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Human Missile Crisis Channels Blue-Collar Grit in New Single “Mona Lisa”

Eric Alper
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Human Missile Crisis Channels Blue-Collar Grit in New Single “Mona Lisa”

Nova Scotia’s own punk-infused garage rock trio, Human Missile Crisis, has released the official music video for “Mona Lisa,” the lead single from their visceral new two-song EP, Waste Away. Recorded live off the floor in a single day at Sound Park Studios with award-winning engineer Jamie Foulds, the project captures the raw, unpolished energy of a band that has been “melting faces” since 2019. While the EP’s first track, “Snake in the Grass,” serves as a high-velocity dance-pit anthem, “Mona Lisa” offers a more melodic, heartfelt perspective. Written for shift workers and touring musicians, the track features soaring punk choruses that tackle the isolation of late-night schedules and the universal longing for home, proving the band’s ability to balance aggressive riffs with lyrical honesty.

The release of Waste Away marks a significant full-circle moment for the trio, reuniting them with Foulds for the first time since their early days in the band Violent Theory over 20 years ago. To ensure the EP maintained its gritty edge, the tracks were mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege in Portland, Oregon—a studio known for its work with heavy-hitters in the punk and hardcore scenes. Drawing inspiration from the likes of IDLES and The Dirty Nil, Human Missile Crisis emphasizes a “friends and family” connection with their audience over traditional stardom. As one of Nova Scotia’s most compelling underground acts, the band continues to evolve their sound from pure punk roots into a dynamic garage-rock force that thrives on the shared energy of a live room.

Jacob Hackworth Unveils Fan-Favorite Single “Bad As I Do” as 2025 Finale

Eric Alper
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Jacob Hackworth Unveils Fan-Favorite Single “Bad As I Do” as 2025 Finale

Nashville powerhouse Jacob Hackworth has released his highly anticipated third single, “Bad As I Do,” as a final “holiday gift” to fans following a massive breakout year. Produced by Daniel Ross, the track begins with a somber, lonesome acoustic guitar before blossoming into a chorus defined by angelic harmonies and contemporary beats. The song has already become a staple of Hackworth’s live set, serving as his regular show closer due to the visceral reaction it garners from audiences. Hackworth, who co-wrote the track with hitmakers Jessie Jo Dillon and Chris Tompkins, describes the writing process as a soulful, “open book” experience that captured the yearning and self-destruction of a “tumble troublemaker” with a soft spot.

While 2025 marked his debut as a solo artist, Hackworth has already cemented his legacy as one of country music’s most dominant songwriters, contributing to over one billion streams this year alone. His credits include Bailey Zimmerman’s multi-week No. 1 “Rock And A Hard Place,” several tracks on Jelly Roll’s Grammy-nominated Beautifully Broken, and six songs on Tucker Wetmore’s gold-certified debut. Following a standing ovation at his Ryman debut and being named a “2026 Artist to Watch” by Country Now, Hackworth is poised for a major 2026. He is set to join Tucker Wetmore and Dasha on the “Brunette World Tour” starting in February, coinciding with a slate of new music and a major career announcement.

Kay Tear Transmutes Heartbreak into Intricate “Celestial Existence”

Eric Alper
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Kay Tear Transmutes Heartbreak into Intricate “Celestial Existence”

Multi-instrumentalist and self-produced visionary Kay Tear (kati儿) has released her dark and intimate new single, “celestial existence,” a sonically dense exploration of the lingering shadows left by an unfaithful relationship. Blending alternative R&B with glitchy soundscapes, the track showcases Tear’s “technically complex” production style, featuring chopped flute samples recorded by Robin Wong and a warm alto vocal delivery reminiscent of King Princess. The artist, known for her ability to layer “MF DOOM-style drums” alongside ambient choir arrangements, handled every aspect of the recording, mixing, and mastering herself.

