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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

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

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

How Online Casinos are Reviewed and Rated

By Mitch Rice

Many online casino guide websites provide comprehensive reviews and ratings of online casinos such as GamblingAuthority. These sites are designed to help players identify the best online casinos that offer a safe and secure playing environment. Most review sites use a point system or complex algorithm to rate each casino based on various factors, which we will discuss in this article.

So, why is it crucial for players to know how online casinos are rated and reviewed? The main objective of rating and reviewing online casinos is to provide players with reliable, accurate information they can use when selecting an online casino. So below are factors used to rate and review online casinos.

Legitimate Licensing

The player’s trust and interest in an online casino heavily rely on the legitimacy of its license. This is why review sites consider whether or not a reputable gaming authority, such as the UK Gambling Commission, Malta Gaming Authority, and others, licenses the casino. The legality of gambling at an online casino highly depends on it being regulated by one of these major licensing bodies.

Range of Games and Software Providers

The range of casino games supported by an online casino, including slots, table games, video poker, progressive jackpots, and live dealer games, is also examined when reviewing a casino. This will also include the software providers that provide the game titles to the particular site.

An online casino needs to have a good selection of games offered by major software providers such as NetEnt, Microgaming, Yggdrasil, and others.

Bonus Availability

Another important factor that online casino review sites look at when rating and reviewing an online casino is the types of bonuses and promotions it offers. The availability of welcome bonuses, no-deposit bonuses, loyalty rewards, VIP programs, and other promotional offers are all considered. If a casino offers a generous bonus package, it is likely to receive higher ratings.

Customer Support Quality

The quality of customer support is also taken into account when rating and reviewing online casinos. It is important for an online casino to have reliable, friendly customer service agents who are available 24/7 via various contact methods. Good customer support is essential for player satisfaction, as it helps to ensure that players can get quick and helpful responses when they encounter any issues while playing.

Betting Availability

The betting limits offered at an online casino also affect how it is reviewed and rated. Players want to know the minimum and maximum wager amounts and other related information, such as deposit methods or withdrawal times. This ensures that players have access to the best possible gambling experience.

Safety & Security

Online casino review sites also take into account the safety and security measures implemented by an online casino. These include encryption technology that is used to protect player data, as well as any other procedures that are taken to ensure a secure gambling environment.

Payment Options

Players want to know what banking methods are supported, as well as any fees or limits that may be associated with them. Casinos should offer fast withdrawal times and various payment methods, such as credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. This helps to ensure that players have access to the most convenient and efficient payment options.

Mobile Compatibility

In today’s day and age, it is important for online casinos to be compatible with mobile devices. This allows players to gamble on the go, wherever they want. Review sites take into consideration the quality of the mobile gambling experience, as well as any bonuses or promotions that are available to mobile players.

The Play-for-Free Option

The availability of a play-for-free option is also taken into account when rating and reviewing an online casino. It is crucial for players to have access to free versions of the games they would like to play to practice and get familiar with them before wagering real money. It is especially true for beginners or those new to the online gambling world.

Overall Experience

Review sites also consider the overall experience of playing at an online casino. It includes factors such as how easy it is to navigate the site, the quality of graphics and sound effects, and other features that contribute to a positive gaming experience.

Takeaway

These are the various aspects considered when rating and reviewing an online casino. Players need to look at all these factors before signing up for any site to ensure they have access to the best possible gaming experience. Ultimately, these factors contribute to the overall quality of an online casino. With this information, players can make an informed decision about which site is right for them.

Top 5 Benefits of Eating Dark Chocolate for Your Skin

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.   

The Evolution of Online Gambling

By Mitch Rice

It was not as easy to access online casinos as Magyar online casino back in the 1990s. Today, all you have to do is launch a casino on a browser. Some even have applications. It is worth looking back at the early days of online casinos. In this article, we will show you a brief history of the online gambling universe, plus our predictions of what is about to come.

The Early 1990s

It was in 1994 when Microgaming first launched the official online casino. Microgaming was a small company in South Africa. It was them that created the first true online casino.

The name of that casino was The Gaming Club. It was made possible because of the Free Trade and Processing Act, a law allowing the licensing of online gambling websites.

The law was passed in Antigua and Barbuda. It was passed in the same year, 1994. Although Microgaming was the first, there were others that were developing their own online casinos. In 1996, InterCasino was born.

From here, the casino industry became a competitive space. It was Microgaming that started it all, but then there are other companies that claim that they were the first.

1998 Onwards

In 1998, casinos became so popular that they became a staple in the gambling industry. However, it was in 1998 that the first poker site went online. This poker site is Planet Poker.

For almost a year, Planet Poker was the only site that offered poker. However, others came into the picture and drowned Planet Poker. Some examples of these companies are Party Poker and Paradise Poker. PokerStars also went live a year after Planet Poker.

By the early 2000s, online gambling was so big that the US government had to do something. The US introduced the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act in 2006. This law made it illegal for somebody to accept bets from someone who lived in a state where gambling is not legal.

Because of this law, many casino operators shut down. Gambling companies began to take their license from the US and other European states by reason of it.

The Future of Gambling

Today, there are thousands of online gambling websites. Although not all of them support all countries, you can surely find one that provides its services to your nation.

Some of the best developments we have seen so far are:

  • Live dealer games – these are games operated in a studio. The dealers are real people, and you bet while streaming the game. As of this time, this is the closest that one can experience to a live, land-based casino.
  • Megaways – these are slot machines that offer thousands of ways to win. Megaways is a trademark of Big Time Gaming. Megaways slots have reel modifiers, making it possible to win in so many ways.
  • Multiple jackpots – these slot jackpots are called mini, minor, major, and mega. There are different ways to get these jackpot prizes. Usually, these are on a ladder system, which means you cannot win the mega jackpot unless you win the other three first.
  • Progressive jackpot – this is a slot jackpot that consistently increases in size. It keeps increasing until somebody hits it.

What Will the Future Hold?

There are several things that we are looking at as part of the growth of the casino industry. For now, we see more and more casinos that accept cryptocurrency. The problem with gambling is that many banks and credit card issuers do not want to support the industry.

As it becomes more difficult to deposit money into a casino account, it now makes more sense to use cryptocurrency. Right now, most casinos only accept bitcoin and ETH. In the future, we are looking forward that they will accept more types of cryptocurrencies.

Another major development is that the casinos will also release virtual reality games. These are not just simple VR games where you wear a special headset. We expect casinos to build a real virtual world, like Sandbox or Decentraland. Inside this virtual world is a casino where you can “walk” and interact with people and games.

Online gaming is at the forefront of technology. As part of the gaming industry, casino and game development companies consistently look for better ways to entertain gamers. While we may not see significant leaps and bounds soon, there surely will be changes in the gambling industry. For one, we can probably expect casinos to be more welcoming of cryptocurrencies.

Whatever changes happen in the future, all of these are for the benefit of gamers. Let’s just sit tight and wait for these good things to come!

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

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

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

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

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