosemary Sadlier – Toronto – Custodian Of Black History
Charlene-Rokhaya Jaye – Montreal – Advocate For Women Empowerment & Digital Technology.
Tunde Dawodu– Calgary – Visionary & Promoter Of African Culture & Heritage In Calgary Alberta
Adonis Huggins – Toronto – Community Leader & Advocate For The Development Of Younger Generation
Renee’ Rankine – London – Advocate To End Gun Violence & Visual Artist
Naila Keleta-Mae – University Of Waterloo- A Professor & Founder Of Black And Free/artist.

Schedule of event:
4pm DOORS
5pm VIP Photo Op
6pm Meet & Greet
7pm Entertainment
8pm TRACE Screening
9pm Q&A
10pm END of Program

In addition to the film screening, “TRACE (Tracing Rare African Canadian Extraordinaire)”, the new single from Sonia Aimy, was written and recorded as the theme song for the documentary and celebratory project of the same name. The TRACE project aims to recognize the work and efforts of seven Black Canadians in diverse sectors i.e., business, entrepreneur, academic, arts and culture, history, and philanthropy. The seven TRACE honourees include Adonis Huggins, Charlene Rokhaya-Jaye, Naila Keleta-Mae, Renee Rankine, Rosemary Sadlier, Rustum Southwell, and Tunde Dawodu.

The inspiration for the song comes from the TRACE project itself–the desire to discover true role models who do a lot for their community but do not boast about their actions. The afrobeat genre at its core follows a similar principle; allow the instrumentals to speak to the narrative while the vocals are simply an added flourish. “It inspired me to focus on the musical arrangement that will balance the TRACE beautiful narratives”, says Sonia.

My Next Read: ‘My Name Is Barbra’ by Barbra Streisand

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 7, 2023

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My Next Read: ‘My Name Is Barbra’ by Barbra Streisand

Happy days are here again! EGOT, icon, and THE funny girl herself shares her story — from Brooklyn to Broadway, to Brolin, and everything in between.

Barbra Streisand is by any account a living legend, a woman who in a career spanning six decades has excelled in every area of entertainment. She is among the handful of EGOT winners (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony) and has one of the greatest and most recognizable voices in popular music. She has been nominated for a Grammy 46 times, and with Yentl she became the first woman to write, produce, direct, and star in a major motion picture. In My Name Is Barbra, she tells her own story about her life and extraordinary career, from growing up in Brooklyn to her first star-making appearances in New York nightclubs to her breakout performance in Funny Girl (musical and film) to the long string of successes in every medium in the years that followed. The book is, like Barbra herself, frank, funny, opinionated, and charming. She recounts her early struggles to become an actress, eventually turning to singing to earn a living; the recording of some of her acclaimed albums; the years of effort involved in making Yentl; her direction of The Prince of Tides; her friendships with figures ranging from Marlon Brando to Madeleine Albright; her political advocacy; and the fulfillment she’s found in her marriage to James Brolin.

No entertainer’s memoir has been more anticipated than Barbra Streisand’s, and this engrossing and delightful book will be eagerly welcomed by her millions of fans.

Sting and Dominic Miller Talk Beatles and the Future of Music

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 7, 2023

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Sting and Dominic Miller Talk Beatles and the Future of Music

In this episode Sting and Dominic Miller talk about the magic of The Beatles and their optimism for the future of music.

Regina, SK’s Pop Maestro nasmore Greets You With “Welcome To The Hell”

Music

Eric Alper

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Feb 5, 2023

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Regina, SK’s Pop Maestro nasmore Greets You With “Welcome To The Hell”

Hell has never sounded this good. “Welcome To The Hell,” the new single by the eclectic Regina, SK-based pop maestro known as nasmore, taps into his unique sonic formula: an amalgam of stadium rock, goth-industrial textures, modern R&B and cinematic scores.

Like most nasmore singles, it’s a collaboration. Returning to the nasmore fold is guitarist Neil Taylor, best known for his work with Tears for Fears in the mid-’80s and Robbie Williams in the early 2000s. New to nasmore is an operatic pop singer from Italy, La Strange. On this lively, edgy and stark single, Taylor lashes out with gritty vocals and fierce guitar licks that perfectly mingle with La Strange’s beautiful and yet powerful voice. This is a no-brainer for fans of artists like Paramore and Dua Lipa, to mention only a couple.

In nasmore’s own words, “Some songs make you cry, and some songs you skip forward, and then there are songs that immerse you into their world, putting a sarcastic smile on your face and dragging your mind to visit dark places—like Hell, for example. Just for a day? Stay in a hotel situated by the burning sea of lava with a nice view of torture and punishment. Most of us humans do not require a reservation. Just come pick your nightmare.”

nasmore aims to be a role model: an example for all the dreamers and everyone who is committed to living a life with creative fulfillment, everyone who follows their passion, no matter what. He is a true artist and catalyst who brings so many different talents together with his frequent collaborations. He grew up in Canada, with instruments surrounding him, fully immersed in music of all kinds while teaching himself the fundamentals and writing his own songs. With an adventurous spirit, a tremendous natural skillset, and the courage to experiment, nasmore developed an authentic taste for diversity that he infused into his own unique process.

In 2021-22 he released a series of stunning singles, recruiting guest stars along the way. The collaborative process soon became an essential and joyous part of his creative realm. nasmore seamlessly blends all the best elements of pop, hip-hop, indie rock, R&B, and classical music, in a sound that can be eccentric and moody, romantic, and lovely, or dark, intense, eerie, and poignant. His music is inspired by Imagine Dragons, Billie Eilish, Tommee Proffitt, League of Legends soundtrack, The Weeknd, Scorpions, Metallica, Aerosmith, Hans Zimmer.