Angus McSix Unites with Rhapsody Of Fire for Power Metal Anthem “I Am Adam McSix”

Eric Alper
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Angus McSix Unites with Rhapsody Of Fire for Power Metal Anthem “I Am Adam McSix”

International power metal collective Angus McSix has unveiled “I Am Adam McSix,” the epic third single from their upcoming sophomore album, Angus McSix and the All-Seeing Astral Eye, arriving March 13, 2026, via Napalm Records. The track serves as a grand introduction for the band’s new protagonist, Adam McSix (portrayed by vocalist Sam Nyman), and features a historic collaboration with Italian symphonic pioneers Rhapsody Of Fire. The official music video further expands the band’s dense lore, featuring a guest appearance by Alex Krull (Leaves’ Eyes, Atrocity) as the “Screaming Cauldron,” who facilitates a story-driven crossover between the two bands. Following the massive success of their 2023 debut, this new chapter explores Adam’s reluctant heroism as he encounters the Adventurer (Giacomo Voli) and Vision (Alex Staropoli) on a quest to secure the legendary “Rain of Fury” sword and conquer ancient astral powers.

Collective Soul and Kim Mitchell to Bring 90s Anthems to Fallsview Casino

Eric Alper
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Collective Soul and Kim Mitchell to Bring 90s Anthems to Fallsview Casino

The OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino is set to host a series of high-energy performances from pop-rock legends this spring, beginning with multi-platinum rockers Collective Soul on March 29, 2026. Celebrating over three decades of hits, the band returns to the stage following their critically acclaimed 12th studio album, Here to Eternity, to deliver a setlist packed with massive #1 anthems like “Shine,” “December,” and “The World I Know.” Known for their impeccable band chemistry and insightful songwriting, Collective Soul remains one of the few artists to have performed at both the ’94 and ’99 Woodstock festivals. This performance offers fans a rare, intimate opportunity to see the five fiery rockers in a 5,000-seat state-of-the-art venue where no seat is further than 150 feet from the stage.

The spring lineup continues on May 2 with a double bill featuring Canadian rock icons Kim Mitchell and David Wilcox. Mitchell, a three-time Juno Award winner and Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, is synonymous with the Canadian summer soundtrack through classics like “Patio Lanterns” and “Go For Soda.” He is joined by the incomparable David Wilcox, a master guitarist and soulful singer whose roots-driven blend of rock, blues, and country has been featured everywhere from Olympic skating routines to major films. Tickets for both nights of legendary Canadian anthems and high-octane rock are on sale now through Ticketmaster.

OLG Stage Performance Dates

  • Collective Soul – Sunday, March 29, 2026 (7:00 pm)
  • Kim Mitchell & David Wilcox – Saturday, May 2, 2026 (8:00 pm)

NOTHING Explores Sonic Expansion with “Purple Strings” and Massive 2026 World Tour

Eric Alper
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NOTHING Explores Sonic Expansion with “Purple Strings” and Massive 2026 World Tour

Philadelphia shoegaze stalwarts NOTHING have shared a haunting new music video for “Purple Strings,” featuring a guest appearance by harpist Mary Lattimore. The track, a stripped-down acoustic ballad, marks a stark departure from the industrial-gaze intensity of their previous single “Cannibal World,” showcasing the emotional range of their forthcoming fifth studio album, A Short History of Decay. Set for release on February 27, 2026, via Run For Cover Records, the album features a reinvigorated lineup including members of Cloakroom and Best Coast. Frontman Domenic “Nicky” Palermo describes the record as an unflinching reckoning with time and the body’s slow unraveling, confronting themes of aging and illness with startling, widescreen clarity.

The album release will be supported by an extensive global tour that carries the band through Japan, North America, and the UK. This trek includes a high-profile run in Japan with shoegaze cult favorites Whirr before returning to North America with support from Full Body 2, Cryogeyser, and Violent Magic Orchestra. The tour will culminate in the return of the band’s own Slide Away Festival, a tri-city celebration held in New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. These festival dates will specifically celebrate the 10th anniversary of their seminal album Tired of Tomorrow with full-album playthroughs and a legendary co-headlining bill featuring the long-awaited returns of Hum and Chapterhouse.

2026 World Tour Dates

Japan (with Whirr)

  • Feb 8 – Tokyo Daikanyama @ UNIT
  • Feb 9 – Tokyo Shindaita @ FEVER

North America

  • Mar 4 – Baltimore, MD @ Baltimore Soundstage
  • Mar 5 – Carrboro, NC @ Cat’s Cradle
  • Mar 6 – Asheville, NC @ Eulogy
  • Mar 7 – Atlanta, GA @ Masquerade – Heaven
  • Mar 8 – Birmingham, AL @ Saturn
  • Mar 10 – Dallas, TX @ Trees
  • Mar 11 – Austin, TX @ Mohawk
  • Mar 13 – El Paso, TX @ Lowbrow Palace
  • Mar 14 – Phoenix, AZ @ Crescent Ballroom
  • Mar 15 – San Diego, CA @ SOMA Sidestage
  • Mar 18 – Los Angeles, CA @ Belasco
  • Mar 19 – San Francisco, CA @ The Regency Ballroom
  • Mar 21 – Portland, OR @ Revolution Hall
  • Mar 22 – Seattle, WA @ Crocodile
  • Mar 26 – Minneapolis, MN @ Fine Line
  • Mar 27 – Chicago, IL @ Metro
  • Mar 28 – Cleveland, OH @ Grog Shop
  • Mar 29 – Detroit, MI @ El Club
  • Mar 30 – Toronto, ON @ Opera House
  • Mar 31 – Montreal, QC @ Bar Le Ritz
  • Apr 2 – Cambridge, MA @ The Sinclair
  • Apr 3 – Brooklyn, NY @ Warsaw
  • Apr 4 – Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer

UK & Ireland

  • Apr 9 – Dublin, IE @ Button Factory
  • Apr 10 – Belfast, UK @ Oh Yeah Centre
  • Apr 12 – Glasgow, UK @ Stereo
  • Apr 14 – Leeds, UK @ Brudenell Social Club
  • Apr 15 – Cardiff, UK @ Clwb Ifor Bach
  • Apr 16 – London, UK @ Moth Club

Slide Away Festival

  • May 15-16 – Brooklyn, NY @ Brooklyn Paramount
  • May 22-23 – Chicago, IL @ Aragon Ballroom
  • May 29-30 – Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium

Linda Perry Partners with Kill Rock Stars for New Imprint and 2026 4 Non Blondes Release

Eric Alper
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Linda Perry Partners with Kill Rock Stars for New Imprint and 2026 4 Non Blondes Release

Iconic songwriter and producer Linda Perry has announced a major new partnership with the legendary indie label Kill Rock Stars, marking her return to the spotlight with the launch of her new imprint, 670 Records. The collaboration was sparked by the successful 2025 Record Store Day reissue of Perry’s debut solo album, ‘In Flight’, and has since evolved into a long-term creative alliance. Under this new banner, Perry is set to release a new solo album titled ‘Let It Die Here’ alongside the first 4 Non Blondes studio album in over 33 years, both scheduled for 2026. This partnership reflects a shared mission to champion “architects, sculptors, and musicians,” providing a dedicated home for Perry’s fearless and emotionally honest creative vision.

The 4 Non Blondes reunion brings together the original touring lineup, including co-founding bassist Christa Hillhouse, drummer Dawn Richardson, and guitarist Roger Rocha, for their first recordings since their 1992 platinum debut. The band’s resurgence follows a massive viral moment on TikTok, where a mashup of their anthem “What’s Up?” dominated trending charts with over three million user-created videos. After decades of shaping pop history from behind the scenes for artists like P!nk and Christina Aguilera, Perry describes the reunion as an organic manifestation of her desire to step back out as a performing artist. With a collection of new songs already written, the band is moving beyond nostalgia to establish a new chapter that honors their gritty, authentic roots.

Shaq’s Fun House Transforms the Cow Palace for Historic Big Game Weekend Kickoff

Eric Alper
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Shaq’s Fun House Transforms the Cow Palace for Historic Big Game Weekend Kickoff

The Official Unofficial Kickoff of Big Game Weekend is Back! The celebration created and produced by Medium Rare & Authentic Live, begins in unbeatable style with the return of the 8th Annual Shaq’s Fun House Presented by Credit One Bank, the larger-than-life spectacle that’s part festival, carnival, and circus. Created and hosted by NBA Hall of Famer and global showman Shaquille O’Neal, this legendary event will bring its signature high-octane energy to the Bay Area as Shaq transforms the historic Cow Palace. Guests will experience massive performances from T-Pain, Tiësto, Disco Lines, plus a full carnival midway packed with rides, games, and immersive interactive attractions – all designed to deliver the most extravagant celebration yet. All-Inclusive Open Bar Tickets start at $249.99, with premium VIP tickets and exclusive VIP Tables also available beginning this Friday at 10:00AM PT. Fans can pre-register for tickets beginning now to secure the lowest pricing at www.ShaqsFunHouse.com.

Brought to life by powerhouse brand partners such as Credit One Bank, Anheuser-Busch, Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies, Pepsi, Verizon, BeatBox Beverages, and more, this oversized adult playground is unlike any traditional Big Game Weekend party. Now celebrating its eighth year, Shaq’s Fun House has earned its reputation as the unofficial kickoff to the weekend’s biggest celebrations.

Across nearly a decade, Shaq’s Fun House has cemented itself as one of the most exciting and star-powered events, delivering massive performances from legends like Lil Wayne, John Summit, Snoop Dogg, and Pitbull, along with an A-list guest year after year. Past attendees include Adam Levine, Jack Harlow, Jamie Foxx, Rob Gronkowski, Travis Kelce, Patrick Mahomes, Bert Kreischer, Alix Earle, Lamar Jackson, Floyd Mayweather, Tim Tebow, Michael Phelps, LeSean McCoy, Chad Johnson, Russell Wilson, Jeremy Renner, David Dobrik, Daymond John, Nate Diaz, Allen Iverson, Tiffany Haddish, Guy Fieri and many more.

World-Class Talent and Performances

Shaq’s Fun House presented by Credit One Bank is leveling up again with a powerhouse lineup! Leading the charge is the multi-platinum hitmaker and cultural trailblazer T-Pain. Hailed by critics and fans for his massive return to the forefront of music, T-Pain is hotter than ever, celebrating a powerful resurgence with an arsenal of fan-favorite classics that guarantee a party like no other. Joining the celebration is dance music icon Tïesto, the global dance-music icon whose legendary career, festival-shaking anthems, and high-energy sets have made him one of the most influential DJs of all time. Bringing the feel-good festival energy is special guest Disco Lines, the viral dance phenomenon whose infectious sound, fueled by the massive success of his hit “No Broke Boys,” continues to light up stages worldwide.

The man of the hour, DJ Diesel, will take over the decks with his signature blend of hard-hitting electronic beats and Shaq-sized fun. Myles O’Neal, the versatile DJ and style icon, will bring his dynamic sound and cutting-edge energy to the stage, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.

San Francisco: A Festival Like No Other

Shaq’s Fun House presented by Credit One Bank is taking over San Francisco with an all-new West Coast flair, transforming Big Game Weekend into an immersive, larger-than-life celebration. Guests will enjoy beverages from partners like Pepsi, Anheuser-Busch, and BeatBox Beverages and the experience will be elevated with Bay Area-inspired cuisine, premium hospitality, and the unmistakable energy that only Shaq can bring.

The event will feature oversized carnival rides, custom built experiential activations from brand partners, interactive games, circus performances, VIP hospitality, and more, creating a festival experience – creating a festival environment that captures the bold, creative spirit of San Francisco.

“From day one, I wanted Shaq’s Fun House to be the party for the people,” said Shaquille O’Neal. “A lot of Big Game events feel like they are only for VIPs. At my party, you buy a ticket and your night is taken care of. The music, the rides, the food, the open bar, the wild moments, it is all included so you can just show up and have fun. San Francisco is one of the best sports towns in the world, and I cannot wait to turn Cow Palace into the most fun place to be outside of the Big Game“

Newsworthy Brand Partners & Experiences

Shaq’s Fun House presented by Credit One Bank is teaming up with an elite roster of brand partners to deliver the most interactive, over-the-top Big Game Weekend experience San Francisco has ever seen. This year’s event at the legendary Cow Palace will feature massive experiential activation that improve the fan experience, carnival rides, immersive fan zones, custom mixology bars, VIP moments, and unforgettable appearances by SHAQ himself – all powered by some of the biggest brands in America.

Credit One Bank: Presenting Partner of Shaq’s Fun House

Credit One Bank joins Shaq’s Fun House as the presenting partner, bringing an all-new fan experience to Big Game Weekend. Credit One Bank will anchor the festival with a one-of-a-kind photo experience that invites fans to shoot a hoop and “Shaq Proof Your Credit.” People will be given branded basketballs with the top tips from Shaq and Credit One Bank on ways to protect or re-build your credit, then asked to take a shot on a “Shaq Proof” basketball backboard for an epic photo capture. This activation taps into the nostalgic insight that the professional basketball league had to create “Shaq Proof” backboards to withstand Shaq’s powerful slam dunks.

“We’re thrilled to bring a little fun to credit education with Shaq, who has long championed financial literacy through a simple to follow playbook,” said Amber Greenwalt, Senior Vice President of Brand & Advertising at Credit One Bank. “This partnership strategically pairs our purpose of being a force for financial momentum with Shaq’s passion for financial literacy. We can’t wait to see people “Shaq Proof” their credit with our activation and hope it inspires people to reimagine how they think about and manage their credit.”

Along with this high-energy fan activity designed to showcase the brand’s commitment to credit education and planning for what’s ahead, Credit One Bank will be distributing premium giveaways. Credit One Bank cardmembers will also enjoy expedited entry, offering a seamless arrival that lets them dive right into the Shaq’s Fun House experience.

Shaq-A-Licious: The Ultimate Candy Takeover

Building on the excitement of Shaquille O’Neal’s number one candy with The Hershey Company,Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies will turn Shaq’s Fun House into a candy playground fit for the world’s biggest kid. Fans can get their hands on the wildly popular gummies featuring Shaq’s larger-than-life face and step into the action with the Shaq-A-Licious Slam Dunk Photo Wall, a gravity-defying, social-ready moment where guests can jump, pose mid-air, and capture the perfect dunk.

Inside the Shaq-A-Licious zone, guests will also catch the first hints that something new and big is coming from Shaq and Hershey. No details yet, but the next Shaq-sized move in the candy aisle will allow guests at Shaq’s Fun House to be some of the first to try what’s next.

Pepsi: The Official Carbonated Soft Drink of Shaq’s Fun House

Shaq’s favorite cola is bringing big flavor. As Official Soda of Shaq’s Fun House, Pepsi will have a custom branded bar featuring exclusive Pepsi x Shaq’s Fun House cocktails and mocktails crafted with the iconic cola, its superior tasting Pepsi Zero Sugar, and more fan favorites. Complimentary Pepsi will also be available across the festival so guests can stay refreshed all night long.

Anheuser-Busch: A Returning Staple

Anheuser-Busch returns with its strongest showing yet, featuring NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer, Bud Light, and Cutwater across every GA bar, VIP bar, and VIP table at the festival. Guests will enjoy a dedicated NÜTRL Vodka Seltzer festival bar and experience featuring premium product displays bringing Anheuser-Busch’s brands to life throughout Cow Palace.

Verizon: The Official Wireless Connectivity Partner

Stay connected during Shaq’s Fun House. Verizon has you covered as the exclusive wireless and cellular partner of Shaq’s Fun House. Verizon customers can score exclusive tickets to the event through Verizon Access on the My Verizon app and enjoy expedited entry via a dedicated fast lane – making it easier than ever to join the celebration.

BeatBox: The Official Party Punch Partner

BeatBox is turning Shaq’s Fun House into their biggest party punch moment yet with a larger-than-life, custom-branded carnival game that feels straight out of a music festival midway. The immersive setup brings BeatBox’s high-energy, live-show DNA to life and keeps the party going from DJ Diesel’s set to the very last spin. Guests can sip FREE BeatBox across GA and VIP, plus at the BeatBox activation and bar, making it the ultimate fuel for Shaq’s favorite night of the year.

Adam Richman and Joe Silberzweig, Co-Founders of Medium Rare, said, “There’s no other event during Big Game Weekend that combines the high-energy fun of carnival rides, games, circus performances, and world-class music in such a unique, all-inclusive experience. New Orleans brings the kind of energy and excitement that makes it the perfect place for Shaq’s Fun House, and we’re beyond excited to bring it to life in this incredible city.”

General admission tickets start at $249.99 (available in very limited quantities) and will increase as the event date nears. This is a 21+ event, and tickets are available online at www.ShaqsFunHouse.com.

Medium Rare produces Shaq’s Fun House in partnership with Authentic Brands Group. Medium Rare’s track record at Big Game Weekend is second to none with some of the most viral sold-out events in history, including Gronk Beach, SI The Party, Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Tailgate, and The Shaq Bowl.

King of Cups Delivers Gritty Holiday Spirit with “Naughty List All Year”

Eric Alper
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King of Cups Delivers Gritty Holiday Spirit with “Naughty List All Year”

King of Cups has injected a defiant energy into the holiday season with their latest pop-punk single, “Naughty List All Year.” The track blends fast-paced riffs and sharp hooks with a lyrical narrative that celebrates the outcasts and those who proudly embrace their spot on the naughty list. Maintaining the band’s signature “rough edge” while adding a seasonal twist, the release serves as a bridge for fans as the group builds momentum toward a larger, highly anticipated project slated for 2026. This festive anthem offers a high-octane alternative to traditional carols, ensuring the band’s defiant attitude stays front and center as the year concludes.

DaBaby Mentors the Next Generation in ‘Belly’-Inspired Video for “Letter to My YN”

Eric Alper
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DaBaby Mentors the Next Generation in ‘Belly’-Inspired Video for “Letter to My YN”

Multi-platinum rapper DaBaby has released a poignant new music video for his motivational single “Letter to My YN,” drawing visual inspiration from the 1998 cult classic film Belly. Directed by Nick Mays, the video features a deeply personal appearance by DaBaby’s nephew, Messiah—the son of his late brother, Glenn Johnson—and centers on a heartfelt conversation about avoiding the systemic traps that often derail young lives. The release follows a massive year for the Charlotte artist, who recently delivered a high-energy performance at the inaugural Rolling Loud India in Navi Mumbai, where he performed global hits like “Rockstar” and “Suge” for a historic crowd. These new singles, including the family-focused “PBJT,” serve as a foundation for his highly anticipated studio album slated to arrive in 2026.

Parallel to his musical output, DaBaby is deepening his commitment to community advocacy through the DaBaby Cares initiative, launched in memory of his brother Glenn to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention. The program recently reached a milestone at West Charlotte High School, where it distributed vital mental health resource toolkits and the “Youth Mental Health 101 Resource Guide” to hundreds of students. By merging his personal experiences with a platform that has amassed over 25 billion streams, DaBaby is using his 2025 releases to bridge the gap between street cinema aesthetics and real-world mentorship. As he prepares for his “Welcome Back” concert at the Bryce Jordan Center in January, the rapper remains focused on breaking cycles of trauma and normalizing mental health support within minority communities.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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